Background: Lu Yu (733-804 AD, Tang Dynasty) was an orphan raised and educated in a monastery. His profound knowledge of tea earned him the title "the Sage of Tea." This paper explores the possibility that Lu Yu may have been a patient of inherited metabolic diseases (IMDs), particularly phenylketonuria (PKU), considering historical records and unique aspects of his life.
Case presentation: Examining Lu Yu's orphaned upbringing, clinical manifestations noted in his autobiography, dietary preferences, and the significance of his name, this study postulates that he may have had IMDs, notably PKU. His life choices, such as abstaining from meat and fish and favoring a low-protein diet during his time in a monastery, align with practices recommended for managing IMDs. The linguistic associations of his name further reinforce this hypothesis.
Conclusions: This investigation sheds light on the intriguing possibility that Lu Yu may have been affected by IMDs, notably PKU. By considering historical context, clinical correlations, dietary choices, and name symbolism, we offer a unique historical perspective on this celebrated figure's health. Further research could provide valuable insights into both his life and the broader medical practices of the Tang Dynasty.