TCM & Western medicine which is effective ?

After finish my final exam on Dec 7 , I am very happy to enjoy my holiday , in general , it is very busy and too many assignments and exams during my study period this term of TCM , acupuncture came from China , I founded you need to change your mind and thought , the most important basic concept such as Yin Yang theory , Five elements , Qi , blood , body fluid , acupuncture point and so on , I need to keep in mind and what's philosophy in ancient dynasty of China.

Maybe just beginning to learn from TCM , I am not sure TCM can be a competitor with western medicine , because too many abstract theory in TCM and we can not get a scientific data to improve what's happen disease occur ? for example , when diarrhea , spleen qi deficient is the most factor due to last clinical experiences accumulation from ancient doctor , in really , we can easy to understand what happen if you intake unclean food and water or improper diet habit , infectious disease from virus and bacteria are the major reasons when diarrhea occur.

TCM in comparison with western medicine principle , I prefer to believe western medicine principle because TCM still can not persuade me have a effective treatment once disease occur , too many abstract concepts , not realistic is big problem , too slow process time will not a good method during treatment ,time is money , we have no time to explain what is qi ? what is excess ? what is deficiency ? patient do not need those concept , they want to recovery at once from you , how patient will trust you ?

Prevention and Treatment of Traditional Chinese Medicine ---- Assignment Dec 7 , 2007

1. Please explain the principles of prevention of TCM and list some preventive methods as well

TCM regards "healthy energy" as the general defense mechanism against infectious disease,The concept of holism is a main characteristic of TCM immunology,The correlations between the organs and tissues, as well as the human person and the living environments, are organized according to specific orders, which give rise to mutual balance between each physiological function. This integral stability and harmony is the root of disease defense and health maintenance. Any disturbances in this equilibrium will cause disease

When healthy energy is well stored inside the body, no evils can cause interference,imply that healthy energy is the body's natural resistance against disease, and disease is seen as the result of the disharmonious healthy energy within us. Occasionally, other TCM terms such as primordial qi , genuine qi , protective qi ,also refer to this kind of resistance. All of these embody the body's comprehensive immune functioning.

According to the yin yang theory, the body's yin and yang are regulated and adjusted continuously. Keeping yin and yang in equilibrium is an essential factor to carry on normal life activities. Once this equilibrium is disturbed, disease will result.

TCM uses different modulation methods, for example adjusting the body's yin and yang, qi (vital energy), blood or organ functions. They can rehabilitate the body to go from a hyper-functioning state to a normal state or from an under-functioning level back to a normal state. TCM has unique theories about this, categorizing the regulating properties into four actions; "to depress when stimulated", "to rise when collapsed", "to subdue when overwhelming" and "to nourish when deficient."

• Physical Exercises - Moderate and gentle-flowing activities are considered the best way to move qi and blood around the body for the purpose of protecting and nourishing every part of it, such as qi-gong exercise ba duan jin exercise
  
• A good like habits to taking care of the Body, Avoiding Over-exertion ,normal sleep is the result of the harmony of yin and yang in the body
• Mind Cultivation ,keep Optimistic and have a positive attitude, then, we can overcome obstacles or problems more easily
• Normal excretion the waste products of urine and stool provide a lot of information about the state of health balance in our body
• The basic principles of TCM dietary advice in the four seasons to keep harmony and balance of yin - yang

  Yang	Yin
  Spring - Warm & sweet foods	Autumn - Cool & sour foods
  Summer - Hot & pungent foods	Winter - Cold & bitter foods

• Herbs and functional foods used for medicinal prevention , Medicine and food function as supplements and complement each other. Functional food is rendered with medicinal properties, and the effects of medicine become stronger with the combination of food.

2. Please explain the therapeutic principles of TCM

Therapeutic methods in TCM can be classified as either internal or external treatments, each with specific methods.The goals of therapy are to alleviate symptoms and treat the causes of disease, strengthen the body's resistance to disease and eliminate pathogenic factors and give priority to disease prevention.The main therapeutic principles in TCM can be summarized as;

• Concentrating treatment on the root cause- treating the biao first in emergency cases , treating ben in less urgent cases , treating both root and branch simultaneously , contrary treatment(eq. using medicine of cold nature to treat pseudo-cold syndrome) , normal treatment (drugs of hot nature are used for cold syndromes)
  
• Strengthening healthy qi(nourishing therapy)and eliminating pathogenic factors(purgation therapy)
  
• Regulation of yin and yang - reducing excess , supplementing insufficiency ,eq. strengthening water source can control predominant yang
  
• Abidance by individuality, locality and seasons , eq. avoiding using cold-natured herbs in winter
  

