Women’s Health Through Midlife and Beyond: A TCM and Modern Health Perspective

Kit Li

About a month ago, I wrote an article about Women’s Health from a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) perspective, with a particular focus on younger women. (1)

Today, I would like to continue this topic by focusing on middle-aged and older women. Many of my female patients are at this stage of life and experience menopausal symptoms  and other common health concerns, including issues related to breast and thyroid health. As women grow older, conditions such as osteoporosis, heart disease, and pelvic organ prolapse may also become increasingly relevant.

As women move through different stages of life, their bodies and health needs naturally change. From a TCM perspective, ageing is also associated with gradual changes in Kidney essence (Jing), Qi, Blood, Yin and Yang, which can influence different aspects of women's physical and emotional wellbeing.

In this article, I would like to share some thoughts on these changes from both a TCM and general health perspective, and explore how we can better support women's health, maintain vitality, and promote wellbeing as we age.

Middle-Aged Women

As women enter middle age, increasing responsibilities and life pressures can gradually affect their health. Menopausal changes (2) may also begin during this stage, women commonly suffer from symptoms like hot flashes, insomnia, and mood swings, impacting quality of life.  Paying attention to early warning signs and adopting healthy lifestyle habits can help support long-term wellbeing.

1) Breast Health

With increasing work and lifestyle pressures, together with factors such as lack of sleep, physical inactivity, excess body weight and alcohol consumption, breast health deserves particular attention during middle age. Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting women, and early detection through appropriate screening can improve treatment outcomes.

Health Tips:

• Follow the recommended breast cancer screening programme for your age and individual risk.
• Be breast-aware and seek medical advice if you notice a new lump, nipple changes, skin changes or other unusual symptoms.
• Maintain a balanced diet rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains and fibre.
• Limit alcohol consumption.
• Exercise regularly and maintain a healthy body weight.
• Manage stress and prioritise adequate rest and emotional wellbeing. 

Note: If you are considering or currently using hormone replacement therapy (HRT), discuss the benefits and potential risks with your healthcare professional. (3)

2) Thyroid Health

Thyroid disorders, including hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism and thyroid nodules, are more common in women than in men. Thyroid function can also be influenced by different stages of a woman’s life, including pregnancy and menopause.

Health Tips:

• Pay attention to persistent symptoms such as unexplained fatigue, changes in weight, palpitations, sensitivity to heat or cold, or swelling in the neck.
• People with a personal or family history of thyroid disease may require closer monitoring.
• Seek medical assessment if you notice a new or enlarging thyroid lump or persistent changes in your voice or swallowing.

3) Diabetes

The risk of type 2 diabetes increases with age and is strongly associated with factors such as excess body weight, physical inactivity and metabolic changes. Menopause may also influence body composition and insulin sensitivity.

Health Tips:

• Have your blood glucose checked according to your individual risk factors and healthcare professional’s advice.
• Maintain a healthy, balanced diet and limit foods high in added sugar and saturated fat.
• Aim for regular physical activity, including aerobic exercise and strength training.
• Maintain a healthy body weight and waist circumference.

Older Women

As women grow older, physiological changes become more noticeable and the risk of certain chronic conditions increases. Preventive healthcare, regular screening, physical activity and good nutrition become increasingly important for maintaining independence and quality of life.

1) Osteoporosis

After menopause, declining oestrogen levels accelerate bone loss, increasing the risk of osteoporosis and fractures. Osteoporosis may develop without obvious symptoms until a fracture occurs.

Health Tips:

• Discuss your individual fracture risk and the need for bone-density assessment with your healthcare professional.
• Ensure adequate calcium and vitamin D intake.
• Include regular weight-bearing and resistance exercise.
• Avoid smoking and limit alcohol.
• Reduce the risk of falls by maintaining muscle strength, balance and a safe home environment.

Note: If osteoporosis is associated with chronic musculoskeletal pain, some people may consider complementary approaches such as acupuncture alongside conventional medical care. (4)

2) Heart Disease

Cardiovascular risk increases with age, particularly after menopause. Changes in hormones, blood pressure, cholesterol, body composition and glucose metabolism can all contribute to cardiovascular disease.

