ArticlePDF Available

Liver in the Chinese and Western Medicine

Authors:

Abstract

Background: The traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is based on the 5-element theory, which emphasizes the importance of the dynamic balance among the liver, heart, spleen, lung, and kidney. It is quite confusing that the 5 viscera in TCM share the same names with the organs in Western medicine. Spleen is the only viscus that differs most from the modern concept, while the remaining 4 viscera can all find similarities with the corresponding organs in Western medicine; however, the viscus in TCM is always a broader concept. Key Messages: The 5 major functions of the liver in TCM correspond to the nerve-endocrine-immune network in Western medicine, and all of the functions are associated with emotion.
© 2017 The Author(s)
Published by S. Karger AG, Basel
Review
Integr Med Int 2017;4:39–45
Liver in the Chinese and Western
Medicine
Zhan-Wen Liu
a Jin Shu
a Jia-Ying Tu
a Cui-Hong Zhang
b Jue Hong
b
a Tongren Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, and
b Shanghai
Research Institute of Acupuncture and Meridian, Shanghai , China
Keywords
Brain · Emotion · High blood pressure · Liver · Digestive system · Circulatory system ·
Reproductive system · Traditional Chinese medicine
Abstract
Background: The traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is based on the 5-element theory, which
emphasizes the importance of the dynamic balance among the liver, heart, spleen, lung, and
kidney. It is quite confusing that the 5 viscera in TCM share the same names with the organs
in Western medicine. Spleen is the only viscus that differs most from the modern concept,
while the remaining 4 viscera can all find similarities with the corresponding organs in West-
ern medicine; however, the viscus in TCM is always a broader concept. Key Messages: The 5
major functions of the liver in TCM correspond to the nerve-endocrine-immune network in
Western medicine, and all of the functions are associated with emotion.
© 2017 The Author(s)
Published by S. Karger AG, Ba sel
Introduction
As a member of the 5 viscera in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), the liver is not the
organ in anatomy, but an abstract concept and a dynamic function system based on the
anatomical liver. It is connected to the eyes, tendons and bones, and internal organs via
meridians, with unique physiological functions and pathological manifestations, and simulta-
neously interacts with other Zang-Fu organs. However, the liver in the Western medicine only
refers to the organ in anatomy, not containing the functions of the remaining systems and
organs. We can see that the liver in TCM is more extensive and complicated compared to the
Receive d: November 28, 2016
Accepted after revision: Februar y 27, 2017
Published online: April 8, 2017
www.karger.com/imi
DOI: 10.1159/000466694
This article is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 Interna-
tional License (CC BY-NC-ND) (http://www.karger.com/Services/OpenAccessLicense). Usage and distribu-
tion for commercial purposes as well as any distribution of modified material requires written permission.
Dr. Zhan-Wen Liu, MD, Ton gr en Hospital
Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine
No. 1111, Xian xia Road
Changning District, Shanghai 200 050 (China)
E-Mail zhanwenl
@ 163.com
Dr. Cui-Hong Zhang, MD
Shanghai Research Institu te of Acupuncture an d Meridian
Room 301, Building 1, No. 650, South Wanping Road
Xuhui District, Shanghai 20 0030 (China)
E-Mail zjzch
@ 163.com
Downloaded by:
69.147.248.153 - 4/11/2017 8:18:25 PM
40
Integr Med Int 2017;4:39–45
DOI: 10.1159/000466694
Liu et al.: Liver in the Chinese and Western Medicine
www.karger.com/imi
© 2017 The Author(s). Published by S. Karger AG, Basel
one in Western medicine. However, during the recent years, more and more studies have
proven that the 2 concepts have something in common [1–3] .
The aim of this article is to analyze the similarities and differences between the “liver” in
the TCM and Western medical systems as a help for future research.
Anatomy of the Liver
Western Medicine
In human beings, the liver is located in the upper right quadrant of the abdomen, below
the diaphragm, in front of the gallbladder and the right kidney, and beyond the stomach. It
weighs 1.23–1.45 kg in male adults and 1.10–1.30 kg in female adults. It is proven that the
size of the liver approaches the maximum in adolescents, but then shrinks while aging,
decreasing 100 g every 10 years after the age of 60 years [4] .
Traditional Chinese Medicine
Ling Shu (spiritual pivot, Qin-Han dynasties, B.C. 221 to A.D. 220) says that the liver is
located in the hypochondriac region, below the diaphragm, in front of the right kidney and
the spine. This description generally conforms to that in the Western medicine. According to
Nan Jing (classic of difficult issues, Han dynasty, B.C. 202 to A.D. 220), the liver weighs about
1.084 kg, also similar to the theory of the Western medicine. TCM also conducted a prelim-
inary observation on the change of the liver with aging. Ling Shu reports that usually at the
age of 50, the liver qi starts to decline, the lobes of the liver become thinner, the secretion of
the bile also decreases, and the vision gets blurred. This point of view is very much close to
that of the modern medicine.
The above references indicate that the liver in TCM has a clear morphological foundation,
generally consistent with the modern anatomy. That is to say, the actual organ is part of the
concept of the liver in TCM and is also the material foundation of the common parts between
the Chinese and Western medicine with regard to the liver.
Nevertheless, different recognition methods of the Chinese and Western medicine lead
to different views of the human body and diseases, physiology and pathology. The liver in
TCM, however, is not limited to the anatomical concept. It is a comprehensive system that
consists of various factors including anatomy, logical reasoning, and philosophy, and involving
multiple systems and organs; i.e., TCM uses a much broader definition of the liver compared
to the Western medicine [2] .
Functions of the Liver
According to the Western medicine, with its numerous functions, the liver plays an
important role in digestion, metabolism, detoxification, coagulation, and immune modu-
lation.
In TCM, the function of the liver is connected to that of other internal organs, mainly
covering the subsequent 5 aspects mentioned in what follows.
The liver is in charge of dispersion and dredging: it is mainly responsible for the regu-
lation of emotion, the promotion of digestion and absorption, the maintenance of the circu-
lation of qi, blood, and body fluid, as well as the reproductive function.
