HEALTH REPORT
liver stasis in TCM), interfering with the liver’s natural detoxification functions and sometimes leading to digestive symptoms such as excessive burping, nausea, abdominal bloating and loss of appetite. Elsewhere in the body, stagnant liver Qi may also cause symptoms like irritability and premenstrual mood changes. Traditional Chinese liver herbs In TCM, a number of different herbs can be used to support healthy liver function, each based on its own particular tradition of use. Here are some of the most important to consider when it comes to looking after your liver. Bupleurum: Bupleurum is traditionally used to support healthy liver function in TCM, where it’s traditionally regarded as having regulating effects on the flow of liver Qi and the ability to stimulate the movement of Qi when its flow becomes stagnant. When liver stagnation is present, it’s also traditionally taken to relieve irritability and premenstrual mood changes, and to support the healthy functioning of the gallbladder. Baical skullcap: In TCM, baical skullcap and bupleurum are traditionally regarded as having synergistic effects when taken together. Liver health
K een to look after your liver? These insights and tips from traditional Chinese medicine will help. The liver is best known for the critical roles it plays in bile production (which is required for fat metabolism) and the detoxification and elimination of many waste products. While traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) shares this understanding, it also attributes the liver with responsibility for several additional functions, including: Regulating the flow of blood and Qi (life force energy) around the body Nourishing the blood Governing the expression of emotions.
flow of blood and Qi can be compromised by a sedentary lifestyle, excessive alcohol consumption, eating too much or having a diet that’s too rich in fatty foods. When that happens, the flow of Qi and blood becomes sluggish (a situation that’s referred to as liver stagnation or In traditional Chinese medicine, a number of different herbs can be used to support healthy liver function, each based on its own particular tradition of use.
What happens when the liver is sluggish or stagnant?
By ensuring that the flow of blood and Qi is smooth and unobstructed, the liver is seen to contribute to overall health and wellbeing in TCM. However, according to TCM philosophy, the liver’s ability to maintain the smooth
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ISSUE 56 • 2019
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