Health Tips:

• Have your blood pressure, cholesterol and blood glucose monitored regularly.
• Maintain regular physical activity.
• Follow a balanced diet rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, legumes and healthy sources of protein.
• Limit salt, highly processed foods and excessive saturated fat.
• Avoid smoking and maintain a healthy body weight.

3) Pelvic Organ Prolapse (5)

With ageing and menopause, the muscles and connective tissues supporting the pelvic organs may weaken. Pregnancy and childbirth, chronic constipation, persistent coughing, obesity and repeated heavy lifting can also increase the risk of pelvic organ prolapse.

Health Tips:

• Maintain a healthy body weight.
• Prevent constipation and avoid excessive straining.
• Treat persistent coughing appropriately.
• Pelvic-floor exercises may help strengthen supporting muscles.
• Seek medical advice if you experience pelvic pressure, a vaginal bulge, urinary difficulties or other persistent symptoms.

Healthy Ageing

1) Balanced Diet

• Eat a varied diet based on vegetables, fruits, whole grains, legumes and other nutrient-rich foods.
• Include appropriate amounts of fish, poultry, eggs, dairy or alternatives, and lean protein.
• Limit excessive salt, added sugar, saturated fat and highly processed foods.
• Maintain adequate hydration according to your individual needs.

2) Regular Exercise

Aim for approximately two hours of moderate-intensity physical activity each week, together with muscle-strengthening activities on at least two days per week. Choose activities appropriate to your health and fitness level and build up gradually.

3) Adequate Sleep

Aim for around 7 - 8 hours of good-quality sleep each night. Maintain a regular sleep routine and create a quiet, dark and comfortable sleeping environment.

4) Emotional Wellbeing

Maintain meaningful social connections, cultivate enjoyable hobbies and develop healthy ways of managing stress. Activities such as spending time in nature, gentle exercise, meditation and creative pursuits can support emotional wellbeing.

5) Regular Health Checks

Attend recommended health checks and screening programmes appropriate to your age and individual risk factors, including cervical and breast screening, blood-pressure checks and metabolic health assessments.

From a TCM Perspective: Nourishing the Liver and Kidneys and Supporting Brain Health

In TCM theory, the Kidneys store Jing (Essence) and are associated with the production of marrow, while the brain is traditionally described as the Sea of Marrow. The Liver stores Blood, and the Spleen contributes to the production of Qi and Blood.

From this perspective, sufficient Jing, Qi and Blood are considered important for nourishing the brain and supporting memory and mental clarity. With ageing, patterns such as Kidney Jing deficiency, Liver and Kidney deficiency, or Qi and Blood deficiency may contribute to symptoms such as forgetfulness, fatigue, dizziness or reduced concentration.

TCM approaches therefore traditionally focus on tonifying the Kidneys, nourishing the Liver and Blood, replenishing Jing, strengthening the Spleen and supporting the circulation of Qi and Blood. These concepts belong to traditional Chinese medical theory and should not be interpreted as established biomedical mechanisms.

Simple Head and Ear Massage

Gentle self-massage can be incorporated into a daily relaxation routine:

• Scalp massage: Gently “comb” the scalp with slightly bent fingers from the forehead towards the back of the head.
• Nose massage: Gently rub along both sides of the nose until the area feels comfortably warm.
• Ear massage: Rub the ears gently between the fingers until warm.

These techniques may promote relaxation and a subjective sense of alertness, although claims that they prevent cognitive decline or improve memory should not be overstated.

Conclusion:

Women’s health continues to evolve throughout every stage of life. By combining preventive healthcare, healthy lifestyle choices and appropriate medical screening with the individualised perspective of Traditional Chinese Medicine, we can take a more holistic approach to supporting women as they age.

Most importantly, healthy ageing is not simply about preventing disease, it is about maintaining vitality, independence, emotional wellbeing and quality of life. Listen to your body, care for it early, and seek the right support when you need it.

