Qi stagnation refers to the pathological change of qi not flowing smoothly, resulting in stagnation either throughout the body or in specific areas.
The smooth flow of qi requires the liver qi to be properly regulated; generally, qi stagnation is related to the stagnation of liver qi.
When the liver’s function of regulation is normal, the qi mechanism flows smoothly, allowing for the unobstructed circulation of qi, blood, and body fluids, which maintains the coordinated function of the organs and preserves normal physiological activities.
If the liver fails to regulate, it leads to qi stagnation, which not only manifests as changes in the liver itself (liver qi stagnation) but also affects the movement of qi, resulting in abnormal blood circulation, leading to qi stagnation and blood stasis. It also impacts the qi transformation functions of the lungs, spleen, kidneys, and the three burners, causing metabolic disorders of body fluids, which can lead to phlegm accumulation or edema, presenting as symptoms such as plum pit qi, goiter, scrofula, and abdominal distension.
The emotional state is closely related to the liver’s regulatory function; maintaining a cheerful disposition is key to keeping liver qi smooth. When liver qi is smooth, the qi mechanism is also unobstructed, and blood circulation is unhindered.
Qi stagnation caused by liver dysfunction can manifest as emotional disturbances, such as depression, chest tightness, sighing, and irritability.
The normal function of the liver’s regulation is also crucial for the proper functioning of the spleen and stomach. When the qi mechanism is well-regulated, it promotes the upward movement of spleen qi, and orderly rising and falling allows for the downward movement of stomach qi, ensuring normal digestive and absorption functions.
If the liver fails to regulate and qi stagnates, it can lead to the liver wood overpowering the spleen or gallbladder wood obstructing the stomach.
Since the characteristic of qi stagnation is the obstruction of qi flow, common symptoms include localized feelings of fullness, distension, and pain.
The liver plays an important role in regulating the movement of qi, thus maintaining the smooth flow of qi. Therefore, it is said that “the liver is the thief of the five organs.” In cases of qi stagnation, regardless of where the stagnation occurs, the treatment direction should focus on regulating the liver, with the principle of soothing the liver and regulating qi as the main method for treating qi stagnation.
