"I'd like to inquire with the esteemed professor about the difference between liver excess fire and liver deficiency fire," Lin Yu inquired with a smile.
"Liver deficiency fire is the result of excessive yang and deficient yin, leading to an uptick in inner heat. The eyes feel gritty and uncomfortable. Some may feel as if there's sand in their eyes. During the daytime, it's manageable, but by the afternoon or evening, especially when fatigued, the discomfort worsens. However, the grittiness is distinct from blurred vision, which signifies another dysfunction related to the liver, called liver blood deficiency. As for liver excess fire, it's primarily manifested in the eyes as well. Redness, swelling, and for some, even pain occur. When the liver fire is strong, besides red, swollen, and painful eyes, there's also irritability and a tendency to get angry easily. Sometimes, a stabbing sensation is felt around the ribs, and at other times, a bitter taste is experienced in the mouth. The patient might feel thirsty these days with dry stools, indicating a flourishing liver fire. Do you, young man, possess knowledge in traditional Chinese medicine as well?" Fan Zhengping spoke eloquently, interspersed with a teasing tone as he looked at Lin Yu.
It was somewhat amusing that he found himself discussing traditional Chinese medical theories with a young man in his twenties for no apparent reason. A sizable crowd had gathered by now, including many buyers and young sellers of medicine, all listening to the old gentleman expound on the principles of traditional Chinese medicine with respect.
"You're right; you've accurately described the differences between liver excess fire and liver deficiency fire," Lin Yu smiled faintly. This old gentleman was truly impressive, possessing a profound understanding of medical theory and practice in traditional Chinese medicine.
Turning to the middle-aged man, "Sir, may I ask which set of symptoms aligns more with your condition as described?"
"It seems... quite similar. I have all those symptoms. My eyes are dry, gritty, painful, red, and swollen. Additionally, my stools are dry, and I feel an intense desire to vent my anger. For instance, right now, I'm strongly tempted to scold you and ask you to leave, not to waste Professor Fan's time examining me," the middle-aged man glanced at Lin Yu, half-jokingly and half-seriously poking at him.
This subtle 'poke' was quite an art, blending both truth and jest. Lin Yu glanced at him, inwardly amused. This person must be involved in government affairs, familiar with such diplomatic maneuvers.
Smiling and without showing any annoyance, Lin Yu replied, "Indeed, in the third month of spring, following 'Start of Spring' and ending with 'Start of Summer,' it's the time of flourishing. Heaven and Earth come alive, all things flourish. It's recommended to sleep early and rise early, take broad strides in the courtyard, loosen your hair to invigorate your spirits. Let things grow naturally and avoid repression. Reward instead of punishment. These align with the vitality of spring and are part of the way to nourish life. Going against this can harm the liver. As summer approaches, excessive coldness may occur, and for those who nurture longevity, this is a rare opportunity."
At this point, Fan Zhengping stared at Lin Yu in amazement, "Young friend, this is from the 'Four Seasons Correspondence' in the 'Inner Canon of Huangdi,' detailing the regulation of liver energy in spring. You've recited it word for word!"
The surrounding people were stunned to hear such profound insights coming from a seemingly destitute young man. Their expressions displayed an intensified respect towards him.
"It's nothing much, just a good memory. However, the crucial point lies in understanding and applying the knowledge practically," Lin Yu waved off, smiling. "At present, it's early spring in April. In traditional Chinese medicine theory, spring corresponds to the organ 'liver' and the principal qi of 'Jueyin wind wood.' However, 'wind' is the source of a hundred diseases, so we must guard against it in spring. This also represents the liver's image. Among the five elements—metal, wood, water, fire, earth—'wood' symbolizes the liver. In traditional Chinese medicine, 'wood' represents flexibility. The liver is akin to the strategist among officials, devising plans. Its role is to regulate the body's qi and fluid circulation like a general leading an army. However, it can also manifest as excessive or deficient. 'Excessive regulation' implies what we usually term as 'excessive liver fire'—indicating an excess of true fire or the virtual fire of 'hyperactivity of liver yang.' 'Inadequate regulation' refers to 'liver qi stagnation,' often caused by 'anger' during spring. So, at this time, we must pay attention to emotional balance. If there's 'anger' or 'resentment,' it's essential to find an outlet; bottling it up is detrimental. This is known as the 'emotion and spirit' issue. Based on this, sir, I'd
like to ask, have you been facing some imminent situations lately? For instance, changes in your position, some dissatisfaction perhaps? Is that so?" Lin Yu turned and smiled.
The middle-aged man was somewhat bewildered, gazing at Lin Yu, his eyes filled with indescribable shock. To discern the issues he was facing in his life from his medical condition, this was truly astounding.
Indeed, recently, due to changes in positions, despite being the deputy director of this health bureau, he should have naturally ascended to become the director. However, rumors of transferring a director from another district had been circulating. He had toiled for years, and this final opportunity was slipping away. Naturally, he was discontented. Additionally, his child was about to take the college entrance exam, but the results hadn't improved. With a mix of anxieties, his condition flared up in his eyes.
"Yes, yes, you're right. I have encountered many problems lately, some of which are quite distressing. I would appreciate your guidance," the middle-aged man completely changed his demeanor, becoming extremely respectful.
Lin Yu found it somewhat amusing; it seemed this middle-aged man regarded him as an oracle.
But he paid no heed and simply smiled, "I wouldn't dare to claim to guide. Stay calm, free from desire. When the external world fluctuates, let your inner self remain steadfast. One word: what's meant for you will come to you. If it isn't, don't force it. Stressing over it harms the mind and body, something a wise person wouldn't do."
"Well said! 'What's meant for you will come to you.' " Fan Zhengping nearby was amazed and applauded. As for the spectators, they were utterly flabbergasted. This young man, who appeared like a beggar, was truly extraordinary.
"In the end, whether it's virtual fire or real fire, with the professor's expertise, there should be a definite diagnosis. I've overstepped; my apologies," Lin Yu stopped there without revealing too much. If he elaborated too much, allowing those who didn't understand to comprehend, it would undermine others' dignity—going too far.
Fan Zhengping nodded repeatedly, "Understood, understood. Both virtual and real fires are at play, primarily the virtual. The coexistence of virtual and real. Young sir, your medical expertise is exquisite. Please... please wait a moment..." Fan Zhengping was speaking when Lin Yu had already walked out calmly, disappearing before he could catch up. The middle-aged man followed suit, but he couldn't catch up either, wondering how this young man could move so swiftly.
"A miraculous healer! This is the true definition of a miraculous healer!" Fan Zhengping continued to exclaim, regretting his slow pace, missing the opportunity to catch up with him, which would remain a regret in his life.
"A remarkable person, a true extraordinary individual concealed within the city," the middle-aged man murmured to himself, his red and swollen eyes gleaming with a yearning to get acquainted.