Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) emphasizes holistic diagnosis and treatment to address the entire well being of the patient. The emphasis is on process rather than structure; the whole system, rather than breaking down to the smallest parts. TCM views the body to be controlled by the five major Organ Systems which must be in balance - both individually and amongst each other. These systems affect the body and its functions, as well as one's mental faculties, by regulating essential life substances -- Qi (pronounced "chee"), moisture, blood, spirit, and essence. In addition to acupuncture and herbal medicine, a treatment program in Chinese Medicine may include nutrition, lifestyle changes, exercise, breathing exercises, and meditation to bring about well being.

Please click on the labeled organ for more information:


Major Organs

The role of the Kidney System includes, yet extends beyond, managing fluid metabolism normally associated with the kidneys in western medicine. Th ekidneys regulate fluid balance in the body, sending clear fluids back to the lungs and excreting impure fluids through the bladder. The kidney system controls the bones, marrow, brain, inner ear, teeth and lumbar region, and is associated with clear thinking and the emotion of fear. Problems such as low back pain, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), infertility, paranoia, weak vision, fuzzy thinking, and depression are considered as dysfunctions of the Kidney System.

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The Heart regulates blood movement through the circulatory system and promotes healthy tissues, but also impacts the spirit and the mind. When the Heart is upset, symptoms such as anxiety, restless sleep, angina, and palpitations can occur. The condition of the Heart is manifested in one's complexion - normal rosy versus pale and dull. Blood stagnation can result in blue or purple complexion. The tongue, especially the tip of the tongue, is important to understand the Heart's conditions. The Heart must be in balance - over expression of emotions also can be disharmonious.

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The Spleen controls uptake of food and fluids, as well as one's thinking. When the Spleen is upset, indigestion, fatigue, bloating and poor concentration can occur. Malfunction of the Spleen can result in varicose veins. The appearance of the lips and tongue give indication of the Spleen's condition.

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The Liver is responsible for the storage of Blood, the flow of Qi, and one's disposition. When the Liver is unbalanced tension can, for example, develop in the neck and shoulders, and high blood pressure, headaches, and related symptoms can occur. Liver problems are the most commonly diagnosed disharmony seen by TCM practitioners. The Liver is important in stress related problems.

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The Lungs, through one's breathing, establish body rhythm and defends against infections. The Lungs are associated with healthy fluid metabolism and sweating, and the Lung and Kidney interaction is important for healthy respiration. Weakness in the Lung System can increase susceptibility to disease, e.g., from cold and flu viruses invading the body, and can result in skin rashes and melancholy.

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What is the Goal of TCM?

Acupuncture treatments and herbal medicine can redirect or unblock the flow of vital energy through the body and balance over-active or under-active organs.

The TCM doctor assesses a patient's condition by feeling the patient's pulse at the wrists and by observing the color and nature of the face, tongue, and body. Special attention is place on observing the quality of the pulse and appearance of the tongue. The observations are weighed along with the patient's personal, medical and family history and emotional state.

The goal of treatment is to harmonize ("tonify") Yin and Yang - balancing wet and dry, cold and hot, inner and outer, body and mind. This is achieved by regulating the Qi, Moisture, and Blood in the Organ Networks. Weak organs are tonified, congested channels are opened, excess is dispersed, tightness is softened, agitation is calmed, heat is cooled, cold is warmed, dryness is moistened, and dampness is drained.

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