Lìqiū (立秋): Nourishing Soup for the Transition into Autumn

Kit LI

Did you know the first solar term of autumn quietly arrived a week ago?   Start of Autumn (Liqiu) (1) is the 13th of the 24 solar terms in the Chinese Lunar Calendar.  It marks the end of the hot summer season and the beginning of autumn.  Although the weather may still be quite hot during this period. the overall trend is a gradual shift towards cooler temperatures.

Liqiu represents the shift from the scorching Summer to the cooler Autumn.  It is a turning point where Yang energy begins to recede, Yin energy starts to grow, and the climate changes from Yang-dominant to Yin-dominant.  

The period after Liqiu can still be very hot, a phenomenon known as the 'Autumn Tiger' referring to a short spell of intense heat after the start of Autumn.  Nevertheless, temperatures gradually trend downward, rainfall and humidity gradually decrease, the weather becomes drier, and the temperature difference between day and night increases.

When people ask me about recipes or herbs for this seasonal change, I often recommend dietary therapy as a complementary approach.   One nourishing soup, which benefits healthy by Regulating the Qi, Strengthening the Spleen, Resolving Dampness and Nourishing Lungs:

Ingredients (for four people): 

Wǔ Zhǐ Máo Táo (五指毛桃, Ficus hirta) - 40g   

Yù Zhú (玉竹, Polygonatum odoratum) - 20g

Bǎi Hé (百合, Lilium spp.) - 20g

Fú Líng (茯苓, Poria cocos) - 20g

Yì Mǐ (薏米, Coix lacryma-jobi) - 20g

Raw Cashew Nuts - 30g

Water - 1.5L

If you have a nut allergy, you can cook this soup with lean pork instead.

Put the above ingredients in a pressure cooker, and put Soup setting for 30 minutes, then ready to drink.

Herbal Functions:

Wǔ Zhǐ Máo Táo (五指毛桃, Ficus hirta) (2), it helps strengthen the Spleen and Lungs, promoting the circulation of Qi, boosting energy, removing dampness from the body, and relieving muscle and joint pain.  It may also be used as a supportive, complementary therapy for chronic hepatitis and fluid retention associated with  liver cirrhosis.

Yù Zhú (玉竹, Polygonatum odoratum), it nourishes yin, moistens dryness, eases cough and thirst, and nourishes Lungs.

Bǎi Hé (百合, Lilium spp.), it moistens the lungs, clears Heart-Fire and calms the spirit, helps with restlessness or dry cough.

Fú Líng (茯苓, Poria cocos) (3), it strengthens the spleen, drains dampness from the Lower Jiao, and supports mental calmness.

Yì Mǐ  (薏米, Coix lacryma-jobi), it strengthens spleen, reduces swelling and dampness, supports joints and relieve pain.

Additional notes:

1) Suitable as a tonic soup for elderly, convalescent, or weak individuals.

2) Can be combined with other herbs depending on individual TCM diagnosis.

3) Not suitable for severe diarrhoea from cold-damp, or for people with extreme yang deficiency, unless modified.

As the season quietly shifts from the heat of Summer to the cool embrace of Autumn, taking care of your body with gently, nourishing foods can help you adapt to the changing climate, strengthen your Qi, and support overall wellness.  A simple soup like this not only warms and balances the body, but also brings a sense of comfort and harmony as nature transitions around us.

Embrace the rhythm of the seasons, and let your diet be a support companion for Health and Vitality.

References:

1) Liqiu: Liqiu - Wikipedia

2) Effects of Ficus hirta Vahl. (Wuzhimaotao) extracts on growth inhibition of HeLa cells: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/50850281_Effects_of_Ficus_hirta_Vahl_Wuzhimaotao_extracts_on_growth_inhibition_of_HeLa_cells

3) Chemical constituents and pharmacological properties of Poria cocos: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21347995/

 

 

 

TCM Post-Stroke Recovery with Scalp Acupuncture and Herbal Therapy

Kit Li

An eighty year-old male patient experienced an ischemic stroke (1) one month ago.  Prior to the stroke, he suffered from a severe chest infection that did not fully resolve.