The liver houses the hun (our spiritual consciousness, the hun is critical to the spiritual
and psychological dynamic of the individual. The hun loves life and favors the vital spark
within us. It is the tool that motivates our higher desires and our passions. It governs our life
Downloaded by:
69.147.248.153 - 4/11/2017 8:18:25 PM
41
Integr Med Int 2017;4:39–45
DOI: 10.1159/000466694
Liu et al.: Liver in the Chinese and Western Medicine
www.karger.com/imi
© 2017 The Author(s). Published by S. Karger AG, Basel
impulses and controls our automatic reflexes by means of our thought process, helping us
control our speech and our actions. It allows for exchange, communication, and the expression
of our desires and ideas. It animates our interpersonal relationships. The hun uses the shen
[spirit] to manifest and show itself in all its grandeur: intelligence, spirituality, intuition,
dreams, introspection, creativity, imagination, respect, love of and enthusiasm for life, ideas,
and speech). The liver is in charge of storing blood and can modulate the blood volume. In a
resting or a static situation, when the human body requires less blood flow, a large amount of
blood is stored in the liver; when working or excited, the body requires more blood and the
liver releases the stored blood to meet the requirements of the body and to maintain normal
function. According to the TCM theory, qi and blood become most active in the gallbladder
and liver meridians from 11 p.m. to 3 a.m., and it is therefore recommended for people to be
in a deep sleep state during this period of time. Otherwise, the liver will fail to get enough
nourishment from the blood and cannot perform well in storing blood and hun spirits, mani-
fested by irritability and distraction.
The liver externally opens into the eyes, controls tendons, and manifests in the nails: by
storing blood, the liver supports the normal functions of the eyes and nails. The liver meridian
is connected to the eyes, and the visual ability mainly relies on the nourishment of liver blood.
Therefore, the eyes can reflect the function of the liver: insufficient liver blood may cause dry
eyes and blurred vision; hyperactivity of the liver fire will lead to pain and swelling of the
eyes. The function of tendons also depends on the nourishment of liver blood. Numb or spastic
limbs will occur when there is not enough liver blood to nourish the tendons. It is said that
the nails are a surplus of the tendons. Plenty of liver blood can maintain the nail beds pink
and nail plates firm; dry, brittle, and deformed nail plates usually indicate insufficient liver
blood.
The liver is related to anger and anger impairs the liver: anger is an intense undesirable
emotion induced by stimulations. The liver is the viscus most closely related to this emotion.
Extreme anger can damage the liver, causing dysfunction in dispersion and dredging and
upward flow of qi and blood, indicated by a red eye and face or even fainting spells, such as a
cerebrovascular accident in modern medicine. Besides, the dysfunction of the liver in
dispersion and dredging can also lead to emotional disorders manifested as irritability.
The liver is the source of endurance: good endurance indicates good function of the liver,
and vice versa, which is consistent with the saying in modern medicine that patients with
hepatic diseases easily feel fatigue.
Interaction between TCM and Western Medicine
Despite the similarities and differences in the concept of the liver between the TCM and
the Western medicine, numerous pieces of evidence from the modern medicine can support
the liver function theories of TCM. The relations between the 2 medical systems with regard
to the liver are shown in Figure 1 .
The Liver Storing Blood
Histologically, the liver is a blood bank that consists of hepatic sinusoids, which should
be the histological foundation of the liver in storing blood [5, 6] . Under static conditions, the
hepatic blood flow usually accounts for 1/4 of the cardiac output [7] . In right ventricular
failure or whole heart failure, the congested liver enlarges its blood flow volume and thus
reduces the venous return to the heart, which is significant in relieving the heart’s burden. In
Downloaded by:
69.147.248.153 - 4/11/2017 8:18:25 PM
42
Integr Med Int 2017;4:39–45
DOI: 10.1159/000466694
Liu et al.: Liver in the Chinese and Western Medicine
www.karger.com/imi
© 2017 The Author(s). Published by S. Karger AG, Basel
a lying position, the venous return increases by 50% compared to that in a standing position.
According to the TCM theory, blood goes back to the liver in a lying position. Hence, the liver’s
function of storing blood is important in restricting the venous return and protecting the
cardiopulmonary function [8] .
In the embryo, the liver is the organ for producing blood. In adults with severe anemia,
the liver is able to partially restore its ability of producing blood. Thus, we say, the liver
storing blood also refers to the relationship between the liver and the total blood flow volume
and coagulation.
Besides, Fei Zhao-Fu found that people with a wiry pulse often present with an abnormal
rheohepatogram, while people with a moderate or slippery pulse usually have a normal rheo-
hepatogram, hence a wiry pulse should be associated with a dysfunction of the liver in storing
blood [9] .
The Liver in Charge of Dispersion and Dredging
The liver in charge of dispersion and dredging first of all refers to the fact that the liver
regulates the qi activities and emotions, promotes digestion and absorption, maintains the
normal flow of qi and blood, modulates water metabolism, and regulates the thoroughfare
and conception vessels to adjust the sexual and reproductive functions. A large amount of
studies suggest that the liver in TCM should be related to the nerve-endocrine-immune
Qi-blood most active in the
liver meridian during 1–3 a.m.
Joining the governor vessel
on the vertex
Belonging to the liver and
connecting with gallbladder
Starting from the top
of the big toe
Going upwards along the inner
side of the thigh, until reaching
the pubic region, then circulating
around the external genitalia and
entering the lower abdomen
Surrounding the stomach
Conneting with the eyes
Storing
blood
Housing
Hun (spirits)
Controlling
dispersion
and dredging
Opening into
eyes
Controlling
tendons
Manifesting
in nails
Nervous
system
Endocrine
system
Digestive
system
Circulatory
system
Reproductive
system
Nerve-
endocrine-
immune
network
Hemorrhagic diseases,
hypertension
Insomnia,
mental disorders
Cerebrovascular
accidents
Peptic ulcer, dyspepsia,
irritable bowel syndrome
Dry eye syndrome,
nyctalopia
Dry and brittle nails
Impotence, hernia,
irregular menstruation,
dysmenorrhea
Hyperplasia of
mammary glands,
hypochondriac pain,
cholecystitis,
cholelithiasis
Emotion
Modern diseasesOccidental functions Oriental liver Liver meridian
Fig. 1. Correspondence between the occidental and the oriental medicine regarding the liver functions (in-
cluding the liver meridian). All the functions are associated with emotion.
