Liver Congestion & Imbalance

By: Viki Servos

Anatomy, Location & Functions of the Liver

The average adult liver weighs approximately three pounds and is the second largest organ in the human body. It is located in the upper-right portion of the abdominal cavity under the diaphragm just below the ribcage and to the right of the stomach and consists of four lobes. It receives about 1.5 quarts of blood every minute via the hepatic artery and portal vein. The essential functions of the liver make it a vital organ without which the tissues of the body would quickly die from lack of energy and nutrients. It supports nearly every other organ in the body in some facet. Without a healthy liver, a person cannot survive. Fortunately, the liver has an incredible capacity for regeneration of dead or damaged tissues. It is capable of growing very quickly to restore its normal size and function. The primary functions of the liver are: Digestion The liver plays an active role in the process of digestion through the production of bile. Bile is a mixture of water, bile salts, cholesterol, and the pigment bilirubin. Hepatocytes, the chief functional cells in the liver, produce bile, which then passes through the bile ducts to be stored in the gallbladder. When food containing fats reaches the duodenum, the first and shortest segment of the small intestine, the cells of the duodenum release the hormone cholecystokinin to stimulate the gallbladder to release bile. Bile travels through the bile ducts and is released into the duodenum where it emulsifies large masses of fat. The emulsification of fats by bile turns the large clumps of fat into smaller pieces that have more surface area and are therefore easier for the body to digest. Bilirubin present in bile is a product of the liver’s digestion of worn out red blood cells. Kupffer cells in the liver catch and destroy old, worn out red blood cells and pass their components on to hepatocytes. Hepatocytes metabolize hemoglobin, the red oxygen-carrying pigment of red blood cells, into the components heme and globin. Globin protein is further broken down and used as an energy source for the body. The iron-containing heme group cannot be recycled by the body and is converted into the pigment bilirubin

and added to bile to be excreted from the body. Bilirubin gives bile its distinctive greenish color. Intestinal bacteria further convert bilirubin into the brown pigment stercobilin, which gives feces their brown color. Metabolism The hepatocytes of the liver are tasked with many of the important metabolic jobs that support the cells of the body. Because all of the blood leaving the digestive system passes through the hepatic portal vein, the liver is responsible for metabolizing carbohydrate, lipids, and proteins into biologically useful materials. Our digestive system breaks down carbohydrates into the monosaccharide glucose, which cells use as a primary energy source. Blood entering the liver through the hepatic portal vein is extremely rich in glucose from digested food. Hepatocytes absorb much of this glucose and store it as the macromolecule glycogen, a branched polysaccharide that allows the hepatocytes to pack away large amounts of glucose and quickly release glucose between meals. The absorption and release of glucose by the hepatocytes helps to maintain homeostasis and protects the rest of the body from dangerous spikes and drops in the blood glucose level. Fatty acids in the blood passing through the liver are absorbed by hepatocytes and metabolized to produce energy in the form of ATP. Glycerol, another lipid component, is converted into glucose by hepatocytes through the process of gluconeogenesis. Hepatocytes can also produce lipids like cholesterol, phospholipids, and lipoproteins that are used by other cells throughout the body. Much of the cholesterol produced by hepatocytes gets excreted from the body as a component of bile. Dietary proteins are broken down into their component amino acids by the digestive system before being passed on to the hepatic portal vein. Amino acids entering the liver require metabolic processing before they can be used as an energy source. Hepatocytes first remove the amine groups of the amino acids and convert them into ammonia and eventually urea. Urea is less toxic than ammonia and can be excreted in urine as a waste product of digestion. The remaining parts of the amino acids can be broken down into ATP or converted into new glucose molecules through the process of gluconeogenesis. Detoxification As blood from the digestive organs passes through the hepatic portal circulation, the hepatocytes of the liver monitor the contents of the blood and remove many potentially toxic substances before they can reach the rest of the body. Enzymes in hepatocytes metabolize many of these toxins such as alcohol and drugs into their inactive metabolites. And in order to keep hormone levels within homeostatic limits, the liver also metabolizes and removes from circulation hormones produced by the body’s own glands. Storage The liver stores and regulates the blood and is responsible for nourishing very cell in our body. It provides storage of many essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals obtained from blood passing through the hepatic portal system. Glucose is transported into hepatocytes under the influence of the hormone insulin and stored as the polysaccharide

glycogen. Hepatocytes also absorb and store fatty acids from digested triglycerides. The storage of these nutrients allows the liver to maintain the homeostasis of blood glucose. Our liver also stores vitamins and minerals - such as vitamins A, D, E, K, and B12, and the minerals iron and copper - in order to provide a constant supply of these essential substances to the tissues of the body. Production The liver is responsible for the production of several vital protein components of blood plasma: prothrombin, fibrinogen, and albumins. Prothrombin and fibrinogen proteins are coagulation factors involved in the formation of blood clots. Albumins are proteins that maintain the isotonic environment of the blood so that cells of the body do not gain or lose water in the presence of body fluids. Immunity The liver functions as an organ of the immune system through the function of the Kupffer cells that line the sinusoids. Kupffer cells are a type of fixed macrophage that form part of the mononuclear phagocyte system along with macrophages in the spleen and lymph nodes. Kupffer cells play an important role by capturing and digesting bacteria, fungi, parasites, worn-out blood cells, and cellular debris. The large volume of blood passing through the hepatic portal system and the liver allows Kupffer cells to clean large volumes of blood very quickly. Regulation of Hormones The Liver is the most important organ for hormone regulation. The liver performs inactivation and elimination of hormones through the bile or urine. Since estrogen and androgen are both growth hormones which stimulate cell division, elevation of their levels in the blood due to the liver’s inability to remove them efficiently can cause their accumulation in tissue. This in turn may lead to abnormal growths such as uterine fibroids, ovarian cysts, endometriosis, breast cysts and breast cancer, prostate enlargement or prostate cancer. Excessive estrogen is also the most common cause of painful menstruations.

TCM and The Wood Element FIRE

WOOD EARTH WATER METAL In TCM, organs are not necessarily defined by their anatomical positioning or their quantifiable workings. Instead, the concepts associated with an organ are determined by a series of functional activities and relationships with other organs, tissues, fluids, sense organs, and environmental influences. This is part of a sophisticated theory of the human body as an integrated whole which comprises not only physical functions but also emotional, mental, sensorial, and even spiritual aspects. Understanding the relationship and inter-dependence between organs is just as important as understanding the role that each organ is playing in the development of symptoms and in the maintenance of our health at every level. The two main types of organs are Yin (Zang) and Yang (Fu) organs. Yin organs are considered to be deeper both in terms of location and function, and more fundamental to life. The Yin organs are: Liver, Spleen, Heart, Kidney, and Lung. The Liver (Gan): The Liver is the organ of the Wood element and is regarded both energetically and physically as a large, expansive and, when out of balance, invasive organ. In ancient texts, it is compared to an army general due to its roles as regulator and coordinator of the flow of Qi and Blood throughout the whole system. Any disruption in its functions usually affects another organ. In addition, the Liver is paired with the Gall Bladder and has a reciprocated influence over this organ and its functioning. The Season of the Wood Element is Spring. The direction is East. The color is Green. The environment is Windy. The corresponding Yang organ is the Gall Bladder. The emotion associated is Anger, the vocal quality is Shouting and the taste is Sour.

