Traditional Chinese Medicine: Organ Functions and Pathologies

Exam Tip: Remember the "Window of the Lung" is the skin and body hair. If a patient has skin issues or hair problems, consider the Lung's function in controlling these areas.

The Spleen (Pi): The Source of Qi and Blood

The Spleen is considered the "foundation for post-heaven," meaning it is responsible for the energy we derive from the food we eat.

Physiological Functions

The Spleen's primary role is the transportation and transformation of food essences, Qi, and body fluids. It governs ascending (moving nutrients upward) and ensures that blood stays within the vessels to prevent hemorrhage. It also houses "clear thinking" and controls the muscles.

Common Pathological Patterns

• Spleen Qi Deficiency: Patients often experience fatigue, poor appetite, bloating after meals, and loose stools. The tongue is typically pale with teeth marks along the edges.
• Spleen Yang Deficiency: A deeper depletion where the body lacks warmth, leading to cold limbs, edema, and a pale, swollen, wet tongue coat.
• Spleen Not Controlling Blood: This results in bleeding outside the vessels, such as purpura (blood spots under the skin), bleeding gums, or heavy menses.

Clinical Note: The Spleen and Stomach work in a Yin-Yang relationship. The Spleen likes dryness and warmth (ascending), while the Stomach likes moisture and coolness (descending).

The Liver (Gan): The General of Smooth Flow

The Liver is responsible for the overall planning of bodily functions by ensuring the smooth and proper flow of Qi.

Physiological Functions

The Liver ensures the "smooth flow of Qi," which regulates emotions, digestion, and menstruation. It also stores blood, regulates its volume, and controls the sinews (tendons) for movement.

Common Pathological Patterns

• Liver Qi Stagnation: This is one of the most common patterns. It manifests as rib pain, mood swings, sighing, and PMS (breast distention/irritability). The pulse is typically "wiry".
• Liver Yang Rising: Characterized by "upward" symptoms like temple headaches, dizziness, tinnitus, and a red face.
• Liver Blood Deficiency: Presents as a dull pale face, pale nails/lips, dizziness, and scanty menses.

The Kidney (Shen): The Root of Life

The Kidney is the foundation of both "pre-heaven" (inherited essence) and "post-heaven" (acquired essence).

Physiological Functions

The Kidney stores Essence (Jing), which governs reproduction, growth, and development. It also controls water metabolism (specifically the "lower warmer"), receives and grasps Qi from the Lungs, and produces marrow to fill the brain and strengthen bones.

The Yin and Yang of the Kidney

The Kidney forms the center of the body's Yin and Yang balance:

• Kidney Yin: The foundation of fluids; responsible for nourishing organs and tissues.
• Kidney Yang: The foundation of Qi; responsible for warming the body and promoting organ function.

Common Pathological Patterns

• Kidney Qi Deficiency: Manifests as a sore low back and knees, frequent clear urination, or issues with reproductive health (e.g., premature ejaculation).
• Kidney Yang Deficiency: Characterized by a cold body, cold back, impotence, and edema.
• Kidney Yin Deficiency: Presents with "heat" symptoms such as tinnitus, vertigo, night sweats, and red cheeks.
• Kidney Essence Deficiency: In children, this may cause poor bone development; in adults, it can lead to premature hair loss, graying, or loose teeth.

Student Alert: Unlike many other organs, the Kidney is primarily documented through its various deficiency patterns.

Summary Table of Organ Manifestations