Which statement is NOT a listed action of the Bitter flavor?

Which statement is NOT a listed action of the Bitter flavor?

• A. Drains, dries, clears heat, descends Qi
• B. Relaxes bowels
• C. Tonifies qi
• D. Descends Qi

Answer: (C)

Bitter herbs are known for clearing heat and drying dampness, and for moving qi downward, which includes descending rebellious qi. They tend to drain excess heat and damp conditions rather than nourish or strengthen the body's qi. Tonifying qi, on the other hand, is a function more associated with the Sweet flavor, which nourishes and supports the body's energy. Therefore the statement about tonifying qi does not fit Bitter flavor actions, making it the one that is not listed as a bitter action. The other ideas align with bitter effects—draining heat and dampness and directing Qi downward—so they fit the expected profile of the Bitter flavor.

Bitter herbs are known for clearing heat and drying dampness, and for moving qi downward, which includes descending rebellious qi. They tend to drain excess heat and damp conditions rather than nourish or strengthen the body's qi. Tonifying qi, on the other hand, is a function more associated with the Sweet flavor, which nourishes and supports the body's energy. Therefore the statement about tonifying qi does not fit Bitter flavor actions, making it the one that is not listed as a bitter action. The other ideas align with bitter effects—draining heat and dampness and directing Qi downward—so they fit the expected profile of the Bitter flavor.