TCM II - Damp

Question 1

Damp

Answer 1

• Damp occurs when Spleen Qi or Spleen Yang is deficient and fails to transform food
• “Dampness refers to any condition where internal fluids build up without being cleared and refreshed. Dampness can be water weight around the middle or thighs, oedema in the ankles or face; it can collect in the joints, block the sense organs, and it is part of any swelling. Dampness can be a apparent or hidden. It is an internal housekeeping issue”. Andrew Sturman, Welcoming food, Book 1, page 18

Question 2

Tongue

Answer 2

• Possibly swollen
• Sticky coating
• Damp provides a Yin anchor for heat to sit in, Causing Damp Heat (Sticky yellow tongue coat)

Question 3

Pulse

Answer 3

• Slippery

Question 4

Damp congealed in:
Spleen

Answer 4

• Diarrhoea
• Loose stools
• Candida

Question 5

Damp congealed in:
Bladder

Answer 5

• Cystitis-like symptoms

Question 6

Damp congealed in:
Head

Answer 6

• Fogginess

Question 7

Damp congealed in:
Skin

Answer 7

• Weeping skin conditions

Question 8

Damp congealed in:
The body as a whole

Answer 8

• Weight gain
• High cholesterol
• Heaviness of the limbs

Question 9

Diet advice

Answer 9

• Avoid fried foods, alcohol, processed foods, dairy, gluten, sugar, banana, thick fruit juices, raw food and cold drinks
• Eat drying foods: roasted barley, rice, mushrooms
• Nourish the digestive system with warming, simple and clear meals
• Radishes and ginger clear Damp/Phlegm from the lungs
• Fennel seed and cinnamon tea