Spleen (Zang)

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As distinct from the Western medical concept of spleen, this concept from Traditional Chinese Medicine is more a way of describing a set of interrelated parts than an anatomical organ. (See Zang Fu theory)

Because Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is holistic, each organ cannot be explained fully unless the TCM relationship/homeostasis with the other organs is understood. TCM also looks at the functions of the organs rather than fixed areas and, therefore, describes different organs that are not actually physical.

The Spleen (Pi) is a Zang organ meaning it is a Yin organ. The other Yin, or Zang, Organs are the Lungs (Fei), Heart (Xin), Liver (Gan) and Kidneys (Shen). Sometimes the Pericardium (Xin Bao) is included. Yin organs store, secrete, make, and transform Essence, Blood, Spirit, Qi, and Fluids. These nourish the body.

The Spleen is the origin of Blood. It rules transformation and transportation. The Spleen extracts essences from food and which later becomes Qi and Blood. It directs the ascending movement. The Spleen prevents extravasations of Blood. It dominates muscles. The Spleen assists with water metabolism. The Spleen opens into the mouth and is manifest on the lips. It also houses the Yi. The peak energy time for the Spleen is 9-11am. The fluid secretion is saliva.