He has a long-standing history of high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and chronic kidney disease for over 40 years, with frequent symptoms including nocturia and lower-limb oedema.

From a TCM perspective, aging and kidney yang deficiency, combined with qi and blood stagnation, may contribute to the accumulation of phlegm and dampness.

Fortunately, his post-stroke symptoms are limited to memory impairment and mild slurred speech, with no mobility issues.

Today, he received his third scalp acupuncture (2) treatment, with Dao-qi technique, also electro-acupuncture (3) applied to several key areas, including the FSA, CA, and selected body points on Du-mai and Ren-mai.  

One week ago, a specific formula, Bi Min Gan (鼻敏感) (4) was prescribed to address his severe hay fever.  The ingredients are Jing Jie (荆芥,  Schizonepeta stem or bud) , Fang Feng (防风, Saposhnikovia root) , Bai Zhi (白芷, Dahurian angelica root), Gan Cao (甘草, Licorice root)....etc.

As shown in the bottom photo, signs of dampness and heat have markedly reduced after one week of herbal treatment.

References:

1) An ischemic stroke happens when blood flow to part of the brain is blocked, usually by a blood clot or a build-up of fatty deposits in the blood vessels. Without oxygen and nutrients, brain cells start to die within minutes.

2) Efficacy and safety of scalp acupuncture in improving neurological dysfunction after ischemic stroke: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7447452/

3) Early intervention with electrical stimulation reduces neural damage after stroke in non-human primates: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-025-61948-y

4) Bi Min Gan (鼻敏感): to treat wind-cold and wind-heat syndromes, expels dampness, reduces inflammation, clears nasal problem and discharge, and relieve superficies.

5) Jing Jie and Fang Feng: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37315642/

Monk Fruit & Middle Fu: A Soothing Brew for Seasonal Shifts

 

Kit Li

Although the monitor showed a temperature of 17c and the humidity at 81% over the past two mornings, I was surprised to wake up with a dry throat, and I noticed some peeling skin.  When I checked the Chinese lunar calendar and realised that yesterday marked the beginning of the Middle Fu (Zhongfu), the second phase of Sanfu Days, which lasts from 30 July to 08 August.  Traditionally, this period is known for intense heat and humidity, but here in the UK, it feels like Summer is already fading.

In my earlier blog post, Sanfu Days Wellness Guide: Nourishing Qi & Cooling Heat with TCM Wisdom, I shared Chinese Herbal Tea  suggestions suitable for hot and high humidity weather.  However, due to the differences in geographical climate and regions, I adapted my approach today and prepared a soothing tea with Monkfruit (Siraitia grosvenorii, 罗汉果) to help nourish the lungs and moisten dryness. 

Monk Fruit, Maimendong and Dried Figs Tea

Ingredients:    

Monkfruit (Siraitia grosvenorii, 罗汉果)            1/4 of the whole one

Maimendong (Radix Ophiopogonis, 麦冬)         10g

Dried Figs (Carica, 无花果干)                             3-5 pieces

Method: Boil all ingredients in 2 Litres of  water for 20 minutes, 2 -3 times during the Middle Fu or until the dry throat subsides, preferably warm.

This tea is mildly sweet, hydrating, and ideal for supporting the lungs, especially during this unexpected shift in seasonal energy.

Monkfruit*, Maimendong*, and Dried Figs* are often combined during the mid-summer season to help clear heat, moisten the lungs, and generate body fluids to relieve thirst.  All three ingredients have the effect of clearing heat and moistening dryness, making them especially suitable for the hot and humid mid-summer period, or for symptoms such as dry mouth, sore throat, and coughing caused by yin-deficiency and internal heat.

Special benefits:

Monkfruit: sweet and cool in nature, it clears heat, moistens the lungs, relieves cough, and helps with bowel movement.

