Guo An Tang TCM Clinic

July 28 is World Hepatitis Day — Time to Show Some Love to Your Liver!

Your liver is the largest detox organ in your body. It plays a crucial role in:

  • Detoxifying harmful substances

  • Aiding digestion through bile production

  • Supporting metabolism and overall health

But today’s modern lifestyle — with late nights, alcohol, overeating, and stress — is silently harming your liver.

 

TCM Liver

In TCM, the Liver Is the “General of the Body

As recorded in the Huangdi Neijing (Yellow Emperor’s Inner Classic):

“The Liver is like a general — planning and strategizing for the body.”

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the liver does more than just manage blood and detox. It governs:

  • Qi (energy) flow throughout the body

  • Emotions and mental clarity

  • Digestion

  • Reproductive health

When liver Qi flows smoothly, the body thrives. When it gets blocked? You may experience digestive issues, mood swings, fatigue, or even reproductive challenges like irregular menstruation or infertility.

TCM Liver

⚠️ What Causes Liver Problems?

There are three main causes from the TCM point of view:

  1. External pathogens like dampness, heat, or toxins (similar to viral hepatitis)

  2. Emotional stress, such as long-term anxiety, anger, or overthinking

  3. Unhealthy habits — like heavy drinking, fried and spicy foods, BBQ, hotpots, staying up late, and overworking

TCM Liver

How to Nourish and Protect Your Liver with TCM

Here are four time-tested methods from TCM to support liver health:

1. Manage Your Emotions, Keep Calm

Liver Qi is closely linked to emotions. Anger, frustration, or anxiety can block Qi flow. TCM promotes emotional balance and a calm mind.

🌸 Stay calm, stay kind, and let your Qi flow freely.

 

2. Eat Smart, Rest Well

Avoid excess alcohol, greasy or spicy foods, and irregular eating times.
TCM recommends a balanced five-flavour diet: sour, bitter, sweet, spicy, and salty — in moderation.

🍲 Eat wisely. Sleep early. Let your liver recharge.

 

3. Use Seasonal Herbs & TCM Teas

Different seasons call for different liver-supporting herbs:

  • Spring (Liver season): Celery to help Qi flow

  • Summer: Green beans to clear heat and dampness

  • Autumn/Winter: Goji berries & chrysanthemum tea to nourish Yin and protect the liver

  • All-year-round: Rose & finger citron tea to regulate emotions and liver Qi

 

4. Practice Self-Care & Gentle Exercises

Massaging certain acupuncture points can improve liver function:

  • Taichong (LV3)

  • Ganshu (BL18)

  • Qimen (LR14)

  • Zusanli (ST36)

Combine with gentle exercises like Tai Chi or Ba Duan Jin to ease emotions and nourish liver blood.

TCM Liver

Prevention Is Better Than Cure

While TCM offers many effective ways to support liver health, if you experience symptoms like:

  • Persistent fatigue

  • Poor appetite

  • Mood issues

  • Menstrual or reproductive irregularities

…it’s important to seek proper medical evaluation. Avoid relying on home remedies or unverified online advice.

Let’s protect our “General” — your liver — with wisdom from Traditional Chinese Medicine.

Looking for an experienced TCM practitioner in Singapore?

Recent Post

Don’t make these mistakes — or you could make your condition worse!

  • Never do moxibustion in an air-conditioned room. Your body opens up during treatment. Cold air can sneak in and cause worse issues.

  • Morning is the best time. The heat is gentler, and it helps uplift your body’s yang energy for the day.

  • Avoid going out immediately after. Let your body cool down naturally and wear proper clothing.

  • If done at night, ensure it doesn’t interfere with your sleep, and always switch off the air-con before you start.

Categories