Preference For Sippingaccording to TCM
*redirected from Desire to drink in small sips
Symptom family: Thirst and Hydration
What is Preference for Sipping?
Preference for sipping refers to a tendency or desire to drink fluids slowly and in small quantities rather than in large gulps. This behavior can be seen in various conditions and may be associated with underlying health issues or personal comfort preferences. Individuals with this tendency often feel the need to hydrate frequently but prefer doing so in controlled, small sips.
How Does TCM View Preference for Sipping?
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) views preference for sipping as a symptom that can be linked to several patterns of disharmony within the body. Unlike Western medicine, which may see this preference as a minor or incidental behavior, TCM considers it a significant indicator of underlying imbalances. Identifying the correct pattern of disharmony is essential for effective treatment.
Root Causes of Preference For Sipping in TCM
One common cause in TCM for preference for sipping is Yin Deficiency, particularly Kidney Yin Deficiency. This pattern includes symptoms such as thirst with desire to drink in small sips, excessive sweating, back pain, hearing loss, dry mouth and throat at night, lower back pain, constipation, and scanty and dark urine. Kidney Yin Deficiency reflects a lack of essential fluids and cooling energy, leading to these symptoms.
Another cause is Empty-Heat or Fire caused by Yin Deficiency. This pattern is characterized by symptoms like afternoon heat sensation, dry mouth, preference for sipping, dry mouth and throat at night, night sweats, cardiac burning sensation, hot palms and soles, and dry stools. The heat symptoms arise from the body's deficiency in Yin, which fails to balance and cool the internal Heat.
Explore below more details about what might cause Preference for sipping according to TCM.
Yin Deficiency
Yin deficiency in TCM is a pattern of disharmony characterized by a depletion of the body's Yin energy, which represents the cooling, moistening, and nurturing aspects of our physiology. This condition often arises from factors like chronic stress, overwork, insufficient rest, or prolonged illness. Symptoms of Yin deficiency can include a sensation of heat, especially in the afternoon or evening, night sweats, insomnia, a dry mouth or throat, and a red tongue with little coating. There might also be a general feeling of restlessness or irritability. Since Yin is essential for balancing the body's active and warm Yang energy, its deficiency leads to a relative excess of Yang, manifesting as heat or dryness symptoms.... see more
Yin Deficiency Patterns That Can Lead to Preference For Sipping
Common Symptoms: Dry Stools Flushed Cheekbones Dizziness Night Sweats Insomnia Scanty And Dark Urine Restlessness Hot Palms And Soles
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Kidney Yin Deficiency | Thirst with desire to drink in small sips, Excessive sweating, Back pain, Hearing loss, Dry mouth and throat at night, Lower back pain, Constipation, Scanty and dark urine, Infertility, Premature ejaculation, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Depression, Anxiety, Heat sensation in palms, Evening heat sensation, Flushed cheekbones, Menopausal hot flashes, Preference for sipping, Evening anxiety... see more | Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | Zuo Gui Wan | Zhi Bo Di Huang Wan | Bai Zi Yang Xin Tang | Qi Bao Mei Ran Dan |
| Kidney Yin Deficiency With Empty-Heat Blazing | Thirst with desire to drink in small sips, Flushed cheekbones, Restlessness, Insomnia, Night sweats, Low grade fever in the afternoon, Heat sensation in palms, Afternoon heat sensation, Evening heat sensation, Scanty and dark urine, Hematuria, Dry throat, Preference for sipping, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Hearing loss, Lower back pain, Nocturnal emission, Hypersexuality, Dry stools... see more | Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | Zhi Bo Di Huang Wan |