Downloaded by:
69.147.248.153 - 4/11/2017 8:18:25 PM
43
Integr Med Int 2017;4:39–45
DOI: 10.1159/000466694
Liu et al.: Liver in the Chinese and Western Medicine
www.karger.com/imi
© 2017 The Author(s). Published by S. Karger AG, Basel
network and that it governs the qi-blood activities via the nerves and endocrine [10] , which
is similar to Western medicine, according to which the liver regulates the whole body through
metabolic function. For example, in TCM, the liver regulates the qi activities, similar to homeo-
stasis emphasized by modern medicine; in TCM, the liver modulates emotions, which are
considered to be closely related to the central neurotransmitters in modern medicine [11–
15] ; the liver governs dispersion and dredging, which conforms to the digestion and absorption
theory in the Western medicine; in TCM, the liver maintains the normal qi activities, which is
essential for the blood circulation [15, 16] ; the dispersion and dredging function of the TCM
liver is also closely associated with the water metabolism and reproductive function [17, 18] .
Affiliations of the Liver
The liver controls the tendons and manifests in the nails, which refers to the fact that the
tendons and fascia all rely on the nourishment of liver blood and the condition of the nails can
reflect the level of liver blood. Someone observed the microcirculation of the nails and found
that the indexes in the hepatic disease group were significantly abnormal compared to those
in the nonhepatic disease group [19] . In patients with liver diseases, the imbalanced inacti-
vation of estrogen may lead to an increase in melanin in skin cells, causing dark complexion,
brown streaks on nail plates, and liver palms. It is proven that vitamin D is related to the
function of muscles, tendons, and nails; the bile, secreted by the liver, can promote the
absorption of vitamin D in bowels [20] . In hepatic encephalopathy, due to hypoglycemia,
nitrogen poisoning and false neurotransmitters and other factors, cranial nerve dysfunction
may develop, presenting asterixis.
Vitamin A is associated with nyctalopia and dry eye syndrome. The liver not only produces
but also stores vitamin A. TCM often uses lamb or pork liver, which are rich in vitamin A, to
treat nyctalopia and dry eye syndrome and can achieve a satisfactory result [21] . Besides,
collecting blood from eyeballs of healthy mice is an effective method used in animal experi-
ments, which somehow indicates that the eyes are very much dependent on blood [22] . It is
said that at least 40% of eye diseases are related to the dysfunction of the liver [23] . Peng
Qing-Hua also believes that there should be a specific relation between eye diseases and the
liver [24] . There is a special genetic relationship between the liver and the eye regarding the
embryonic development. When transplanted into the blastocyst cavity, adult liver tissues can
lead to the formation of eyes [25] , which provides further evidence for the theory that the
liver opens into the eyes.
TCM holds that the liver is related to anger and anger may damage the liver, possibly
inducing a cerebrovascular accident. According to the modern medicine, anger can lead to
shortness of breath, increase the amount of erythrocytes in the blood, and promote coagu-
lation, causing tachycardia, which will not only impair the cardiovascular system, but also
affect the health of the liver. Therefore, irritated people run a high risk of both coronary heart
disease and hepatic disease.
Conclusion
Taking into account the above references, we can say that the liver in TCM is morpho-
logically based on the actual liver organ, and the physiological and pathological concepts are
also somehow developed from the organ; the physiological and pathological understandings
are involved in the construction of the visceral manifestations theory in TCM. However,
despite these similarities, the content of the liver in TCM surpasses that of the liver organ in
Downloaded by:
69.147.248.153 - 4/11/2017 8:18:25 PM
44
Integr Med Int 2017;4:39–45
DOI: 10.1159/000466694
Liu et al.: Liver in the Chinese and Western Medicine
www.karger.com/imi
© 2017 The Author(s). Published by S. Karger AG, Basel
the Western medicine, involving multiple systems and organs. Via the meridian system, the
liver in TCM connects to the hypothalamus, reticular structure, limbic system, eyes, visual
pathways, proprioceptive pathways, vestibular system, cochlear and auditory pathways, and
motor conduction pathways, as well as the visceral sensory nerves dominating the liver, the
gallbladder, the stomach, the esophagus, the splenic flexure of the colon, the pancreas, the
lung, the colon, the pleura, and the nerves in charge of the reproductive system.
The differences in understanding the liver between the oriental and occidental medicine
are based on the different cognition methods. TCM obtains knowledge above all through
clinical observations and experiences, while the Western medicine through anatomy, physi-
ology, and biochemistry. While TCM observes the human beings by combining the nature and
society as a whole, the Western medicine separates the human beings from nature and society,
and observes them in isolation. TCM recognizes the human body as a whole based on the
5-element theory, while the Western medicine focuses on the analysis of structures such as
organs and tissues. TCM emphasizes the macroscopic relationships and general principles,
while the Western medicine holds the microscopic structure and topical features. TCM thinks
highly of reasoning, differentiating, and comprehending, but ignores morphological structure
and solid evidences; on the other hand, the Western medicine gradually brings the under-
standing of the human body to a microscopic level by combining medical theories and novel
natural scientific techniques and results.
During the recent years, the existence of meridian phenomena has been proven by
relevant research, revealing the specific relationship between meridians and the corre-
sponding Zang-Fu organs. Therefore, it is further suggested that the liver in TCM should be a
regulatory chain with the liver organ as the center [26, 27] . This regulatory chain is featured
by passing along the liver meridian, and the organic and functional changes can cause patho-
logical changes along the meridian. The knowledge about the liver according to TCM benefits
the health preservation of patients with liver diseases, e.g., guaranteeing sufficient sleep;
following a bland diet and keeping away from cigarettes and alcohols; falling asleep before
11 p.m., as it is the self-healing period for the liver and gallbladder from 11 p.m. to 3 a.m.;
frequently closing one’s eyes for nourishing the spirit to prevent overuse of the eyes and
consumption of liver blood.
In conclusion, the function of the liver in TCM is indeed complicated; however, we can
find corresponding explanations in modern medicine, indicating that the liver theories of the
2 medical systems are connected. Furthermore, the TCM liver theory is beneficial to health
cultivation in modern times.
Acknowledgement
This work was supported by the Scientific Research Project of the Shanghai Health
Bureau for Young Scholars (No. 20134Y148).
Disclosure Statement
This review is not under consideration by any other journal. All authors have seen and
approved the final version of the manuscript and there is no conflict of interest with respect
to financial arrangements or affiliations with any company.