References:

1) Growing with the Cycles of Life

2) Comparative effectiveness of different acupuncture therapies for perimenopausal syndrome: a systematic review and network meta-analysis

3) A TCM approach to the Menopausal Transition

4) A 2025 systematic review/network meta-analysis included 30 studies with 2,342 participants and found potentially beneficial effects of several acupuncture-related therapies on outcomes including BMD and pain.

5) Effect of electroacupuncture on symptoms of female pelvic organ prolapse (stage II-III)

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

Kit LI

Did you know the first solar term of autumn quietly arrived two weeks 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-inspired nourishing soup for seasonal dryness

 Kit Li

The weather of last weekend was absolutely stunning, with plenty of sunshine and clear skies. However, did you notice how low the humidity was? The average was around 38%.

I certainly noticed the difference in my own body. When I washed my face first thing in the morning, my skin felt unusually tight and slightly itchy. I was also feeling quite thirsty throughout the day.

From a conventional perspective, low humidity can increase moisture loss from the skin, leaving it feeling dry and uncomfortable. Staying well hydrated by drinking enough water is important.

From a TCM perspective, however, hydration is more than simply drinking water. The body needs to properly transform, transport and distribute fluids so they can nourish the skin and tissues (1).  Therefore, supporting Yin and maintaining the health of the internal organs are also important for nourishing the body’s fluids and maintaining healthy hydration.

There was another factor I couldn’t ignore: my recent diet. With all the BBQs lately, I had been eating rather too much deep-fried and rich food, and I could feel a sense of heat building up in my body.

From a TCM perspective, excessive consumption of rich, greasy or heavily fried foods may contribute to the accumulation of Heat and Dampness, particularly when the Spleen’s transportation and transformation functions are not working optimally.

When external dryness combines with internal Heat, symptoms such as thirst, dry or itchy skin, a feeling of tightness, and general discomfort may become more noticeable.

For me, the message from my body was quite simple: Beautiful weather is something to enjoy, but perhaps it was also time to cut back on the fried food, nourish my body with more wholesome foods, and pay a little more attention to my body fluids. 

Sometimes, our everyday symptoms are simply the body's way of asking us to slow down, observe, and make a few small adjustments.

As the weather becomes drier, especially during the transition from late summer into early autumn, some people may notice increased thirst, a dry mouth or throat, dry skin, or a general feeling of dryness.

I often recommend Asian pears as a simple food choice during this seasonal transition. From a TCM perspective, pear is considered cooling and nourishing to the Lung, and is traditionally used to help moisten dryness and generate fluids.

Today, I made a simple nourishing soup for my family:

Simple TCM-inspired Soup for Dryness (Serves 3)

• Dried Pear (乾梨, Qián Lí) : 1 - 2 pieces
• Five-fingered Fig Root (五指毛桃, Wǔ Zhǐ Máo Táo) : 15 - 20 g
• Chinese Yam (淮山, Huái Shān) : 15 - 20 g
• Ophiopogon Tuber (麥冬, Mài Dōng) : 10 - 15 g
• Water : 1.2 - 1.5 litres

TCM properties & traditional functions

Dried Pear (乾梨 Qián Lí)

Nature: Cool

Flavour: Sweet

Traditional function: Nourishes Yin, generates fluids and helps relieve dryness, particularly dryness affecting the Lung.

Five-fingered Fig Root (五指毛桃 Wǔ Zhǐ Máo Táo)

Nature: Neutral to slightly warm

Flavour: Sweet

Traditional function: Tonifies Qi, strengthens the Spleen and helps support the Lung. It is also traditionally used to promote the movement of fluids and reduce Dampness.

Chinese Yam (淮山 Huái Shān) (1)

Nature: Neutral

Flavour: Sweet

Traditional function: Tonifies Spleen and Stomach-Qi, supports the Lung and Kidney, and helps nourish and stabilise the body’s fluids. It is particularly gentle and suitable for nourishing soups.  Studies suggest potential antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, blood-sugar-lowering, cholesterol-lowering, blood-pressure-lowering and immune-supporting effects.

