Deficiency is a term that is often used in our communication. There is a certain accepted meaning attached to this word. The synonyms often associated with it are depleted or lacking. Again, these words are used in various contexts in the English language. Even in Western medicine, the term deficiency is often used to convey the meanings just discussed.

In TCM, deficiency is not meant to be used just as an “adjective” to amplify a condition. It is often cited as the diagnosis, itself. In this context, the term should be understood in a different context. This is what throws off most of my Western patients. When I tell them that part of my TCM diagnosis is Blood Deficiency, they automatically assume that I am referring to the thinning of their blood or that their blood level is low.

Obviously, I am not. In TCM, deficiency should be considered a diagnostic term. When I diagnose a person as Blood Deficient, there are many TCM clinical reasons for that. I am not going to discuss these reasons in this blog. However, just appreciate that in, TCM, Deficiency is a diagnostic term. There are times here Deficiency is used as a stand-alone diagnosis or serves as an adjunct to the main diagnosis.

For example, I have, often, diagnosed a person as having Liver and Spleen disharmony with Blood Deficiency. In this instance, the diagnosis of Blood Deficiency helps to complete the picture. It also helps the TCM practitioner to further complete his treatment plan. He now knows he has to tonify the blood. He will add certain Acupuncture points etc. to help him accomplish this.

What I want the reader to appreciate is that terms we use routinely carry a meaningful and significant role in the diagnosis and treatment of patients in TCM. I implore any person under the care of a TCM practitioner to ask him about the use of such terms.