Downloaded by:
69.147.248.153 - 4/11/2017 8:18:25 PM
45
Integr Med Int 2017;4:39–45
DOI: 10.1159/000466694
Liu et al.: Liver in the Chinese and Western Medicine
www.karger.com/imi
© 2017 The Author(s). Published by S. Karger AG, Basel
References
 1 Zheng ML: On microscopic and macroscopic substance of liver manifestation in TCM. Beijing Zhong Yi Yao Da
Xue Xue Bao 2013;
36: 305–307, 316.
 2 Tong Y, Chen HJ, Zhang T, Zhang SJ: The comparative study on the organ of liver between traditional Chinese
medicine and Western medicine. Shandong Zhong Yi Za Zhi 2000;
19: 515–518.
 3 Lin Q: Linkage between liver theory of traditional Chinese medicine and theory of modern medicine. Zhonghua
Zhong Yi Yao Xue Kan 2015;
33: 2997–3005.
 4 Yang L, Wang BY: Foundation of liver aging. Zhongguo Lin Chuang Yi Sheng 2015;
43: 7–10.
 5 He FJ, Wang J, Niu JZ: Study progress on hepatic sinusoidal wall cells. Jie Pou Ke Xue Jin Zhan 2001;
7: 156–157.
 6 Chen H, Wu MC: Connection of liver functions and clinical surgery. Wai Ke Li Lun Yu Shi Jian 2003;
8: 414–415.
 7 Yu JP, Zhu TG, Shen ZX: Evaluation on ultrasonic measurement of liver size and hepatic blood flow volume.
Zhongguo Yi Xue Ying Xiang Ji Shu 1993;
9: 13–14.
 8 Yang L, Jiang YY: Research progress of hepatic sinusoidal endothelial cells and hepatic sinusoidal capillar-
ization. Chuan Ran Bing Xin Xi 2010;
23: 183–184.
 9 Fei ZF: Study on objectify of wiry pulse. Chin J Integr Med 1984;
4: 243.
10 Chen JX, Yang WY: Exploration on research situation of nerves-endocrine-immunologic network and its rela-
tionship with liver of Chinese medicine. Beijing Zhong Yi Yao Da Xue Xue Bao 1995;
18: 7–11.
11 Gao XL, Zeng YE, Liu SQ, Wang SL: Acute stress show great influences on liver function and the expression of
hepatic genes associated with lipid metabolism in rats. Lipids Health Dis 2013;
12: 118.
12 Yan C, Xu ZW: Exploration on central neurobiological mechanisms of Gan in taking charge of dispersion and
regulating emotion. Zhongguo Zhong Xi Yi Jie He Za Zhi 2005;
25: 459–462.
13 Huang XH, Wu JH, Lin WT: Review of the research status and prospect of %-HT and athletes mood. Guangzhou
Ti Yu Xue Yuan Xue Bao 2015;
35: 90–93.
14 Liu CZ, Wu ZZ, Li M, Jia XQ, Zhang YF: Effects of Bugan Yangsui formula on the activity of central cholinergic
nerve system in spontaneous aged dementia model. Zhong Xi Yi Jie He Xin Nao Xue Guan Bing Za Zhi 2004;
2:
402–404.
15 Chen LD, Zhang W: Retrospect and progress of hepatopulmonary syndrome. Zhonghua Gan Zang Bing Za Zhi
2003;
11: 318–320.
16 Grilo-Bensusan I, Pascasio-Acevedo JM: Hepatopulmonary syndrome: what we know and what we would like
to know. World J Gastroenterol 2016;
22: 5728–5741.
17 Wang XX, Liu Y, Chen JX, Liu YY, Ma QY, Li XJ, Yan ZY, Wang MJ: Research progress on relationship between
stagnation of liver qi and reproductive dysfunction. Zhonghua Zhong Yi Yao Za Zhi 2016;
31: 935–938.
18 Chen JX, Liu Q, Kou MJ, Liu YY, Liu Y, Wang XX: View on the traditional Chinese medicine treatment principle
and prescription of premature ovarian failure from the liver theory. Zhonghua Zhong Yi Yao Za Zhi 2014;
29:
1916–1919.
19 Zhang JJ, Sheng GG: To look the scientificity of “the liver governing the eyes and its appearance can be reflected
in the nails” from hepatopath’s microcirculations of nail fold and bulbar conjunctiva: a report of 64 cases.
Zhong Yi Yan Jiu 1995;
8: 25–26.
20 Guo X, Yu TY, Zhou Q, Jia WD, Ma C, Tao YH: Review of the mechanism of muscle fatigue and injury. Zhonghua
Zhong Yi Yao Za Zhi 2016;
31: 2720–2724.
21 Yang YS, Zhuang ZY, Wang Y, Lv H: The summary and analysis of prescription traditional Chinese medicine
about nyctalopia recorded in old medical document. Zhongguo Zhong Yi Yan Ke Za Zhi 2007;
17: 54–56.
22 Deng N, Lin XY, Cai GX: TCM theoretical study on collecting eye blood from experimental animal. Guang Ming
Zhong Yi 2014;
29: 4–5.
23 Zhang C, Chen Y, Yang M, Wang GY, Zhou P, Kou YH, Gao HW: Explanation of the Chinese medicine theory of
“the liver opening into the eyes” from the modern medicine. Shizhen Guo Yi Guo Yao 2009;
20: 233–234.
24 Deng YF, Xu Q, Wang BH: Exploration and analysis of the liver opening into the eyes. Hunan Zhong Yi Za Zhi
2016;
32: 139–140.
25 Boriosi G, Cantoni T: The action of acupuncture and meridian on viscera formation in embryology. Guo Wai Yi
Xue Zhong Yi Zhong Yao Fen Ce 1981;
3: 165–167.
26 Kondo T, Yoshimasu K, Tokunaga S, Sugahara H, Kanemitsu Y, Kubo C: Age-related changes in visceral patterns
associated with anxiety disorders or depression according to traditional Chinese medicine. Integr Med Int
2014;
1: 80–92.
27 Kondo T, Tokunaga S, Sugahara H, Yoshimasu K, Kanemitsu Y, Kubo C: Identification of visceral patterns in
patients with stress-related disorders. Integr Med Int 2014;
1: 185–198.
Downloaded by:
69.147.248.153 - 4/11/2017 8:18:25 PM
... Az ember mentális állapotára is hatást gyakorol a máj, és képes befolyásolni az örömöt, haragot, idegességet és egyéb érzelmeket is. Ezenfelül a menstruációs ciklus szabályozásában is megvan a maga szerepe [6,9,10]. ...
