GREETINGS

Each season needs certain work and diet modifications. The main organ under stress in summer is the heart. Those of you with high blood pressure and heart conditions should refrain from overwork and stress. When one sweats too much it can be harmful. There is an old proverb "When you sweat, you lose blood from the heart."

Other conditions are more prevalent during summer, these are simply called "summer heat" and "summer damp." When one is very hot and sweaty, the pores open and the evil damp can penetrate the body. This can lead to nausea, headaches, tiredness, dizziness and muscle ache. A simple medicine "Huo Xiang Zheng Qi Tang" is available in tablet form to relieve these signs and symptoms. An alternative, however is plain and simple watermelon, which when eaten will prevent the symptoms.

In times of extreme heat, people often consume iced drinks. This is most harmful and aggravating to the stomach and spleen energy. The intense cold creates a blockage and thus causes the digestive system to become unbalanced. Please have your watermelon at room temperature. Another great food is mung bean sprouts. Common herbal teas to cool the body and avoid the damage from excess loss of fluids is Wang Lo Kat and Ng Far Char.

After prolonged periods of heat and sweating, replenishing host fluids is vital. Simply chew a few slices of American Ginseng.

Enjoy the holiday season and best wishes for Christmas and New Year.