The Liver is in charge of regulating and harmonizing the whole system, through its main functions: Rules the free flow of Qi Much depends on the smooth movement of Qi throughout the body. Without it, obstruction, blockage, and irregular functioning of other substances and organs can ensue. This function of the Liver particularly influences the following aspects: Our emotional state: Our emotions are as much an expression of our energy as the physical functions of our body so a harmonious flow of Qi results in equally harmonious emotions reflected in a relaxed disposition and an ability to cope and let things go when appropriate. The efficiency of our digestion: The Liver plays an important part in the digestive process both physically and energetically. Appropriate flow of Liver Qi is needed to ensure the smooth passage of food through the digestive system from ingestion through to evacuation. The adequate secretion of bile: As part of the digestive process, bile needs to be released in adequate amounts. This is a Gall Bladder function that depends on the adequate flow of Liver Qi. The smooth flow of menstruation: The Liver organ and its channel have an intimate relationship with the reproductive system. As Qi flows, so does the Blood so an obstruction in the flow of Qi may result in stagnant Blood and in symptoms both before and during menstruation. On the other hand, the Liver channel runs through the reproductive system, which makes the flow of Qi in the Liver even more important for reproductive health. Stores the Blood (Xue) When we are active, the Liver ensures that enough Blood is circulating through the body so that the sinews and muscles are nourished and moistened. When at rest, the Blood is collected and stored in the Liver so that our energy is restored during our sleep. Rules the tendons and sinews The Liver, mostly through the Liver Blood, is the organ that enables the muscles, tendons and ligaments to contract and relax and to move in a coordinated, responsive manner. Opens into the eyes and manifests in the nails In TCM, each Yin organ is in charge of nourishing a specific sense organ. The health of each Yin organ is also said to be reflected in the quality of a particular tissue of the body. The eyes are the sense organs that are influenced by the Liver in terms of their moisture and freshness as well as the quality of vision. The health of the Liver is also reflected in the quality and strength of the nails.

Houses the Ethereal soul (Hun) In the Taoist roots of TCM, our Soul or Spirit is thought to be comprised by smaller parts which represent specific human behaviors and tendencies. Each of these smaller spirits is in turn closely associated to a specific Yin organ. The Hun or Ethereal soul is the spirit of the Liver and it is understood to be the part of us that “lives on” after our bodies have passed. The Hun is the part of us that both holds and enables our life purpose to be fulfilled. In order to achieve this, the Hun gives us confidence and drive as well as the ability to establish boundaries and to feel the compassion that inspires us to perform acts of kindness.

Congestion and Imbalance of the Liver Causes and Symptoms

Stress, poor diet such as rich and greasy foods, late heavy meals, alcohol, fat, oils, meat, dairy, eggs, chemicals, denatured foods and prescription drugs are some of the common issues in modern society that may lead to stress and functional damage to the Liver. Over the counter drugs such as painkillers can also cause Liver toxicity. Therefore it is not surprising that many people over the age of 50 develop Liver weakness or toxicity. Even among the healthiest people who are not dependent on drugs, the liver has been filtering blood day and night throughout life without being cleansed over the years. Circulating blood has deteriorated in quality which goes unnoticed. Without a clean efficient liver, the blood is not filtered clean. “Dirty” blood, loaded with toxins or waste products is heavier and slower and the end result is often a feeling of sluggishness and heaviness due to poor circulation and reduced capacity to carry oxygen and nutrients. As a result, tissue and cells are undernourished. If this condition persists, the cells will deteriorate and inevitably age. The liver is also the most sensitive organ and its weakness is often connected to emotional sensitivity. Individuals who are emotional sensitive are more prone to weak liver even if they do not have a poor diet or are not taking medications regularly. A sluggish liver, congestion, and stagnation are all common liver ailments. The Liver is perhaps the most congested organ in the modern person. Yet conventional medicine does not understand them and has no test to detect them. In hepatitis or liver inflammation, liver enzyme levels in the blood are elevated because of the ruptured liver cells which contain high contents of liver enzymes. However, in sluggish liver, liver congestion and stagnation, liver cells are still intact and liver enzyme levels in blood are normal. Therefore normal clinical tests which rely on liver condition cannot detect liver congestion, stagnation or sluggishness. Think of these liver ailments as a precondition

for more serious problems. They occur before western medicine can detect any sign of liver malfunction. Weakening of the liver and eventual toxicity are usually slow processes. In many cases the only sign of liver weakness is poor digestion and low energy level. Nutritional deficiency is a common problem for individuals with liver disorders. Most nutrients pass through the body without being assimilated if the liver is weak. Most people pass this off as something that happens with age. As a result they do little or nothing about it until it’s too late. Fortunately, as I mentioned earlier, nature has endowed our liver with excellent regenerative powers and if we are able to understand the early signs of degeneration, we have an excellent chance of restoring it to optimal functioning with proper care. It’s been known for thousands of years in China that Liver problems are the root cause of many problems. When the liver is out of balance, the following symptoms can occur: Headaches (especially migraines), Backaches, Sciatica, Nervousness, Joint pains, Itchy nose, Sleepiness, Cough, Frequent Colds, Insomnia, Wheezing, Irritated Eyes, Dizziness, Sore throat, Immune Weakness, Mood Changes, Tight or Stiff Neck and Back Tension, Environmental sensitivity, Anxiety, Angina pectoris, Sinus congestion, Depression, Circulatory defects, Fever, Skin irritation and rashes, High blood fats, High Blood Pressure, Artherosclerosis, Runny Nose, Constipation, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Fatigue, Lack of Focus, Vascular Disease, Allergies, Chronic Indigestion, Acid Reflux, Heartburn, Muscular pain, Spasms, Cramps. May weaken Kidneys and contribute to Digestive problems (Spleen, Pancreas, Stomach), Emotional problems, Anger, Irritability, Frustration etc… Common Signs of Liver Congestion: Physical Signs Intermittent or migrating pain Muscle spasms and cramps, muscle tension, can’t relax Dizziness, vertigo Internal or external tremors or shaking, trembling Pulsating headache, especially in the temples or behind the eyes Ringing in the ears Dryness in the upper body (eyes, mouth, sinuses, skin) Difficulty sleeping, wakes between 1 and 3 AM, or cannot fall asleep until the wee hours Hypertension (high blood pressure) Menstrual disorders, PMS Chronic indigestion Belching or gas after meals, especially after oily or greasy foods

Emotional Signs Depression and manic-depression Feeling overwhelmed and overly sensitive; easily cries or angers Irritable, agitated, angry, emotionally volatile Nervousness, agitation, restlessness Inability to keep commitments Feeling of uneasiness, or "wound up" Unsettled; the “eternal traveler” Lack of motivation, stuck in a rut Lacks patience Poor judgment Difficulty making decisions Addictions and emotional attachments Loss of sense of adventure and seeking new experiences The liver ensures the smooth flow of Qi, when the liver functions smoothly; physical and emotional activity throughout the body runs smoothly. Although a very yin organ, it can be quite yang and reactive when it’s not happy and soothed. When the liver’s ability to spread Qi smoothly throughout the body is disrupted due to stress or lifestyle choices, the liver Qi can become hyperactive or stagnant, a very common problem, which frequently disrupts emotional flow, producing feelings of frustration or anger. Conversely, these same emotions can lead to a dysfunction in the liver, resulting in an endless loop of cause and effect. This imbalance will develop into aggression unleashed onto the other organ systems. Because of this, Liver imbalances are often associated with a variety of disease patterns. Liver Qi Stagnation: Liver Qi Stagnation is arguably the most common pattern of imbalances seen in western culture. Most common symptoms: Anger, irritability, and frustration Feel stuck emotionally Depression Anxiety, stressed easily Tenderness around ribs Tightness in chest Pain on the sides Hard to swallow, lump in throat Sighs often In women – PMS

