TCM- Functions of the Spleen

Spleen

Functions:
Governs transformation and transportation
Controls ascending qi
Controls blood
Controls Muscles and 4 Limbs
Opens into mouth and manifests on lips
Controls Raising of Qi
Houses the Intellect
Is Affected by pensiveness

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

Governs transformation and transportation:
1. Spleen's transportation and transformation of food essences and Qi:
- transforms food to qi
2. Spleen's transportation and transformation of fluids:
- controls transformation, separation and movement of fluids
- If this is impaired, fluid will not be T+T and may accumulate to Dampness, phlegm, or edema

Controls Blood:
1. 'holds' blood in vessels
- Spleen Qi performs this function
- Deficient Spleen Qi results in hemorrhage

2. Makes blood from food qi
- Spleen extract food qi and forms blood in the heart with assistance of original qi from kidneys

Controls muscles and 4 Limbs
1. Food Qi nourishes all tissues in the body and this is transported through body by spleen
- If it's strong, the refined qi is directed to muscles (of limbs)
- If deficient, leads to fatigue, muscles weakness and possibly atrophy