Liver & Gallbladder: The Organs of Spring -

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Spring is when the Liver and Gallbladder organs are most active, therefore it is an important time to support their function. If the Liver and Gallbladder are well nourished, they will provide strength and protection for the year ahead.

The Liver and Gallbladder work together to move blood and bile and play important roles in Spleen and Lung health. If your Spleen and Lung health are weak, it can affect your immunity and susceptibility to seasonal allergies. The Liver and Gallbladder can also affect the tendons which can impact flexibility and strength. The Liver is influential in supporting eye health and vision-literally as well as the ability to look ahead.

Functions of the Liver in Western Medicine

Produces proteins necessary to form clots
Neutralizes and removes toxins from foods, medications, and drugs
Filters blood from arteries and digestive tract
Creates bilirubin, which aids in the breakdown of old red blood cells
Helps maintain normal blood sugar levels
Creates blood cells in emergency situations
Stores essential nutrients such as Vitamins K, D, B12, and iron
Removes ammonia from body fluids and secretes it in urine
Produces bile and other substances to aid in the digestions of proteins, fats and carbohydrates

TCM Liver Functions

Stores blood
Governs emotional states
Helps regulate menstruation
Regulates the smooth flow of Qi
Influences our capacity for organizing and planning
Influences digestive functions of the Stomach and Spleen
Controls muscular activity including the flexibility and agility of tendons and ligaments
Houses the “Hun”, which is similar to the concept of soul or spirit

Functions of the Gallbladder

In Western Medicine, the gallbladder stores and releases bile.

In TCM, it Influences our quality and length of sleep and controls judgment and the capacity to make decisions.

Physical Symptoms of Gallbladder Imbalance

Acid reflux
Aversion to wind
Blurry or weak vision, floaters
Breast tenderness
Bruising
Constipation
Flatulence
Headaches or migraines

Indigestion
Irregular menstruation
Menstrual cramps/PMS
Right-side abdominal pain
Stiff neck and/or shoulders
Stiff muscles
Weak or brittle nails

Emotional Symptoms of Gallbladder Imbalance

Anger and angry outburst
Bitterness
Depression
Frustration and impatience
Inability to plan or organize
Indecision
Irritability
Moodiness
Negative outlook
Resentment
Rigid and inflexible attitude
Shouting

Watch my YouTube video below for more Queen of Quick tips on Supporting your Liver during spring (and all year around!). You can also visit my recipes page to learn more about yin and yang cooking and East meets West nutrition for every season!