Which pulse indicates only Deficient Qi?

The short pulse is characteristic of a deficiency in Qi because it is indicative of a lack of sufficient energy circulating through the body. This can suggest that the body's overall vitality is diminished, which is especially associated with Qi deficiency.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), various pulse types are used to assess the state of the internal organs and the overall health of a person. The short pulse is not long and lacks the fullness that would indicate robust Qi. Instead, it suggests that the Qi is not abundant enough to create a longer, more sustained pulse.

Other pulses listed have different implications: the thin pulse can reflect deficiency but is more associated with blood deficiency or a general lack of nourishment; the soggy pulse often indicates Dampness and a more complex set of issues rather than solely Qi deficiency; and the minute pulse typically signifies a severe deficiency of both Qi and blood, indicating a very weak pulse that can be difficult to feel. Thus, the short pulse is uniquely tied to a clear indication of Deficient Qi.