Liver Blood Stagnation: It sometimes looks like Liver Qi stagnation, because if Liver Qi stagnates for too long, Qi will stop moving. Because Qi moves Blood, the Blood stops too. Then you have this syndrome of stagnation or stasis of Liver Blood. So one syndrome can lead to the other, and to treat it you must also, and nearly always first, treat Liver Qi Stagnation. Most common symptoms are similar to Qi Stagnation but worse: Pain location in abdomen, flanks, breasts, side of ribs, groin Type of pain is fixed, boring, stabbing or distending Often comes with the sensation of a lump in the throat Nose bleeds Vomiting blood In women who may not get ALL of these symptoms, of course: Dysmenorrhoea – painful before but particularly during periods (though it can occur at other times too) Irregular periods Scanty periods Hemorrhages or periods which drag on for ages Blood of menses is dark, purple and often clotted Breasts swell and are painful, especially during periods 'Masses' - becoming 'firm lumps' - can be palpated in the abdomen. These masses don’t move around: they are fixed in their location Mood is depressed, irritable, can be violent Liver Blood Deficiency: If any of the organs, Lungs, Heart, Spleen, Kidneys, are deficient in energy, so eventually will be your Liver Blood. If food chosen and eaten is deficient in nutritive quality, this will affect Liver Blood. The following are common signs of this kind of deficiency but you might have only a few of them, with more developing as your deficiency deteriorates: Dizziness, faintness Vision is poor or blurred Eyes are dry (actually this is really a Liver Yin deficiency symptom but it often occurs with Liver Blood deficiency), often with floaters. Floaters are little black specs that you can see against light surfaces. Spasms and cramps of tendons or muscles: lack of flexibility Sometimes you hands may have a tremor Insomnia or poor sleep or dreaming that prevents good sleep Numbness of limbs (arms fall asleep if you keep them still for too long, or during sleep)

Muscle weakness, twitching or trembling Pain between your ribs Ringing in the ears (occurs if Liver Yang excess symptoms occur with Liver Yin deficiency), known as tinnitus. Headache at the vertex - the topmost point of your head. (However, a deficiency of Liver Blood can lead to an excess of Liver Yang, which produces other kinds of headache including migraines, for instance.) Nails are pale, brittle and withered: they split easily or grow malformed. (Theoretically this occurs on your big toenail first.) Skin may be dry and crack or itch In women, menses are scanty and light-colored, with a long cycle. Or you may have no periods at all. Anxiety, lack of confidence, poor short-term memory. Can occur with a lack of assertiveness, then a tendency to sudden outbursts that you can't maintain. Liver Fire: Like Liver Qi stagnation, Liver Fire is common. Symptoms include: Dizziness Distending sensation in the head Headache on the temple Ringing in the ears or sudden deafness Red swollen or painful eyes Bitter or dry taste Red, flushed face Fits of anger Very anxious and cross Insomnia Vivid dreams Dark or scanty urine and constipation Liver Yin Deficiency: Yin substances such as Blood help to keep the Liver cool and soothed. When Yin substances are depleted in the Liver energetic by stress, anger, or Kidney Yin deficiency, the Liver will begin to heat up. In addition to the above symptoms and common Yin deficient symptoms such as afternoon and evening sweats or fever, these symptoms often point to Liver Yin deficiency: Dry eyes Blurred or Impaired Vision Night Blindness

Dry Skin Liver Yang Rising: If not properly addressed, Liver Qi Stagnation, Yin Deficiency and Blood Deficiency: Sudden angry outbursts Red flushed face Red eyes with irritation Insomnia with troubling dreams Throbbing or splitting headaches High Blood Pressure Liver Wind: When heat rises over a fire it will produce a spinning vortex, or wind: In the body, when Liver Heat rises it also produces a Pathogenic Wind. Wind can be erratic, can come or go quickly, and moves from place to place. Tremors or pain that migrates from place to place in the body are all contributed to Internal Wind including osteoarthritis which migrates to different points. Here are some patterns associated with internal wind: Parkinson’s Disease Dizziness Stroke Vertigo Liver Imbalance Syndromes: If the previously mentioned imbalances are not properly addressed, the Liver will begin dominating and attacking other, weaker organ systems as follows: Liver Overacting on Stomach/Spleen: Acid reflux Abdominal distension Vomiting Stomachache Diarrhea Undigested food in stool

Liver Overacting on Heart: Insomnia Palpitations Heart Disease The Liver can also overact on the Large Intestine causing Irritable Bowel Syndrome, the Bladder causing Urinary Tract Infections and pain or the Lungs contributing to breathing complications, asthma and coughing. Stress and Liver Stagnation: In TCM, emotions play a pivotal role in health and wellness. Obviously the body cannot be dissected from the mind and modern medicine has recently been finding endless connections between the emotional state of a person and their health. As part of Chinese medical theory, because the Liver belongs to the Wood Element of the Law of 5 Elements, a common emotional manifestation of Wood Element Imbalances is the ability to deal with life stressors effectively. It’s as if we are constrained from bending and swaying as a tree would when face with life’s storms. Liver Imbalances and Menstrual Disorders: Because the Liver stores and controls the Blood, this function is intimately associated with the menstrual cycle. The Liver maintains an adequate blood supply and regulates the timing and comfort of menstruation. Any dysfunctions in the menstrual cycle are almost always treated through the regulation of liver blood, qi, or yin. Additionally, Liver Qi Stagnation often leads to Uterine Qi and Blood Stagnation as the Liver regulates the Qi of the whole body. Furthermore, the Liver is also the most important organ to regulate hormones and both the Liver and Kidney energetic systems are most commonly associated with sexual hormone imbalances. Therefore, Liver Imbalances and Liver Qi Stagnation are key culprits when addressing PMS, peri-menopausal issues, PCOS, and infertility for women. Eyes and Liver Imbalances: In TCM, the Liver governs the eyes. Liver imbalances are almost always associated as a root cause of all eye diseases including glaucoma, dry eye syndrome and vision problems. When the Liver blood is so deficient that it cannot nourish the eyes, night blindness or blurring may occur. Even the emotional inability to envision a future so to plan for it is attributed to the wood element. Encompassing beliefs of both Western medicine and Chinese medicine, the eyes are a sort of window into the liver’s well-being. If you notice any of these four signs – jaundiced sclera (the white part of the eye), yellow eyelid bumps, dry eyes or a line between the eyebrows – it can function as motivation to be evaluated by a knowledgeable