Essential basic aspects of treatment of TCM

• When a deficiency exists, the energy should be tonified;
• When an excess exists, the energy should be reduced
• When too much heat is present, it should be expelled or cooled;
• When too much cold is present, it should be expelled or warmed
• When dampness is present, it should be expelled;
• When phlegm is present, it should be resolved

For example, when a condition of excess is apparent in the disharmony, the treatment focuses on reducing the excess and eliminating the factors that brought about the excess in the first place. If a condition of deficiency is apparent in the disharmony, the treatment focuses on tonifying the deficiency to ensure that energy is maintained at a healthy level



3. please explain the following case by your understanding of basic theory of TCM

Miss B 34 ages

Main synptoms : gradual development of menorrhea from delayed menorrhea , scanty menorrhea and light -colored menorrhea into amenorrhea,
bright-white complexion or sallow complexion , lusterless hair or loss hair, dizziness, blurred vision ,palpitation, shortness of breath , no desire to to speak , spiritual lassitude ,anorexia ,loose stool , light-color lips and tongue as well as thin and weak pulse

Diagonosis : Amenorrhea - qi and blood deficiency syndrome

-------> As menstrual disorders for a long time , it is in relation with the disorder functions of Liver , Spleen ,heart , kidney organs as follows

Heart qi is deficient - heart dominate blood and mind , if heart qi is deficient, blood cannot maintain an efficient flow in the blood vessels, and the pulse is weak. looks pale, and the tongue , lips also appears pale and white , palpitations ,spiritual lassitude

spleen qi is insufficient, there is inadequate production of qi and blood ,that cause anorexia , loose stool

liver - store and dispersing blood ,if liver yin deficiency fails to control liver yang , liver will hyper-function also consuming kidney yin(all source of yin)

kidney - yin deficiency , hair loss or other hair disorders can indicate a kidney deficiency or blood deficiency , further development could be impair yin affecting yang(kidney qi is the motive force of yang),

Treatment Principle:

1.Liver and Kidney Yin Deficiency --- Nourish the Liver and Kidney Yin
2.Spleen and Kidney Yang Deficiency --- Strengthen the Spleen and warm the Kidney



4. Please explain the prevention methods of disease in your own culture

• Chinese massage promotes blood and qi flows
  

• Regular physical exercise , it is noted that many Chinese exercise regimes such as Qi gong or Tai chi , Ba duan jin of exercise
• Sleeping recharges the body, and is important in maintaining a balance of yin and yang within it
• A proper living environment can also promote health , feng sui most have big influence in our culture,we should choose to live in places with peaceful and secluded surroundings, fresh air, plenty of sunshine, excellent ventilation and moderate humidity.
• Look after our mental condition by maintaining a calm and peaceful mind, avoiding excess emotional frustration, enjoying hobbies, and invigorating the heart as well as the physical body
• Regular and balanced lifestyle

1) Remain a cheerful mood.
2) Avoid strenuous exercise or physical activities.
3) Don't overeat. Make sure to have enough sleep.
4) Abstain from smoking, alcohol, strong tea and coffee.
5) Those who are severely sick should lie in bed to rest.

The food and beverage we consume daily - whether it is of hot or cold properties - should be chosen according to a person's constitution and condition. Inappropriate intake will lead to extreme energy excess inside the body and disturb the yin- yang balance.

• Tonifying by herbs , Tonifying by acupuncture and moxibustion , Tonifying by sexual activities:

Regulate the function of the adrenal cortex
Enhance the immune system
Promote the function of the sex organs
Improve the renal system
Improve the respiratory system
Improve the digestive system
Regulate the nervous system
Improve the blood circulatory system
Improve the metabolism

Infectious disesae --- Final written exam on date Dec 7 2007

1.What is an infection disease?

• Any disease or illnesses caused by microbes, bacteria or viruses that can be transmitted from person to person or from organism to organism are called infectious disease

2.What is a virus? Describe the structure of a enveloped virus.

3.How do you classify bacteria according to shape?

It depending on shape they are classified as :

• Coccus (sphere) staphylococcus aureus
• Bacillus (rod) salmonella typhi
• Spirillum (spiral) campylobacter jejuni

4.Give a short description of sexual and asexual reproduce in fungi.

• asexual reproduction: is the production of spores , spores are reproductive cells that are capable of growing into an individual organism.

• sexual reproduction: it involves the formation of a cell with two haploid nuclei called a dikaryotic cell , dikaryotic cells may be formed by the fusion of two different hyphae ,the two nuclei fuse to form a diploid zygote and meiosis produces either four haploid nuclei or four haploid cells

5.Explain how entamoeba histolytica cause dysentery in humans.

