The Liver and Spring

The Spring season is associated with the LIVER and GALL BLADDER because of their relationship to renewal, growth and cleansing.

The liver is the largest and most complex organ in the body. Weighing about three pounds, it consumes 20% of oxygen intake. At rest, one to two quarts of blood flows through the liver every minute.

Chinese medicine describes the liver as the commander of the body, rightly so, because it is responsible for thousands of chemical reactions crucial to our well being. Not only does it filter unwanted elements in the blood, it also synthesizes and regulates essential nutrients needed by every cell.  Additionally, it stores fat- soluble vitamins, minerals, immune cells and a day’s worth of glucose.

Bile, which breaks down fat and cholesterol, is produced in the liver and stored in the gallbladder.   Bile helps eliminate toxins through the bowels.

Chinese medical therapies focus on optimizing liver function so that nutrients and toxins in the blood can be processed effectively.  A healthy liver is vital to a healthy body.

Traditional Syndromes: 

Depression - Anger and Anxiety - Migraines - Hormonal Imbalances - Constipation - Gallstones - Hepatitis - Gastro-intestinal Distress - Poor Circulation - Inflammation - Sciatica