Many people experience issues with liver qi stagnation. Initially, liver qi stagnation may only manifest as emotional disturbances, causing feelings of discomfort and a sense of blockage. Individuals often resort to sighing or losing their temper to relieve the stagnant qi within. This is due to insufficient liver qi flow, leading to stagnation and blockage in the chest, which over time can result in various physiological responses.

Liver Qi Stagnation Can Lead to Five Major Diseases

1. Poor Sleep

Restless nights and liver qi stagnation can lead to internal heat, which disturbs the spirit, making it difficult to fall asleep or even causing insomnia.

2. Stiffness in Limbs

When the liver fails to regulate and the qi stagnates, it can lead to abnormal blood circulation, known as qi stagnation and blood stasis. Abnormal blood flow prevents the yang energy from reaching the extremities, resulting in cold hands and feet. Severe stagnation can lead to numbness and stiffness in the limbs.

3. Dull Complexion and Irregular Menstruation

Liver qi stagnation is often more pronounced in women, manifesting as a dull complexion, irregular menstruation, dysmenorrhea, and acne.

4. Spleen and Stomach Issues

According to the Suwen (Plain Questions), “Earth (Spleen) benefits from Wood (Liver) to function properly.” In TCM, the spleen, which is associated with the earth element, requires the liver’s wood element to ensure smooth flow and transformation, preventing stagnation. If liver qi stagnates, it can hinder the spleen’s function, leading to loss of appetite and even severe stomach pain.

5. Nodules

The intangible “liver qi stagnation” can gradually develop into nodules. If it settles in the thyroid, it results in thyroid nodules; in the breast, it leads to breast nodules; and in the lungs, it causes lung nodules.

How to Regulate Liver Qi Stagnation?

1. Emotional Regulation

When the liver fails to regulate, qi stagnation can lead to emotional depression. Prolonged stagnation can cause irritability and a loss of the liver’s natural smoothness. Therefore, patients with liver qi stagnation should focus on regulating their emotions. Maintaining a balanced state can gradually alleviate liver qi stagnation, potentially eliminating the need for medication.

2. Lifestyle Regulation

Patients with liver qi stagnation should develop good habits, as adequate sleep is essential for maintaining vitality. Going to bed early and rising early greatly benefits the liver.

3. Herbal Regulation

If liver qi stagnation persists for a long time, one can take certain Chinese patent medicines for regulation, such as Xiao Yao Wan (Free and Easy Wanderer Pill) or Jia Wei Xiao Yao Wan (Modified Free and Easy Wanderer Pill).

If liver qi stagnation is chronic, it is crucial to seek medical attention to prevent severe liver damage or other conditions affecting liver health.

What to Eat for Liver Qi Stagnation?

1. Rose Flower

Rose has properties that invigorate blood circulation, regulate menstruation, soothe the liver, and balance endocrine functions. It can help regulate the liver and stomach and eliminate fatigue. Rose tea is a beneficial option.

2. Lotus Root

Lotus root can promote qi flow, strengthen the spleen and stomach, and calm the mind. It is best prepared by boiling in water or making lotus root porridge.

3. Radish

Radish is effective in promoting qi flow and strengthening the stomach, as well as clearing phlegm. Green radish is the most effective, while red-skinned radish is less so. For those with cold spleen and stomach, it can be cooked with pork ribs or beef in radish soup.

4. Hawthorn

Hawthorn is known for its ability to promote qi flow, invigorate blood circulation, and aid digestion. It can be consumed raw, cooked, or steeped in water, but should be eaten in moderation due to its acidic nature. Women with excessive stomach acid should be cautious.

Frequent negative emotions can lead to various ailments, affecting health and longevity. This highlights the importance of smooth liver qi for health and wellness. Regular emotional regulation and a contented mindset can naturally lead to health and longevity!

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