• Cysts excreted in feces can be transmitted directly from hand to mouth or indirectly through fecally contaminated food and water
  

• Upon ingestion the cysts pass through the stomach and excyst in the lower portion of the small intestine. Excystation involves a disruption of the cyst wall and an ameba produces eight small uninucleated trophozoites. These immature trophozoites colonize the large intestine, especially the cecal and sigmoid rectal regions, where they feed on bacteria and cellular debris and undergo repeated rounds of binary fission. Entamoeba causes dysentery, (bloody diarrhea, intestinal pain and fever),some types of Salmonella, some types of Shigella, and Yersinia

6.Write a short note about anaerobic infections.

• An anaerobic infections is by bacteria (called anaerobes) which can't grow in the presence of oxygen , anaerobic bacteria can infect deep wounds , deep tissues and internal organs ,these infections are characterized by abscess formation , foul-smelling pus and tissue destruction.

7.What are Rickettsiae? Give an example of a disease caused by Rickettsiae.

• Rickettsiae are gram-negative, aerobic, rod-shaped bacteria often surrounded by a protein layer and slime layer. The natural cycle of its organisms generally involves a vertebrate and an invertebrate host.

• Rickettsiae are a diverse collection of intracellular Gram-negative bacteria found in ticks, fleas, mites and mammals. These pathogens cause infections that disseminate in the blood to many organs.

• Disease : Typhus (R. prowazekii ) , Rocky Mountain spotted fever(R. rickettsii)

8. How can cross infections occur in practice of acupuncture?

• Cross infections may be acquired by the practitioner as well as patients and the office personnel. They may be acquired directly - from contact between patient and practitioner. They may also be acquired by transfer – carried from one patient to another on the unwashed hands of the practitioner.

9.Explain three general modes of transmission of microoganism in the practice of acupuncture.

• Direct contact - disease is spread by direct touching ( body fluids of Hepatitis B patient)by the practitioner during treatment

• Blood borne - disease is spread by blood and blood products , when needles infected by HIV patients

• Airborne - disease is spread through air , enter the patient's skin through needle prick injury

10.What are 2 characteristics of a microorganism are responsible for its pathogenicity?

• Invasiveness - measure of the bacterium's ability to grow inside the host

• Toxigenicity - measure the capacity of the bacterium to produce toxins(chemical subatances) that cause damage to the host
  

11.List some viral and bacterial diseases that can be transmitted to normal hosts by acupuncture?

• Viral: Hepatitis B, HIV(AIDS)
• Bacterial: Syphilis, Eg Peritonitis , streptococcus pneumoniae(cause pnuemonia)

The bacteria and viral disease transmit to normal host by acupuncture needles

It is very important to understand virus and bacteria infectious disease through acupuncture needles , the acupuncturist have to pay more attention and prevent directly or indirectly transmitting any disease from person to person during treatment .

What are viruses?

Viruses are too small to be seen by the naked eye. They can't multiply on their own, so they have to invade a 'host' cell and take over its machinery in order to be able to make more virus particles.

Viruses consist of genetic materials (DNA or RNA) surrounded by a protective coat of protein. They are capable of latching onto cells and getting inside them.

Different types of viruses target different types of host cells. Cold viruses generally attack the mucosa cells lining the upper respiratory tract, while influenza viruses can also attack further down as far as the lungs because they are not covered by protective skin.

• The herpes viruses that cause chicken pox ,
• Hepatitis B is caused by a virus that attacks liver cells.
• Rota-viruses, which cause diarrhea, attack cells lining the gastrointestinal tract.
• The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), the virus that causes AIDS, is especially deadly because it attacks some of the most important cells of the immune system, the helper T-cells. Because the immune system itself is attacked, the body is unable to rid itself of the virus.

What are bacteria?

Bacteria are organisms made up of just one cell. They are capable of multiplying by themselves, as they have the power to divide. Their shapes vary, and doctors use these characteristics to separate them into groups.

Bacteria exist everywhere, inside and on our bodies. Most of them are completely harmless and some of them are very useful. But some bacteria can cause diseases, either because they end up in the wrong place in the body, or simply because they are 'designed' to invade us.

How are infections with viruses and bacteria through acupuncture treatment ?

Viral and bacterial infections are both spread in basically the same ways.

• A person with a cold can spread the infection by coughing and/or sneezing.
• Bacteria or viruses can be passed on by touching or shaking hands with another person.
• Touching food with dirty hands will also allow viruses or bacteria from the intestine to spread.
• Body fluids such as blood, saliva and semen can contain the infecting organisms and transmission of such fluids, for example by injection or acupuncture needles , is important, particularly for viral infections like hepatitis or AIDS.
• bacterial infections, such as staphylococcal septicaemia and subacute bacterial endocarditis, have been reported in association with acupuncture treatment

What are the high risk factors to transmitted disease by acupuncture needles ?