... Ha felborul az egyensúly, az könnyen zsibbadáshoz vagy görcshöz vezethet a végtagokban, emellett a májvér az egészséges körömágyak színét és a köröm szilárdságát is elősegíti, ha a vér elegendő. A máj a vér tárolása mellett a vérmennyiség szabályozásában is szerepet vállal: nyugalmi állapotban nagy mennyiségű vér raktározódik a májban, míg izgalmi állapotban ez a szervezet szükséges helyeire jut, hogy fenntartsa azok normális működését [10]. ...
... A HKO szerint este tizenegy és hajnali három között a legaktívabb a csi és a vér a májban és az epehólyagban, ezért ekkortájt ajánlott a mély alvás állapotába is kerülni. Amennyiben ez nem történik meg, a májba nem jut elég tápanyag, ami ingerlékenységhez és figyelemzavarhoz vezethet, lévén nem képes kellő mértékben tárolni a vért és a hunt [10,11]. ...
... Hence, strengthening the Qi and fixing imbalances of the physiological systems are the principles for healing depression [44]. In TCM, the liver is in charge of dispersion and dredging to regulate digestion, absorption and emotions, as well as the circulation of Qi, blood and body fluids [31,45]. Normally, the liver-Qi is the first to be affected directly during an emotional change, followed by disharmony of the Qi among the five viscera, which can then lead to the dysregulation of the Qi and blood [43]. ...
... Overall, a lack or deficiency of Qi will lead to the development of weak immunity. In TCM, the liver plays important roles in regulating emotions and the maintenance of the movement of Qi and blood [31,43,45]. When the liver functions normally, free flow of Qi and blood is maintained, ensuring the transport of essential nutrients to other viscera, which results in good physical and mental health [45]. ...
... In TCM, the liver plays important roles in regulating emotions and the maintenance of the movement of Qi and blood [31,43,45]. When the liver functions normally, free flow of Qi and blood is maintained, ensuring the transport of essential nutrients to other viscera, which results in good physical and mental health [45]. If the liver's function of dispersion and dredging is abnormal, the flow of Qi and blood in the body may be obstructed, which can result in various problems, such as insomnia, melancholy, sentimentality, mood swings and even depression [31,43,48,51]. ...
Article
Full-text available
Traditional Chinese medicine body constitution (TCMBC) reflects a person’s vulnerability to diseases. Thus, identifying body constitutions prone to depression can help prevent and treat depression. The review aimed to assess and summarize the existing evidence that explores the relationship between TCMBC and depression. Psychology and Behavioral Sciences Collection, MEDLINE, PubMed, CNKI, Wanfang, SinoMed, Embase, VIP, CINAHL, and CMJ were searched from inception to April 2021. Observational studies assessing the association between TCMBC and depression were selected. The quality of the included studies were assessed using the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale (NOS). Eighteen studies were included in the systematic review and thirteen in the meta-analysis. The pooled odd ratios of developing depression for Qi-stagnation, Qi-deficiency, Yang-deficiency, Yin-deficiency, and Balanced constitutions were 3.12 (95% CI, 1.80–5.40; I2 = 94%), 2.15 (95% CI, 1.54–3.01; I2 = 89%), 1.89 (95% CI, 0.71–5.03; I2 = 81%), 1.41 (95% CI, 0.91–2.20; I2 = 57%), and 0.60 (95% CI, 0.40–0.90; I2 = 94%), respectively. The findings suggest that the evaluation of a person’s TCMBC could be useful the in prevention and treatment of depression. However, more case-control and cohort studies are required to further confirm the association between TCMBC and depression.
... This categorization aligns with TCM syndrome differentiation as the "liver exuberant and spleen weakness" pattern. 32 In TCM theory, the liver is believed to govern the body's tendons and fascia, 33 playing a vital role in storing and regulating blood. 34 On the other hand, the spleen is responsible for managing the body's muscles, controlling the processes of digestion and absorption, and serving as the fundamental source for Qi and blood generation. ...
Article
Full-text available
Background Cerebral palsy (CP) ranks as a major cause of motor disabilities in children, with spastic CP making up roughly 70–80% of all CP cases. The primary objective of our study is to identify characteristics of Traditional Chinese Medicine(TCM) symptom of spastic CP, thereby establishing correlations between the TCM symptom and the disease, providing a more scientific theoretical foundation for TCM treatments on spastic CP, enabling a deeper comprehension of clinical interventions, ultimately, improving rehabilitation outcomes in TCM treatment for spastic CP. Methods We conducted a data mining study on TCM symptom of spastic CP children aged 4–14 years old treated at Xi’an Encephalopathy Hospital Affiliated to Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, from October 2021 to March 2023. The medical records of all eligible and complete spastic CP patients were extracted, processed for data cleansing, transformed, and subsequently analyzed to discern distinctive TCM symptom. K-Means Clustering Analysis and Association Rule Analysis were used for data mining. Results Core symptoms identified for spastic CP encompassed “Motor Dysfunction”, “Impaired Speech”, “Delayed Development”, “Limb Stiffness”, “Rigidity in the limbs”, “Intellectual Impairment”, “Timidity and susceptibility to startle responses”, “Muscle Wasting”, and “Pale or Dull Complexion”. Among the top-ranking associations of symptom, patterns emerge wherein “Motor dysfunction” intertwine with “Impaired speech”, “Motor dysfunction” coexist with “Delayed development”, and “Impaired speech” are accompanied by “Delayed development”. Conclusion This study identified the core symptom of spastic CP and tentatively suggests that the clinical manifestations of spastic CP are essentially consistent with the TCM pattern “liver exuberance and spleen weakness”. This finding has facilitated the preliminary establishment of correlations between TCM pattern differentiation and the disease in medicine. It is anticipated that this correlation will bring tangible benefits to a larger number of children with spastic CP.
... Consequently, the concept of the liver storing blood encompasses its relationship with total blood flow volume and coagulation as well. 108 Therefore, this also underscores the correlation between liver function and cardiovascular function, and the measurement and recording of pulse wave harmonics are pertinent to the assessment of the first harmonic. ...