Ophiopogon Tuber (麥冬 Mài Dōng) (2)

Nature: Slightly cold

Flavour: Sweet and slightly bitter

Traditional function: Nourishes Yin, generates fluids and moistens the Lung and Stomach. It is particularly relevant when dryness is accompanied by thirst or a dry mouth and throat. 

Preparation

1. Rinse all the ingredients thoroughly.
2. Add everything to approximately 1.2 - 1.5 litres of water.
3. Bring to a boil, then simmer gently for 45 mins.
4. Serve warm.

From a TCM perspective, this combination focuses on generating fluids, nourishing Yin, supporting the Spleen and Lung, and gently addressing seasonal dryness.

It is a simple food-based soup rather than a substitute for individualised herbal treatment. As always in TCM, the same food or herb may not be appropriate for everyone, particularly for people with significant Cold, Spleen Yang deficiency or Dampness with Phlegm.

Sometimes, supporting the body through seasonal changes does not have to be complicated. A simple bowl of nourishing soup can be a beautiful place to start.

References:

1) Current concept of Spleen-Stomach theory and Spleen deficiency syndrome in TCM: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4767755/
2) Chinese Yam: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38790726/
3) Mai Dong: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26826325/

The 6th China–UK Summit Forum on Traditional Chinese Medicine & Academic Exchange Conference

Kit Li

Today, I attended the 6th China-UK Summit Forum on Traditional Chinese Medicine and Academic Exchange Conference that was hosted by Federation of Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners (UK) (1).

There were around 11 speakers from both the UK and China, sharing their clinical experiences, research, and perspectives in Traditional Chinese Medicine.  The four-hour presentation was incredibly interesting and fascinating. A couple of the presenters had travelled from China, and their inspiring case studies really got me thinking and opened up new perspectives.

The topics covered a wide range of areas:

• TCM Prevention and Treatment of Diabetes
• A Study of Shanghan Lun and Jinkui Yaolue from the Perspective of Xiao Jian Zhong Tang (小建中汤) 
• Integrated Diagnostic and Therapeutic Approach for Acupuncture Intervention in Depression and Associated Insomnia
• An Interpretation of Ba and Bianstone Therapies from a Clinical Perspective
• Targeted Therapy of Vertigo Guided by Modern Tongue Diagnosis
• diabetes-related vision problems, and some unique techniques demonstrated by a Tuina master...etc.

The topic that impressed me the most was “Application of External Therapies of TCM in Refractory Skin Diseases”, presented by Prof. Min Xiao.

Although many of the products discussed contained mineral or animal-derived substances, I found it particularly interesting that TCM formulas can be modified by using alternative substances with similar properties and functions. This demonstrates the flexibility of TCM in adapting formulations while maintaining their therapeutic principles.

The common refractory skin conditions discussed included chronic skin ulcers, intractable eczema, atopic dermatitis, severe acne, verruca plana, chronic urticaria, and postherpetic neuralgia, among others. I found the application of external TCM therapies in these difficult-to-treat conditions particularly interesting, as it provided me with a broader understanding of how TCM can be applied beyond internal herbal medicine and acupuncture.

It was a very inspiring and thought-provoking afternoon. I came away with many new ideas and perspectives that I hope to explore further in my own TCM clinical practice. 

My Thoughts

Generally speaking, over the past few years, most of the speakers I have encountered at TCM conferences in the UK have been based in the UK. Today was the first time I had the opportunity to hear several speakers who had come from Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine (2), China, which gave me a very different perspective.

I was particularly impressed by their approach to TCM and by some of the products they had developed. Their clinical experience and innovative use of different ingredients were fascinating. Compared with the UK, there appear to be different regulatory frameworks governing the ingredients that can be incorporated into certain TCM products in China, which allows practitioners and researchers to explore a broader range of traditional substances.

What impressed me most was the reported clinical effectiveness of some of these products and the way traditional knowledge has been translated into practical applications.

