- Spring and the Liver
- Chinese dietetics
- Chrysanthemum & goji berries: a beneficial duo for spring
- Medicinal herbs and decoctions
The awakening of energy in spring: the role of the Liver according to TCM
Spring and the Liver
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), spring marks a moment of energy transition, symbolising renewal and growth. It is the season when Yang energy begins to grow after the cold winter months. This energy is associated with the Liver and its meridians, a key organ that helps Qi (vital energy) circulate properly in the body and that also governs our emotions and mental well-being. The Liver regulates this flow of energy, and its proper functioning is crucial for physical and emotional balance.
With the arrival of spring, external Yang energy, meaning the energy associated with nature and the renewal of this season, begins to rise. This external Yang energy, marked by the growing warmth and light of spring, influences the body and requires it to adapt to regain its balance. However, two distinct phenomena can occur, depending on how internal Yang energy reacts to this rise in external energy.
The first phenomenon occurs when internal Yang energy, in trying to regulate itself to adapt to external Yang energy, rises too high. This excessive rise in Yang can cause excess heat to become trapped in the Liver. When the energy becomes too strong, it overloads the Liver, leading to symptoms such as irritability, anger, eye strain, migraines, muscle tension and digestive problems. In this case, the overly intense energy blocks the circulation of Qi and blood, causing discomfort.
The second phenomenon occurs when internal Yang energy fails to adapt quickly enough to the increase in external Yang energy. This can lead to what is known as spring fatigue, marked by a general loss of energy, heaviness in the body, an irritable mood and difficulty getting up in the morning. This phenomenon is the body's natural response to seasonal change, when it struggles to readjust its internal rhythms after winter.
So, to welcome spring well and encourage regeneration, it is essential to regulate this rise in Yang energy. In TCM, this means rebalancing Qi to maintain a harmonious flow of energy in the body, which helps us prevent the imbalances typical of this season and preserve our vitality and well-being.
Chinese dietetics
In TCM, food is not simply a way to nourish the body; it is also a way to regulate vital energy. During the transition to spring, it is crucial to make food choices that promote good Qi circulation and inner balance. Here are a few simple but powerful recommendations for adapting your diet to the season and boosting your well-being during this time of renewal.
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Fresh, slightly warming foods: such as asparagus, spinach, cabbage, leeks and other green vegetables, which help nourish the liver and stimulate the circulation of energy. Light soups are also recommended, as they nourish Qi without overloading the stomach.
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Avoid eating too many sour foods: in TCM, the sour flavour nourishes the Liver. In spring, when Liver energy is naturally more intense, eating too many sour foods can lead to an excess of energy in this organ.
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Cut down on fatty, heavy foods: in spring, it is best to avoid rich, overly fatty or fried foods, as they can congest the liver and disrupt the flow of Qi.
Chrysanthemum & goji berries: a beneficial duo for spring
To support the body during this period of transition, TCM recommends specific plants such as chrysanthemum and goji berries, which form a powerful alliance to harmonise Liver energy and promote eye health. Here is an overview of their benefits, drawn from both tradition and modern research:
1. Balancing Liver Qi
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Chrysanthemum helps calm Liver energy, especially after winter, when this energy is rising strongly. This reduces feelings of irritability and helps release accumulated tension.
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Goji berries gently nourish the Liver and Kidneys while supporting inner balance, which helps keep energy flowing smoothly and harmoniously throughout the season.
2. Antioxidant and soothing benefits
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Both plants are rich in natural antioxidants that help counter internal imbalances and provide protection against external elements that can affect our well-being.
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Chrysanthemum, with natural compounds such as borneol, promotes a feeling of relaxation and calm, contributing to overall balance in the body.
3. Supporting eye health
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Chrysanthemum is rich in natural antioxidants that help soothe eye fatigue, especially after prolonged screen exposure. Its cooling properties help regulate excess Liver heat, relieving dry, irritated eyes.
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Goji berries, for their part, are an excellent source of nutrients that support eye health, helping to protect the retina and nourish the organs linked to vision. They also help maintain good energy circulation in the body.
Synergy: together, these two plants help improve circulation and reduce eye fatigue, which is especially useful in the season when longer days often overwork the eyes.
Medicinal herbs and decoctions
In addition to chrysanthemum and goji berries, several other plants are essential for supporting the liver and ensuring a harmonious flow of energy. Here are some of the most powerful allies of the season.
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Bupleurum (Chai Hu): this plant is often used in TCM to relieve liver congestion and promote a smooth flow of Qi. It is ideal for combating the irritability, headaches and feeling of tension that are common in spring.
Chai hu shu gan wan1 Bottle of 100 capsules - 50g27,90 € -
Chinese angelica (Dang Gui): often called "women's ginseng", it is used to tonify Qi and Blood, balance the liver and relieve symptoms of fatigue, palpitations or weakness linked to an excess or deficiency of Qi.
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Xiao Yao San: a classic TCM formula, it regulates Liver energy and calms the mind. It is used to relieve irritability, fatigue and digestive problems linked to a Liver Qi imbalance. By tonifying Qi and nourishing the blood, Xiao Yao San helps reduce emotional and physical tension, promoting a harmonious flow of energy during the spring transition. It is important to consult a health professional before using it, so that the treatment can be adapted to your specific condition.
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Mandarin peel (Chen Pi): useful for regulating the stomach and liver, it is particularly beneficial for promoting the circulation of Qi and relieving bloating or nausea.
Mandarine peel - Chen pi1 Big Packet plant 300g28,90 €
In TCM, spring is a period of transition in which Yang energy intensifies and calls for a harmonious rebalancing of body and mind. It is a key season for supporting Liver health and the circulation of Qi, while making sure energy is managed healthily. By adopting the principles of TCM, whether through diet, medicinal plants or energy practices, you can support your body so that you live this period with vitality and balance. A spring well lived is an opportunity to regenerate your energy, optimise your well-being and welcome the months ahead with serenity.
