Library

The *Yellow Emperor's Inner Classic* states: "All dampness-induced swelling and fullness belong to the Spleen." It also says: "Wind and rain injure the upper part of the body, while cold-dampness injures the lower part." Therefore, diseases caused by dampness may originate from heavenly qi (such as rain and dew), earthly qi (such as mud and water), diet (such as alcoholic beverages, raw and cold foods), or human activities (such as sleeping in sweat-soaked clothes, lying in damp environments, such as improper care after a child's bath, contact with fecal matter, or wet diapers/swaddling clothes). Although the causes differ, they all stem from deficiency of Spleen Qi. The key to differentiation and treatment lies in two aspects: one is Damp-Heat, and the other is Cold-Damp. When the disease presents with fever, it is called Damp-Heat; when it presents with pronounced cold sensations, it is called Cold-Damp. The treatment for Damp-Heat should focus on clearing heat and promoting diuresis; once the heat is eliminated, the dampness will also dissipate. The treatment for Cold-Damp should focus on drying dampness and warming the middle; without warmth, dampness cannot be dried.

First, Damp-Heat Syndrome: Symptoms include fever, body pain, irritability, thirst, dark and scanty urine, constipation, and a surging and slippery pulse. This indicates a heat pattern. Treatment should involve promoting urination and clearing heat, using formulas such as Chai Ling Tang (Bupleurum and Five-Ingredient Poria Decoction) or Yin Chen Yin (Artemisia Capillaris Drink). If the damp-heat is severe, or if the patient has robust Yuan Qi accompanied by obstinate constipation, purgative methods may be employed, such as Jicheng Hangxie Dan (Jicheng Hengxiao Pill).

Second, Cold-Damp Syndrome: Manifestations are primarily abdominal distension, diarrhea, and vomiting, which are diseases of cold-dampness. Whenever children play with cold water or sit/lie on damp ground, presenting with headache, heavy body, and alternating chills and fever, Wei Ling Tang (Atractylodes Macrocephala and Five-Ingredient Poria Decoction) is appropriate. If vomiting is present, add Huoxiang (Patchouli Herb) and Sharen (Amomum Fruit). If edema results from dampness invasion, combine Wei Ling Tang with Wupi Tang (Five-Peel Decoction). If there is no improvement, warming and tonifying methods must be used; waiting for Yang Qi to gradually recover allows Yin pathogenic factors to recede. Formulas such like Lizhong Tang (Regulate the Middle Decoction) or Bawei Wan (Eight-Ingredient Pill) should be selected according to the situation.

Generally, those with Spleen Qi deficiency are prone to dampness diseases. Internal causes include stagnation from alcohol and wheat products, preference for melons and fruits, and liking for raw/cold foods, roasted items, and sweet/fatty foods, leading to accumulation and overflow of damp-heat. These are internal causes. External causes include sitting/lying on damp ground, exposure to fog/dew/rain, pore closure due to wind during bathing, or dampness retention from wading through water. When dampness stagnates in the muscle-couplings, jaundice may develop; this is dampness generated externally. Thus, whether internally or externally contracted, the root cause is weak Spleen Qi, allowing dampness pathogens to invade. For jaundice caused by dampness invasion, Yinchen Wuling San (Artemisia Capillaris and Five-Ingredient Poria Powder) is indicated. If ineffective, Liujunzi Tang (Six-Gentlemen Decoction) is used to dry dampness and strengthen the interior, causing the jaundice to subside naturally.