• skin abrasions
• breaks in mucous membranes
• inadequate sanitation
• inadequate sterilisation
• the acupuncturist who may contract the infection through needle stick injuries whilst handling needles.
• Whilst sterile, disposable needles were used for each patient
• the same saline bottle was reused,with contaminated needles
• to draw fluid for dilution of blood before reinjection.

How to avoid infection

• Regular hand washing is good practice and one of the main ways of reducing transmission of infections (bacterial, viral and fungal) between patients.
• Wounds and skin lesions should be covered with waterproof dressings.
• Protective clothing reduces the spread of infection.
• Blood spillages should be cleaned promptly,
• wearing gloves and using household bleach and paper towels.
• Contaminated items should be discarded in a clinical waste bag.
• disposable needles remove the risks of Hepatitis B and C and HIV

Summary

A microorganism can travel from one host to another in a variety of ways ;

• Direct contact - disease is spread by direct touching ( body fluids of Hepatitis B patient)by the practitioner during treatment
• Blood borne - disease is spread by blood and blood products , when needles infected by HIV patients
• Airborne - disease is spread through air , enter the patient's skin through needle prick injury

Good infection control is essential. Like any other science, new research forces infection control to evolve and refine its procedures. Acupuncturists need to constantly review their standards as new viruses and risks are identified.

Normal host response to infectious disease

Introduction

An infectious disease is a clinically evident disease resulting from the presence of pathogenic microbial agents, including virus , bacteria , fungi , protozoa , multi-cellular parasites, and aberrant proteins known as prions. These pathogens are able to cause disease in animals and/or plants,Infectious diseases represent the most prevalent human diseases worldwide. AIDS ,Chronic hepatitis B, tuberculosis, enterovirus infection, and influenza etc remain to be important infectious diseases and result in significant health and cost burdens.

Content

Two basic levels of immunity exist in healthy individuals to confer protection against microbes and other foreign bodies; the less perfect natural immunity and the more specific acquired immunity.

The natural or innate immunity

The nonspecific mechanisms provide general barriers to infection in our body defense system , it can divide some parts as follows

• The skin and mucous membranes which secrete acids and enzyme such as lysozyme can destroy bacteria cell wall
• The phagocytic white cell and natural killer cell ; can provides " phagocytosis " function to destroy microorganisms
• The antimicrobial proteins ;e.q complement proteins and interferons
  
• The inflammatory response ,when tissue injury cell will release of chemical signals(histamine ,prostaglandins) , vasodilation can increased blood flow,increased vessel permeability,phagocytes consume pathogens and cell debris ,tissue heals
  

The acquired immunity
The immune system defends the body against specific invaders , The key features of the immune system ,it consists of four basic function
1. specificity
2. diversity
3. memory
4. self / nonself recognition

The immune system is a complex of organs--highly specialized cells and even a circulatory system separate from blood vessels--all of which work together to clear infection from the body.The two major classes of lymphocytes are B cells, which grow to maturity in the bone marrow, and T cells, which mature in the thymus, high in the chest behind the breastbone.B cells produce antibodies that circulate in the blood and lymph streams and attach to foreign antigens to mark them for destruction by other immune cells,B cells are part of what is known as antibody-mediated or humoral immunity, so called because the antibodies circulate in blood and lymph, which the ancient Greeks called, the body's "humors."

Certain T cells, which also patrol the blood and lymph for foreign invaders, can do more than mark the antigens; they attack and destroy diseased cells they recognize as foreign. T lymphocytes are responsible for cell-mediated immunity (or cellular immunity). T cells also orchestrate, regulate and coordinate the overall immune response. T cells depend on unique cell surface molecules called the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) to help them recognize antigen fragments.

Antibodies produced by cells of the immune system recognize foreign antigens and mark them for destruction

the variety of antibodies is very large. Different antibodies are destined for different purposes. Some coat the foreign invaders to make them attractive to the circulating scavenger cells, phagocytes, that will engulf an unwelcome microbe. When some antibodies combine with antigens, they activate a cascade of nine proteins, known as complement, that have been circulating in inactive form in the blood. Complement forms a partnership with antibodies, once they have reacted with antigen, to help destroy foreign invaders and remove them from the body. Still other types of antibodies block viruses from entering cells.

The immune system is a remarkably effective structure that incorporates specificity, adaptation. Failures of host defense do occur, however, and fall into three broad categories: immunodeficiencies, autoimmunity, and hypersensitivities.

