Understanding the Spleen and Stomach in Chinese Medicine vs. Western Medicine
We're here to unravel the fascinating world of Chinese Medicine and how it views the Spleen and Stomach, compared to what you might be familiar with in Western Medicine. So let me explain.
The Stomach in Chinese Medicine
Now, let's talk about the Stomach. In Chinese Medicine, it's the pot where all the magic happens. In Western medicine the stomach is solely seen as a container for our food. But in Chinese Medicine, it's seen as the "rotting and ripening" place. No, it's not a scary concept! It means the Stomach's job is to break down and process food and fluids, extracting the nutrients your body needs. In essence, it's like a kitchen prep station, getting your ingredients ready for the Spleen to work its magic!
The Stomach in Western Medicine
In Western Medicine, the Stomach is, well, the stomach. Its primary role is to store food and gradually release it into the small intestine for digestion. It's all about the mechanical and chemical processes of breaking down food into smaller particles so your body can absorb all the goodness.
The Spleen in Chinese Medicine
Ever wondered how Chinese medicine views the humble Spleen? Well, it's not just about digestion; it's a game-changer! The Spleen is like your body's own culinary magician, taking the food and fluids you consume and transforming them into something called "Qi" and "blood." These are the building blocks that nourish your whole system, making the Spleen the "Central Organ of Transformation and Transportation." Fancy, right?
Meet Spleen Qi: Your Digestive Dynamo
Spleen Qi is the superstar of the show. It's like your digestive energy manager, breaking down food and making sure your body slurps up all the good stuff. When your Spleen Qi is strong, your digestion is on fire, and your body gets all the nourishment it craves. But, when it's feeling a little lacklustre, you might experience tiredness, weak muscles, funky bowel movements, or some extra water weight (we call it dampness).
The Spleen in Western Medicine
In Western medicine, the spleen is mainly recognized as a part of the immune system. It's involved in filtering the blood, removing damaged blood cells, and helping fight infections. The Western medicine view of the Spleen isn’t the same approach of Chinese Medicine.
How They Differ
In Western Medicine, the Spleen isn't typically associated with digestion, and the Stomach is more about acid production and breakdown. In Chinese Medicine the Stomach and Spleen are seen as vital, not only for digestion but for overall well-being. The Stomach ‘transforms’ the nutrients and fluids, whilst the Spleen ‘transports ‘these nutrients. Western Medicine tends to focus on specific functions like digestion and immune support.
Unlocking Vitality: Keeping It Warm: The Stomach and Spleen Connection
The Stomach and Spleen are often seen as the dynamic duo responsible for the body's overall vitality. One of their essential functions, is their role in warming the body and regulating fluid metabolism. Ever heard of the "warmth" factor in Chinese medicine? No! You may have heard of Yin and Yang. Well, it’s the Yang that is the ‘warmth’ factor. It is this ‘warmth’ (Yang), that most people are lacking!
It's a big deal! Both your Stomach and Spleen need to stay cosy and warm to do their jobs right. If things get chilly, and we know what happens when things become cold. Cold likes to contract, contraction means less movement, with less movement, fluid metabolism is disrupted, leading to conditions like Dampness and oedema in Chinese medicine.
(Dampness refers to the accumulation of excessive moisture in the body, which can manifest as symptoms like bloating, indigestion weight gain, and fatigue. Oedema is the accumulation of fluids in the tissues, often causing swelling.)
In Chinese medicine ‘warmth’ is like the secret sauce for circulation, digestion, and fuelling your body's energy. When the Stomach and Spleen operate efficiently, they help maintain a warm and harmonious internal environment, ensuring that bodily fluids are distributed optimally.
Moxibustion
Moxibustion is a traditional Chinese medicine therapy that involves burning the herb mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris) to stimulate acupuncture points on the body. Moxibustion is thought to influence fluid metabolism through several mechanisms:
Ø Warming and Dispelling Cold: Moxibustion is often used to warm the body and dispel cold. In Chinese medicine, cold is associated with stagnation and blockages
Ø Promoting Yang Energy: Yang energy is associated with warmth and activity. This can help to balance fluid metabolism and alleviate conditions related to fluid retention and cold dampness.
Ø Enhancing Qi and Blood Circulation: This improved circulation can assist in the proper metabolism of bodily fluids, preventing issues like oedema or dampness.
Ø Strengthening the Spleen and Kidneys: In Chinese medicine, the Spleen and Kidneys play essential roles in fluid metabolism.