Maimendong: sweet and slightly cold, it nourishes yin and moistens the lungs, benefits the stomach and promotes fluid production, and helps clear irritability.

Dried Figs: sweet and neutral, it clears heat, generates fluids, moistens the lungs to relieve cough, and aids digestion and intestinal health.  Dosage and combination can be adjusted according to personal taste.

Precautions:

1. People with a cold constitution, for instance, those prone to diarrhoea, should reduce the frequency of drinking the tea, or add ginger to the mix.
2. The tea is NOT suitable for those with cold-type coughs, for instance, clear phlegm and nasal congestion.
3. Pregnant women or people severe diabetes should consult a qualified Chinese Practitioner before consuming.

References:

What is Monkfruit: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Siraitia_grosvenorii

The Fruits of Siraitia grosvenorii: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6903776/

A Chinese classical prescription Maimendong decoction in treatment of pulmonary fibrosis:

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11112100/

Dried Figs: https://www.organicfacts.net/dried-figs.html

A day worth celebrating...

Kit Li

At the end of June this year, I attended a scalp acupuncture workshop at South Bucks Hospice hosted by Professor Wang Tianjun, where I had the opportunity to meet Chris, the director of a hospice centre. 

In early July, I was fortunate to pass the interview and began my journey as a volunteer, serving as an acupuncturist to help patients with cancers and neurological diseases.

After a month of document review, today I finally received my work ID and agreement, officially becoming a part of their team.

So grateful.

A Workshop Experience at South Bucks Hospice

Kit Li

In early June, I had the privilege of attending a two-day Neuro-Acupuncture Workshop led by Dr. Tianjun Wang, an expert in Scalp Acupuncture, alongside my team at South Bucks Hospice (SBH).

The focus of this workshop was on supporting patients with neurological conditions, such as Parkinson’s disease, and managing post-cancer symptoms, including lymphedema.

We had an incredible experience deepening our understanding of the aetiology and pathology of these conditions. A special thanks to Mr. Chris Beach, Director of SBH, whose detailed patient insights and support made it possible for us to carry out meaningful consultations and treatment sessions. His patience and compassion ensured we were well-informed about each patient's condition, allowing us to tailor scalp acupuncture treatments effectively.

While some patients are still in their healing journey, many reported noticeable improvements shortly after treatment. Their positive feedback reaffirmed the value of integrating Traditional Chinese Medicine techniques like scalp acupuncture into hospice and neurological care settings.

Located in High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire, South Bucks Hospice is home to a dedicated and highly trained team of volunteer nurses, who bring skill, care, and empathy to every aspect of their work.

This workshop marked an important step in expanding the therapeutic options we offer at South Bucks Hospice. With continued collaboration and education, I am confident we can bring even greater support and relief to those living with complex neurological and post-cancer conditions.

Reference:

https://sbh.org.uk/

Sanfu Days Wellness Guide: Nourishing Qi & Cooling Heat with TCM Wisdom

Kit Li

What is Sanfu Days?  The hottest period of the year in the Chinese Lunar Calendar.  Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) emphasizes the importance of proper diet with the principle of 'tonifying qi and dispelling internal heat.'  

How about Sanfu therapies?  It features the TCM principle of “treating winter diseases in summer” (冬病夏治) and have robust modern clinical backing, especially for chronic respiratory and allergic conditions.

There are three phases and total in 30 days:  First Fu (Chufu), Middle Fu (Zhongfu) and Last Fu (Mofu).  The entire period runs from 20 July to 18 August, with the day after 19 August making the end of the Fu days.

1) First Fu (Chufu): 20 July - 29 July (10 days)

2) Middle Fu (Zhongfu): 30 July - 08 August (10 days)

3) Last Fu (Mofu): 09 August - 18 August (10 days)

From TCM perspective, we recommended eat light, easy-to-digest foods, also increase intake of fruits and vegetables and avoid overeating, greasy, spicy and cold/raw foods.

