Introduction: Understand Herbal Medicine
In modern times, it is common to equate the five internal organs of traditional herbal medicine with their counterparts in Western medicine. However, the five internal organs in traditional herbal medicine represent more than just individual organs. Instead, they refer to a system and function encompassing various organs with shared characteristics.
For instance, when we talk about strengthening the spleen and nourishing the stomach in traditional herbal medicine, it goes beyond the spleen in Western medicine and includes some liver and intestinal functions. Thus, the spleen in traditional herbal medicine is a system and a function.
The Liver-subsystem
In traditional herbal medicine, the liver is responsible for regulating the release of qi and blood and influences tendons and eyes. In contrast, Western medicine views the liver primarily as a detoxification organ with no direct connection to the eyes or other body parts.
However, traditional herbal medicine considers the liver’s role more holistically. It includes tendons, eyes, blood vessels, and all elastic structures in the human body. Therefore, anything in the body that exhibits elasticity is classified under the liver subsystem. For example, the eyes are part of the liver subsystem due to their elasticity.
The Wood-attribute
The liver subsystem has a wood-attribute. When the liver-qi is smooth and sufficient, the tendons will contract freely, have very good elasticity, and the joints are also very flexible.
The wood attribute in the Theory of Five Elements pertains to flexibility and resilience, much like the trees and grass in nature. When crushed by stones, plants don’t merely die; they bend, adapt, and strive to grow through the cracks, demonstrating their strong vitality. Similarly, ancient wheels were made of wood, exemplifying flexibility as wood can be bent to form circles and axles.
In the human body, tendons exhibit this wood attribute through their elasticity, allowing them to stretch and contract. These movements, such as kicking legs or swinging arms, are possible because of tendons’ ability to contract and relax. Thus, the liver subsystem, associated with the wood attribute, ensures that tendons are elastic and joints remain flexible.
Stretching Exercise
Yoga is an excellent exercise for stretching the body and gradually enhancing the tendons’ elasticity. By practicing yoga, individuals can maintain tendon flexibility without expending excessive liver qi. Moreover, yoga helps regulate liver qi, reducing the risk of joint and cardiovascular diseases. While blood vessels in traditional herbal medicine are considered part of the hepatic duct, Western medicine does not make this connection.
It’s important for middle-aged or elderly individuals to avoid overextending themselves during yoga practice. Stretching muscles can contribute to longevity and enhance overall well-being by promoting smooth liver qi flow and nourishing the spirit. However, one must exercise caution to avoid overstretching, which can lead to muscle injuries. Once injured, the body must expend liver qi and kidney qi to repair the muscles, depleting liver qi. Therefore, moderation is key to achieving the best results. Excessive stretching often leads to injuries in acrobats and gymnasts later in life.
Joint Pain
Joint diseases such as arthritis, frozen shoulder, cervical spondylosis, and rheumatism should be treated by focusing on the liver. The first step involves replenishing vital yuanqi to empower the liver to expel harmful elements. Wind, cold, and dampness in the joints are particularly stubborn.
For internal treatment, stronger medicinal herbs may be required. These prescriptions are highly potent and must be used with caution. A thorough diagnosis and accurate assessment of symptoms are essential before administering such treatments. Moreover, these prescriptions should not be used for more than five days, with adjustments made every three days or daily to minimize potential harm to the body.
To be continued in Part two.