Understanding the Three Humors in Tibetan Medicine

Tibetan medicine, or Sowa Rigpa, understands health through the balance of three humors (nyepa): rLung (wind), mKhris-pa (bile), and Bad-kan (phlegm).

rLung — Wind

Governs movement: breathing, circulation, nerve impulses, and thoughts. Imbalance manifests as anxiety, insomnia, and restlessness.

mKhris-pa — Bile

Governs heat and transformation: digestion, metabolism, and intellect. Imbalance manifests as acidity, inflammation, and irritability.

Bad-kan — Phlegm

Governs stability and fluid: structure, lubrication, and calm. Imbalance manifests as lethargy, congestion, and heaviness.

Health is the dynamic equilibrium of all three.