The following terms are used describe an infection in terms of the nature of symptoms of the source of the pathogen ;

• Exogenous - an infection from an outside source eq. air , food , water or contact with another infected individual , Salmonellosis is an example of such an infection

• Endogenoue - the organism causing the infection are ones which normally reside in or on the body of the individual ,eq. Pneumonia due to organisms harboured in the upper respiratory tract.
  

An infectious disease team may be alerted when:

• The disease has not been definitively diagnosed after an initial workup
• The patient is immunocompromised (for example, in AIDS or after chemotherapy);
• The infectious agent is of an uncommon nature (e.g. tropical diseases); The infectious agentis of an uncommon nature
• The disease has not responded to first line antibiotics ;
• The disease might be dangerous to other patients, and the patient might have to be isolated.

Bacterial infection vs. viral infection: What's the difference?

Bacteria are single-celled "living" microorganisms that reproduce by dividing. Most bacteria can grow on nonliving surfaces, such as countertops and doorknobs. Not all bacteria are harmful. Some bacteria are even beneficial to your health. But when infectious bacteria enter your body, they can make you sick. Bacteria make toxins that can damage the cells they've invaded. Some bacterial infections, such as strep throat and tuberculosis, are contagious. Others are not.

viruses are not "living" organisms but capsules of genetic material. They require living hosts — such as people, plants or animals — to multiply. Otherwise, they can't survive. When a virus enters your body, it invades some of your cells and takes over the cell machinery, redirecting it to produce the virus. The virus may eventually kill the host cells. Some viral infections, such as influenza and HIV, are contagious. Others are not

The medical treatment of infectious diseases

some people a usually harmless substance such as food , pollen or animal danger provokes the inappropriate immune response known as allergy , abnormal immune function(congenital immune disorder) leads to disease states ,most autoimmune disease are probably the result of multiple circumstances , for example , a genetic predisposition triggered by an infection .

Cytotoxic drugs cause different side effects in different people.One of the most serious side effects is the suppression of certain cells:

• White blood cells, which help your body fight infections. When these are suppressed, you may get infections more easily.
• Platelets, which help your blood clot. When these are suppressed, you may bruise and/or bleed more easily.
• Red blood cells, which carry oxygen to your tissues. When these are suppressed, you may have anemia (extreme tiredness and fatigue).

Larger drugs can provoke a neutralizing immune response, particularly if the drugs are administered repeatedly, or in larger doses. This limits the effectiveness of drugs based on larger peptides and proteins, cytotoxic drugs inhibit the immune response by killing dividing cells such as activated T cells, Cytotoxic or immunosuppresive therapy is indicated for severe life threatening disease,especially for prolifeative nephritis ,High doses of medications known as corticosteroids may be linked to an increased risk for atrial fibrillation a heart rhythm disorder.

Corticosteroids they have side effects that can be very serious may lower your resistance to infections. Also, any infection you get may be more difficult to treat. With prolonged use, the drug halts the communication between the pituitary gland and the adrenals. It can impair the response to stress for up to one to two years following the cessation of the drug.

Summary

The distinction between bacterial and viral infections is important. Why? Because medications that are effective against one aren't effective against the other.

• Bacterial infections are treated with antibacterial antibiotics.

• Antiviral antibiotics are available for some types of viral infections — but not all.
  
• Taking antibacterial antibiotics when you have a viral infection won't treat the viral infection and may even be harmful.
  

When a bacteria disease develops an immunity to antibiotics it is referred to as being Drug Resistant, or Super Drug Resistant.

Many individuals make the mistake of taking antibiotics in order to cure viral infections. Common Viral infections that are mistaken for bacteria infections include:

• The common cold
• Ear infection(otitis media)
• The Flu

Antibiotic drugs will not help cure a viral infection

As more and more bacteria become resistant to many antibiotics during current therapies, patients have to take newer and more expensive antibiotics and society has to spend more time and money trying to develop new and better agents , another concerns is that the helpful bacteria that live in the digestive tract may fall prey to the antibiotics , these bacteria , know as '' normal flora '' produce vitamins that the host organism uses and needs ,as well as help in the digestion of food.

The other problem is that many viruses can subtly change their shapes through mutations, making them no longer recognizable by the memory B cells. Cold and flu viruses mutate easily, so people typically have dozens of colds and several bouts of flu during their lifetimes, each caused by similar but unique viruses.

Other viruses, such as those causing smallpox, polio, mumps, and measles, do not readily mutate. Instead, vaccines containing dead viruses or virus components can be given; these stimulate the immune system enough to make antibodies and memory cells without actually making us sick.

