One role of the Liver is to mobilize Yang upward to assist the Spleen in raising the “clear” Nutritive Qi to the Lung. Also, the arousal of Qi, via the Gallbladder (bile), activates the digestive and peristaltic activity of the Stomach and Intestines, further assisting the Spleen in the generation and distribution of Nutritive Qi. In relation to the Liver, the role of the Spleen is to transform the digestate of the Stomach, facilitate the descension of impure Qi into the Lower Burner and the ascension of “clear and pure” Qi to the Upper Burner. The impure Qi is either further purified and concentrated by the Kidney or collected and discharged by the Bladder and Large Intestine, while the Pure Qi is transmuted by the alchemy of the Lung (after mingling with the Heavenly Qi of the atmosphere) into the “Righteous” Qi that benefits life. Through their relationship, the Liver and Spleen organize the processes of digestion, transformation, assimilation and the distribution of finer and coarser substances. Smooth interaction between these Organ Networks maintains nourishment and the unobstructed passage of Qi, Moisture, Essence and Blood through the Middle Burner. Harmonize Wood & Earth disperses Qi, Moisture and Blood, tonifies Blood, dispels Wind, Heat and Dampness, consolidates Qi and Moisture at the surface and stabilizes the Shen, benefitting reflection and clarity of thought. RATIONALE The formula that harmonizes Liver-Spleen makes peace between Wood and Earth by modulating the transformation and distribution of Nutritive Essence, the source of Qi and Blood digestion and harmonizing the circulation of Qi and Blood. To relax Liver Qi and nurture and distribute Blood, this formula includes Bupleurum root, prepared Cyperus rhizome, Bitter orange immature fruit, White peony root and Dong quai root. Tangerine dried rind of green fruit, Saussurea root, White atractylodes rhizome, Poria and charred Chinese hawthorn fruit warm and activate the Spleen and Stomach, benefit digestion and relieve accumulated Moisture. Chinese mint herb, Siler root and Chinese licorice root and rhizome dispel Wind and Heat, and support healthy muscles and nerves. This formula supports normal peristalsis, thus supporting the normal passage of food through the digestive and eliminative organs while also benefiting healthy menstruation.
