Tinnitus and deafness, dizziness and vertigo, post stroke support, tremors and spasms, headaches and migraines, neuralgia, nerve paralysis

In Oriental medicine there is no precise system of organs and structures that can be identified as being identical with the nervous system as oriental medicine is more concerned with function than structure. The liver, however, is seen as having a similar function to the nervous system as it has a sphere of influence that encompasses many functions that extend beyond the organ itself. The Five-element theory (LINK at left of this page), that forms one of the foundations of oriental medicine, includes a system of correspondences that links many different and apparently unrelated qualities under each element, particularly linking mankind and nature. Within this framework the Liver and Gallbladder systems are ascribed to the element of Wood, which then also corresponds to the season of spring and climatic wind (the free flow of Qi is like the movement of the wind and the energy of the new growth of spring moving up and out), the colour green (the colour of springtime), the sour flavour (too much of the sour flavour can damage the wood energy), and the emotion of anger (a lack of free flowing energy may lead to frustration, depression or anger that can be turned inward or outward. Appropriately guiding this qi can give the body and mind a strategic sense of direction).

Oriental medicine understands the functions of the Liver energy as:

Maintaining the free flow of Qi - This ensures the smooth and harmonious flow of energy throughout the body and its organs. It is of vital importance to all aspects of our being as failure leads to tension and obstruction. That obstruction can create excess heat within the body or digestion problems. The flow of bile can be obstructed. The lack of free flow of energy can also lead to a sensation of tightness or oppression within chest, a lump in the throat, or breast distension.

Storing the blood - The liver regulates the amount of blood in circulation. When at rest the blood returns for storage to the liver, during exercise and menstruation it is released, this allows for a balance between nourishment and energy.

Controlling tendons - The liver controls the tendons, ligaments and muscular action to ensure the smooth movement of the joints. Joint stiffness is often the result of blood deficiency while tremors are due to a state referred to as internal wind, wind being the climatic condition related to the liver.

Manifesting in the nails - The liver blood nourishes the nails.

Opening into the eyes - Many eye problems are related to liver imbalances.