Spleen Qi Deficiency

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In TCM, the Spleen is not just the physical organ – it is the center of digestion, transformation, and transportation. The Spleen Qi extracts nourishment from food, sends it upward to support the Heart and Lungs, and builds Blood and Qi for the whole body. When the Spleen’s Qi is weak, fatigue, poor digestion, and a feeling of heaviness often arise.

 

Common Symptoms of Spleen Qi Deficiency

• Fatigue, worse after eating

• Poor appetite or a feeling of fullness quickly

• Loose stools or diarrhea

• Abdominal bloating, especially after meals

• Easy bruising or bleeding gums

• A heavy sensation in the limbs

• Pale complexion and tongue

 

How It Develops

• Overthinking, worry, or rumination draining Qi

• Irregular eating habits – eating on the go, skipping meals, overeating sweets

• Chronic illness or repeated antibiotic use

• Excess cold or raw foods burdening digestion

 

Lifestyle Support

• Regularity – eat meals at consistent times

• Reduce worry – cultivate practices to calm the mind

• Warmth – dress warmly and avoid living in damp environments

• Movement – gentle exercise like walking, tai chi, or restorative yoga to circulate Qi

 

Food Therapy

Support the Spleen with warm, cooked, and easily digestible foods:

• Whole grains like oats, rice, millet, quinoa

• Root vegetables – sweet potatoes, carrots, squash, parsnips

• Lightly cooked leafy greens

• Legumes, lentils, chickpeas

• Warming spices – cinnamon, ginger, cardamom

• Moderate animal protein – chicken, turkey, beef bone broth