The Spleen and Stomach inhabit the region between the diaphragm and the navel. Here in the body’s center occurs the work of transformation of food and liquids, the upward ascension of Nutritive Essence and the downward movement of fluid and waste. All Qi, Moisture and Blood must move smoothly through the center − the healthy function of the Spleen is essential to the efficient distribution of body constituents. Because of their nature, the Spleen and Stomach are particularly vulnerable to congestion and the ensuing problems of accumulation, stasis and the transformation of Qi and Moisture into Heat, Dampness and Phlegm.Strengthen Earth promotes and mediates the complex and sometimes conflicting tendencies of the Spleen and Stomach by tonifying Qi, dispersing Qi and Moisture, warming Yang and dispelling Heat. RATIONALE Astragalus root, White atractylodes rhizome, Black jujube fruit and Red jujube fruit tonify Qi and invigorate the Spleen. Poria and Job’s tears seed strengthen the Spleen and eliminate Dampness by assisting in the transformation and distribution of fluids. Bitter orange mature fruit, Saussurea root, Siler root and Forsythia fruit combine to disperse stagnant Qi and food, dispel Heat and eliminate Wind (air) in the Lower Burner. Ginger rhizome purges Cold and warms Spleen and Stomach Yang while licorice moderates and integrates the actions of all the ingredients. Together these herbs fortify the Spleen, regulate the Stomach and decongest the Center by supplementing Qi, aiding digestion and counteracting accumulation.