Today, I'm going to introduce a few dietary suggestions and they are so easy to make:

During First Fu (clearing heat): 

1) San Fu Tea (三伏茶): 

    Shí Hū (石斛, Dendrobium) 10g : nourishes Stomach and Kidney-        yin and clears heat 

    Mài Mén Dōng (麦门冬, Ophiopogon Root) 10g: clears Heart-heat     and nourishes yin

    Yù Zhú (玉竹, Polygonatum Root) 10g: nourishes Lung-yin and         generates fluids

2) San Dou Yin by Bian Que (扁鹊三豆饮)

    Black Beans (黑豆, Hēi Dòu) 30g: tonifies Kidney and nourishes     Yin and Blood

   Adzuki beans (赤小豆, Chi Xiao Dou) 30g: promotes urination and reduces oedema    

    Mung Beans  (绿豆, Lu Dòu) 30g: clears heat and detoxify, relieves summer heat

To make the above two teas, simply boil all the herbs in 600ml of water, simmer for 45 minutes, and enjoy it warm, perfect for easing internal heat, drink them 3 to 4 times during the First Fu period.

During Middle Fu (Strengthen the Spleen):

1) Modified Sì Jūn Zǐ Tāng (四君子汤): 

  Renshen (人参, Ginseng root) 9g: Strongly tonifies original Qi and     strengthens spleen

  Bai Zhu (白术, Atractylodes rhizome) 9g: Strengthens spleen,            dries dampness

 Fu Ling (茯苓, Poria mushroom) 9g: Strengthens spleen, promotes     urination, calms mind

  Zhi Gan Cao (炙甘草, Honey-fried Licorice root) 9g: Harmonizes     formula, tonifies spleen and Qi

Note: Renshen can be replaced by Dangshen (党参, Codonopsis root)

Simply boil all the ingredients together in 600ml water, simmer for 45 minutes and drink it 3 to 5 times over the Middle Fu period to strengthen the Spleen.

2) Apple and Winter Melons water: one apple, winter melons 100g, 2 slices of gingers

Boil all the ingredients together in 600ml water and simmer for 45 minutes, drink it after 3pm and 3 to 5 times over the Middle Fu period.

During Last Fu (Strengthen Yang and Replenish Qi):

1) Rénshēn Dàzǎo Yǐn (人参大枣饮):

    Renshen (人参, Ginseng root) 10g:  Strongly          tonifies original Qi and strengthens spleen

    Dazao  (大枣, Jujube fruit) 10g: Nourishes blood      and calm the shen 

    Maimendong (麦门冬, Ophiopogon                        Root) 10g: clears Heart-heat and nourishes yin

    Huangqi (黄芪, Astragalus root) 10g: Raises Yang-qi, tonifies Spleen and Lung-qi

    Gouqizi (枸杞子, Goji berry) 10g: Nourishes Liver and Kidney-yin, benefits the eyes

     Boil all the ingredients together in 600ml water and simmer for 45 minutes, drink it  3 to 5 times             over the  Last Fu period to strengthen Yang and replenish qi.

At the heat of Sanfu Days reaches its peak, nature reminds us to slow down, nourish our bodies, and protect our inner balance.  By following these time-honored TCM practices - clearing heat, strengthening the Spleen, and tonifying qi, we align ourselves with the rhythms of the season.

Let food be your daily medicine, and may these gentle, thoughtful recipes help you feel cooler, stronger, and more centered - body, mind and spirit.

References:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sanfutie?utm_source=chatgpt.com

https://www.pioneerpublisher.com/crms/article/view/177?utm_source=chatgpt.com

    

    

    

A Case Study of Parkinsonism with OPA1 Mutation Treated with Acupuncture: A TCM Approach to Neurodegeneration

Kit Li 

Case Summary: Parkinsonism with OPA1 Gene Mutation – Miss E (Age 54)

About a month ago, I was approached by Miss E, a 54-year-old female patient with a diagnosis of Parkinsonism associated with an OPA1 gene mutation (1), originally referred by Dr. TJ Wang. She received her initial treatment from Dr. Wang with notable improvement. However, due to the long travel distance to Dr. Wang’s clinic, she requested a home visit for her subsequent treatment sessions.