| Liver Yin Deficiency | Thirst with desire to drink in small sips, Dizziness, Limb numbness, Tingling of limbs, Insomnia, Blurry vision, Eye floaters, Dry eyes, Night blindness, Scanty menstruation, Amenorrhea, Dull pale complexion, Flushed cheekbones, Muscle weakness, Muscle cramps, Withered and brittle nails, Dry hair, Skin dryness, Depression, Lack of direction, Night sweats, Vivid dreaming, Afternoon fever, Hot palms and soles, Preference for sipping... see more | Qi Ju Di Huang Wan | Bu Gan Tang | Suan Zao Ren Tang | Yi Guan Jian |
| Stomach and Spleen Yin Deficiency | Thirst with desire to drink in small sips, Lack of appetite, Dry mouth, Preference for sipping, Dry stools, Dry lips, Nausea, Generalized fatigue, Upper abdominal discomfort, Loss of taste... see more | Shen Ling Bai Zhu San |
| Empty-Heat or Fire caused by Yin Deficiency | Desire to drink in small sips, Afternoon heat sensation, Dry mouth, Preference for sipping, Dry mouth and throat at night, Night sweats, Cardiac burning sensation, Hot palms and soles, Dry stools, Scanty and dark urine, Flushed cheekbones... see more | Tian Wang Bu Xin Dan | Suan Zao Ren Tang | Qing Hao Bie Jia Tang | Huang Lian E Jiao Tang | Dang Gui Liu Huang Tang |
| Stomach Yin Deficiency | Desire to drink in small sips, Lack of appetite, Preference for sipping, Slight abdominal distension after eating... see more | Shen Ling Bai Zhu San | Mai Men Dong Tang | Yi Wei Tang |
| Yin Deficiency | Desire to drink in small sips, Heat sensation in palms, Emaciation, Sore throat at night, Thirst, Anxiety, Jumpy, Scanty and dark urine, Dry stools, Dry mouth and throat at night, Nocturnal emission, Pain relieved by pressure and cold, Preference for sipping... see more | Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | Zuo Gui Wan | Mu Li San | Zeng Ye Cheng Qi Tang |
Heat
In TCM "Heat" signifies an excess of Yang energy, leading to an imbalance where heat predominates over the body's cool Yin aspects. This condition is metaphorically akin to an internal over-heating. Symptoms indicative of Heat can include feelings of warmth, fever, sweating, irritability, red face, thirst with a preference for cold drinks, and a rapid pulse. The tongue may appear red with a yellow coating. Unlike the common interpretation of heat in terms of temperature, in TCM, it represents a state of hyperactivity or inflammation in the body.... see more
Heat Patterns That Can Lead to Preference For Sipping
Common Symptoms: Flushed Cheekbones Restlessness Insomnia Night Sweats Afternoon Heat Sensation Scanty And Dark Urine Dizziness Tinnitus
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Kidney Yin Deficiency With Empty-Heat Blazing | Thirst with desire to drink in small sips, Flushed cheekbones, Restlessness, Insomnia, Night sweats, Low grade fever in the afternoon, Heat sensation in palms, Afternoon heat sensation, Evening heat sensation, Scanty and dark urine, Hematuria, Dry throat, Preference for sipping, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Hearing loss, Lower back pain, Nocturnal emission, Hypersexuality, Dry stools... see more | Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | Zhi Bo Di Huang Wan |
| Empty-Heat or Fire caused by Yin Deficiency | Desire to drink in small sips, Afternoon heat sensation, Dry mouth, Preference for sipping, Dry mouth and throat at night, Night sweats, Cardiac burning sensation, Hot palms and soles, Dry stools, Scanty and dark urine, Flushed cheekbones... see more | Tian Wang Bu Xin Dan | Suan Zao Ren Tang | Qing Hao Bie Jia Tang | Huang Lian E Jiao Tang | Dang Gui Liu Huang Tang |
Kidney
In TCM the Kidneys are regarded as the body's most fundamental reservoir of Essence, known as Jing, which influences growth, reproduction, and aging. They are not just organs for filtering blood, but a holistic system governing vital life forces. When the Kidneys malfunction in TCM, it can manifest as a variety of health issues, such as chronic fatigue, reproductive problems, imbalances in fluid metabolism leading to edema or dryness, lower back pain, and a sense of fear or insecurity.... see more
Kidney Patterns That Can Lead to Preference For Sipping