References :
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Immune_system

http://www.answers.com/topic/immune-system

http://www.biology.duke.edu/cibl/exercises/virus_tracker.htm
http://www.drugdigest.org/DD/HC/AdditionalContent/0,4054,13,00.html
http://www.newmyhealth.com/health2/health/b5/b5-1/13369.htm
Biology by Neil.Campbell

Zang-Fu Theory of TCM

Introduction


Zang-Fu (Zang Xiang) Theory basic Concept of Visceral Manifestation

The Chinese medical term " zang xiang " appeared for the first time in the book Nei Jing , the term ''zang'' refers to viscera which are seated in the interior of the body and '' xiang " refers to the physiological and pathological activities of the viscera which appear exteriorly , Hence , the term in truth means the visceral Manifestation .

Zang and Fu are two words which are similarly translated as organ but are different in their composition. Zang can be associated with storage and yin, while Fu can be associated with governing and yang. The Zang store all the bodily fluids and energies,essence, Fu, on the other hand, act as governors by taking in, processing and moving out all external substances. The Zang are also called the solid organs since they store, while the Fu are called hollow since things go through them.

The Zang-Fu (yin - yang) organs , refers to Interior-exterior relationship between yin and yang organs

The yin organs(interior organs) include the liver, heart, spleen, lungs and kidneys. The pericardium is sometimes considered a sixth yin organ. The function of the yin organs is to produce, transform, regulate and store fundamental substances such as qi, blood, and body fluids. In general, yin organs do not have empty cavities.

The six yang(exterior)organs are made up of the gall bladder, stomach, small intestine, large intestine, bladder and triple jiao. The triple jiao does not have a physical structure and is considered a functional unit. The yang organs are mainly responsible for digesting food and transmitting nutrients to the body. Usually, yang organs are organs with empty cavities.

In addition , there are the extraordinary organs which include the brain , marrow , bone , blood vessels , gallbladder and uterus ,
their functions are different from those of " the six Fu orgam" , although they may also be called " bowels " .


Zang - Fu Theory

There are two main functional characteristics of Zang viscera

• Five zang viscera are related to mental activities
• Five zang viscera dominate the storage of essential qi , but not discharge it , so they are full , but can not filled up.

The common physiological characteristics of Six Fu viscera

• To receive , digest drink and food , directly
• To transform and transport , absorb the nutrient substances
• To excrete the waste matter , this is continuous process alternating between emptiness and fullness
• Do not store the essential qi , they are filled , yet are not full
  

Zang viscera disease mostly result from a deficiency syndrome , while Fu viscera disease result from a excess syndrome , An excess syndrome of the zang viscera can be treated by reducing their correspondent Fu viscera , Conversely , a deficiency syndrome of Fu viscera may be cured by reinforcing their correspondent Zang viscera

Heart ----- Monarch Organ , house of blood , master of blood

Physiological function
"The heart govering the blood and vessels"

The heart is the functional unit for regulating blood flow. Blood is transported inside the blood vessels around the entire body when the heart pumps. The heart, blood and blood vessels are united by their common activities.

Heart Qi (Yang) --- propel & warm , vigorous
Heart Blood( Yin) -- Nourish & Moisten , ample

If heart qi is abundant and sufficient, the heart pumps at a normal pace, transporting blood smoothly inside the blood vessels, the pulse is regular and strong, and the face will look brilliant. As a result, the body is able to obtain from blood the nutrients needed to sustain life.

• if heart qi is deficient, blood cannot maintain an efficient flow in the blood vessels, and the pulse is weak. The individual looks pale, and the tongue also appears pale and white. Without healthy ruling of the heart, individuals will experience palpitations, chest discomfort and pain.

"The heart dominate the spirit"
In TCM, the heart stores the "spirit". In general, the "spirit" refers to an individual's vitality, which is reflected in the eyes, speech, reactions and overall appearance. Specifically, the "spirit" refers to a person's mental, cognitive and intellectual abilities. The heart takes charge of mental activities by mastering other organs and their physiological functions. If the "spirit ruling" is good, the individual will be wise and have a clear and fast mind.

• If there is heart disharmony, signs like forgetfulness, poor self esteem, and slow thought processes or reactions occur.

"Sweat is the fluid of the heart."
Sweat comes from body fluids, which are an essential and integral part of blood. Blood is ruled by the heart and is the main fluid of this organ. Because sweat comes from the same origin as blood,

• in TCM over-sweating is considered an exploitation of qi and heart blood, leading to symptoms such as palpitations. As a result, people who sweat abnormally usually have a heart deficiency.

• If such sweating is spontaneous, the disharmony belongs to a deficiency of heart yang. If it takes place at night, the disharmony belongs to a deficiency of heart yin.

