Qi deficiency
Low vital energy — tires easily, short of breath, catches colds
A qi-deficient constitution means the body’s vital energy is insufficient and organ function is on the weaker side. The hallmark is tiring easily, shortness of breath, a soft voice, sweating on slight exertion, and being prone to repeated colds. The focus is to strengthen the spleen and gently build qi.
Typical signs
- Tires easily, even with light activity
- Short of breath, soft low voice
- Sweats on exertion, catches colds easily
- Pale complexion, low resistance
Favour
- Chinese yam, millet, red dates
- Astragalus, codonopsis (as food therapy)
- Pumpkin, chestnut and other spleen-strengthening foods
Limit
- ·Cold raw produce and iced drinks
- ·Greasy, hard-to-digest foods
- ·Excess raw radish and spicy food, which drain qi
Lifestyle
- Avoid overexertion, rest enough
- Gentle, progressive exercise (brisk walking, qigong)
- Keep regular hours, avoid late nights
Classic formulas for qi deficiency
Herbalist-curated; directional, not prescriptive.
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This content is wellness education, not medical diagnosis or treatment. Constitution should be assessed by a qualified practitioner; if you have a medical condition, are pregnant, or take medication, consult a professional first.