The Dog Days of Summer have arrived. Have you been feeling physically off lately? Summer is supposed to be a time of vibrant energy, yet you find yourself listless and lacking motivation. You may feel palpitations and shortness of breath after just a few steps, toss and turn in bed at night unable to sleep, and experience a heavy, foggy head during the day. Why is this happening?

In fact, this is often related to insufficiency of Heart Yang. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) holds that the Qi of summer connects with the heart. During summer, the body's Yang Qi tends to float to the surface, leaving the interior relatively depleted. The heart governs both the blood vessels and stores the spirit or mind. If Heart Yang is insufficient, its power to propel the circulation of Qi and blood weakens. Consequently, symptoms like chest tightness and palpitations are more likely to occur, particularly during exertion or in hot, stuffy weather, when these discomforts become more pronounced.

People in this condition may also experience cold palms and soles, yet sweat easily drips down their neck with even slight movement. This is actually due to insufficient heart yang failing to properly warm the limbs, combined with a decline in the body’s ability to retain fluids. If left unaddressed, it can become even more troublesome in autumn and winter. When cold weather arrives, the already deficient yang qi is further constrained by cold and dampness, leading to symptoms like dizziness, difficulty breathing, and over time, increased risk of cerebrovascular issues.

Some may think taking tonics will help, but when heart yang is insufficient, yang qi is too weak to warm the spleen earth, which can result in weakened spleen yang and poor digestion, affecting the absorption of tonics. In such cases, it becomes necessary to replenish heart yang.

In this situation, a classic Chinese patent medicine, Xinbao Wan, can be considered for regulation. It is formulated with herbs such as aconite, cinnamon bark, ginseng, and deer antler. Aconite warms and unblocks heart yang, cinnamon bark assists yang and transforms qi, ginseng replenishes qi and strengthens the heart, and deer antler warms the kidneys and supports yang. Together, these herbs work synergistically, like adding fuel to the fire of the heart, gradually restoring heart yang.

The dog days of summer are an excellent time to nourish yang qi. Taking good care of the heart can make the entire summer more comfortable. This content is intended for educational purposes only. If you experience physical discomfort, please seek medical attention promptly!