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  • Writer's pictureHealth Wise Chinese Medicine Consultancy Ltd

What Does Sweat Mean From a Traditional Chinese Medicine Perspective


Sweating is an extraordinary bodily function that serves multiple purposes. It not only helps to excrete metabolic waste, cools the body down, moisturizes our skin. but also reveals fascinating insights into our health. A number of factors can influence the way we sweat, such as our diet, medication, mood, hormone levels, and certain medical conditions.


In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), sweat plays a significant role in both the diagnostics and treatment for specific ailments. Let's explore sweat through the lens of TCM and discover how it can guide us towards better health.


The trend towards adopting Traditional Chinese Medicine treatments as a form of alternative medicine has increased over the years with over 3 million Australians visiting Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioners annually. In this article, we'll take a look at what sweat means from a Traditional Chinese Medicine perspective. In addition, if you're interested to learn even more about herbal therapy in Traditional Chinese Medicine, visit our herbal therapy page.


Our clinic has over thirty years of experience, and we aim to deliver the best Traditional Chinese Medicine treatments in Hong Kong. To make an appointment, feel free to contact us today, our friendly staff will be happy to help. Alternatively, you can call +852 2526 7908 or email info@chinesemed.hk.


Let's get started.




Article Contents:


TCM Perspective On Sweating

Understanding Sweat

Decoding Body Odor

Managing Body Odor Naturally

  • Foods To Avoid

  • Foods To Eat

  • Excercise For Regulation

Consult The Experts



Acupuncture at Health Wise Chinese Medicine Consultancy For Chronic Pain Relief
Sweat at Health Wise Chinese Medicine Consultancy


Traditional Chinese Medicine Perspective on Sweating

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the process of sweating is carefully observed to gain a comprehensive understanding of a person's health. When someone presents with complaints of sweating, TCM practitioners pay close attention to various aspects, including the location of the sweat, the time of day it occurs, the nature of the sweat (whether it feels cold or hot), its smell, and the quantity produced. These observations provide valuable information for making a thorough diagnosis.

According to TCM theory, the proper functioning of both the Lungs and Heart (Cardio) systems is essential for healthy sweating. When we sweat, we evaporate body fluids through the pores, harmonizing the internal and external body and regulating temperature. When we experience illness, sweat can help to expel pathogens, but excessive sweating, if not properly regulated, can deplete body fluids excessively.



Understanding Sweating


Issues with sweating can occur due to various imbalances within the body. Imbalances relating to the Lungs can lead to faulty venting, and imbalances relating to the Heart can disrupt the proper usage of bodily fluids. In addition, "interior heat" can consume body fluids, and stagnation can disrupt the flow of sweat.


TCM practitioners employ acupuncture and herbal treatments to regulate sweating. The aim is to restore balance to the body, rather than completely stopping sweat since it plays a vital role in the body's homeostasis.



Decoding Body Odor


Contrary to popular belief, sweat itself is odorless. However, a shift in our internal state can manifest as an unpleasant smell. Many individuals resort to strong antiperspirants and deodorants to address this issue. While these products can mask the smell, they can also disrupt the natural sweating mechanism by blocking the pores' release function. Moreover, some of these products contain chemicals that may pose risks to those with allergies or certain health conditions.



Managing Body Odor Naturally


If you want to regulate odorous and excessive sweat from the inside out, several dietary and lifestyle changes can be beneficial.


Foods to avoid. If the sweat is associated with heat and has a strong smell, consider:

  • Limiting the consumption of hot and spicy foods.

  • Decreasing alcohol and coffee intake.

  • Avoiding smoking.

Foods to eat. Foods with cooling properties that can help generate body fluids include:

  • Lotus root

  • Apple

  • Pineapple

  • Water chestnut

  • Chinese cabbage

  • Apricots

In cases where sweating is accompanied by chills and fatigue, indicating an imbalance or deficiency, the following ingredients are recommended:

  • Yam

  • Dates

  • Chicken

  • Honey

  • Astragalus root


Exercise for Regulation


Regular exercise is vital for sweat regulation. Engaging in physical activity that induces sweat 2-3 times per week helps to maintain a healthy balance.



Consult the Experts


If you seek further guidance on controlling sweating, consider scheduling an appointment with any of the experts at Health Wise. We can create an individualized plan to address your specific needs.





Chinese Herbal Therapy at Health Wise


Our clinic has over thirty years of experience, and we aim to deliver the best Traditional Chinese Medicine treatments in Hong Kong. About our Chinese Herbal therapy treatments:


Our Formulas


Our formulas contain a combination of herbs that are uniquely selected to support your health. Our registered practitioners are qualified to blend herbs that address your symptoms and treat your whole body. Our herbal dispensary will mix the unique herbal formulas as prescribed by our practitioners to treat your diagnosis.


Herbs Sourcing


Our herbs are carefully sourced from growers and manufacturers that we trust to provide pure and effective herbs.


Our Process

You are always changing so we believe your herbs should change accordingly. We adjust your formulas to suit. In addition, we will provide clear directions on how to take your herbs. When you need a refill just come on in.


For bookings give us a call at +852 2526 7908 or email info@chinesemed.hk. Chinese Herbal Therapy treatments by our certified practitioners are both safe and effective. You can opt for the herbal consultation-only session, or add herbal consultation to your acupuncture session.


The benefits of Chinese Herbal Therapy increase over time and can yield long-term health benefits. Thank you for reading this short article. For inquiries about Chinese Herbal Therapy. you can follow this link to contact us.





Learn More About Chinese Medicine


Be sure to visit our Health Wise Blog, we have several informative articles to help our patients. Here's a series of articles that we think may be beneficial:





We aim to continue to provide more useful Traditional Chinese Medicine & Acupuncture information at our Health Wise Chinese Medicine's Newsletter page.


Visit this link here to find other blog articles.

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