It certainly gave me a lot to think about, particularly in terms of how we can preserve the principles of TCM while adapting formulas and products to different regulatory environments and clinical settings.

Another presentation was Yin’s Modern Tongue Diagnosis (殷氏现代舌诊) (3), developed by Dr Yin Hongchun (殷鸿春). Although Dr Yin himself did not present at yesterday’s conference, one of his students presented his approach, which gave me an opportunity to learn more about this distinctive and impressive method.Building on the traditional foundations of TCM tongue diagnosis.

Dr Yin has developed a systematic and contemporary approach that incorporates holographic tongue mapping, tongue-midline theory, and the use of tongue findings to guide pattern differentiation, acupuncture and herbal treatment. His innovative approach has received international recognition, reflecting the growing interest in modernising and systematising traditional diagnostic methods.

Reference: 

1) Federation of Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners (UK):  https://ftcmp.co.uk/en/home/

2) Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine:  https://zyd.cdutcm.edu.cn/gjjyxy/zsxx/wjxs/content_136179

3) International College of Modern Tongue Diagnosis: https://icmtd.uk

Holistic Support Through the UPLIFTED Programme

Kit Li

Since early 2026, the Butterfly House has launched a new supportive care programme for patients with advanced life-limiting illnesses, addressing their complex physical, emotional, and psychological needs.

UPLIFITED is an 8-week support programme for adults over 18 who are living with a life-limiting illness and have a Buckinghamshire GP. It is run by palliative care nurses at Butterfly House and is designed to support people at different stages of their illness in a holistic, person-centred way.

The programme combines:

• nursing support
• complementary therapy
• creativity and movement
• yoga, mindfulness, and meditation
• practical advice and coping strategies

Each week follows the theme of UPLIFTED, focusing on areas such as:

Understanding: understanding the programme and your needs and goals

Person: person-centred care and who you are beyond your diagnosis

Love yourself: self-love, self-care and exploring body and identity

Identity: navigating, a shift or loss of identity, embracing a new identity and finding opportunity in rediscovery

Feel good: feeling good mentally and physically

Trust: trusting ourselves and establishing trust in others, planning for the future

Empower: finding personal empowerment and empowering others

Develop: celebrating and reflecting on your achievements, and ways to further develop your new skills

It also helps participants with:

• managing symptoms
• emotional support
• confidence and self-awareness
• advanced care planning
• community support and advocacy
• useful worksheets and resources to continue after the course

To join, a person should be mobile enough to attend Butterfly House and able to take part in the weekly sessions. They can be referred by a GP, consultant, specialist nurse, or other healthcare professional.  Before joining the Uplifted programme, patients complete an eight-week assessment conducted by the nursing team. Those who are deemed suitable are then referred to the complementary therapy team.

Contact Information:

Butterfly House

Kingswood Park

High Wycombe

Buckinghamshire

HP13 6GR

Tel : 01494552750

email: bht.butterflyhousenurses@nhs.net

https://fnhospice.org.uk/hospice-care/day-services-and-clinics/

Returning to Shenzhen After Three Decades: A Journey of Discovery and Professional Inspiration

 

Kit Li

It was hard to believe that my last visit to Shenzhen had been nearly three decades ago, in 1996. I can barely remember what the city looked like at that time, and witnessing its remarkable transformation today has been truly inspiring.

This July, during my trip to Hong Kong to visit family and friends, I had the privilege of visiting Shenzhen Second People’s Hospital (SSPH) and meeting Prof. Pan Li Tao in her clinic for a meaningful exchange of ideas.

SSPH, also known as Shenzhen University First Affiliated Hospital, is a leading Grade IIIA public teaching hospital affiliated with Shenzhen University. It serves as one of Shenzhen’s major centres for clinical care, medical education, scientific research, rehabilitation, preventive medicine, and public health services.

Prof. Pan is a Chief Physician and Director of the Department of Acupuncture and Tuina, while also holding leadership roles in Preventive Medicine and Health Management. Since completing her PhD, she has dedicated more than two decades to the hospital, making significant contributions to clinical practice, research, and the advancement of integrative medicine.

