For an overview of how internal organs are thought of in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), I highly recommend my first post in this series “The Internal Organs in Chinese Medicine.”
In TCM, the Kidneys main role are to store Essence and govern birth, growth, development and reproduction. The Kidneys are also essential in governing water in the body and house the Will Power.
The storage and management of Essence is the most important function of the Kidneys. Essence is primarily inherited from the parents at birth, and is responsible for the stages of change in life, similar to hormone changes in Western Medicine. In TCM, Essence is responsible for fetal development, growth milestones, puberty, sexual maturation, conception, pregnancy, menopause and ultimately death. Any delays in development or difficulties with conception are typically related to a Kidney Deficiency.
The Essence is stored in the Kidneys, but it is also disseminated through the body in the form of bones, bone marrow, teeth, spinal cord and the brain. Strong Kidney Essence will manifest in high intelligence, memory, and concentration.
Kidney Essence naturally declines as we age and is the basis for symptoms related to aging. For example, menopause symptoms of hot flashes, anxiety, brittle bones, and poor memory are all related to the decline of Kidney Essence.
The Kidneys are also responsible for the governing of water in that they are the gate that controls how much water is retained in the body. Damage to the Kidneys may result in profuse or scanty urination or edema in the lower limbs due to its function in water metabolism.
Finally, the Kidneys are the residence of Will Power. When the Kidneys are weak, it is common to see symptoms of impaired will power, low motivation, depression and loss of memory and clear focus.
The next post will cover “The Functions of the Pericardium in Chinese Medicine”
To start this series from the beginning, go to “The Internal Organs in Chinese Medicine”
Like what you’re reading and want to learn more about how these concepts may be useful in your health care? If you are in the Austin area, contact me for a free consultation here.
