A pulse that feels very smooth and wavy like a "slithering snake" indicates what condition?

A pulse that is described as very smooth and wavy, reminiscent of a "slithering snake," is indicative of excess dampness in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). This specific pulse quality reflects a characteristic associated with the presence of dampness in the body, which can lead to feelings of heaviness, sluggishness, or a sensation of fullness. In TCM, dampness is often linked to an imbalance that can obstruct the flow of Qi (energy) and blood, causing stagnation.

The smooth and wavy nature of this pulse suggests that the Qi is somewhat active and moving, though still influenced by the accumulation of dampness. This differs from conditions like deficiency, where a pulse might feel thin or weak, or blood stasis, where a pulse might be more wiry or choppy. Cold blockage would also manifest differently, often presenting as a tight pulse. Recognizing the qualities of the pulse allows practitioners to make more informed diagnostic assessments and treatment decisions based on the underlying imbalances in the body.