Dry

SYMPTOMS:

  • Dry skin, eyes, and hair
  • Often thirsty
  • Thin
  • Tends to be constipated
  • Insomnia
  • Often restless, fidgety, jumpy, or anxious

WESTERN MEDICINE:

  • Estrogen and progesterone imbalances, particularly estrogen
  • Elevated FSH
  • Recurrent miscarriages
  • Poor response to stimulation drugs

TCM PERSPECTIVE:

The Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) name for this type is kidney “yin” deficiency. Yin describes the functions of the body that are cooling, nourishing, moistening, and substantial. Without enough yin, the body gets hotter and dries out. This is reflected in low estrogen levels, thinner uterine lining, and less cervical fluid. Yin naturally depletes with age, but some people use up their yin faster with energy-consuming lifestyle choices: not enough sleep, easting poorly, and exercising in short, intense bursts.

ADVICE

  • Hydrate
  • Consume nutrient-rich foods: dark leafy greens, soy products
  • (for phytoestrogens), healthy fats
  • Avoid alcohol and spicy foods
  • Reduce stress
  • Regular moderate exercise

    • Avoid excessive aerobic exercise: try yoga, tai chi, or qi gong

SUPPLEMENTS:

  • Essential fatty acids
  • L-carnitine
  • Royal jelly
  • Liquid chlorophyll