↑ reinforcing ↓ reducing ⊥ even method.
Clinical manifestations: Excessive, frequent flatulence; abdominal distension that shifts location; cramping pain relieved by passing gas or a bowel movement; belching and loud stomach rumbling.
Tongue: Normal light red body, thin white coating. Pulse: Wiry, especially tense at the left middle position.
Treatment principle: Restore downward Qi movement by unblocking stagnation and strengthening the digestive organs.
Clinical manifestations: Frequent belching and flatulence, distending upper abdominal pain radiating to the ribs, irritability and moodiness with frequent sighing, a lump-or-blockage sensation in the throat.
Tongue: Normal or slightly red, may have redder sides, thin white coat. Pulse: Wiry, especially at the left middle position.
Treatment principle: Soothe stagnant Liver-Qi and harmonize the Stomach to restore its downward movement.
Clinical manifestations: Foul-smelling flatulence, constipation with hard dry stools, a burning sensation at the anus, abdominal pain worse with pressure, an afternoon fever.
Tongue: Red body with a thick dry yellow coating, possibly brownish or black in severe cases. Pulse: Deep, full, rapid, may feel slippery.
Treatment principle: Clear accumulated heat from the Large Intestine and restore bowel function through cooling.