The Liver plays an important role in traditional Chinese Medicine is in charge of the smooth flow of qi throughout the body. Stagnation of the flow of liver qi frequently disrupts the flow in the body, producing feelings of frustration, anger and overwhelm. Liver function also relates to storage of blood, and when out of balance, one can experience emotional problems, rib pain or fullness, dizziness, headache, cramping, tendon problems, menstrual problems, jaundice, weak or blurry vision, and digestive disorders.
The liver ensures the smooth flow of qi. The Nei Jing refers to the liver as a general in the army, coordinating the movement
of the troops. When the liver functions smoothly, physical and emotional activity throughout the body also runs smoothly. When the liver is moving smoothly, the blood is richer, as seen in shiny hair and thick nails. In practice, the Liver relates often to stress-related problems. Irritable bowel syndrome or indigestion can be seen, as well as sleep difficulties. These problems can be successfully treated by working through the “smoothing of liver qi.” Herbs are selected to work with the specific symptoms that are appearing in the body along with acupuncture points to open and get the qi moving.