The causes of anxiety due to Liver and Gallbladder Qi deficiency
The relationship between Qi, Blood, and the Shen (Spirit)
Heart and Gallbladder Qi deficiency can lead to insufficient Qi and Blood, which are essential for nourishing the Shen. When Qi and Blood are deficient, the Shen is not nourished, making it easy to experience anxiety and restlessness. Prolonged emotional stagnation and excessive worry can lead to Heart and Spleen Blood deficiency, subsequently triggering anxiety.
Organ dysfunction
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) posits that the primary function of the liver is to ensure the smooth flow of Qi throughout the body, promote the transformation and transportation of the Spleen and Stomach, and regulate emotions. Liver and Gallbladder Qi deficiency can disrupt the liver’s ability to regulate Qi, leading to emotional disturbances and symptoms such as anxiety. Additionally, Heart and Gallbladder Qi deficiency can impair emotional regulation, affect sleep quality, and keep individuals in a state of chronic stress, increasing cortical excitability and exacerbating anxiety.
Symptoms of anxiety due to Liver and Gallbladder Qi deficiency
Emotional and mental symptoms
Anxiety and restlessness: Inner tension, possibly accompanied by muscle tension and autonomic nervous system disturbances.
Palpitations and fright: Symptoms of discomfort due to weakened heart function and poor Qi and Blood circulation.
Low mood: Such as feelings of depression and unhappiness.
Physical symptoms
Palpitations and shortness of breath: Patients may feel rapid heartbeat and shortness of breath, and in severe cases, may even experience a sensation of suffocation.
Pale complexion: Due to weak Qi and Blood, which fails to nourish the face, possibly accompanied by fatigue and dizziness.
Insomnia and vivid dreams: Often manifested as easy awakening or early waking, accompanied by chaotic dreams.
Others: Possible symptoms include chest tightness, shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, rib-side distension and pain, bitter mouth, poor appetite, and abdominal bloating.
Treatment methods for anxiety caused by Liver and Gallbladder Qi deficiency
Medication treatment
Consider taking the following TCM patent medicines, but due to the complexity of anxiety disorders, it is recommended to use them under the guidance of a qualified TCM practitioner and in conjunction with other treatment methods: Symptoms of low mood and depression caused by Heart and Gallbladder Qi deficiency | Soothe the liver and relieve depression, regulate Qi and alleviate pain | Maintain emotional stability during medication, avoid intense exercise and excessive fatigue |
Adjunctive therapies
Patients may undergo acupuncture and massage under the guidance of a physician to help alleviate anxiety symptoms, such as needling the Baihui (GV20), Neiguan (PC6), and Taichong (LR3) points.
Daily considerations
Lifestyle habits
Maintain good lifestyle habits, avoid excessive fatigue and mental stress, ensure adequate sleep, and rest between 11 PM and 3 AM to facilitate liver metabolism and repair. Additionally, it is advisable to adjust dietary habits, reduce caffeine intake, and avoid foods that can generate internal heat, such as spicy, fried, barbecued, and greasy foods. Foods that can help reduce liver heat, such as bitter melon, mung bean soup, green tea, cucumber, and tomatoes, are recommended. Also, pay attention to drink more water, limit soft drinks, reduce alcohol consumption, and avoid smoking, while ensuring good indoor ventilation.
Emotional regulation
Emotions have a significant impact on the liver; the liver prefers smoothness and dislikes stagnation. Negative emotions such as anger and frustration can lead to Qi and Blood stagnation in the liver. Therefore, it is essential to learn to control one’s emotions and maintain emotional stability, avoiding anger and frustration to prevent liver damage.
Moderate exercise
Engage in moderate exercise, avoiding overly intense activities, as exercise helps nourish the liver.
