Let’s Talk about the Spleen
The spleen is located in the upper left quadrant of the abdomen near the stomach.
In Western Medicine, the spleen is known to filter blood by removing microorganisms from the blood, controlling the amount of red and white blood cells in circulation, and removing old and destroyed red blood cells from the body. The spleen is also responsible for storing blood for the body which can be used in emergency situations. The spleen is also used for the immune system. The spleen is the biggest organ in the lymphatic system.
The spleen in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has three main functions. It governs the transformation and transportation of food and drink, controls the raising of qi, and controls the blood. The transformation and transportation function is responsible for turning the food and drinks that is consumed into the qi (energy) and blood used in the body. So, when the spleen is functioning properly there will be healthy digestion, appetite, and regular bowel movements. However, when the spleen is in disharmony there might be poor appetite, indigestion, abdominal distention, and loose stools. The second function of raising the qi creates an uplifting force internally which keeps the internal organs in place rather than falling with gravity. An imbalance with this function may result in hemorrhoids or a prolapse of the uterus, stomach, kidney, bladder, or anus. The spleen’s last function, controlling the blood, is in regard to the spleen making blood from the food essence that is consumed and it also keeps the blood in the vessels. When the spleen is weakened, low energy, bruising, hemorrhages, varicose veins, and spider veins might be some symptoms.
In TCM the organs are thought to have more power than just the functions within the body. The spleen is responsible for controlling muscles and limbs. Other organs control sinews, skin, marrow, or bones for example. Atrophy or weakened muscles might be a result of a deficient spleen since the spleen controls muscles. Furthermore, each of the organs have a designated spirit. The spirit of the spleen is called “yi”. The yi is responsible for thinking, studying, concentrating, and memorizing. A healthy spleen will result in clear thinking; however, a deficient spleen could result in dull thinking, poor concentration, or brain fog. When there is an excessive amount of thinking, studying, working, or worrying about the past this can also weaken the spleen leading to other “spleen symptoms”.
Acupuncture is a great way to strengthen all organs including the spleen! Diet changes such as avoiding excessive dairy, raw, or sweet foods can help strengthen the spleen. Lifestyle changes such as getting proper rest and relaxation can also help strengthen the spleen.
Wouldn’t it be nice to not have symptoms such as low energy, brain fog, easy bruising, loose stools, indigestion, or organ prolapse?!? You don’t have to live in this disharmony!
