could not "be bothered" to do anything.
His tongue was of a normal colour except for the sides which were slightly red. His pulse was
Wiry and Full.
Diagnosis The main problem in this case too is Liver-Qi stagnation impeding the
proper flow of Qi and impairing the Stomach function (hence the poor
appetite).
Treatment principle The principle of treatment applied was to soothe the Liver and relieve
stagnation.
Acupuncture The acupuncture points used included: L.I.-4 Hegu and LIV-3
Taichong in combination to calm the Mind and soothe the Liver, ST-36
Zusanli to tonify the Stomach, Du-20 Baihui to lift the Mind, BL-18
Ganshu (with even method) to pacify the Liver and BL-21 Weishu (with
reinforcing method) to tonify the Stomach. After a few treatments
BL-47 Hunmen was also needled with even method. This is the point on
the outer Bladder line in correspondence with BL-18 Ganshu. The point
BL-47 Hunmen acts on the mental aspect of the Liver, i.e. the Ethereal
Soul, and it is very effective in relieving stagnation of Liver-Qi on a
mental level in cases of depression.
Herbal treatment As for herbal treatment, the patent remedy Yue Ju Wan
Gardenia-Ligusticum Pill was also prescribed. The treatment produced
a complete cure in 6 sessions. He was in a much better frame of mind,
his appetite returned and he started working in the house and garden
again. His mental state and "drive" were so much improved that he later
went on a trip to Australia to visit some relatives.
Liver-Yang Rising
Clinical Manifestations
Headaches of a throbbing character, dizziness, tinnitus, dry mouth and throat, short temper,
insomnia and irritability.
Tongue: Red sides.
Pulse: Wiry, often only on the left side.
In women, Liver-Yang rising often arises from Liver-Blood deficiency, in which case the tongue
may be Pale and the pulse Choppy.