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Yin and Yang
The Chinese concept of yin and yang is based on the belief that there are 2 opposing forces of nature. The ultimate objective is a balance between these conflicting forces.

Yin is the dark force of nature. People with yin body complex are pale, have poor blood circulation and often feel cold.
On the other hand, yang is the light force of nature. People with yang body complex are energetic, often feel hot and perspire a lot. A person's body complex is yin or yang depending on where the imbalance of his body forces lie at that moment.

Within this concept, there are other terms used to describe one's health. Heatiness causes sore throats and fever while Cold makes one tired, weak and lack energy. A person would drink cooling (yin) brews to overcome 'heatiness' (his yang complex) and eat 'heaty' (yang ) foods to counteract cold (his yin complex).

When a Chinese experiences giddiness, stomach aches and pains, he would attribute that to 'wind' in his body. This 'wind' is a movement of internal energy within the body. To cure the giddiness or stomach aches, he must get rid of the wind. Ginger is the most common herb used to rid the body of wind.
Arthritis is attributed to 'dampness' in the body caused by retention of fluids. The dampness must thus be removed to cure the arthritis. It is hard to remove dampness altogether. Pearly beans is one vegetable that can help alleviate dampness.
'Dryness' results in dry skin and hair due to lack of body fluids and oils. To combat dryness, one must consume rejuvenating drinks and take in more oils.

In order to attain and maintain a neutral, balanced state to be healthy, the Chinese, therefore, consume foods that are opposite to his body complex. This is an ongoing, continuous process; and a preoccupation for a health-conscious Chinese.

Reference:
Secrets of Nutritional Chinese Cookery. Author: Ng Siong Mui

Last updated on November 25, 1998