What is the Origin of Liver Qi?

This term is an ancient, core component of the Zang-Fu organ theory, a foundational philosophical and medical framework developed in China over thousands of years. The TCM concept of the Liver system is a functional, energetic entity that encompasses more than the Western anatomical organ, emphasizing its role in systemic regulation and detoxification. It is a key element in understanding the body's internal energetic and communication network.

What is the Mechanism of Liver Qi?

In TCM, the mechanism of Liver Qi involves its primary function of "spreading and regulating," which ensures that all bodily processes, including the secretion of bile and the distribution of energy, proceed harmoniously without obstruction. Stagnation occurs when chronic emotional stress, dietary factors, or lack of movement impede this smooth flow, causing a buildup of energetic tension that can manifest as pain, emotional volatility, and a functional disruption of the body's internal homeostatic and hormonal communication.

Liver Qi ∞ Area

Liver Qi

Meaning

Liver Qi is a fundamental, functional concept within the framework of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), representing the vital energy responsible for ensuring the smooth, unhindered flow of Qi (life force) and Blood throughout the entire body. In TCM theory, the Liver organ system is intrinsically linked to the regulation of emotional stability, the efficiency of digestion, and the precise timing of the menstrual cycle in females. A disruption or blockage in this energy flow, termed Liver Qi Stagnation, is often clinically correlated with symptoms such as irritability, premenstrual tension, abdominal distension, and various hormonal irregularities in a holistic context.