healthcare practitioner. Armed with this knowledge, you can take an active role in preventing and/or addressing any possible liver ailments. Arthritis, Joint Pain and Liver Imbalances: The Liver ensures that joints and tendons are well lubricated with Blood and that Qi and Blood circulate freely to the joints, thus keeping them healthy and flexible. Joint pain and immobility almost always point to an underlying Liver imbalance. The Liver is also considered a storage area for blood when blood is not being used for physical activity. These periods of rest contribute to the body’s restorative processes. During exercise, the blood is released to nourish the tendons and muscles. In a diseased condition, the Liver’s Blood storage and regulatory functions are affected and bleeding or clots can result. When Liver Blood is deficient, nourishment to tendons and blood vessels is curtailed, the joints become stiff, and muscles become numb. If Liver Qi is stagnant, muscles can go into spasms. Such muscle spasms often occur when a person drinks strong coffee. Coffee, even the decaffeinated variety is one of the most disruptive substances in relation to the smooth flow of liver Qi. Many people experience tightness in the shoulder and neck muscles after ingesting coffee. In fact, it can be extremely difficult to resolve liver imbalances in people who drink coffee regularly. Prostate, Sexual Function and Liver Qi Stagnation: The Liver acupuncture channel transverses the testicles. This channel is part of the Liver energetic system and the free flow of Qi through the channel is dependent on Liver health. Stagnation of Qi of the Liver channel can lead to Qi and Blood Stagnation of the Prostate and male sexual organs. Heart and Liver Imbalances: The structural position of the Liver as a bridge between the returning blood from the digestive system and the lower part of the body to the Heart makes the Liver an important organ for the health of the Heart. A weakened and swollen or congested Liver can obstruct the venous blood flow to the Heart causing Heart Palpitations or even Heart Attacks. In other words, a healthy Liver is essential for maintaining an adequate amount of blood flow to the Heart and the Heart can only pump the blood it receives. Memory Loss, Alzheimer’s Disease and Liver Imbalances: The brain is only 2% of our body weight, yet it needs 20% of our oxygen supply. If the toxin loaded blood from a weak liver has limited capacity to carry oxygen, the brain cells are affected most. As per an article on Alzheimer’s Disease in the January 1988 issue of the Mayo Clinic Health Letter, malfunction of the Liver and Kidneys was mentioned as one of the causes leading to Alzheimer’s.

Constant Fatigue and Liver Imbalances: When Blood is loaded with toxins due to a weak and inefficient Liver, there is limited capacity for the Blood to carry oxygen and nutrients which are necessary for energy production. The result is constant fatigue. A clean and efficient Liver which produces cleaner Blood would help energy production because clean blood can carry oxygen and nutrients. Blood deficiency in the Liver may even lead to stroke, dizziness, headaches, tinnitus, deafness, fainting or convulsions. If the Liver’s vitality is repressed, hiccups or hernia may develop. The bowels may become constipated and sleep may be disturbed causing nightmare or insomnia. Congested Liver also influences iron and vitamin B12 absorption adversely. When the Liver is consistently stagnant, sediment often settles out of the bile and forms accumulations that resemble stones or sand in the gallbladder. The gallbladder, a reservoir of bile, becomes less efficient when clogged with sediment and acute problems results when stones become lodges in the bile duct leading from the gallbladder to the duodenum (the first section of the small intestine).

Ayurveda and the Liver Ayurveda views the Liver as hot or pittic because of the fiery dynamic energy of Pitta – one of three doshas (along with Vata and Kapha) that regulate the physiological functions of the body – guides and supports these myriad of functions of the Liver. Too much fiery energy however can accumulate in the Liver and lead to physical problems. Ayurveda describes symptoms caused by excess pitta that are very similar to what is called Liver Fire in TCM: headaches, flushed face, red, burning eyes, acne, nose bleeds, outbursts of anger, inflammation, allergies, and symptoms of indigestion like heartburn. Both TCM and Ayurveda attribute Liver Congestion to heat trapped in the Liver and they seek to clear the liver through lifestyle changes, such as getting regular exercise and making time to relax, nutrition, like eating cooling foods, and herbal treatments to bring Pitta back into functional balance.

Liver Cleansing, Tonification and Treatment

As was mentioned earlier, Western Medicine does not diagnose Liver congestion or stagnation. Rather, they can only diagnose a Liver imbalance once it has gone too far and has become one of the Liver diseases listed above. Once you have reached these stages of liver disease, your treatment options may be very limited. That is why it is very important to be aware of any imbalances in your Liver early on so that you may help it restore and heal itself through natural methods, and as always if possible, preventative care is the best method. Keep in mind, each person is individual in respect to their particular physical condition and emotional states and may need a comprehensive understanding as to treatment protocols and plans therefore they should consult their physician or holistic practitioner in regards to their situation for more details. Here are some helpful holistic tips to a happy, healthy liver: Spring is the ideal time for cleansing and rejuvenation for overall health and well-being and is represented by the Wood Element which is the Liver and its complementary organ, the Gallbladder. It is the time of active energy and the season when the energy of the Liver is very strong and the Liver is vital in detoxifying the body. It is prime time for strengthening the Liver energy. Usually the primary targets for springtime cleansing and health regimens are the Liver and Gallbladder but that doesn’t mean you can’t support the health of these two organs throughout the year, especially if you detect a liver imbalance. While no person ever presents the same way as anyone else, there are some things you can do to make your liver and gallbladder happy each day from a TCM perspective. Since Spring is the time to flush out the toxins so that the Liver can do its job more effectively and we use the term “Spring Cleaning” let’s start there with cleansing our Liver. Cleanse and Detoxification: (Option 1) Four Day Liver Cleanse It is preferable to do this in the springtime, but it can be done any time of the year. Shopping List of Things You Will Need: French Green Clay (available at most whole food stores) A variety of fresh green vegetables (see suggestions below) Fresh ginger root and/or garlic for seasoning Variety of fresh fruits and fruit juices (see suggestions below) Extra virgin olive oil Fresh lemons

Steel-cut oats from bulk section of whole foods store Herbal Tea: rosemary, dandelion, chamomile or thyme Honey (if desired) for sweetening tea Preparation 1. Read through all the instructions below, so you know what you are going to be doing 2. Choose a time for your cleanse that will insure success. Do not try to do a cleanse during a time you know that you will be attending a party or other event that will feature foods that might tempt you to sabotage your cleanse. 3. Make an appointment to have a good massage or shiatsu session on day 3 or 4. 4. If you have a friend or family member who would like to do this with you, it will increase your success and make the whole process more fun. You can prepare your food together, eat together, and compare notes about how you feel as this process unfolds. 5. Shop for the necessary foods, teas, and clay the day before you plan to start your cleanse. 6. You may prepare a "green soup" with your chosen veggies the evening before, so you will be ready. If you plan to have your veggies as salad, you can make a large bowl of your greens and veggies the day before. 7. The night before you start, mix 1 tsp. Of French Green Clay into 2/3 cup of warm water. Then let it sit undisturbed overnight. Green Clay is available in most health food stores. 8. If you take prescription medications, continue to take them as directed by your physician. Day 1 – Day 3 Instructions

Upon Rising, drink the water from the clay that settled overnight (not the clay, just the water. It contains minerals from the clay which are beneficial for the liver) Eat lightly of green vegetables which can be steamed, raw salads, or made into a soup. The best ones are cabbage, broccoli, leeks, spinach or other greens, leaf lettuce such as Romaine or red leaf lettuce (no iceberg lettuce), celery, green onions, carrots, green lentils, or green split peas. Only use garlic and/or ginger for seasoning. No Salt, No animal sources of food for these 4 days). Only fresh vegetables, no canned or frozen ones. Fresh fruit and fresh fruit juices (not frozen or bottled). The most excellent ones are grapefruit, tangerine, lemon, lime, apple, and light berries such as strawberries. No bananas. For raw salad, use only dressing made of extra virgin olive oil and fresh lemon juice. If you would like a snack, have an apple, carrot sticks, or some celery sticks! Drink as much water as you like.