Article
Full-text available
Introduction Pulse harmonic analysis is a quantitative and objective methodology within traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) used to evaluate pulse characteristics. However, interpreting pulse wave data is challenging due to its inherent complexity. This study aims to provide a comprehensive review and comparison of existing human pulse wave harmonic analysis methods to elucidate their patterns and characteristics. Methods A systematic review of clinical research reports published from 1990 to 2021 was conducted, focusing on variations in harmonic characteristics across different medical conditions and physiological states. Keyword searches included terms related to analysis methods (e.g., "Pulse Spectrum," "harmonic analysis," "harmonic index") and measured indicators (e.g., "vascular response," "PPG," "Photoplethysmography," "aortic," "arterial," "blood pressure"). Supplementary research using PubMed's Mesh terms specifically targeted "Pulse wave analysis" within the methods and statistical analysis domain. Articles were filtered based on predefined criteria, including human participants and research related to pulse pressure or vascular volume changes. Conference papers, animal studies, and irrelevant research were excluded, with literature evaluation scales selected based on the retrieved research reports. Results Initially, 6487 research reports were identified, and after screening, 50 reports were included in the review. The analysis revealed that low-frequency harmonics increase following vigorous activity or sympathetic excitation but decrease during rest or parasympathetic excitation. Cardiovascular patients exhibited elevated first harmonics associated with the liver meridian, while diabetes patients displayed weakened third harmonics related to the spleen meridian. Liver dysfunction was linked to changes in the first harmonic, and cancer patients showed signs of liver and kidney yin deficiency in the first and second harmonics. These findings underscore the potential of harmonic analysis for TCM disease diagnosis and organ assessment. Moreover, individuals with conditions such as liver dysfunction, cancer, and gynecological disorders displayed distinct intensity patterns across harmonics one through ten compared to healthy controls, albeit with some variations. Heterogeneity in these studies mainly stemmed from differences in measurement methods and study populations. Additionally, research suggested that factors like blood circulation and cognitive activity influenced harmonic intensity. Conclusions In summary, this report consolidates prior research on pulse wave harmonics analysis, revealing unique patterns associated with various physiological conditions. Despite limitations, such as limited sample sizes in previous studies, the observed associations between physiological states and harmonics hold promise for potential clinical applications. This study lays a solid foundation for future applications of arterial wave harmonics analysis, promoting wider adoption of this analytical approach.
... For more than two thousand years, CM, Ayurvedic medicine, and Unani Shidda (AYUSH) [8] have focused on developing methodologies to preserve and maintain health, giving importance to the balance among the organs. Whereas CM regulates the body in a very early phase, keeping the person harmonized, WM acts when the patient is already showing signs of an illness that is in advanced stages [9]. We now know that for the treatment of mild and moderate syndromes, multidisciplinary intervention reduces typical respiratory symptoms as well as lung exudation and prevents further development of the disease. ...
Article
Full-text available
The rapid spread of the new coronavirus disease (COVID-19) caused by SARS-CoV-2 has become a global pandemic. Although specific vaccines are available and natural drugs are being researched, supportive care and specific treatments to alleviate symptoms and improve patient quality of life remain critical. Chinese medicine (CM) has been employed in China due to the similarities between the epidemiology, genomics, and pathogenesis of SARS-CoV-2 and SARS-CoV. Moreover, the integration of other traditional oriental medical systems into the broader framework of integrative medicine can offer a powerful approach to managing the disease. Additionally, it has been reported that integrated medicine has better effects and does not increase adverse drug reactions in the context of COVID-19. This article examines preventive measures, potential infection mechanisms, and immune responses in Western medicine (WM), as well as the pathophysiology based on principles of complementary medicine (CM). The convergence between WM and CM approaches, such as the importance of maintaining a strong immune system and promoting preventive care measures, is also addressed. Current treatment options, traditional therapies, and classical prescriptions based on empirical knowledge are also explored, with individual patient circumstances taken into account. An analysis of the potential benefits and challenges associated with the integration of complementary and Western medicine (WM) in the treatment of COVID-19 can provide valuable guidance, enrichment, and empowerment for future research endeavors.
... The main functions of the liver meridian include smoothing the flow of blood and energy to the whole body; regulating bile secretion and store blood; connecting with the tendons, nails, and eyes. [6] Imbalance in the liver meridian is associated with not only diseases of the liver as defined by the organ anatomy, but emotional changes, such as anger and bitterness, as well as a number of psychosomatic disorders, such as depression, anxiety, and insomnia. However, few studies have specifically explored whether anxiety and depression were associated with different types of chronic liver disease. ...
Article
Full-text available
Causes of chest pain can vary from benign to life-threatening conditions, and in many cases not necessary of cardiac origin. A possible reason for noncardiac chest pain could be anxiety or depression caused by chronic liver diseases. The aim of this study was to investigate the association of anxiety and depression with chronic liver disease in patients with noncardiac pain. Patients with chest tightness or pain referred for treadmill exercise testing were recruited from a regional hospital in southern Taiwan. Medical records of the patients were used to define the presence and type of chronic liver disease. Multiple logistic regression analyses were conducted to assess the association of anxiety and depression with chronic liver disease. A total of 2537 patients with liver function test results and abdominal sonography data were analyzed, and 1965 patients showed a negative treadmill exercise testing. The mean age of these 1965 patients was 51.9 years and 54.2% were male. The prevalence of alcoholic liver disease, hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and fatty liver disease was 10.6%, 10.9%, 3.7%, and 27.0%, respectively. Results from multiple logistic regression analyses showed that the risk of anxiety (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 1.83, P < .001) and depression (aOR = 1.85, P < .001) was significantly higher in patients with alcoholic liver disease. Anxiety was significantly higher in patients with fatty liver disease (aOR = 1.30, P = .031), and the risk of depression was significantly higher in patients with chronic hepatitis C (aOR = 2.18, P = .005). In conclusion, in patients with noncardiac chest pain, alcoholic liver disease was significantly associated with anxiety and depression, while those with fatty liver and chronic hepatitis C were associated with anxiety and depression, respectively. Clinicians should be vigilant to these correlations in their practice.
... 21 The liver has an important role in modulating blood volume, restoring a large amount of blood during rest and releasing it during activities to meet the increased demands; besides, the liver has been considered as a source of endurance (i.e., an enhanced function of the liver is manifested by a good endurance and vice versa). 32 Finally, as with other studies, our¯ndings should be viewed in light of some limitations. The major limitation in our study was that neither the physiotherapist conducting the research nor the patients receiving the intervention were blinded to the intervention allocation. ...