Earlier this year, in March, Prof. Pan delivered a lecture on the role of  TCM in the management of lung cancer. Her evidence-informed approach and clinical insights into integrative cancer care left a profound impression on me. Her extensive knowledge, clinical experience, and commitment to patient-centred care were both inspiring and thought-provoking. It was this lecture that motivated me to seek the opportunity to meet her in person during my visit to China.

During our discussion, we explored a wide range of topics, including the integration of TCM with conventional oncology, the role of prevention, personalised treatment approaches, and the future development of acupuncture research. It was a valuable opportunity to exchange insights with a highly respected clinician and researcher whose dedication and contributions continue to advance the field of integrative medicine.

Although it was only a brief visit, my conversation with Prof. Pan left a lasting impression. Her insights broadened my perspective on integrative healthcare and encouraged me to further reflect on how TCM can continue to evolve alongside modern medicine, creating new possibilities for patient-centred care.

 

Harmonising the Body in Summer: A TCM Approach to Heat, Digestion and Inner Balance

Kit Li

The summer in the UK this year has been truly exceptional. Compared with previous years, it feels as though the season has lasted much longer than usual.

I still vividly remember my first visit to London in the summer of 1996. The memory remains remarkably clear. During my stay, the hottest day reached only around 18c. Expecting a much warmer summer, I hadn't packed suitable clothing for my training. In the end, I had to make a trip to the local high street to buy a suede jacket; otherwise, I would probably have fallen ill during what was supposed to be the British summer.

Looking back now, it is fascinating to see how much the climate appears to have changed. Summers in the UK seem warmer, longer, and increasingly reminiscent of those in parts of continental Europe, a striking contrast to the cool, unpredictable summers I experienced when I first arrived three decades ago.

With this prolonged spell of hot weather, many of my patients have been presenting with remarkably similar complaints. They often tell me:

 "I have no appetite at all (1) because my house is so hot. I've been drinking iced drinks throughout the day, but they're upsetting my stomach. I don't know what else to do." 

Others say, "I've developed heat rashes all over my body during this hot spell, especially when my house becomes unbearably warm."

I believe that, to some extent, many of us are facing the same challenges during this exceptional summer. As relatively few homes in the UK are equipped with air conditioning, coping with prolonged heat can be particularly difficult. Conversely, those who spend long hours in air-conditioned offices may experience a different set of problems. 

When cold air blows directly onto the back of your neck for prolonged periods, it may not be as harmless as it seems. From a TCM perspective, the back of the neck is one of the body's most vulnerable areas, where external pathogenic factors, particularly Wind and Cold, may enter and first affect the Taiyang meridians (the Bladder and Small Intestine channels), the body's outer defensive layer. This may contribute to neck stiffness, headaches, chills, muscle aches, or the early signs of a common cold.

Prolonged exposure to cold air may also allow Cold and Dampness to accumulate internally, potentially affecting the Spleen and Stomach and impairing their physiological functions. This may lead to poor appetite, abdominal discomfort, bloating, loose stools, indigestion, and other digestive disturbances.

Whether you're coping with excessive summer heat outdoors or spending long hours in air-conditioned environments, both extremes can challenge the body's natural balance. To help protect yourself, avoid sitting directly beneath air-conditioning vents for extended periods and, if necessary, cover the back of your neck with a light scarf, especially if you are prone to catching colds or developing neck and shoulder tension. In TCM, maintaining harmony between the external environment and the body's internal functions is an important part of staying healthy throughout the summer.

During periods of prolonged hot weather, I like to prepare a simple TCM wellness drink that helps support the digestive system while gently nourishing the body's internal organs. This combination of ingredients helps support the Spleen and Stomach functions, clear summer heat, promote the transformation and elimination of dampness, and restore digestive balance. Through harmonising the internal environment, it may also help calm the Shen and support emotional wellbeing during periods of physical stress caused by excessive heat.

The ingredients can be mixed and matched according to your individual constitution and personal preference. Drinking this beverage two or three times a week throughout the summer may help reduce the accumulation of internal heat, support healthy digestion, and maintain the body's natural balance during the warmer months.