You may also have soft-cooked oats (choose good quality steel-cut or rolled oats from the health food store bulk section, not processed, packaged, or steamed oats such as Quaker). During these four days, please avoid all animal sources of food such as meat, eggs, cheese, dairy. No sweeteners except honey, no bottled dressings or condiments. After each meal please have a cup of hot tea of one of the following four varieties: Rosemary, dandelion, thyme, or chamomile. You may use a teaspoon of honey in the tea. In the afternoon, do 15-20 minutes of vigorous exercise (walking quickly, biking, "Sweaty" yoga, etc), and then drink a cup of hot water into which you have squeezed the juice of one-third to one-half a fresh lemon. Day 4 Instructions Exactly like days 1 – 3 except: No food after 4 PM. Just before bed time, mix 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil with 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice in a bottle with a lid. Shake vigorously to mix, then drink. Go to bed, lie on your right side for a minimum of 30 minutes, and go to sleep. Exciting things that can happen while you are doing this cleanse: Many people experience emotional outbursts of anger or depression. Please know that this is part of the clearing and cleansing process. I recommend that you do this cleanse at a time when you can have a lot of time to yourself unless you are doing it with others. Do not prepare food for other people during this time (unless they are on the cleanse also), nor shop, plan, or clean up after them. Stay focused on your own healing. You may have changes in your elimination patterns. This is a good sign that cleansing is occurring. You may have other signs correlated with detoxing, such as headache, muscle or joint aches, fatigue, changes in body odors etc. These things typically are transient and pass in a short time as the body eliminates toxins. It may be helpful to keep a journal of your thoughts and feelings during this time. It is common for people to have flashes of insight while on a cleanse, and you want to record those for later reflection. You may also experience negative emotions, which a week later, you won’t be able to remember what you were angry or depressed about, unless you write it down. You can use your journal for further work after the cleanse, as often memories, dreams, and other mental-emotional responses will come to the surface. After the cleanse, gradually return to a normal way of eating, adopting healthful nutritional practices. After a cleanse it is easier for most people to make a break from harmful substances such as caffeine, nicotine, sugar, etc.

This process can be repeated for deeper cleansing. This could be done up to twice per month. You may do parts of it ongoing, such as the hot lemon water or cleansing teas. Disclaimer:

This information is not intended as medical advice or treatment but as holistic health information that has been beneficial to many people. Each person is fully responsible for his/her decisions about health interventions and practices. If you feel you need the assistance of a health care professional, consult with that professional in matters concerning your health. (Sunny Cooper, M.S. M.Ed.) (Option 2) Liver and Gallbladder Flush Ingredients: 2 Cup Olive Oil Extra Virgin (The original recipe calls for olive oil, but many people have difficulty swallowing the olive oil without getting nauseous. The important thing is to use an oil to stimulate the gallbladder to contract, so you can use another oil. Try using unrefined coconut oil if you have difficulty swallowing the olive oil.) 3 lemons or 2 small pink grapefruits 4 tablespoons Epsom salts (People who can't tolerate Epsom salt should not do this particular cleanse.) 3 cups water (or 3 cups of organic apple juice instead) Purpose of Ingredients Apple juice contains malic acid to dissolve the cohesion between gallstones. Epsom is used to relax bile ducts to let stones pass easily. Olive oil is used the make the gallbladder squeeze itself to push out gallstones. Lemon juice or grapefruit juice is used to cut the taste of the olive and to make it easier to swallow. The folllowing is taken from "The Cure for All Advanced Cancers", p. 562: Choose a day like Saturday for the cleanse, since you will be able to rest the next day. Take no medicines, vitamins or pills that you can do without; they could prevent success. Stop the parasite program and kidney herbs, too, the day before. Eat a no-fat breakfast and lunch such as cooked cereal, fruit, fruit juice, bread and preserves or honey (no butter or milk). This allows the bile to build up and develop pressure in the liver. Higher pressure pushes out more stones.

2:00 PM. Do not eat or drink after 2 o'clock. If you break this rule you could feel quite ill later. Get your Epsom salts ready. Mix 4 tbs. in 3 cups water (or organic apple juice) and pour this into a jar. This makes four servings, 3/4 cup each. 6:00 PM. Drink one serving 3/4 cup of the Epsom salts. If you did not prepare this ahead of time, mix 1 tbs. in 3/4 cup water now (or apple juice). You may add 1/8 tsp. vitamin C powder to improve the taste. You may also drink a few mouthfuls of water afterwards or rinse your mouth. 8:00 PM. Repeat by drinking another 3/4 cup of Epsom salts. You haven't eaten since two o'clock, but you won't feel hungry. Get your bedtime chores done. The timing is critical for success. 9:45 PM. Pour 1/2 cup (measured) olive oil into the pint jar. Wash grapefruit or lemons twice in hot water and dry; squeeze by hand into the measuring cup. Remove pulp with fork. You should have at least 1/2 cup, more (up to 3/4 cup) is best. Add this to the olive oil. Close the jar tightly with the lid and shake hard until watery (only fresh grapefruit juice does this). Now visit the bathroom one or more time, even if it makes you late for your ten o’clock drink. Don’t be more than 15 minutes late. You will get fewer stones. 10:00 PM. Drink the potion you have mixed. Drinking through a large plastic straw helps it go down easier. You may use oil and vinegar salad dressing, or straight honey to chase it down between sips. Have these ready in a tablespoon on the kitchen counter. Take it all to your bedside if you want, but drink it standing up. Get it down within 5 minutes (fifteen minutes for very elderly or weak persons). Lie down immediately. You might fail to get stones out if you don't. The sooner you lie down the more stones you will get out. Be ready for bed ahead of time. Don't clean up the kitchen. As soon as the drink is down walk to your bed and lie down flat on your back with your head up high on the pillow. Try to think about what is happening in the liver. Try to keep perfectly still for at least 20 minutes. You may feel a train of stones traveling along the bile ducts like marbles. There is no pain because the bile duct valves are open (thank you Epsom salts!). Go to sleep, you may fail to get stones out if you don’t. Next morning. Upon awakening take your third dose of Epsom salts. If you have indigestion or nausea wait until it is gone before drinking the Epsom salts. You may go back to bed. Don't take this potion before 6:00 am. 2 Hours Later. Take your fourth (the last) dose of Epsom salts. You may go back to bed again. After 2 More Hours you may eat. Start with fruit juice. Half an hour later eat fruit. One hour later you may eat regular food but keep it light. By supper you should feel recovered. (Aiqyl Aniys & Dr.HuldaClark.net)

Dietary Therapy: As Hippocrates stated, “Let food be your medicine.” For a healthy Liver it is best to eat according to Season. The best mix of foods to eat in the Spring would be the pungent flavors such as: basil, marjoram, rosemary, caraway, dill, fennel, garlic, green onions or scallions, and leeks. Combine these with sweet flavors such as honey, complex grains, legumes or seeds, carrots, beets or other naturally starchy vegetables. In Spring, food is best cooked for a short amount of time in a high heat (stir fry or sauté). If cooking with water, light steaming or minimal simmering are beneficial. If you have a strong digestive system you may also eat raw vegetables and juices which are very cooling. If you have a weak Spleen and digestive issues stick to lightly cooked vegetables. Don’t overeat. Try to eat slowly, savoring the flavors. Enjoy the abundance of fresh foods that are beginning to come to market. Eating seasonally, organically and locally grown foods are always beneficial and in spring time you should eat more green vegetables, leafy vegetables, dandelion greens, mung beans, spinach, nettles, kale, Brussel sprouts, leeks, asparagus, sprouts and beans and the like. Don’t forget to stay hydrated with room temperature water or some lemon in hot water.