Article
Full-text available
Background: Peripheral artery disease (PAD) receives little attention despite its clinical consequences. Intermittent claudication is the most disturbing symptom of the disease resulting in marked limitations to functional walking performance. Treadmill walking exercise is the first-line non-pharmacological treatment in PAD; however, older patients may be unable to exercise because of the functional disability of the disease itself or deconditioning. Objective: In an attempt to seek an alternative intervention, this study aimed to assess the effect of laser acupuncture on patient-reported claudication symptoms and walk performance in PAD. Methods: Thirty male patients with PAD were assigned randomly to a control group ([Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] years old, [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]kg/m ² ) or a study group ([Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] years old, [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]kg/m ² ). Inclusion criteria were mild-to-moderate PAD, Fontaine stage II, unilateral or bilateral claudications, and older men. Exclusion criteria were asymptomatic PAD, resting pain, severe or critical limb ischemia, ischemic ulcers, and patients contraindicated for laser therapy. Both groups received pharmacological treatment, but only the study group received gallium aluminum arsenide (GaAlAs) laser therapy at nine acupuncture points, namely, Liver 2 (LV2), Stomach 41 (ST41), Urinary bladder 40 (UB40), UB60, UB61, Gall bladder 30 (GB30), GB34, GB38, and GB40 for 2 days/week and five consecutive weeks. A pen-type laser device was used at a wavelength of [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]nm, with a power output of [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]mW, a spot size of 0.08[Formula: see text]cm ² , and an energy density of 2[Formula: see text]J/cm ² , for 60[Formula: see text]s/point. The Edinburgh Claudication Questionnaire (ECQ) and the 6-min walk distance (6-MWD) were the endpoints of the study. The McNemar–Bowker Test and Generalized Estimating Equations Ordinal Logistic Regression Model were used for the within- and between-group statistical analyses of the categorical data of ECQ, respectively; and a mixed model MANOVA was used for the within- and between-group analyses of the 6-MWD data. Results: There was a significant improvement in patients’ response to ECQ only in the study group compared to the baseline ([Formula: see text]) and the controls ([Formula: see text]) after the intervention. The 6-MWD increased significantly in the study group compared to the baseline ([Formula: see text][Formula: see text]m versus [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]m, [Formula: see text]). Conclusion: The GaAlAs laser acupuncture applied at selected acupoints may be a promising intervention complementary to drug therapy that could help relieve claudication symptoms and improve physical functional performance in older men with PAD (Fontaine stage II). Trials were conducted under the Trial Registration No. PACTR201912698539774.
... Some symptoms appear when the energy of this meridian becomes unbalanced, such as headache, irritability, colic/cramping, and irregular sleep. (26) The protocol application from this first study (17) aimed to balance the energy flow in the body with the objective of restoring the functions of the organs related to the menstrual cycle. The improvement in symptoms, as observed in the students reports, shows the positive effect of this intervention on Qi circulation in these meridians and their interrelationships. ...
Article
Full-text available
Background: Premenstrual syndrome is a highly prevalent cyclical disorder among women of childbearing age which interferes with daily activities, mood, and quality of life. Purpose: To evaluate the effects of a foot reflexology protocol on relieving premenstrual syndrome symptoms in nursing students. Setting: Nursing School, São Paulo University, Brazil. Participants: A convenience sample of 17 nursing students, diagnosed with moderate-to-severe premenstrual syndrome as assessed by the Premenstrual Symptoms Screening Tool (PSST). Research design: A pre-post pilot intervention study. Intervention: The intervention consisted of eight reflexology sessions lasting 30 minutes for eight weeks. Main outcome measure: Evaluation of the participants by the PSST applied at the beginning and at the end of the study. Results: The participants had an average age of 21.7 (±2.6) years, ranging from 19 to 28 years; all were single, and most were in the third year of the course (58.8%); 75.6% lived with their family; 82.4% do not use contraceptives; 64.7% reported regular menstrual flow with an average duration of 5.1 (±1.1) days, and an average menstrual cycle interval of 29.3 (±4.9) days. The intervention significantly reduced the premenstrual symptoms assessed by the PSST (p<.017) with a pre-post difference of 10.2 points in the overall score, and the items score decreased between 1.2 to 3.4 for difficulty concentrating, insomnia, hypersomnia, feeling overwhelmed, muscle/ joint pain, bloating, weight gain; and between 3.5 to 5.2 to anger/irritability, anxiety/ tension, tearful, depressed mood, decreased interest in daily activities, fatigue, overeating, and breast tenderness. There was a significant decrease regarding the functional impact of premenstrual symptoms domain in the overall score with a pre-post difference of 10.7, and between 1.7 and 3.0 for all of the items (p<.04), except for the item "your home responsibilities". Conclusion: Foot reflexology has shown promising results in reducing premenstrual syndrome symptoms.
Article
According to the theory of yin-yang, everything in this universe is conflictingly and inter relatedly united, deep connected, exchangeable with two opposite dynamics i.e. yang and yin. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) makes heavy use of the five elements principle. The idea of elements, the rule of transmission, and the law of similarity—all of which were common at the time—are said to have served as the foundation for the development of this five elements theory. Most likely, based on the principle of contagiousness the coupling of the internal organs was done. The internally linked organs were divided into five components according to the similarity rule, and theory of five elements was contrasted with a variety of objects, including seasons, colors, tastes, sentiments, and so forth. In this review we have complied this concept also dealing with the types of Qi, the vital energy associated with Yin-Yang in regulating various body functions.
Article
Full-text available
Hepatopulmonary syndrome (HPS) is characterized by abnormalities in blood oxygenation caused by the presence of intrapulmonary vascular dilations (IPVD) in the context of liver disease, generally at a cirrhotic stage. Knowledge about the subject is still only partial. The majority of the information about the etiopathogenesis of HPS has been obtained through experiments on animals. Reported prevalence in patients who are candidates for a liver transplantation (LT) varies between 4% and 32%, with a predominance of mild or moderate cases. Although it is generally asymptomatic it does have an impact on their quality of life and survival. The diagnosis requires taking an arterial blood gas sample of a seated patient with alveolar-arterial oxygen gradient (AaO2) ≥ 15 mm Hg, or ≥ 20 mm Hg in those over 64 years of age. The IPVD are identified through a transthoracic contrast echocardiography or a macroaggregated albumin lung perfusion scan (99mTc-MAA). There is currently no effective medical treatment. LT has been shown to reverse the syndrome and improve survival rates, even in severe cases. Therefore the policy of prioritizing LT would appear to increase survival rates. This paper takes a critical and clinical look at the current understanding of HPS, as well as the controversies surrounding it and possible future research. © The Author(s) 2016. Published by Baishideng Publishing Group Inc. All rights reserved.
