Which deficiencies are associated with the lung?

The lung is primarily associated with yin deficiency, which is crucial for maintaining balance and function within its physiological roles in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). In TCM, the lungs are responsible for the circulation of Qi and the regulation of fluids, and they play a vital role in the body’s ability to retain moisture and maintain an appropriate balance of yin.

Yin can be thought of as the nourishing, moistening, and cooling aspect of the body's energy. When yin is deficient, it can lead to symptoms such as dryness, heat sensation, and a weakened ability to perform the lung's functions—such as respiration and the distribution of Qi throughout the body. Deficiency of yin in the lungs may also manifest as dry throat, thirst, a dry cough, or even a feeling of heat in the chest.

While Qi and yang are also important in TCM, they are not specific deficiencies primarily linked to the lungs as deeply as yin deficiency is. The lung’s association with yin reflects its need for nourishment and moisture to function optimally. This alignment with yin is particularly important as it relates to the health and vitality of the lungs, highlighting the role of yin in protecting the delicate tissues of the respiratory system.