Common Symptoms: Hearing Loss Lower Back Pain Scanty And Dark Urine Heat Sensation In Palms Evening Heat Sensation Tinnitus Dizziness Night Sweats
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Kidney Yin Deficiency | Thirst with desire to drink in small sips, Excessive sweating, Back pain, Hearing loss, Dry mouth and throat at night, Lower back pain, Constipation, Scanty and dark urine, Infertility, Premature ejaculation, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Depression, Anxiety, Heat sensation in palms, Evening heat sensation, Flushed cheekbones, Menopausal hot flashes, Preference for sipping, Evening anxiety... see more | Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | Zuo Gui Wan | Zhi Bo Di Huang Wan | Bai Zi Yang Xin Tang | Qi Bao Mei Ran Dan |
| Kidney Yin Deficiency With Empty-Heat Blazing | Thirst with desire to drink in small sips, Flushed cheekbones, Restlessness, Insomnia, Night sweats, Low grade fever in the afternoon, Heat sensation in palms, Afternoon heat sensation, Evening heat sensation, Scanty and dark urine, Hematuria, Dry throat, Preference for sipping, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Hearing loss, Lower back pain, Nocturnal emission, Hypersexuality, Dry stools... see more | Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | Zhi Bo Di Huang Wan |
| Kidneys And Heart Not Harmonized | Thirst with desire to drink in small sips, Palpitations, Restlessness, Insomnia, Vivid dreaming, Anxiety, Poor memory, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Hearing loss, Lower back pain, Nocturnal emissions with dreams, Evening heat sensation, Dry mouth and throat at night, Preference for sipping, Night sweats, Heat sensation in palms, Scanty and dark urine, Dry stools... see more | Bai Zi Yang Xin Tang | Tian Wang Bu Xin Dan | Jiao Tai Wan | Qing Xin Lian Zi Yin |
Stomach
In TCM the Stomach is regarded as the "sea of nourishment," pivotal for digesting food and transforming it into Qi and blood. It works closely with the Spleen to distribute these essential nutrients throughout the body. When the Stomach is out of balance or malfunctions in TCM, it often leads to digestive problems such as bloating, nausea, vomiting, poor appetite, or a feeling of fullness. There may also be issues like acid reflux or a sour taste in the mouth. Emotionally, an imbalanced Stomach can contribute to excessive worry and overthinking, reflecting the TCM belief that physical and emotional well-being are deeply interconnected.... see more
Stomach Patterns That Can Lead to Preference For Sipping
Common Symptoms: Lack Of Appetite Dry Mouth Dry Stools Dry Lips Nausea Generalized Fatigue Upper Abdominal Discomfort Loss Of Taste
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Stomach and Spleen Yin Deficiency | Thirst with desire to drink in small sips, Lack of appetite, Dry mouth, Preference for sipping, Dry stools, Dry lips, Nausea, Generalized fatigue, Upper abdominal discomfort, Loss of taste... see more | Shen Ling Bai Zhu San |
| Stomach Yin Deficiency | Desire to drink in small sips, Lack of appetite, Preference for sipping, Slight abdominal distension after eating... see more | Shen Ling Bai Zhu San | Mai Men Dong Tang | Yi Wei Tang |
Heart
In TCM the Heart is considered the "emperor" of all organs, primarily responsible for governing Blood and housing the mind, known as "Shen." It plays a crucial role in maintaining mental-emotional equilibrium and controlling the circulation of Qi and blood throughout the body. When the Heart is imbalanced or malfunctions in TCM, it can lead to a range of issues like heart palpitations, insomnia, dream-disturbed sleep, anxiety, and a flushed complexion. Emotional disturbances such as excessive joy or lack of joy are also seen as signs of Heart disharmony. These symptoms reflect not just physical heart conditions but also the state of one's Shen, indicating the interconnectedness of physical and emotional well-being in TCM.... see more
Heart Patterns That Can Lead to Preference For Sipping