"The heart opens into the tongue. The heart's brilliance is manifested in the face."

• In TCM, both the tongue and face are windows for the heart and blood. The heart "opens into the tongue" because they are connected. By observing the tongue and looking for the "heart's brilliance to be manifested in the face," a lot can be learned about how the heart is functioning.
  
• if heart function is normal, individuals will have bright, healthy red cheeks and the tongue will appear pink.

• If there is blood stasis (where blood is not able to flow smoothly through the blood vessels), the face and tongue will appear purple. A healthy blood supply is also essential for providing nutrients for hair growth, because in TCM, hair is thought to be the "remains of blood." If hair growth is affected, it may indicate a problem with the heart and blood.

* Pericardium

The pericardium is called xinbaoluo in Chinese. Structurally it is a membrane surrounding the heart, and physiologically it protects the heart. When exogenous pathogenic factors attack the heart, the pericardium is affected first. The Lingshu notes, "Therefore the pathogenic factors that intend to attack the heart must first attack the pericardium." Clinically the symptoms of pathogenic invasion of the pericardium are the same as if the heart was ill. If pathogenic heat attacks the heart, the symptoms are unconsciousness, delirium, etc. If pathogenic phlegm causes mental confusion, unconsciousness or mental disorder, it is known as "pathogenic phlegm obstructing the heart orifice."


Small Intestine

The upper end of the small intestine connects with the stomach, its main function being to receive partially digested food from the stomach and further divide it into clear and turbid.

The small intestine transfers the turbid residues to the large intestine. The spleen transports the clean essential substances to all parts of the body, and part of the water contained in food to the urinary bladder. Therefore, if diseased, the small intestine will not only affect the function of digestion and absorption, but also lead to urinary problems.Healthy small intestine functions are essential for normal urination and defecation.

• If disharmony is present, an individual may experience dysuria (difficulty or pain on urination) or loose stools.

Liver "General Organ"

According to TCM, the liver's functions are different. They include control of the central nervous system, the autonomic nervous system (the part of the nervous system over which a person does not have voluntary control), and the circulatory system. In addition, the liver is responsible for vision.

In TCM, the liver promotes flowing and spreading movements. By stimulating flow, the liver adjusts and ensures the smooth movement of qi, blood and body fluids, and spreads these substances to the entire body. There are three functional aspects of the liver's "flowing and spreading" activity: regulating qi, regulating emotions and enhancing the digestive properties of the spleen.

"The liver dominate conducting & dispersing"

• promoting the qi , blood ,and water flowing normally
  

if liver qi stagnation : distention and pain in the hypochondrium, chest , breasts
qi can't conducting blood - blood stasis , parching or stabbing pain in the hypochondria , mass palpable in abdomen , irregular menstruation.
waste passage obstructed - fluid retention ,phlegm

• Aid digestion and absorption
  

1. the liver promotes secretion and excretion of the bile which can digest the diet
2. the liver maintains the normal ascending and descending functions of spleen qi and stomach qi ,enhancing the digestive power of spleen
   

The liver's flowing and spreading functions also adjust the digestive functions of spleen. If the liver is not functioning properly, the movement of spleen qi is not smooth. Consequently, the transformation and transportation of digested food will be affected, leading to abdominal pain, nausea, belching, diarrhea and other complications.

• Regulating emotional activities , heart control function activities , and liver-qi smooth flow of qi can regulate the emotional activities
  

1. if liver-qi weakened -- depression , unhappiness , moodiness , excessive worry , sighing
2. if liver-qi hyperactive -- excitement irascibility's , agitation
3. if liver blood deficiency - timidity , insomnia, dream - disturbed sleep and night walking

• promoting excretion of sperm and menses

if liver qi stagnation - irregular menses , dysmenorrhea ,difficult in ejaculation

"The liver stores the blood."

• storing and regulating blood flow- When a person moves or exercises, the blood leaves the liver and goes to the part of body that needs it. The blood returns to the liver to be stored, when a person rests.

If a person has insufficient blood available for storage in the liver, their eyes will not be adequately nourished and will become rough and dry. dizziness can also occur.

• preventing bleeding

if liver qi too strong - Hemorrhage syndromes - hematemesis , hemoptysis,epistaxis, metrorrhagia, metrostaxis .

"The liver opens into the eyes."
The eyes have a close relationship with the liver; because, they are connected to the liver meridian. The ability to see depends on the nourishment of the eyes from blood stored in the liver, and many liver disorders are reflected in the eyes. For example, insufficient liver blood can lead to blurred vision. "Dampness and Heat" of the liver and gall bladder, a condition known in western medicine as jaundice, manifests as yellow eyes.

