Many Chinese believe blood is the source of Qi, and are reluctant to donate:
“TCM believes that blood is composed of nutrition and fluids from the foods we ingest. The stomach and spleen turn the foods into essence first, and then into red blood with the help of energy. Therefore, as long as both stomach and spleen function well, and the original energy is healthy, donating blood only involves a metabolic process at a quicker pace.
And according to Dr Zhou, donating blood can enhance the emergency reaction of the stomach and spleen (a source of vital energy, blood and blood circulation) in blood regeneration – if you do it regularly, say once every two years.
“Most people don’t have to take extra reinforcing therapy after donation,” says Dr Zhou. “Enough rest and regular meals are enough. But those with a weak stomach and spleen, which are difficult to identify with a regular pre-donation blood test, may need some adjustment with herbal therapy if they feel weak.”
Dr Zhou urges donors to avoid vigorous sports and get plenty of rest for two weeks before donating blood. They should avoid cold temperatures and cold yin energy foods. This will help ensure the quality of donated blood and a quick recovery as well.
After donating, he recommends protein in foods like fish and lean meat and spleen-strengthening foods like shan yao (yam), lotus seeds, and bean products. Actually, most people can eat whatever they like except irritating foods like hot pot, fried or spicy foods.
Herbs like dang gui (Chinese angelica), huang qi (astragalus root) and jujube fruit can help in the case of weakness.”
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