The Spleen is the primary organ of digestion which transforms the food and drink we eat and makes Qi (with the help of the Lungs) and Blood (with the help of the Heart) for our body to use. It works closely with the Stomach, its accompanying Yang organ, to govern digestion. This pair is considered the Middle Burner of the body. With its normal function, you have proper digestion, a good appetite and regular bowel movements. When the Spleen is weakened or not functioning efficiently, you will notice poor appetite and digestion, abdominal distension or bloating and loose stools. This can occur with eating excessively damp foods (dairy products, fried foods etc) which the Spleen happens to loathe.
The TCM Spleen also controls the muscles, specifically the motor muscles of the 4 limbs. When there is a lack of Qi physical energy is depleted and weak muscles and tiredness are common complaints.
While I was in naturopathic medical school, many students clearly had weakened Spleens, myself included! Students are often Spleen Qi Deficient when they are continuously studying and getting ready for big exams. Since the Spleen houses the Intellect and helps with applied thinking, studying, memorizing, focus and concentration, excess studying and mental work for sustained periods of time tend to weaken the Spleen. Mental fog is often present along with feeling bored, uninterested and worrying more than usual. But not to worry, strengthening and toning the Spleen can be achieved with a good healthy diet, proper digestion and a lot of great restorative sleep post-exams!
On a lighter note, the Spleens brilliance is manifested in the lips! Red, moist and healthy lips are a sign of a strong Spleen. Kiss kiss!
The TCM Spleen also controls the muscles, specifically the motor muscles of the 4 limbs. When there is a lack of Qi physical energy is depleted and weak muscles and tiredness are common complaints.
While I was in naturopathic medical school, many students clearly had weakened Spleens, myself included! Students are often Spleen Qi Deficient when they are continuously studying and getting ready for big exams. Since the Spleen houses the Intellect and helps with applied thinking, studying, memorizing, focus and concentration, excess studying and mental work for sustained periods of time tend to weaken the Spleen. Mental fog is often present along with feeling bored, uninterested and worrying more than usual. But not to worry, strengthening and toning the Spleen can be achieved with a good healthy diet, proper digestion and a lot of great restorative sleep post-exams!
On a lighter note, the Spleens brilliance is manifested in the lips! Red, moist and healthy lips are a sign of a strong Spleen. Kiss kiss!
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