Also, avoid, eliminate or greatly limit foods that stress the Liver, such as fried or very fatty foods, sugar and white flour, foods with chemical preservatives and food coloring. Try to stay away from all pharmaceutical drugs, prescription and over the counter (especially acetaminophen). Minimize beef and dairy. Salt causes the energy to sink in springtime, so limit salty foods such as miso and soy sauce. Alcohol and caffeine intake should be reduced if not avoided all together.

Dietary therapy is considered to be a powerful tool for correcting organ imbalances and is often used in conjunction with the other branches of TCM. The following are examples of how we use dietary therapy for certain imbalances:

• Tonify liver blood – spirulina, chlorophyll- rich foods, dark grapes, blackberries, huckleberries, blackstrap molasses, gelatin, artichoke, beets, dandelion leaf, kelp, avocado, dates, black sesame seed, oysters, chicken soup, eggs, beef and organic animal liver. • Cool liver heat – mung beans, mung sprouts, celery, seaweed, lettuce, cucumber, watercress, tofu, millet, plums, mushrooms, rhubarb, radish and daikon radish. Of particular note, chrysanthemum flower tea is known to clear liver heat and benefit the eyes, especially in cases of red, painful, dry, blurry eyes or excessive tearing. • Extinguish or reduce liver wind – celery, basil, sage, fennel, ginger, anise, oats, black soybean, black sesame seed, pine nuts, coconut, fresh cold-pressed flax oil, lemon and chamomile. Of particular note, these foods are known to worsen liver wind: eggs, crab meat and buckwheat.

Here are some general examples of food for the Liver:

Garlic

Just a small amount of this pungent white bulb has the ability to activate liver enzymes that help your body flush out toxins. Garlic also holds high amounts of allicin and selenium, two natural compounds that aid in liver cleansing.

Grapefruit

High in both vitamin C and antioxidants, grapefruit increases the natural cleansing processes of the liver. A small glass of freshly-squeezed grapefruit juice will help boost production of the liver detoxification enzymes that help flush out carcinogens and other toxins.

Beets, Turnips and Carrots

Both are extremely high in plant-flavonoids and beta-carotene; eating beets, turnips and carrots can help stimulate and improve overall liver function.

Leafy Green Vegetables

Green is the color of the Liver and green vegetables are one of our most powerful allies in cleansing the liver, leafy greens can be eaten raw, cooked, or juiced. Extremely high in plant chlorophylls, greens suck up environmental toxins from the blood stream. With their distinct ability to neutralize heavy metals, chemicals and pesticides, these cleansing foods offer a powerful protective mechanism for the liver. Try incorporating leafy greens such as bitter gourd, chard, arugula, asparagus, peas and pea greens, lettuce, artichoke, dandelion greens, spinach, mustard greens, chicory, sprouts, wheatgrass, or other cereal grasses into your diet. This will help increase the creation and flow of bile, the substance that removes waste from the organs and blood and aid in the movement of Qi.

Avocados

This nutrient-dense super-food helps the body produce glutathione, a compound that is necessary for the liver to cleanse harmful toxins.

Apples & Small amounts of other fruit

High in pectin, apples hold the chemical constituents necessary for the body to cleanse and release toxins from the digestive tract. This, in turn, makes it easier for the liver to handle the toxic load during the cleansing process. In Season fruits such as cherries, kiwi, strawberry, navel oranges are also good for the liver.

Olive Oil

Cold-pressed organic oils such as olive, hemp and flax-seed are great for the liver, when used in moderation. They help the body by providing a lipid base that can suck up

harmful toxins in the body. In this way, it takes some of the burden off the liver in terms of the toxic overload many of us suffer from.

Alternative Grains

It’s not only that you need alternative grains like quinoa, millet, and buckwheat in your diet, it’s that if you’ve got wheat, flour, or other whole grains in your diet, it’s time to make changes. Your liver is your body’s filter for toxins, and grains that contain gluten are full of them. A study last year found that persons who experienced gluten sensitivities also had abnormal liver enzyme test results, and that’s just one of many.

Cruciferous Vegetables

Eating broccoli and cauliflower will increase the amount of glucosinolate in your system, adding to enzyme production in the liver. These natural enzymes help flush out carcinogens, and other toxins, out of our body which may significantly lower risks associated with cancer.

Lemons & Limes

The Sour taste belongs to the wood element. Foods and drinks with sour tastes are thought to stimulate the liver's Qi. These citrus fruits contain very high amounts of vitamin C, which aids the body in synthesizing toxic materials into substances that can be absorbed by water. Drinking freshly-squeezed lemon or lime juice in hot water in the morning helps stimulate and flush out the liver.

Walnuts

Holding high amounts of the amino acid arginine, walnuts aid the liver in detoxifying ammonia. Walnuts are also high in glutathione and omega-3 fatty acids, which support normal liver cleansing actions. Make sure you chew the nuts well (until they are liquefied) before swallowing.

Cabbage

Much like broccoli and cauliflower, eating cabbage helps stimulate the activation of two crucial liver detoxifying enzymes that help flush out toxins. Try eating more kimchi, coleslaw, cabbage soup and sauerkraut.

Turmeric

This is the Liver’s favorite spice. Try adding some of this detoxifying goodness into your next lentil stew or veggie dish for an instant Liver pick-me-up. Turmeric helps boost liver detox, by assisting enzymes that actively flush out dietary carcinogens.

