Cold Hands and Feet: Traditional Chinese Medicine Solutions and Dietary Tips

Q: Cold Hands and Feet: Traditional Chinese Medicine Solutions and Dietary Tips

Hello, netizen; here are my responses：<br>1. <br>Cold hands and feet, especially during times of stress or in winter, indicate poor peripheral circulation. <br>In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), this is classified as a cold syndrome. <br>Herbal formulas can improve this const

Cold hands and feet?

Hello, doctor.

1.
I often experience cold hands and feet, especially when I'm nervous or during winter.
What dietary considerations should I keep in mind? Are there any traditional Chinese medicine remedies that can help improve this condition?
2.
I previously lost 9 kilograms due to hepatitis B, and my liver function tests are now normal.
Can poor vitality affect my kidneys? Thank you.

jay, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/12/08

Dr. Lin Qingzhong reply Traditional Chinese Medicine

Hello, netizen; here are my responses:
1.
Cold hands and feet, especially during times of stress or in winter, indicate poor peripheral circulation.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), this is classified as a cold syndrome.
Herbal formulas can improve this constitution, and in clinical practice, I need to diagnose based on the patient's other symptoms to prescribe appropriately.
Since "the kidney is the foundation of congenital vitality," warming and tonifying kidney yang is particularly important.
Commonly used yang-tonifying herbs include deer antler, deer horn, gecko, epimedium, morinda root, cistanche, cordyceps, dodder seed, psoralea, eucommia, walnut, and chive seeds.
Formulas include Ren Shen Bai Du San, Si Jun Zi Tang, Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang, Jian Pi Yang Xin Tang, Gui Pi Tang for tonifying qi and blood, and Shi Quan Da Bu Tang for both qi and blood replenishment, as well as Dang Gui Bu Xue Tang for tonifying qi and generating blood.
I recommend consulting a qualified TCM practitioner for diagnosis and treatment.
2.
Previously, I lost 9 kilograms due to hepatitis B.
Although my liver function tests are normal now, I still need to continue monitoring liver function, antibody production, and e-antigen levels.
Since liver function can affect the spleen and stomach's ability to digest and absorb nutrients, weight loss can occur.
In TCM, we say "to treat the liver, one must first strengthen the spleen," meaning that liver treatment requires first regulating the spleen and stomach.
Poor liver function can lead to fatigue and low vitality, especially during the dangerous phase of acute hepatitis, which can result in multiple organ failure affecting the kidneys.
Generally, hepatitis B primarily involves liver damage.
If the fatigue is due to poor kidney function (which can also lead to low vitality), then kidney treatment is necessary.
Finally, I wish you well.
Dr.
Lin Qingzhong, Director of the Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fengyuan Hospital.

Reply Date: 2004/12/08

More Info

Cold hands and feet are a common complaint, especially during colder months or in stressful situations. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), this condition is often attributed to a deficiency of Yang energy, which is responsible for warmth and circulation in the body. Here are some dietary tips and herbal remedies that may help improve your condition.

Dietary Recommendations
1. Warm Foods: Focus on consuming warm, cooked foods rather than raw or cold foods. This includes soups, stews, and warm grains. Foods like ginger, garlic, and cinnamon can help warm the body from the inside.

2. Avoid Cold and Raw Foods: Steer clear of foods that are cold in nature, such as salads, ice cream, and cold beverages. These can exacerbate the feeling of coldness in your extremities.

3. Incorporate Yang Nourishing Foods: Foods that are considered warming and nourishing to Yang energy include lamb, chicken, walnuts, and black sesame seeds. These can help improve circulation and warmth.

4. Herbal Teas: Drinking herbal teas such as ginger tea or cinnamon tea can be beneficial. You mentioned that you often drink ginseng tea; this is a good choice as ginseng is known to invigorate Yang energy.

5. Limit Caffeine and Alcohol: While moderate amounts may not be harmful, excessive consumption can lead to dehydration and may exacerbate cold sensations.

Herbal Remedies
In TCM, several herbal formulas may be recommended to help with cold hands and feet:
1. Jin Gui Shen Qi Wan (金匱腎氣丸): This formula is often used to tonify kidney Yang and can help with cold extremities.

2. Sheng Yang Tang (生陽湯): This is a warming formula that can help to dispel cold and invigorate Yang energy.

3. Gui Pi Tang (桂枝湯): This formula can help with circulation and is often used for those who feel cold due to Qi deficiency.

Lifestyle Recommendations
1. Regular Exercise: Engaging in regular physical activity can help improve circulation and boost Yang energy. Activities such as brisk walking, yoga, or tai chi can be particularly beneficial.

2. Stress Management: Since you mentioned that your hands and feet get colder when you are tense, practicing stress-reduction techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, or mindfulness can help.

3. Warm Baths: Taking warm baths can help to relax your muscles and improve circulation, providing temporary relief from cold extremities.

Regarding Your Liver Health
You mentioned that you lost weight due to hepatitis B but that your liver function tests have returned to normal. It's important to maintain a healthy lifestyle to support your liver and overall health. While your liver health is crucial, it is also essential to support your kidneys, especially if you feel that your energy levels are low.

1. Hydration: Ensure you are well-hydrated, as dehydration can affect both liver and kidney function.

2. Balanced Diet: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can support both liver and kidney health.

3. Regular Check-ups: Continue to have regular check-ups with your healthcare provider to monitor your liver and kidney function, especially after a significant health issue like hepatitis B.

In summary, addressing cold hands and feet through diet, herbal remedies, and lifestyle changes can be effective. Additionally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle will support your liver and kidney health. If symptoms persist or worsen, consider consulting a TCM practitioner or a healthcare provider for personalized advice and treatment.

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