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Kidneys And Heart Not Harmonized | Thirst with desire to drink in small sips, Palpitations, Restlessness, Insomnia, Vivid dreaming, Anxiety, Poor memory, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Hearing loss, Lower back pain, Nocturnal emissions with dreams, Evening heat sensation, Dry mouth and throat at night, Preference for sipping, Night sweats, Heat sensation in palms, Scanty and dark urine, Dry stools... see more | Bai Zi Yang Xin Tang | Tian Wang Bu Xin Dan | Jiao Tai Wan | Qing Xin Lian Zi Yin |
Liver
In TCM the Liver is viewed as the organ responsible for the smooth flow of Qi, Blood, and emotions throughout the body. It plays a key role in regulating mood, storing blood, supporting digestion, and ensuring the health of tendons and eyes. When the Liver malfunctions or is imbalanced in TCM, it can lead to a range of issues such as irritability, mood swings, menstrual irregularities, eye problems, and muscular stiffness or pain. A malfunctioning Liver in TCM reflects not only physical disturbances but also emotional and mental disharmony, emphasizing the holistic approach of TCM in addressing health and wellness.... see more
Liver Patterns That Can Lead to Preference For Sipping
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Liver Yin Deficiency | Thirst with desire to drink in small sips, Dizziness, Limb numbness, Tingling of limbs, Insomnia, Blurry vision, Eye floaters, Dry eyes, Night blindness, Scanty menstruation, Amenorrhea, Dull pale complexion, Flushed cheekbones, Muscle weakness, Muscle cramps, Withered and brittle nails, Dry hair, Skin dryness, Depression, Lack of direction, Night sweats, Vivid dreaming, Afternoon fever, Hot palms and soles, Preference for sipping... see more | Qi Ju Di Huang Wan | Bu Gan Tang | Suan Zao Ren Tang | Yi Guan Jian |
Spleen
In TCM the Spleen plays a vital role in digestion and transformation, converting food into energy and nutrients, and overseeing the distribution of Qi and Blood. It's also crucial in maintaining the health of muscles and limbs and ensuring the blood remains within the vessels. When the Spleen malfunctions in TCM, it can lead to a variety of issues such as digestive disorders, fatigue, weak muscles, bloating, and a feeling of heaviness. It can also cause a pale complexion, poor appetite, and a tendency to bruise easily. Emotionally, a Spleen imbalance is often associated with excessive worry or overthinking, reflecting its role in the interplay between physical and mental health.... see more
Spleen Patterns That Can Lead to Preference For Sipping
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Stomach and Spleen Yin Deficiency | Thirst with desire to drink in small sips, Lack of appetite, Dry mouth, Preference for sipping, Dry stools, Dry lips, Nausea, Generalized fatigue, Upper abdominal discomfort, Loss of taste... see more | Shen Ling Bai Zhu San |
TCM Herbal Formulas for Preference For Sipping
To address preference for sipping, TCM practitioners recommend specific herbal formulas tailored to the identified pattern of disharmony. For Kidney Yin Deficiency, formulas like Liu Wei Di Huang Wan are commonly used. This formula features Prepared rehmannia (Shu Di Huang) as a key herb, known for its ability to nourish Yin and tonify the body, effectively relieving Dryness and replenishing fluids.
For Empty-Heat or Fire caused by Yin Deficiency, formulas such as Tian Wang Bu Xin Dan are recommended. This formula includes Unprepared Rehmannia (Di Huang) as a key herb, which helps to nourish the Heart and calm the Mind, addressing symptoms like night sweats and dry mouth. Another effective formula is Suan Zao Ren Tang, featuring Jujube seeds (Suan Zao Ren), which nourish the Heart and calm the Spirit, helping to alleviate anxiety and insomnia.
By identifying the specific pattern of disharmony causing the preference for sipping, TCM offers a nuanced and personalized approach to treatment. This method not only addresses the immediate symptoms but also helps restore the body's natural balance, promoting overall well-being.
Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address preference for sipping, organized by cause and by formula type.
