How to Effectively Remove Dampness from the Body with TCM

Fatigue and sluggishness

Feeling constantly tired, heavy, or bloated? You may be dealing with internal dampness—a common but often overlooked condition in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Unlike Western diagnoses, TCM sees dampness as an excess pathogenic factor that can obstruct the flow of Qi, slow down your metabolism, and lead to chronic fatigue, digestive issues, and even weight gain.

In this post, we explore what causes dampness, the symptoms to look out for, and how to effectively remove dampness using TCM techniques, herbs, and dietary therapy.

What Is Dampness in TCM?

In TCM theory, dampness is a type of pathogenic factor that is heavy, sticky, and turbid. It tends to linger in the body, creating blockages that disrupt the natural flow of Qi and Blood.

Common Symptoms of Dampness:

• Fatigue and sluggishness

• Feeling of heaviness in the body or limbs

• Brain fog

• Bloating, loose stools, or sticky bowel movements

• Puffy face or limbs

• White, greasy tongue coating

• Acne, eczema, or skin breakouts

What Causes Dampness in the Body?

Dampness can be caused by both external and internal factors:

External Causes:

• Living in a humid environment (e.g. tropical climates like Singapore)

• Exposure to damp weather or wet conditions

Internal Causes:

• Weak Spleen function (in TCM, the Spleen transforms food into Qi and helps remove damp)

• Poor diet (excessive cold, raw, oily, or sweet foods)

• Overeating or irregular meals

• Chronic stress or lack of movement

How to Effectively Remove Dampness from the Body

1. Strengthen the Spleen

A strong Spleen system helps transform fluids and prevent damp accumulation. Focus on foods and habits that support Spleen Qi:

• Eat warm, cooked meals

• Avoid cold drinks and raw salads

• Include Spleen-strengthening foods like:– Brown rice, millet, sweet potato, pumpkin, ginger, Chinese dates

2. Avoid Damp-Producing Foods

Cut back on:

• Cold/raw foods (e.g. sushi, smoothies, salad)

• Dairy products

• Fried and oily foods

• Excess sugar and alcohol

These foods impair digestion and contribute to damp retention.

3. Use Damp-Draining Chinese Herbs

TCM uses specific herbal formulas to transform and eliminate dampness. Common herbs include:

• Fu Ling (Poria): strengthens the Spleen and drains damp

• Yi Yi Ren (Coix seed): promotes urination and reduces swelling

• Chen Pi (Aged tangerine peel): regulates Qi and dries damp

• Huo Xiang (Patchouli): resolves damp and harmonizes the stomach

Always consult a licensed TCM practitioner for a personalised formula.

4. Try Acupuncture and Cupping

Acupuncture helps stimulate Qi flow and supports internal organ function, especially the Spleen and Kidney systems. Cupping therapy can be used to expel damp and cold from the meridians and muscles.

5. Move Your Body Regularly

Lack of movement slows down metabolism and encourages damp accumulation. Gentle exercises like qigong, brisk walking, and tai chi promote circulation and fluid metabolism.

Final Thoughts

Dampness is one of the most common root causes of sub-health conditions in TCM. It often goes undiagnosed in Western medicine, yet has a huge impact on your energy, digestion, and skin. By supporting your Spleen, adjusting your diet, and incorporating TCM therapies, you can effectively remove dampness and feel lighter, clearer, and more energized.

Struggling with fatigue or bloating? Book a TCM consultation to assess your body's internal dampness and start a personalized healing plan.