Autumn Dryness

Big shadows in the autumn forest, a photo by Habub3 on Flickr.

In Chinese Medicine, Autumn is the season of the Metal element. The associated organ is the Lung, so we see many health complaints related to lung pathology this time of year- sinus problems, cough, common colds all are pathologies that have to do with the Lung.

In classical texts, it is said that the lung is averse to Dryness. In other words, the lung works best when it's slightly moist. A dry cough that lingers and lingers is often due to Lung Dryness and a great remedy for this is pear. . .try pear juice, pear pie, pear sauce, asian pears, and poached pears. With the addition of honey, pears become even more moistening and beneficial to the lung.

The lungs govern the skin, so eating pears could also help moisten your skin as well. Of course, taking Omega-3s is great for your skin and for moistening dryness as well. Now is a great time to start taking more Omega-3s.

We have excellent points for improving lung function. My favorite lately is LU-9, also known as "Supreme Abyss." It is great to strengthen the Lung, promote the descending of Lung energy and transform phlegm. This point helps your lung take in oxygen more efficiently, so I often use it when treating athletes in training.

In Chinese Medicine, Sadness injures the lung, so try to not mourn the end of summer, impending holidays, or anything else too much. Keep a good perspective and live in the moment!

Happy Fall!
-mcd