- By Cause
- By Formula Type
- Yin Deficiency
- Heat
- Formulas that nourish yin and tonify
- Formulas that nourish the heart and calm the mind
- Formulas that clear heat from deficiency
- Formulas that tonify yin and yang
- Formulas that clear heat from the organs
- Formulas that tonify blood
- Formulas that tonify qi
- Formulas that enrich yin and moisten dryness
- Formulas that stabilize exterior and stop sweating
- Formulas that simultaneously attack and tonify
Top Formula for Yin Deficiency:
Liu Wei Di Huang Wan
Suitable for Yin Deficiency patterns that may cause preference for sipping, such as Kidney Yin Deficiency or Kidney Yin Deficiency With Empty-Heat Blazing
Learn moreAll Formulas Recommended for Preference For Sipping Caused by Yin Deficiency
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For |
|---|---|
| Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | Kidney Yin Deficiency, Kidney Yin Deficiency With Empty-Heat Blazing, Yin Deficiency... see more |
| Zuo Gui Wan | Kidney Yin Deficiency, Yin Deficiency |
| Zhi Bo Di Huang Wan | Kidney Yin Deficiency, Kidney Yin Deficiency With Empty-Heat Blazing |
| Suan Zao Ren Tang | Liver Yin Deficiency, Empty-Heat or Fire caused by Yin Deficiency |
| Shen Ling Bai Zhu San | Stomach and Spleen Yin Deficiency, Stomach Yin Deficiency |
| Bai Zi Yang Xin Tang | Kidney Yin Deficiency |
| Tian Wang Bu Xin Dan | Empty-Heat or Fire caused by Yin Deficiency |
| Qi Bao Mei Ran Dan | Kidney Yin Deficiency |
| Qi Ju Di Huang Wan | Liver Yin Deficiency |
| Bu Gan Tang | Liver Yin Deficiency |
| Yi Guan Jian | Liver Yin Deficiency |
| Qing Hao Bie Jia Tang | Empty-Heat or Fire caused by Yin Deficiency |
| Huang Lian E Jiao Tang | Empty-Heat or Fire caused by Yin Deficiency |
| Dang Gui Liu Huang Tang | Empty-Heat or Fire caused by Yin Deficiency |
| Mai Men Dong Tang | Stomach Yin Deficiency |
| Yi Wei Tang | Stomach Yin Deficiency |
| Mu Li San | Yin Deficiency |
| Zeng Ye Cheng Qi Tang | Yin Deficiency |
Top Formula for Heat:
Liu Wei Di Huang Wan
Suitable for Heat patterns that may cause preference for sipping, such as Kidney Yin Deficiency With Empty-Heat Blazing
Learn moreAll Formulas Recommended for Preference For Sipping Caused by Heat
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For |
|---|---|
| Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | Kidney Yin Deficiency With Empty-Heat Blazing |
| Zhi Bo Di Huang Wan | Kidney Yin Deficiency With Empty-Heat Blazing |
| Tian Wang Bu Xin Dan | Empty-Heat or Fire caused by Yin Deficiency |
| Suan Zao Ren Tang | Empty-Heat or Fire caused by Yin Deficiency |
| Qing Hao Bie Jia Tang | Empty-Heat or Fire caused by Yin Deficiency |
| Huang Lian E Jiao Tang | Empty-Heat or Fire caused by Yin Deficiency |
| Dang Gui Liu Huang Tang | Empty-Heat or Fire caused by Yin Deficiency |
Formulas that nourish Yin and tonify
These formulas are suitable for some preference for sipping-causing patterns like Kidney Yin Deficiency or Kidney Yin Deficiency With Empty-Heat Blazing.
One such formula is Liu Wei Di Huang Wan, with prepared rehmannia as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
All "formulas that nourish yin and tonify" recommended for preference for sipping
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | Kidney Yin Deficiency, Kidney Yin Deficiency With Empty-Heat Blazing, Yin Deficiency... see more |
| Zuo Gui Wan | Kidney Yin Deficiency, Yin Deficiency |
| Zhi Bo Di Huang Wan | Kidney Yin Deficiency, Kidney Yin Deficiency With Empty-Heat Blazing |
| Qi Ju Di Huang Wan | Liver Yin Deficiency |
| Yi Guan Jian | Liver Yin Deficiency |
| Yi Wei Tang | Stomach Yin Deficiency |
Formulas that nourish the Heart and calm the Mind
These formulas are suitable for some preference for sipping-causing patterns like Kidney Yin Deficiency or Kidneys And Heart Not Harmonized.
One such formula is Bai Zi Yang Xin Tang, with biota seeds as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
All "formulas that nourish the heart and calm the mind" recommended for preference for sipping
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Bai Zi Yang Xin Tang | Kidney Yin Deficiency, Kidneys And Heart Not Harmonized |
| Tian Wang Bu Xin Dan | Kidneys And Heart Not Harmonized, Empty-Heat or Fire caused by Yin Deficiency |
| Suan Zao Ren Tang | Liver Yin Deficiency, Empty-Heat or Fire caused by Yin Deficiency |
| Jiao Tai Wan | Kidneys And Heart Not Harmonized |
| Huang Lian E Jiao Tang | Empty-Heat or Fire caused by Yin Deficiency |
Formulas that tonify Qi
These formulas are suitable for some preference for sipping-causing patterns like Stomach and Spleen Yin Deficiency or Stomach Yin Deficiency.