Recipes for Liver: Sautéed Dandelion Greens (A staple dish in every Greek kitchen and recipe from my family) Yields: 8 servings Ingredients: 3 to 4 bunches dandelion greens, rinsed, tough lower stems discarded, cut in half 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil 5 large garlic cloves chopped 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon dried hot red-pepper flakes (optional) 1/2 teaspoon fine Celtic sea salt 2 to 3 large lemons Directions: Cook greens in a 10-to 12-quart pot of boiling salted water uncovered, until ribs are tender, about 10 minutes. Drain in colander over a bowl, gently press out excess water. (Reserve water to be drank as a “tea”) Heat oil in a 12-inch heavy skillet over medium heat, then cook garlic and red-pepper flakes, stirring, until pale golden, about 45 seconds. Increase heat to medium-high, then add greens and sea salt and sauté until coated with oil and heated through, about 4 minutes. Serve with fresh squeezed lemon juice. Mung Bean and Kale Soup Recipe Recipe by Najwa from Delicious Shots Yields: 8 Servings Ingredients: 3 tbsp olive oil 1/4 cup chopped onions 3 garlic cloves, minced 1 cup mung beans, optional dry split peas 7 cups of water 2 cups kale, chopped 1 tsp ground turmeric 1 tsp ground cumin

1 tbsp coriander, toasted and grind Sea salt and pepper Directions: In a large pot, heat the olive oil and add the onions. Cook for 3 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute. Add the mung beans, spices, salt and pepper, stir well to combine. Add water, cover and cook until the beans are tender, approximately 35 to 40 minutes. Check the beans after 20 minutes to make sure they have enough water. When the beans are ready, taste and adjust salt and liquid if needed. Add the kale and cook for 5 minutes more. Serve with sourdough bread. Vegetarian Stir-Fried Millet Recipe adapted from Super Natural Cooking by Heidi Swanson Yields: 2 servings Ingredients: 1 cup millet, rinsed 3 cups water Sea Salt, to taste 1 tablespoon or more of organic extra virgin olive oil or unrefined coconut oil ,divided 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil, divided 2 eggs, beaten ½ inch fresh ginger, skin removed and finely chopped or grated through a Microplane 2 cloves garlic, minced 3 carrots, sliced into ribbons with a vegetable peeler Handful of asparagus, tough ends snapped off and sliced into 2-inch pieces 1 cup chopped lotus root ½ cup chopped scallions 1 tablespoon tamari or shoyu Directions:

Cook the millet: Bring 3 cups of salted water to a boil in a large saucepan. Add the millet, lower to a simmer and cook, covered, for 20 to 25 minutes. Fluff with a fork, season with salt to taste and let it rest, covered, for 5 minutes. (You can do this ahead of time and refrigerate the leftover millet until you're ready to heat up the skillet).

Arrange all of your prepared ingredients within easy reach the stove. Over medium-high heat, heat half of the olive, coconut oil and half of the sesame oil in a wok or large skillet. Once it is hot, pour in the eggs and swirl the pan to create a thin layer of egg. Let it set up

(about 45 seconds), then fold the eggs over on themselves and cook for about another 30 seconds and transfer to a plate or cutting board. Let it cool a little and then slice it into strips.

Wipe off any remaining egg from the pan and return it to medium-high heat. Add the remaining oil and let it heat up enough so that a drop of water sizzles on contact. Stir in the ginger and garlic and shoyu/tamari and cook for about 15 seconds. Stir in the carrots, asparagus, lotus root and scallions for another 30 seconds, stirring constantly. Stir in the millet and for 30 seconds, then add the egg and cook for another 30 seconds. Divide into two bowls and top with some fresh cilantro leaves, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes and a little dash of shoyu, sesame oil or tamari, if necessary.

Alkalizing broth Dr. Isaac Eliaz Simmer the following vegetables for 45 minutes. Strain and drink the broth throughout the day. The broth can be kept refrigerated for up to 3 days: Celery, green beans, zucchini, parsley, spinach. You can also puree the vegetables after cooking and eat as a soup. Mineral broth Dr. Isaac Eliaz Prepare the above alkalizing broth with the addition of any of the following: beets, kale, mustard or dandelion greens, seaweed, flax seed, astragalus, burdock root, turmeric root, garlic, onion.

Teas for Liver: Some teas that may help your liver health: Milk Thistle Dandelion Root Turmeric (ground) Green Tea Licorice Root Fenugreek Yellow Dock Root Burdock Root Oregon Grape Root Schisandra Chrysanthemum

Astragalus root Ginger root Nettle Cleavers Mint Horsetail Oat straw Fennel Cardamom Rooibos Red clover blossom Any infusion of the following, in any combination, can also be very helpful: Hibiscus Dried berries – currants, raspberry, edlerberry, any small sour berry would be fine Lemon grass Citrus peel Rose petal Herbs for Liver: (Please speak with a TCM practitioner or get more detailed information before attempting to use any herbs on your own) TCM Herbal Formulas That May Be Useful For Liver Blood Stagnation: Shu Gan Wan Si Wu Tang Wan Xue Fu Zhu Yu Wan TCM Herbal Formulas That May Be Useful For Liver Qi Stagnation: Ban Xia Bai Zhu Tian Ma Wan Ban Xia Hou Po Wan Chai Hu Jia Long Gu Mu Li Wan Chai Hu Shu Gan Wan Da Bu Gan Wan Die Da Wan Gan Bing Zhi Ben Wan Gan Mai Da Zao Wan Jia Wei Xiao Yao Wan Pian Tou Tong Wan Ren Shen Shou Wu Wan Shu Gan Wan

Si Ni San Wan Xiao Chai Hu Tang Wan Xiao Yao Wan Xue Fu Zhu Yu Wan Yi Guan Jian Wan TCM Herbal Formulas That May Be Useful For Liver Fire: Chai Hu Jia Long Gu Mu Li Wan Long Dan Xie Gan Wan Pian Tou Tong Wan TCM Herbal Formulas That May Be Useful For Liver Yin Deficiency: An Shen Bu Xin Wan Da Bu Yin Wan Er Long Zuo Ci Wan Gan Mai Da Zao Wan Liu Wei Di Huang Wan Ming Mu Di Huang Wan Qi Ju Di Huang Wan Qing Hao Bie Jia Wan Shao Yao Gan Cao Wan Shou Wu Wan Yi Guan Jian Wan TCM Herbal Formulas That May Be Useful For Liver Blood Deficiency: An Shen Bu Xin Wan Ba Zhen Wan Du Huo Ji Sheng Wan Jiao Ai Wan Ming Mu Di Huang Wan Ren Shen Shou Wu Wan Shao Yao Gan Cao Wan Shou Wu Wan Si Wu Tang Wan Suan Zao Ren Tang Pian Wu Ji Bai Feng Wan Xiao Yao Wan TCM Herbal Formulas That May Be Useful For Liver Yang Rising:

An Shen Bu Xin Wan Chai Hu Jia Long Gu Mu Li Wan Pian Tou Tong Wan Tian Ma Gou Teng Wan

TCM Herbal Formulas That May Be Useful For Liver Wind: Hui Chun Wan Tian Ma Gou Teng Wan Be Active: Physical activity is so important in springtime and throughout the year for revitalizing the Liver energy. Take a walk, dance, do qigong active exercises, morning stretches, yoga or tai chi. Do things that get your body moving. Start slowly and don’t overdo but being active is so beneficial to the flow of Qi. Get Outdoors: Fresh air, like exercise, really helps get your energy flowing so get outdoors as often as you can – weather permitting. Take your walk outdoors, garden, ride a bike, go hiking, even just sitting in the sun in your backyard or a local part and taking in all the green energy around is so beneficial.

Emotions:

The emotion associated with the element of Wood is anger. In its balanced state, anger can be a healthy emotion, for it can be understood as a natural reaction to stress, frustration, or injustice. When expressed with careful control, anger acts like a thunderstorm that clears the air; controlled anger can dispel tension and restore balance. An imbalance in Wood, however, often has the quality of out-of-control anger, and results either in excess or depletion. An excess, or pent-up quality of Wood, expresses itself as “quick to anger,” prone to volatile outbursts, irritability, and the tendency to judge others too quickly or harshly. The converse, deficient Wood, often expresses itself as difficulty dealing with anger at all. Swallowing your anger, you become anxious, irritable, and tend to blame yourself when things go wrong.

