Why Tonic Herbs Are Best Consumed in Autumn and How to Endure Summer
For the original Korean text, visit here. If you’re curious about the basics of traditional Korean medicine and health, read the following article: What Your Sleeping Position Says About Your Health Learn Why Studying JangSang Medicine is Important. Frequently Asked but Silly Questions (Foods Good for the Liver??) Why Full, Thick Hair Is Considered Beautiful: The Fascinating Reasons Behind It (Hair Loss Story #1)Life is full of cycles, both big and small. In Eastern traditions, observing nature’s cyclical changes has led to wisdom for survival, embodied in the concepts of Yin-Yang and the Five Elements.
Midsummer can be likened to a person’s 30s in the lifecycle. It’s a period of vitality, when one fully utilizes the robust body inherited from parents to lay down the foundations of life. During this phase, it’s important to expend energy, generate results, and avoid burnout. While achieving balance is crucial, this is not the time to focus solely on leisure. When we refer to the term “Tonic Herbs” (Bo-yak) in traditional medicine, it generally carries two meanings:- Restorative Herbs: These herbs boost energy and vigor when one feels depleted.
- Preservative Herbs: These herbs restore the body to its optimal condition after exertion, emphasizing the preservation of form and function.
Why Summer Isn’t Ideal for Consuming Tonic Herbs
Summer emphasizes the outward expression of energy (Qi) and blood. During this season, maintaining the balance between activity and rest is crucial, along with mindful dietary choices. Consuming tonic herbs during summer might not be as effective due to the body’s natural focus on energy expenditure.Activity and Rest in Summer
- Summer is the time to move, sweat, and release stored energy. Inactivity can be detrimental to health over the course of the year.
- Conditions such as air-conditioning-related illnesses and increased respiratory issues in autumn and winter are often linked to insufficient activity during summer.
Constitutional Perspectives
From the perspective of traditional Korean medicine and the Eight Constitutions:- Constitution Types That Tire Easily in Summer: Gold Yin (Geum-eum) and Water Yang (Su-yang) types may benefit from tonic herbs during summer but usually consume them in autumn instead.
- Constitution Types Supported by Summer: Wood Yin (Mok-eum), Wood Yang (Mok-yang), Earth Yin (To-eum), and Earth Yang (To-yang) types gain energy in summer. However, avoiding overexertion is essential to prevent seasonal illnesses in the colder months.
Ideal Foods for Summer
- Balance Hot and Cool: Since summer is hot externally but cool internally, balance dishes like chicken soup (Samgyetang) with hydrating fruits such as watermelon. This combination replenishes energy while maintaining hydration.
- Hydrating Vegetables: Include cucumbers and zucchini, which help regulate internal temperature and prevent dehydration.
- Cooling Grains: Barley or buckwheat are excellent options for reducing body heat while providing sustenance.
Summer-Specific Remedies
- Prescriptions like Saengmaeksan or Cheongseuikitang are beneficial for those who feel drained in summer. These remedies restore energy and promote hydration.
Avoid Harmful Practices
- Moderate Chilled Drinks: Excessive cold beverages disrupt digestive functions, leading to discomfort and weakened digestion.
- Limit Air Conditioning: Overexposure to air conditioning can impair the body’s ability to adapt to external temperatures. Spend time outdoors or adjust settings to moderate levels.
- Avoid Overeating: Heavy meals generate excess internal heat, which can exacerbate the summer’s natural warmth.
Importance of Seasonal Adaptation
Embracing summer’s heat within a reasonable range helps prepare the body for autumn and winter, reducing the likelihood of respiratory illnesses. Spending time outdoors in the early morning or evening can enhance the body’s ability to adapt.Benefits of Proper Summer Care
- Stronger Immunity: By managing heat and energy levels, the body builds resilience for seasonal transitions.
- Improved Digestion: Proper food choices prevent digestive issues that often arise in autumn.
- Enhanced Energy Levels: Balancing activity with rest ensures sustainable energy throughout the year.
Tips for Maintaining Energy
- Regular Exercise: Moderate physical activity, such as yoga or walking, promotes healthy circulation.
- Cooling Teas: Lotus leaf or chrysanthemum teas reduce internal heat while calming the mind.
- Mindfulness Practices: Meditation or deep breathing helps alleviate mental heat caused by stress or anxiety.
