Acupuncture 101
Examinations of the Spleen
part 3 of a 5 part series
Under the scope of acupuncture as a Traditional Chinese
Medicine (TCM), pathways or meridians of Qi flow traverse
the body and influence specific body regions, organs systems
and functionality. Qi is considered a vital life force loosely
translated as energy. When Qi is obstructed health imbalances
result. The term Spleen is often considered a misnomer and
is sometimes translated as Spleen-Pancreas with a close
functional co-operation with the stomach and digestion.
The Spleen meridian influences the transformation of food
into Qi and transportation of nutritive Qi to the extremities
(arms and legs). The Spleen system is said to dominate muscles
and limbs. This system holds blood in place, controls the
upholding action of Qi, opens to the mouth and manifests
on the lips. Dry cracked lips or sores within the mouth
are some signs displaying an imbalance in this system. In
addition, cold limbs and excess body mass or weak arms and
legs, bruising easily, varicose veins, and prolapsed organs
are also signs of imbalance. The Spleen-Pancreas together
with the Stomach manages digestion. This system produces
Post-Natal Jing that is used to supplement the more important
and limited Pre-Natal Jing that we genetically inherit and
that is stored in the Kidney system. Jing is an important
supportive substance to our health and longevity. Patients
with genetic deficiencies in regards to Pre-Natal Jing may
not be able to find a cure but may be able to better manage
their condition by optimizing their Post-Natal Jing (optimize
diet). The quality of Post-Natal Jing production depends
mostly on the quality of food and air intake. Western diseases
such as obesity, diabetes, gout, arthritis, anemia, amenorrhea
to name a few are often considered imbalances in the Spleen-Pancreas
system.
When
the Spleen system is not functioning properly it doesn't
create pure Qi but instead creates a condition called dampness,
which can lead to excess mucus and phlegm production consequently
impacting the Lung system. Cold foods (iced drinks), heavy
foods (meat), and sweet foods can overwhelm this system.
Tiredness after a meal is a common symptom that demonstrates
a deficiency in the ability to process what was eaten. The
USA has a cultural diet that emphasizes sweets which overwhelm
the Spleen system. Diabetes being very prevalent in the
USA proves this point. High fructose corn syrup, a simple
sugar is a common ingredient in practically every processed
food and is best avoided. A good start to promoting a balanced
Spleen-Pancreas system would be to avoid sugar, overeating,
heavy food combinations, cold foods and cold drinks. Any
food or drink should be room temperature or warm for optimal
digestion.
Christopher Carlow, D. Ac.
June 20, 2008
