The Liver and Chinese Medicine

In Tradition Chinese Medicine (TCM) We look at the organs on an energetic level. Each organ can manifest disharmony in a particular manner, maybe the eyes, the nails, or the skin. The liver function in TCM theory is to promote the circulation of chi, which is considered our vital life force. The qi of the liver circulates throughout the body and helps the other organs function as well. Liver chi is always in existence and cannot be reduced, only slowed down, knotted, or shift in direction.

The Liver in Chinese Medicine theory is also associated with mood stability and certain emotions. If the qi of the liver is knocked off it's normal course and the ride begins to feel bumpy, then that can give rise to feelings of high and low, irritability, and plays a role in manic depressive disorder (the heart and mind play a major role as well).

The liver is also related to the Gallbladder, as the Gallbladder is responsible for storing bile which aids in digestion, which we will examine in a bit. Very interesting that there is this overlapping concept in both systems of medicine. It is also responsible for courage and timidity, as if one is more on the timid or shy side, then we say that there is some deficiency in the gallbladder. In TCM they are considered a pair, the yin and yang of each other.

The liver through from a bio-med perspective
The liver is a very interesting organ and the similarities and associations with TCM is very interesting. The liver is pretty much the largest gland inside of the body, and is responsible for a whole list of functions including glycogen storage (a converted form of glucose), the storage of various vitamins and minerals such as vitamin A, vitamin B12, vitamin D, copper, and iron.

The liver also secretes a substance known as bile. It is a mixture of cholesterol, different bodily salts, and red blood cells that have been broken down. It's the reason why your feces looks brown. It is also used to break down fats into smaller chains of fatty acids.

How to improve your liver chi
There are a few things you can do to keep your liver chi flowing smoothly. First try to keep your mood even and stable throughout the day. This means learning stress reduction techniques to diffuse any negativity you may encounter along your day. Eat warm cooked foods to promote good digestion and good circulation of stomach and metabolizing chi. Tai Chi is great for relaxing the mind and body, and can be great for dealing with stress or anger. If you are having serious psychological problems it is best to seek help from a qualified health professional. Lastly, make sure you're exercising at four to five days a week. The liver chi likes to flow free and remain stable, so exercises that train the mind and body would be ideal.

Hopefully this has provided you with a little more insight into acupuncture theory and western anatomy and physiology. Remember that this should not be used as a guide to diagnose yourself, and you should go see a local acupuncturist if you have any health questions.