Preparation Method (Serves 1–2 people):

Combination One: Clearing Summer Heat and Supporting Spleen Function

• Fried Mung Beans (炒绿豆) (2): 15g
• Fried Coix Seeds  (炒薏苡仁) (3): 15g
• Fried Poria (炒茯苓) (4): 15g
• Fried Adzuki Beans (炒赤小豆): 15g

Combination Two: Harmonising the Spleen and Stomach

• Fried Aged Tangerine Peel (炒陈皮) (5): 3g
• Fried Yellow Millet (炒小黄米): 10g

Suggested Use:

During periods of summer heat, if you experience tiredness, a heavy sensation in the body, or discomfort associated with dampness, Combination One may be more suitable to help clear heat and support the Spleen's ability to transform and transport fluids.

If your main concern is poor appetite, bloating, or digestive discomfort, Combination Two may be a gentler choice to harmonise the Spleen and Stomach and support digestive function.

You may also combine these two formulas together to create a more balanced preparation, incorporating the benefits of both approaches to support digestion, clear summer heat, and maintain overall harmony during the warmer months.

Preparation and Storage Method:

1) For convenience, you may prepare a larger batch of the ingredients in advance.Place the ingredients into a dry pan and gently dry-roast them over low heat for approximately 15 minutes until they become slightly fragrant. Avoid using high heat to prevent burning.

2) Allow the roasted ingredients to cool completely.

3) Transfer them into a clean, dry, airtight glass jar and store in a cool, dry place.

4) When needed, take an appropriate amount of the prepared ingredients, briefly rinse them, and follow the cooking method below.

Cooking Method (Serves 1–2 people):

• Place the prepared ingredients into a pot with approximately 1000 ml of water.
• Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20 - 30 minutes.
• Alternatively, place the ingredients into a heat-resistant flask, add boiling water, and allow them to steep for approximately 30 minutes to 1 hour before drinking.

Precautions:

• This roasted preparation is generally mild and gentle, making it suitable as a seasonal food therapy during warmer months to support digestion and help manage mild Dampness.
• People with a naturally cold constitution (such as frequent loose stools, cold hands and feet, or intolerance to cold drinks) may still wish to use it in moderation.
• Those with very weak digestion should start with a small amount and observe how their body responds.
• Pregnant women or individuals with specific health conditions should consult a healthcare professional before using it regularly.
• Food therapy in TCM should be adjusted according to individual constitution and needs. This preparation is intended for general wellbeing and digestive support, rather than replacing medical treatment.

This preparation method allows you to conveniently prepare and enjoy this gentle summer herbal drink throughout the warmer months, without the need to roast the ingredients each time. As individual constitutions and health conditions vary, it is recommended to consult a qualified TCM practitioner if you are unsure whether this preparation is suitable for your personal needs.

References:

1) Modern physiological research suggests that prolonged heat exposure may affect gastrointestinal function by altering hydration status, blood flow distribution, and intestinal barrier integrity: https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/17/3/443

2) Mung beans (绿豆) contain polyphenolic compounds that have demonstrated antioxidant activity, supporting their traditional role as a refreshing summer food.

3) Coix seeds (薏苡仁), traditionally used in TCM to support Spleen function and promote the elimination of dampness, have been studied for their bioactive compounds, including polysaccharides and flavonoids, which demonstrate potential anti-inflammatory and gut microbiota-regulating effects: Research on Coix seed as a food and medicinal resource, it's chemical components and their pharmacological activities: A review - PubMed

4) Guo Y, et al. Research progress on the pharmacological effects of Poria cocos (茯苓): a narrative update. https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/nutrition/articles/10.3389/fnut.2026.1774161

5) Aged tangerine peel (陈皮) contains flavonoids such as hesperidin, which have demonstrated antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties in experimental studies.

6) Yellow millet (小黄米) provides easily digestible carbohydrates and dietary fibre, making it a gentle food traditionally valued for supporting digestive function.