Take control of your emotions and desires. Do not let anger or resentment build up inside. Take a moment to let it out – scream, shout, punch a pillow. Let go of all

resentments and start fresh. Grudges and resentments are indigestible and can do damage to Liver energy. Practice forgiveness. Key thoughts for the Liver: Forgive and you will be forgiven: Every time something makes you angry, chances are it is something you have yourself done at some point in your life. Feel for others: Put yourself in other people's shoes so that you can be compassionate and tolerant. Accept what life brings you: Most of the time there is no point fighting against your circumstances. You will end up frustrated and exhausted and will most likely remain stuck in one spot until you decide to let go. See Green: Green is the color associated with the liver so take time each day to look at green things, green grass, new leaves on the trees, new growth on shrubs and bushes. The energy from the green color of these things is very beneficial and can really help to strengthen your liver energy just by looking at them. If you work near your computer so that you can look at it once in awhile.

Better yet get two plants and put one in place for a week or two while the second plant is in a good place for getting the sun. Then exchange places for the plants every week or two. Also, the plant can absorb the energy from the computer. So the plant helps protect you, which is important anytime, especially in the spring because that is liver time – and your liver needs the energy.

Meditation and Deep Breathing: Meditation and deep breathing is very good for mental clarity, getting rid of stress and anger and helps the flow of Qi. It is also grounding, calming and soothing, therefore keeping the Liver happy and balanced. Acupuncture, Acupressure and Moxa: Liver imbalances are the most common syndromes seen at the Acupuncture clinic. Treating Acupuncture points on the Liver channel helps restore the flow of Liver Qi and resolve symptoms associated stagnation of Liver Qi. In addition, there are specific

combinations of points that can induce a relaxed state and encourage the body and mind to rest and restore, thus helping relieve symptoms associated with stress. Acupuncture and other branches of TCM can help improve the overall health of your liver and balance liver disharmony. You can help relieve some Liver congestion yourself with the acupuncture point (LV3). This point is commonly used for stress, lower back pain, high blood pressure, menstrual cramps, limb pain, insomnia and anxiety. Tai Chong (LV3) is located on your foot about two finger widths above the place where the skin of your big toe and the next toe join. To use acupressure on this point, (1) locate the point with your shoes off then (2) use deep, firm pressure to massage and stimulate the area for 4-5 seconds. Its additional indications as stated in the ancient Chinese text include digestive issues, eye problems, genital pain, headaches, canker sores, and irritability.

Additional alternative treatments for a Healthy Liver: Here’s a list of some other treatments that you can look into that can be incorporated into your regiment for good Liver Health: Reiki is a technique commonly called palm healing or hands-on-healing. Through the use of this technique, practitioners are transferring "universal energy" through their palms which encourages healing. Castor Oil helps the liver and small intestine purge of excess Pitta, or fiery element. There is usually a build up of excess Pitta in the Liver with stagnation. Everything you eat has to be processed by the Liver. Helping the Liver cleanse is a great favor you can do for yourself. Crystal Healing/Gemstone Treatment is an alternative medical technique in which crystals and other stones are used to cure ailments and protect against disease. Crystals act as conduits for healing, allowing positive, healing energy to flow into the body as negative, disease-causing energy flows out. 3 great stones for the Liver are: Aventurine, Dioptase, and Iolite. They can be worn, carried, placed on the Liver or used in Elixirs.

Dry Skin Brushing each day improves the health of the liver and kidneys because the body is no longer concentrating the entire detoxification process on those organs. Skin brushing also stimulates the nervous system and improves its function. No unusual equipment is needed for dry skin brushing–just a brush made with soft, natural hair. A long-handled brush may be helpful for reaching all areas of the skin, but it's not necessary. You should try to brush your skin on a daily basis. Always use brush strokes toward the heart. Brushing towards the heart facilitates detoxification, while brushing away from the heart can adversely affect circulation in the blood vessels and lymph system. You can experiment to find a method of brushing that is comfortable to you, but some general guidelines are to stroke from your hands up your arms several times, covering all areas of skin. Then stroke the brush from your feet to the top of your legs in the same way. Use several clockwise strokes on the stomach, both sides of the chest, and your arm pits. Then repeat these areas with counterclockwise motion. You can also brush in a circular motion on the palms of your hands and soles of your feet. Concentrate on areas which suffer from dryness or cellulite, but avoid areas of broken skin or rashes. Shiatsu is a form of therapeutic bodywork from Japan. It uses kneading, pressing, soothing, tapping, and stretching techniques and is performed without oils through light, comfortable clothing. "Shiatsu" translates as "finger pressure." Shiatsu is a non-invasive therapy that may help reduce stress and contribute to overall wellbeing. It has both preventative and remedial effects and helps balance the meridians.

Ginger compress on the liver, 15 minutes (Handful of chopped or sliced fresh ginger root in 2 quarts of boiling water, simmer for 15-20 minutes; Let tea cool just a bit, then

dip wash cloths or hand towels into the hot “tea” and apply to the liver area. Change towels as they cool off) Green clay poultice on the liver, 30 –45 minutes (Equal parts green clay + water, apply to liver area like doing a mud-pack facial, cover with a towel for warmth, and relax for 30-45 minutes. Wash off with warm water) Massage therapy can release stagnation in the liver and help soothe the flow of Qi. Essential Oils when massaged onto the skin with a carrier oil, can penetrate into the blood stream, flowing to the liver for decomposition. Essential oils have many different therapeutic qualities and the liver is able to organize the oil’s chemical constituents to assist the body, whether it is by supporting the hormones, strengthening digestion or cleansing toxins, to name a few.

Infrared Sauna penetrates up to 1-1/2 inches below your skin to detoxify and revitalize your cells. This produces a deep, detoxifying sweat that eliminates toxins at the cellular level. The liver, kidneys and other internal organs can become burdened with estrogen, chemicals, and toxic metals. Infrared saunas cause blood to move toward the body surface. This helps cleanse the internal organs.

Enemas, in particular, coffee enemas, have been used for years to detoxify the Liver.

Now that you have a better understanding of how powerful your Liver really is, and just how hard it works all day, everyday, use the information and knowledge made available to you to make the Liver’s job easier. This way it can remove stagnation and balance itself out and do what it does best….Keep your body and mind healthy!

SHOW THE LIVER LOVE, AND IT WILL RETURN THE FAVOR….

RESOURCES:

Academy of Healing Nutrition Workbook Recipes for Self-Healing, Daverick Leggett Super Natural Cooking by Heidi Swanson

www.google.com www.sacredlotus.com www.curezone.com

www.vitalitymagazine.com www.drverena.com www.webmd.com

www.tcmecc.org/foodtherapy.htm www.lifecircles-inc.com

www.drlam.com www.nytimes.com www.cosozo.com

www.motherearthnews.com www.chinesemedicinebristol.com

www.localharvest.com www.faim.com

www.bioray.com www.essentialoils.co.za www.yinyanghouse.com www.sensiblehealth.com www.deliciousshots.com

www.smart-publications.com www.naturalnews.com