Our face can be said to be the barometer of our overall health. Any problems in our body will be reflected on our face, as traditional Chinese medicine believes in "observation, smell, inquiry, and palpation". So, what does it mean when our complexion turns dark? Let traditional Chinese medicine explain it to you.
What causes a dark complexion?
1. Abnormal liver function
When the liver is not functioning properly, it can lead to hormonal imbalances, increased production of melanin, and a dark and dull complexion. The skin may also become dry, rough, and have dilated blood vessels on the face or nose. Common liver disorders include acute and chronic hepatitis, fatty liver, cirrhosis, or liver cancer.
2. Malnutrition
When the body lacks proper nutrition, the skin can become dry, shrink, develop a keratin layer, easily shed skin cells, and accumulate pigmentation, resulting in a dark complexion. Hair can become weak, easily fall out, or break.
3. Lack of sleep
The skin's metabolism is most active during sleep. If you consistently lack sleep, the skin does not receive enough nourishment, leading to roughness, dryness, wrinkles, a dark complexion, and sometimes even dark circles under the eyes.
4. Kidney deficiency
When the kidneys are deficient, blood circulation becomes stagnant, leading to dark circles around the eyes and a dark complexion. Other symptoms may include dizziness, tinnitus, fatigue, or dizziness.
5. Chronic sun exposure
Prolonged exposure to the sun can increase melanin production, resulting in darker skin compared to normal individuals.
Traditional Chinese medicine for kidney nourishment
1. Chinese Yam
Chinese Yam is considered a top-grade medicinal herb in traditional Chinese medicine. In addition to its benefits for the lungs and spleen, it can also nourish the kidneys and replenish essence. It can be consumed by individuals with yin deficiency and excessive inner heat or those with kidney deficiency resulting in premature ejaculation. For better results, it can be combined with other kidney-nourishing foods such as fox nuts and lotus seeds.
2. Fox Nut
Fox Nut is known as the "ginseng of the water." In traditional Chinese medicine, it is believed to nourish the kidneys, strengthen the spleen, and stop diarrhea. It is a nourishing and strengthening food, similar to lotus seeds, but with stronger astringent and calming properties. It is suitable for chronic diarrhea, frequent urination, nocturnal emission, vaginal discharge in women, and waist and knee pain. It is considered a "food for eternal youth for infants and longevity for the elderly," especially recommended for supplementation in summer and autumn.
3. Chinese Wolfberry
Chinese Wolfberry has the effects of nourishing the kidneys, nourishing yin, nourishing the liver, and improving vision. It is commonly used for conditions such as liver and kidney deficiency, dizziness, tinnitus, blurred vision, and premature graying of hair.
In China, it has been widely used as a tonic and energy booster. Chinese Wolfberry can invigorate the vital energy, soothe the five internal organs, nourish the spirit, and alleviate various ailments. Long-term consumption can enhance physical fitness, strengthen muscles and bones, and promote tendon growth.
Methods to improve kidney deficiency
1. Targeted dietary supplementation
Eat more kidney-nourishing foods in daily life to assist in treatment and prevention of kidney deficiency. Foods such as garlic chives, goji berries, walnuts, and Chinese yam are recommended. Also, try to maintain a light and non-spicy diet, avoiding excessive greasy and oily foods.
2. Get enough sleep
Ensure sufficient sleep time and establish good sleep habits. This allows the body to effectively recover and maintain adequate energy levels, leading to an improvement in kidney deficiency symptoms and a healthier complexion.
3. Maintain a positive mindset
Although a positive mindset may seem intangible, it can actually lead to the production of more healthy substances in the body, resist "toxic molecules" within the body, and promote healing. A good mood contributes to a good complexion, making your face radiant.
4. Engage in regular physical exercise
Regular exercise is essential for maintaining overall health and preventing various diseases. Exercise improves blood circulation, promotes a healthy body, and helps improve the complexion of individuals with kidney deficiency. Activities such as running, walking, and jumping rope are recommended, and massage can also be beneficial.
