Why is it easy to get internal heat in spring?
According to traditional Chinese medicine, internal heat is caused by the accumulation of yang energy during the winter, which is released as the weather gets warmer. Especially during the Rain Water solar term, when yang energy is rising, excessive yang energy can lead to the invasion of heat evil. If yang energy rises rapidly, it can cause a collision of internal and external yang, resulting in internal heat and liver fire. From the perspective of physical symptoms, this can manifest as dry mouth, bitter taste, dry throat, dizziness, irritability, constipation, and reddish urine.
To address internal heat, it is best to consume less Chinese and Western medicines, and instead use food therapy to gently remove the heat. Below, I will introduce several food remedies that can help clear heat and relieve internal heat. These foods can be consumed more when experiencing symptoms of internal heat. For those without symptoms, consuming these foods in spring can also alleviate dryness and remove excess heat.
1. Radish for clearing heat and resolving phlegm
Radishes have the effect of clearing heat and resolving phlegm, which is particularly effective for relieving stagnation of qi and internal heat. Green radishes are especially recommended, but red-skinned white radishes can also be used. However, carrots should be avoided. If you have discomfort in the stomach, eating more radishes can help with regulation. Radishes can be eaten raw, as they have a good effect on promoting ventilation and smoothness. If you are not accustomed to the spicy taste of radishes, you can also make radish soup, which will have a sweeter taste.
2. Calm the mind and spirit with rose tea
Roses are not only beautiful to look at, but the aromatherapy effect of rose petals is also very good for calming the mind and spirit. When drinking water, you can add a few rose petals to breathe in the fragrance and help calm yourself down. So, in spring, it is a good idea to prepare some dried rose petals and make a cup of rose tea in the afternoon. Additionally, buying fresh roses and putting them in a vase at home can help regulate mood and improve mental state.
3. Hawthorn for relieving chest tightness and bloating
Hawthorn has the function of promoting qi circulation and aiding digestion. It is particularly effective in relieving chest tightness and bloating caused by indigestion. Hawthorn leaves also have a positive effect on improving conditions such as rapid heartbeat and arrhythmia caused by anger. Hawthorn can be consumed in various ways. Fresh hawthorn can be eaten as a fruit, and dried hawthorn can be sliced and infused in water or added to dishes.
Preventing internal heat through diet and drinks
1. Pay attention to food preferences
In general, avoid eating high-calorie or cold foods. Eat less lamb and consume more lean meat, eggs, and dairy products, which are high in protein. Duck meat and duck blood are recommended as they have cooling properties and are nutritious. Using vinegar in food can help soothe the liver, disperse stagnation, detoxify, and inhibit bacteria.
2. Ensure sufficient intake of vitamins
In spring, bacteria and viruses begin to proliferate and become more active, making it easier for them to invade the body and cause illness. Therefore, it is important to consume enough vitamins and minerals in your diet to enhance your ability to resist viruses.
Fresh vegetables such as Chinese cabbage, rapeseed, bell peppers, and tomatoes, as well as fruits like oranges and lemons, are rich in vitamin C, which has antiviral effects. Yellow and green vegetables such as carrots and amaranth are rich in vitamin A, which can protect and enhance the respiratory mucosa and epithelial cells of the respiratory organs, thus resisting various pathogenic factors. Foods rich in vitamin E should also be consumed to improve immune function and enhance the body's ability to fight diseases. These foods include sesame seeds, green cabbage, and cauliflower.
Dry throat, mouth ulcers, and cracked corners of the mouth are often caused by a lack of vegetables and insufficient intake of vitamin B2. Therefore, it is important to eat more vegetables. Fruits cannot replace vegetables because fruits mainly contain vitamin C, not vitamin B2.
3. Nourish the liver and blood with spinach
Spinach is a seasonal vegetable in spring and has the effects of nourishing yin, moisturizing dryness, soothing the liver, and nourishing the blood. It is often used as an auxiliary treatment for liver stagnation and gastric diseases. In the season prone to internal heat, do not forget to include spinach in your diet.
