At Victoria Healing Space in Victoria, BC, we often explore how everyday foods can be used to support balance and wellness through the wisdom of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). One surprising helper for calming emotions like anxiety is the humble lemon.
Taste: Sour → linked to the Wood element.
Temperature: Slightly cooling → helps clear excess internal “heat.”
Meridians affected: Primarily the Liver and Stomach.
In TCM theory, anxiety often stems from imbalances such as:
Liver Qi stagnation – emotional tension, irritability, and “stuck” energy.
Excess Heart Fire – overactive mind, restlessness, insomnia, or poor sleep.
Moves and regulates Liver Qi → eases emotional tension and irritability.
Clears excess heat → supports a calmer mind and better rest.
Moistens and refreshes → relieves dryness, which can appear with emotional stress.
Drink warm lemon water in the morning to gently move Qi.
Inhale the aroma of lemon peel or diffuse lemon essential oil.
Brew tea with dried lemon peel to aid digestion and reduce stress.
Combine lemon with honey for a balance of sour (movement) and sweet (nourishment).
Avoid if you have cold-type digestive issues (bloating, diarrhea, abdominal pain improved by warmth).
The sour taste can worsen acid reflux or ulcers.
Lemon essential oil must always be diluted before skin contact; avoid direct sun exposure afterward.
Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should consult a qualified practitioner before frequent medicinal use.
In TCM, balance is key — lemon can be helpful in certain patterns, but it is not a one-size-fits-all solution.
At Victoria Healing Space, our approach to wellness blends acupuncture, herbal medicine, and lifestyle guidance rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine. If you’re in Victoria, BC and experiencing anxiety, stress, or insomnia, we invite you to book a session with our Registered Acupuncturist. Together, we can create a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs.
