TCM- Functions of the Liver

Liver

Functions:
Stores Blood
Controls Sinews
Controls Smooth Flow of Qi
Manifests in Nails
Opens into Eyes
Controls tears
Houses the Ethereal Soul
Is Affected by anger

Here are some of those functions in a little more detail:

Stores Blood:
1. Liver regulates the volume of blood
- according to physical activity
2. Liver blood regulates menstruation
- function of storing influences menstruation
a. if normal, then menses are normal
b. if deficient, scanty periods
c. if in excess, heavy menses
3. Liver blood moistens eyes and sinews
- brightens eyes
a. if deficient, then dry eyes
b. if liver heat, then eyes are red and painful

Controls Sinews:
1. State of sinews affects capacity for movement and physical activity. Contractions and relation ensures movements of joints, which depends on nourishment and moistening of blood
2. If Liver blood is deficient, then there will be contractions and spasms, numbness and cramps
3. If there is Liver Wind, then there will be tremors

Ensures A Smooth Flow of Qi
1. Smooth flow in relation to emotion
- deep influence on emotional state
- may give rise to premenstrual tension
2. Smooth flow assists in digestion
- middle burner
LV Qi---> ST---> belching, acid reflux
LV Qi---> SP---> bloating, diarrhea
3. Ensures flow of bile

Opens into Eyes:
1. Deficient LV Blood causes blurred vision, myopia, floaters, dry and gritty eyes
2. LV heat causes bloodshot eyes, pain and burning