One such formula is Shen Ling Bai Zhu San, with ginseng as a key herb.
Formulas that clear Heat from Deficiency
These formulas are suitable for some preference for sipping-causing patterns like Empty-Heat or Fire caused by Yin Deficiency.
One such formula is Qing Hao Bie Jia Tang, with softshell turtle shell as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
All "formulas that clear heat from deficiency" recommended for preference for sipping
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Qing Hao Bie Jia Tang | Empty-Heat or Fire caused by Yin Deficiency |
| Dang Gui Liu Huang Tang | Empty-Heat or Fire caused by Yin Deficiency |
Formulas that tonify Yin and Yang
These formulas are suitable for some preference for sipping-causing patterns like Kidney Yin Deficiency.
One such formula is Qi Bao Mei Ran Dan, with fleeceflower root as a key herb.
Formulas that clear Heat from the Organs
These formulas are suitable for some preference for sipping-causing patterns like Kidneys And Heart Not Harmonized.
One such formula is Qing Xin Lian Zi Yin, with lotus seeds as a key herb.
Formulas that tonify Blood
These formulas are suitable for some preference for sipping-causing patterns like Liver Yin Deficiency.
One such formula is Bu Gan Tang, with prepared rehmannia as a key herb.
Formulas that enrich Yin and moisten Dryness
These formulas are suitable for some preference for sipping-causing patterns like Stomach Yin Deficiency.
One such formula is Mai Men Dong Tang, with dwarf lilyturf root as a key herb.
Formulas that stabilize Exterior and stop sweating
These formulas are suitable for some preference for sipping-causing patterns like Yin Deficiency.
One such formula is Mu Li San, with oyster shells as a key herb.
Formulas that simultaneously attack and tonify
These formulas are suitable for some preference for sipping-causing patterns like Yin Deficiency.
One such formula is Zeng Ye Cheng Qi Tang, with ningpo figwort root as a key herb.
TCM Herbs for Preference For Sipping
Explore below some TCM herbs used to address preference for sipping, organized by herb category.
- By Herb Category
- Tonic herbs for blood deficiency
- Tonic herbs for qi deficiency
- Herbs that clear heat and purge fire and/or clear summer heat
- Herbs that clear heat and dry dampness
- Herbs that nourish the heart and calm the spirit
- Herbs that cool the blood
- Tonic herbs for yin deficiency
- Herbs that stabilize and bind
- Herbs that drain dampness
- Herbs that invigorate the blood
- Herbs that anchor and calm the spirit
Tonic herbs for Blood Deficiency
Preference for sipping can be treated by these herbs in cases of blood deficiency, working to nourish and replenish the body's blood supply.
One such herb is Prepared Rehmannia (Shu Di huang), a key herb in some formulas recommended for preference for sipping, like Liu Wei Di Huang Wan.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Tonic herbs for Blood Deficiency" recommended for preference for sipping
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Prepared Rehmannia (Shu Di huang) | Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | Zuo Gui Wan | Zhi Bo Di Huang Wan | Qi Ju Di Huang Wan | Bu Gan Tang | Dang Gui Liu Huang Tang |
| Fleeceflower Roots (He Shou Wu) | Qi Bao Mei Ran Dan |
| White Peony Roots (Bai Shao) | Bu Gan Tang |
| Dong Quai (Dang Gui) | Dang Gui Liu Huang Tang |
Tonic herbs for Qi Deficiency
Preference for sipping can be treated by these herbs when stemming from a lack of vital energy or Qi, helping to boost energy and overall vitality.
One such herb is Ginseng (Ren Shen), a key herb in some formulas recommended for preference for sipping, like Shen Ling Bai Zhu San.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Tonic herbs for Qi Deficiency" recommended for preference for sipping
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Ginseng (Ren Shen) | Shen Ling Bai Zhu San |
| Atractylodes Rhizomes (Bai Zhu) | Shen Ling Bai Zhu San |
| Liquorice (Gan Cao) | Shen Ling Bai Zhu San |
Herbs that clear Heat and purge Fire and/or clear Summer Heat
Preference for sipping can be treated by these herbs when it arises from excessive internal heat or fire, aiding in cooling the body and balancing internal temperature.
