Liver Health the Chinese Way
Chinese
medicine is about qi, which is
internal life energy coursing through the meridians in the body in order to
bring oxygen and nutrients to different body organs and tissues. Qi is the invisible energy that flows
through not just the human body but also the universe; the human body is but a
microcosm of the universe. Therefore, if the flow of qi is disrupted for any reason, the
entire body system will be in jeopardy.
The
liver is responsible for promoting the smooth flow of qi and "blood" throughout the
body. In Chinese medicine, liver health is longevity health because a healthy
liver maintains the overall wellness of an individual. In Chinese medicine,
"blood" is quite different from that observed in Western medicine. To
the Chinese, "blood" serves three major functions in the body system:
1.
It nourishes the body by providing nutrients. After your food and drink are
digested in you stomach, they are extracted by your spleen and transformed into
"blood."
2.
It moistens and lubricates the body by giving it movement and flexibility in
the form of qi.
3.
It stabilizes the mind, making your thoughts clear and stable.
In
Chinese medicine, a healthy liver regulates the amount of blood circulation. If
you are active, your liver will produce and release more blood, and your blood
flow will be strong and flexible. If our liver is impaired, your blood flow
will be disrupted. Liver disharmony, due to liver damage, often leads to
emotional disharmony, such as anger and sudden outbursts. Emotional problems
are often stress-related. People suffering from mental depression often have a
weak liver constitution.
Because
liver function affects your blood, liver problems also have an adverse impact
on tendons, that is, your movements and flexibility. Liver problems are
manifested in your nails and
your eyes. Nails are seen by
the Chinese as tendons. Good liver health is indicated by strong nails, and
liver problems result in pale and brittle nails. Your eyes, considered by the
Chinese as "windows" of your internal health, require nourishment of
your liver. A healthy liver gives you good vision, while liver damage results
in inability to see clearly, both visually and mentally.
Do
not damage your liver with alcohol. If you have a drinking problem, stop
alcohol addiction right away.
Stephen Lau
Copyright © 20108 by Stephen Lau
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