The formula may help to promote fluid metabolism in order to allow the shedding of excess fluid. It is more suited to patients with underlying deficiency conditions, characterized by fatigue, pallor, weak pulse, etc.
Obesity is a significant public health crisis and has been linked to early mortality, hypertension, diabetes, heart disease, liver disease, colon disorders, and some skin disorders. Although patients visiting a TCM practitioner will most likely have heard all of this from their GP or through the media, it generally helps their motivation if the message is reinforced by their practitioner.
It should go without saying that herbal treatment for weight loss must always be accompanied by proper attention to lifestyle factors, specifically diet and exercise. Carbohydrate restriction ‐ but not total calorie restriction ‐ with regular aerobic as well as resistance exercise, are the essential components of a sensible weight loss program. The addition of an herbal formula provides an additional and, in many cases, crucial supporting factor.
TCM ACTIONS
Resolves Phlegm-Damp, drains retained Fluid and promotes diuresis, regulates the Qi and harmonises the middle Jiao, opens the bowels.
TCM SYNDROMES
- Phlegm-Damp and Fluid retention
- Qi stagnation
Overweight, obesity, fluid retention
SIGNS & SYMPTOMS (Key clinical features in bold)
- Over weight
- Fluid retention
- Fatigue
- Pale complexion
- Sluggish bowels or mild constipation
- Abdominal bloating
- Tongue is pale and swollen with tooth marks and with a moist or greasy coat
- Pulse is weak, and may also be slippery, soft or hollow.