The spleen is one of the important defensive organs in the body and is a vital part of the immune system. Its weakening is immediately noticeable in the tonsils, which are connected to the spleen through the lymphatic system. The spleen acts as a filter for lymph and captures old red blood cells. It is also responsible for the production of red blood cells and platelets. Therefore, a weakened spleen does not mean that this organ is not functioning. It means that it is manifesting in some way at the physical level, and by understanding the principles of holistic medicine, you can address the underlying cause.

Qi or the ENERGY of the EARTH element

The organs and meridians associated with the Earth element are responsible for regulating the digestive process. Primarily, these include the "spleen" and the "stomach." However, the "liver," the "small intestine," and the "pericardium" also play a role in the Earth element's internal energy.

The Earth element represents the center, the abdomen, and metabolism, which helps us process external influences. The Qi of this element is largely about being at peace with oneself - "being true to oneself." When we start to overthink things, often during puberty (worrying about what others think of us, feeling self-conscious, etc.), the Earth element weakens. Suddenly, instead of intuition and a sense of security arising from the abdomen, we experience anxiety, brooding, and insecurity. This is often accompanied by digestive problems, metabolic issues, allergies, and, over time, even uncontrollable weight problems.

The abdomen is the place where everything is processed.

We are not just talking about food here, but about everything we read, hear, see, or feel - all these stimuli must first be "digested." This explains why the "pericardium" is also associated with the Earth element's internal energy.

Earth Qi helps to break down food, both physically and mentally, and transforms a portion of it into a subtle essence that is absorbed and distributed throughout the body, especially to the "lungs" (metal element). This essence both replenishes and renews the blood, which is why the spleen is also responsible for blood production, and it also represents a source of vital energy.

The Earth Qi of the "spleen" represents the "postnatal foundation." Simply put, it creates energy from what we consume. If the center is healthy, what nourishes us strengthens us. However, if it is weak, problems arise. Instead of "food" strengthening us, it starts to cause us discomfort. When you read these words, don't just think about food. The Earth Qi of the "spleen" is a powerful creator of our energy.

Do you know what weakens the spleen the most?

Inappropriate food, irregular eating, eating in a hurry, eating with resistance, and, most importantly, mental work and constant thinking and ruminating. When the "center" is weak, we are unable to cope with our lives. We are easily offended, we cannot forgive, we spend hours dwelling on every word we say, and we endlessly ruminate on our fears. It is a superhuman effort for us to concentrate and learn something.

According to traditional Chinese medicine, these excessive thoughts and the accumulation of "nonsense" in the head primarily affect the quality of Qi, causing it to thicken and stagnate. This weakens its function, leading to digestive problems, loss of appetite, bloating, or even dizziness, blurred vision, palpitations, etc.

In this case, however, it is a somewhat vicious cycle. If the spleen is already weakened, for example, by a poor diet (such as yogurt with banana in the morning), then excessive rumination already appears as a pathology.

Why is milk unsuitable for the "spleen" as an element of the EARTH?

The yin aspect of the Earth element is referred to as the "spleen." However, this doesn't simply refer to the organ itself, but rather a complex network of relationships and functions, as mentioned earlier. The yin aspect carries moisture and coolness, which is perfectly acceptable when in balance. Sometimes, the body needs moisture and coolness, especially when processing something that is dry and hot.

However, when there is an excess of moisture and coolness, which happens when the yin aspect of the Earth element is weakened, it's important not to overconsume substances that exacerbate this. This is where milk comes in. Milk itself isn't inherently unhealthy, but it does contain moisture and coolness. And the "spleen" doesn't tolerate moisture and coolness well. This explains why milk can weaken the "spleen."

How can the spleen be strengthened?

Nature provides substances that help strengthen the spleen's function. These primarily include polysaccharides and flavonoids, which can be found in many traditional remedies and modern supplements.

Diet, or "healthy" eating

If you're experiencing any problems related to spleen qi, it's a good idea to start with dietary adjustments. Primarily, avoid eating heavily in the evening. The spleen prefers warm, cooked foods. Therefore, it's best, especially during the autumn and winter months, to limit the intake of raw foods and juices. Instead, steam or gently cook your food. It's important to ensure adequate intake of high-quality proteins. Dairy products are not recommended. Limit your intake of beer, coffee, cold drinks, and citrus fruit juices.

How does a weakened "spleen" manifest in the body?

  • Weakening of the yin aspect of the Earth element can manifest as:
    • Pain in the left rib area.
    • Reduced immune function.
    • Breathing difficulties.
    • Feelings of fullness in the stomach, digestive problems (loss of appetite or excessive hunger, diarrhea, weight loss, bloating).
    • A feeling of heavy legs.
    • Blood disorders, particularly affecting red blood cells. Spider veins (telangiectasias).
    • Dizziness, blurred vision, frequent nosebleeds.
    • Bruising and discoloration due to insufficient platelet production.
    • Spleen disorders (even the actual spleen) are often accompanied by fatigue (the spleen is responsible for "producing" energy from food). This fatigue is often accompanied by mild depression.
    • Undigested food in stool.
    • Dull headache in the forehead.
    • A feeling of coldness, especially cold hands and feet.
    • Prolapse of the uterus or rectum (hemorrhoids).
    • Increased craving for sweets, especially as a source of energy.

This is just a basic overview. A more detailed description would require more space, and it's important to assess problems individually. Traditional Chinese medicine is all about individualized approaches. It's rare for only one organ to be affected. In today's world, with our often poor diets and constant mental stress, the spleen is frequently weakened. This can then lead to a domino effect.

The Earth element and its qi are also associated with the duodenum, all muscles, and blood. The condition of the Earth element is reflected in the lips (for example, rashes on the lips are a sign of accumulated heat in the "center," blue lips indicate stagnation and clumping of qi and blood, dry lips are a result of blood depletion from the Earth element, etc.).

The organ clock for the "spleen" is between 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM. During this time, symptoms may worsen. Similarly, between 9:00 PM and 11:00 PM, when the spleen qi is at its weakest.

TURN OFF YOUR BRAIN AND STOP BELIEVING IN NONSENSE

Once I understood the principle of how the Earth element functions in the body, it dawned on me that this was somewhat akin to what we are now discovering with great fanfare: the MICROBIOME.

AUTHOR: Mgr. Jana Kubíčková SOURCES: Classical Chinese Medicine - Fundamentals of Theory I, Vladimír ANDO, 8th Czech edition, 2010, Svítání Publishing, ISBN 978-80-86601-16-8 Chinese Medicine for Everyday Life, Christine Li, 1st Czech edition, 2017, Jan Vašut Publishing, ISBN 978-80-7541-029-0 Study materials (primarily lectures by Anastasia White) and professional experience. prirodnilekarna.cz/gnews.cz-jav