The Kun trigram represents yin in terms of time, fields in terms of geography, and earth in the Five Elements. In human attributes, it represents the mother, while in human affairs, it signifies gentleness and submission. For the body, it corresponds to the abdomen, spleen, stomach, and muscles. In terms of time, it is associated with the Chen hour (7–9 AM). Regarding taste, it represents sweetness, and for color, it corresponds to black.

The Jueyin Pericardium Meridian (Dantian/Qihai, interconnected with the Triple Burner Meridian) corresponds to the Kun trigram. In the Early Heaven Bagua, it occupies the central and northern positions, while in the Later Heaven Bagua, it is positioned in the peripheral southwest. Literally speaking, in terms of medicine, the Kun trigram should be associated with diseases related to the abdomen, spleen, stomach, and muscles in the human body.

The spleen and stomach are connected to the mouth in the human body. Therefore, any prescriptions for treating oral diseases or spleen and stomach ailments fall under the domain of the Kun trigram. The Kun trigram belongs to the earth element in the Five Elements and corresponds to the southwest and central directions. In the body, it is associated with the spleen, stomach, and abdomen. In terms of time, it corresponds to earth-related periods, such as the Wu and Ji (earth) in the Heavenly Stems and the Chen, Xu, Chou, and Wei (earth) in the Earthly Branches.

The most prominent characteristics of individuals with a Kun earth constitution are their honesty, integrity, and steadiness. They are practical and down-to-earth. In terms of personality, Kun individuals tend to be more introverted, though not as much as those with a Kan constitution. One of their drawbacks is their slow pace—not only are their movements slow, but the flow of their Qi and blood is also slower, which results in slightly delayed reactions compared to others. They may not be the ones to charge into battle, but they are undoubtedly the best at putting things into practice. People with a Kun constitution are favored by the earth, and foods grown in fertile black soil are especially beneficial for them.

The first food to recommend for those with a Kun constitution is lotus root. Lotus root is a powerful tonic for the spleen and stomach. It helps to relieve food stagnation, stop diarrhea, stimulate appetite, and clear damp-heat. Fresh lotus root juice is particularly effective for treating anemia. It also works quickly to treat uterine bleeding, has a supportive role in the treatment of hepatitis B, and can treat frostbite on hands and feet as well as neutralize crab toxins.

Lotus seeds, the fruit of the lotus root, also carry the energy of Kun earth and are very beneficial for health maintenance in Kun-type individuals.

Rice, infused with the energy of Kun earth and the essence of Kan water, is an excellent supplement for people with a Kun constitution. When making rice porridge, it’s best to avoid adding yellow foods such as sweet potatoes and chestnuts. Other foods like water chestnuts, taro, hyacinth beans, lotus seeds, black fungus, and loaches also carry the energy of Kun earth and are especially beneficial for Kun-type individuals.

Written by Yu Ying

Edited by Andrew Miles