How to Tell if Your Spleen and Stomach are Healthy: Five Signs
Introduction: Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) believes that the spleen and stomach are vital for the proper functioning of the entire body. When certain parts of the body show changes, it can indicate a problem with the spleen and stomach. Therefore, here are five signs to tell you if your spleen and stomach are healthy:
Red Nasal Wings Indicate Heat in the Spleen and Stomach
If a person's nasal wings are red, it often indicates heat in the spleen and stomach.
Solution: For those with heat in the spleen and stomach, you can massage the Zusanli point (ST36) for 5 minutes at a time, 2-3 times a day. For better results, combine this with massaging the Neiting point (ST44), which is located between the second and third toes of the foot.
Flabby Muscles Indicate a Weak Spleen and Stomach
If a person has flabby, inelastic muscles, or has little muscle but a lot of fat, it is often due to a weak spleen and stomach.
Solution: Those with a weak spleen and stomach can often exercise their toes and massage their lower legs.
Dull Lips Indicate a Deficiency of Spleen Qi
If a person's spleen Qi is functioning well, their lips will be ruddy and glossy, and their skin will have good elasticity. Conversely, if there is a deficiency of spleen Qi, the lips will be pale and dull, or even sallow, and they often peel.
Solution: For those with a deficiency of spleen Qi, you can move your lunchtime earlier to 11 AM, as this is when spleen Qi is strongest and the ability to digest food and absorb nutrients is at its peak. The spleen is weakest between 7 PM and 11 PM. You can eat one fruit one hour after dinner to help strengthen the spleen.
Dark Circles Indicate Turbid Qi and Blood in the Spleen and Stomach
The stomach meridian is a pathway abundant with Qi and blood. The area under the eyes is the starting point of this meridian and is prone to accumulating turbid substances. This is why people who stay up late often get dark circles, which is a manifestation of turbid Qi and blood.
Solution: Try to relieve stress as much as possible; ensure adequate sleep and avoid staying up late; watch fewer stimulating movies and TV shows; adjust your diet by eating smaller, more frequent meals, consuming more easily digestible proteins like eggs and fish, and eating less spicy and irritating food.
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