Miss E was diagnosed with Parkinsonism in 2018, initially presenting with hand tremors. Her condition has since gradually worsened. By 2022, she developed mobility impairments, and additional systemic symptoms have progressively appeared.

Presenting Symptoms:

• Motor Symptoms: Significant tremor in both hands and left foot, mobility impairment, pain in the right posterior thigh

• Non-Motor Symptoms: Visual deterioration (2), consistent with Parkinsonism-related optic dysfunction, tinnitus in the right ear (likely Parkinsonism-related and/or menopausal), menopausal syndrome, depressive symptoms

Aetiological:

The OPA1 gene encodes a mitochondrial protein vital for:

• Inner mitochondrial membrane fusion

• Cristae structural maintenance

OPA1 mutation results in mitochondrial dysfunction, especially impacting:

• Retinal ganglion cells – leading to optic atrophy

• Neuromuscular tissue – resulting in ataxia, myopathy, neuropathy

• Cochlear cells – possibly contributing to hearing loss

TCM Diagnosis:

• Liver Wind with Liver -yang rising

• Liver and Kidney yin-deficiency

• Spleen qi-deficiency with dampness accumulation in the Lower Jiao

Treatment Principles:

• Subdue Liver Yang and calm internal Wind

• Nourish Liver and Kidney Yin

• Strengthen Spleen Qi and eliminate dampness

Treatment Protocol:

• Primary Acupoints: LV-3, ST-36, ST-40, GB-34....etc.

• Scalp Acupuncture: Electric stimulation applied to Chorea-Tremor Area and a few key areas (30 minutes)

• Dao-Qi technique: Applied to selected body points to enhance Qi circulation

• Chinese Herbal Medicines:  I prescribed a modified BuYangHuaWu Tang (补阳还五汤) (3)  to invigorating Qi, promoting Blood Circulation, and removing Blood Stasis.

                

Treatment Response:

During the initial session, Miss E experienced a noticeable reduction in tremor (hands and left foot), and reported feeling calmer and more relaxed.(4) (5)

She expressed satisfaction with the results and has since continued with weekly treatments. To date, she has received three sessions, all of which have been well tolerated with continuing clinical benefit.

Next Steps:

Ongoing weekly treatments will continue with re-evaluation every 5 sessions to monitor sustained improvement, especially in tremor control, mobility, and mood.  Additional support for menopausal and visual symptoms may be explored through adjunctive herbal or acupuncture approaches.

References: 

1) Syndromic parkinsonism and dementia associated with OPA1 missense mutations

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25820230/

2) Optic atrophy and parkinsonism in a family associated with OPA1 mutation

https://www.mdsabstracts.org/abstract/optic-atrophy-and-parkinsonism-in-a-family-associated-with-opa1-mutation/

3) Modified Bu Yang Hua Wu Tang  (补阳还五汤) has nine ingredients, such as Huang Qi (Astragalus root), Chuang Xiong (Szechuan lovage root), Chi Shao (Red peony root) and Dang Gui Wei (Tail of Angelica Root)....etc.

Huang Qi: https://www.darwynhealth.com/alternative-medicine/traditional-chinese-medicine-tcm/herbal-medicine-in-tcm/huang-qi-astragalus-membranaceus/the-science-behind-huang-qi-astragalus-membranaceus-and-its-health-benefits/?lang=en

Chuang Xiong: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39338320/

Chi Shao: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24160233/

Dang Gui Wei: https://www.maxapress.com/data/article/mpb/preview/pdf/MPB-2023-0016.pdf

4) Effectiveness of Acupuncture in the Treatment of Parkinson's Disease: An Overview of             Systematic Reviews

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7482669/

5) Effect of combined scalp and body acupuncture on Parkinson's disease: A randomized clinical trial: 

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1003525722000708