One such herb is Anemarrhena Rhizomes (Zhi Mu), a key herb in some formulas recommended for preference for sipping, like Zhi Bo Di Huang Wan.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Herbs that clear Heat and purge Fire and/or clear Summer Heat" recommended for preference for sipping
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Anemarrhena Rhizomes (Zhi Mu) | Zhi Bo Di Huang Wan |
| Sweet Wormwood Herbs (Qing Hao) | Qing Hao Bie Jia Tang |
Herbs that clear Heat and dry Dampness
Preference for sipping can be treated by these herbs when caused by excessive dampness and heat within the body, aiming to restore balance by drying dampness and clearing heat.
One such herb is Goldthread Rhizomes (Huang Lian), a key herb in some formulas recommended for preference for sipping, like Jiao Tai Wan.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Herbs that clear Heat and dry Dampness" recommended for preference for sipping
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Goldthread Rhizomes (Huang Lian) | Jiao Tai Wan | Huang Lian E Jiao Tang |
| Phellodendron Bark (Huang Bo) | Zhi Bo Di Huang Wan |
Herbs that nourish the Heart and calm the Spirit
Preference for sipping can be treated by these herbs when it is linked to deficiencies in heart nourishment, addressing both physical and emotional imbalances.
One such herb is Biota Seeds (Bai Zi Ren), a key herb in some formulas recommended for preference for sipping, like Bai Zi Yang Xin Tang.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Herbs that nourish the Heart and calm the Spirit" recommended for preference for sipping
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Biota Seeds (Bai Zi Ren) | Bai Zi Yang Xin Tang |
| Jujube Seeds (Suan Zao Ren) | Suan Zao Ren Tang |
Herbs that cool the Blood
Preference for sipping can be treated by these herbs when it is a consequence of excess heat in the blood, helping to cool and detoxify the blood.
One such herb is Unprepared Rehmannia (Di Huang), a key herb in some formulas recommended for preference for sipping, like Tian Wang Bu Xin Dan.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Herbs that cool the Blood" recommended for preference for sipping
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Unprepared Rehmannia (Di Huang) | Tian Wang Bu Xin Dan | Dang Gui Liu Huang Tang | Yi Wei Tang |
| Ningpo Figwort Roots (Xuan Shen) | Zeng Ye Cheng Qi Tang |
Tonic herbs for Yin Deficiency
Preference for sipping can be treated by these herbs when caused by a lack of Yin, which is essential for cooling and moistening the body, thereby restoring balance.
One such herb is Dwarf Lilyturf Roots (Mai Dong), a key herb in some formulas recommended for preference for sipping, like Mai Men Dong Tang.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Tonic herbs for Yin Deficiency" recommended for preference for sipping
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Dwarf Lilyturf Roots (Mai Dong) | Mai Men Dong Tang | Yi Wei Tang |
| Softshell Turtle Shells (Bie Jia) | Qing Hao Bie Jia Tang |
Herbs that stabilize and bind
Preference for sipping can be treated by these herbs if it is caused by a leakage of bodily fluids or energies, helping to consolidate and preserve the body's essential substances.
One such herb is Lotus Seeds (Lian Zi), a key herb in some formulas recommended for preference for sipping, like Qing Xin Lian Zi Yin.
Herbs that drain Dampness
Preference for sipping can be treated by these herbs when caused by excessive dampness in the body, aiding in eliminating damp through diuretic action.
One such herb is Poria-Cocos Mushrooms (Fu Ling), a key herb in some formulas recommended for preference for sipping, like Shen Ling Bai Zhu San.
Herbs that invigorate the Blood
Preference for sipping can be treated by these herbs when it stems from stagnation or poor circulation of blood, helping to improve blood flow and alleviate related discomfort.
One such herb is Donkey-Hide Gelatin (E Jiao), a key herb in some formulas recommended for preference for sipping, like Huang Lian E Jiao Tang.
Herbs that anchor and calm the Spirit
Preference for sipping can be treated by these herbs if it stems from disturbances in the Shen (spirit), often due to instability in the heart and kidney energies.
One such herb is Oyster Shells (Mu Li ke), a key herb in some formulas recommended for preference for sipping, like Mu Li San.