Article
Full-text available
Background: Since, to our knowledge, there is no report on age-related changes in the patterns associated with anxiety and mood disorders, a large-size case-control study was conducted. Methods: A total of 914 new cases were assessed at a psychosomatic clinic of a tertiary medical care center. The severity of visceral patterns was analyzed according to the main symptoms described and a comprehensive questionnaire. Patterns of the liver (three), heart (four), and kidney (one) as well as dual deficiency of the heart and spleen were assessed. Results: In females under 40 years of age, liver qi depression and phlegm fire harassing the heart were associated with generalized anxiety disorder. Liver fire flaming upward was associated with all forms of anxiety disorders in this group. Phlegm fire harassing the heart was associated with depression and all forms of mood disorders in females over 40 years of age, while it was inversely associated in males over 40 years of age. Conclusion: The order of the traditional Chinese patterns resulting in anxiety or mood disorders was consistent with the development of liver qi depression into liver fire flaming upward or phlegm fire harassing the heart according to the traditional Chinese theory. The patterns associated with depression and all forms of mood disorders vary according to age and sex.
Article
Full-text available
Background: There is no report on traditional Chinese patterns associated with stress-related disorders such as eating disorder, pain disorder, primary insomnia, functional dyspepsia, irritable bowel syndrome, hyperventilation syndrome, bronchial asthma, and dystonia. Therefore, a large-size case-control study was conducted. Methods: A total of 914 new cases were assessed at a psychosomatic clinic of a tertiary medical care center. The severity of visceral patterns was analyzed according to the main symptoms described and a comprehensive questionnaire. Three patterns of the liver, four of the heart, and one of the kidney as well as dual deficiency of the heart and spleen were assessed. Results: Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that liver qi depression, liver fire flaming upward, phlegm clouding the pericardium, and dual deficiency of the heart and spleen were associated with bulimia nervosa in females. Liver fire flaming upward and phlegm turbidity were associated with primary insomnia and pain disorder, respectively, in males. An excess pattern was associated with irritable bowel syndrome, while dual deficiency of the heart and spleen was associated with functional dyspepsia in females. On the other hand, the deficiency-excess pattern was reverse in males. Phlegm fire harassing the heart was associated with hyperventilation syndrome in females. Phlegm clouding the pericardium and two kinds of yin deficiency were associated with dystonia in females. Conclusion: Primary insomnia, pain disorder in males, gastrointestinal disorders, and hyperventilation syndrome are each attributed to a single individual pattern. The pattern is different between both sexes. Bulimia nervosa and dystonia are attributed to a few patterns respectively.
Article
Full-text available
The theory of Chinese medicine believes rage harms normal liver function, namely 'raged impairing liver' in short. The purpose of this study is to investigate the impact of acute stress on liver lipid metabolism in rats.Methods and results: Comparison of liver function indicators, serum lipid level of rats under acute stress and normal rats, as well as detection of liver tissue in the SR - BI, ABCG5 and ABCG8 protein and gene expression changes. Acute stressed rats had shown a lower serum levels of albumin (P<0.01) , HDL- cholesterol (P<0.01) than normal rats, with higher serum levels of globulin (P<0.01) and LDL-cholesterol (P<0.05). Acute stressed rat's liver tissue exhibited a lower protein expression of ABCG5 (P<0.05) , ABCG8 (P<0.01) and a higher level of SR-BI(P<0.05), compared with to normal rats. Furthermore, liver gene expression of ABCG5 (P<0.01) and ABCG8 (P<0.05) were lower in acute stressed rats than in normal rats, while SR-BI was higher in acute stressed rats than in normal rats (P<0.01). Acute stress had a direct influence on rat's liver lipid metabolism.
Article
Methods and thoughts of the further research on central neurobiological mechanisms of Gan in taking charge of dispersion and regulating emotion are discussed. By applying the holistic approach and homeostasis theory, combined with modern psychological stress theory, the authors put forward their hypothesis of study. They offered that the TCM theory of "Gan takes charge of dispersion and could regulate emotion" is affirmatively to have certain mechanisms of central neurobiology. So, cut-in from the point of psychological stress reaction, adopting the research thoughts of "prescription-syndrome-therapeutic effectiveness--essence of Zang-Fu function", a model of chronic psychological stress reaction (CPSR) for imitating the process of comprehensive pathologic change due to Gan fails to take charge of dispersion and leads to emotional disorder was established. It is considered based on analysis of materials obtained from previous studies, that the central neurobiologic mechanism of so called dispersion, which Gan in charge of, is related to the regulation of hypothalamus-pitutary-adrenal gland axis. Concretely, the function of Gan in TCM may be, in the gross, related with the changes of multiple neurotransmitters and their synthetase produced in the process of CPSR (emotional disorder) regulation, such as neuropeptides, hormones, cyclic necleotide system and Fos protein expression, showing the characteristics of multiple links, multiple levels and multiple targets, with the effects involve several brain regions including various clusters of nuclei in hypothalamus, hippocampus and amygdala, etc.
On microscopic and macroscopic substance of liver manifestation in TCM
  • M L Zheng
Zheng ML: On microscopic and macroscopic substance of liver manifestation in TCM. Beijing Zhong Yi Yao Da Xue Xue Bao 2013; 36: 305-307, 316.
The comparative study on the organ of liver between traditional Chinese medicine and Western medicine
  • Y Tong
  • H J Chen
  • T Zhang
  • S J Zhang
Tong Y, Chen HJ, Zhang T, Zhang SJ: The comparative study on the organ of liver between traditional Chinese medicine and Western medicine. Shandong Zhong Yi Za Zhi 2000; 19: 515-518.
Linkage between liver theory of traditional Chinese medicine and theory of modern medicine
  • Q Lin
Lin Q: Linkage between liver theory of traditional Chinese medicine and theory of modern medicine. Zhonghua Zhong Yi Yao Xue Kan 2015; 33: 2997-3005.
Foundation of liver aging
  • L Yang
  • B Y Wang
Yang L, Wang BY: Foundation of liver aging. Zhongguo Lin Chuang Yi Sheng 2015; 43: 7-10.