"The liver rules the tendons and is manifested in the nails."
The proper movement of tendons, which attach muscle to bone, is closely related to liver function. If the blood stored in the liver is insufficient and incapable of nourishing the tendons, symptoms like spasms, numbness of limbs and difficulty bending or stretching occur. Fingernail and toenail health is also dependent on the nourishment of blood from the liver. If the liver blood is sufficient, nails will appear pink and moist. If it is insufficient, the nails will become thin, brittle and pale.

Gall Bladder

The gall bladder is attached to the liver and stores bile. There is an ancient saying regarding the close relationship between the liver and bile, "The remaining qi of the liver flows to the gall bladder and turns into the juice of essence (bile)." Bile is continuously excreted into the intestinal lumen to assist in digestion.

If liver disharmony occurs,the bitter taste and yellow color of bile are significant in disease manifestations of bitter taste in the mouth, vomiting of bile, bile secretion is affected, which can have a negative impact on other digestive functions.

Disharmony of gall bladder function leads to jaundice where an individual develops yellow eyes and yellow skin colour as a result of a build up of bile in the body, As the liver and the gall bladder are externally and internally related,

In TCM, the gall bladder rules decision and is related to bravery. also involved in the free flow of qi concerning emotional activities , Mental disorders involving anxiety and fear are treated by resuming gall bladder harmony.

Clinically, when some mental disorders or emotional symptoms such as fear and palpitation, insomnia, dream disturbed sleep, etc. occur, treatment can be applied by considering the gall bladder.

Lung also as " Premier Organ "

The lung is situated in the chest, connects with the throat and opens into the nose. Its main physiological functions and indicators are: (1) dominating qi and controlling respiration; (2) dominating the dispersion and descent of qi; (3) dredging and regulating the water passage; (4) convergence of blood vessels , charging the coordination of functional activities

Dominating Qi

• Controlling Respiration
• dominating qi throughout the body , regulation of qi movement
  

This function is composed of two aspects, dominating the qi (air) of respiration and controlling respiration. It is the organ where the respiratory air is internally and externally exchanged; clean qi from the environment is drawn in and exchanged for turbid qi. The other aspect of the lung's function has a close relationship with the formation of collective (zong) qi which is the combination of essential qi transformed from water and food with the inhaled qi of the lung. Collective qi accumulates in the chest, then flows up to the throat to control respiration. Since all the blood vessels lead to the lung, collective qi is distributed throughout the body to nourish the tissues and organs in maintaining the body's normal functional activities.

In pathology , If the lung function is normal, there is an unobstructed circulation of qi, with even and harmonious breathing. If there is a deficiency of lung qi, there will be feeble respiration, uneven breathing, weak speech, lassitude etc.

''Dominating Dispersing and Depurative descending function''

The function of dispersing in three aspects :

• turbid qi - exhale to outside , waste water by sweating
• nutrients(qi , blood , body fluid) -- to all parts of the whole body
• defrnsive qi -- to the surface of the body

In pathology ,If the dispersing function is not normal, the lung qi will not flow downward the lung be manifested by stuffy chest, cough, asthma

Depurative descending function :

• inhale & distributing the fresh air
• nutrients -- whole body
• waste products & water - kidney , bladder
• purifying the respiratory tract - clearing away poison-evil and getting rid of foreign bodies
  

In pathological changes ,lung can not distribute qi, blood, and body fluid to the entire body, transport waste water down to the urinary bladder, transform it into urine and excrete it, uch as cough,stuffy sensations , ashma , dyspnea, dysuria, edema and fluid retention


''Dredging and regulating the water passages''

Regulating the water passages means that the lung regulates water circulation and excretion, and keeps the water passages clear. The lung's dispersing function circulates throughout the body the nutrients which have been removed from food and water. Part of the fluid is discharged as sweat and by the descending function of the lung. Another part of the fluid is continually sent down to the kidney and then, by the qi function of the kidney, sent to the urinary bladder to be discharged. Thus the lung is also known as the "upper source of water."

In Pathological changes , phlegm , fluid retention , edema will ocour

''convergence of blood vessels , charging the coordination of functional activities ''

• the lung is connected with one hundred vessels , its means the flowing of all blood of the body through pulmonary respiration redistributing oxygenated blood back through the system
• the lung coordinates with the heart in regulating the entire body ,
  
• it assist the heart in promoting and regulating blood circlation , regulate the movement of qi ,so that functional activities of the viscera will be normal and regular
  
• distribution , circulation and excretion of the body fluids are regulate by dispersing and depurative descending functions of the lung
• regulate functional activities of the whole body via the formation and distribution of the pectoral qi

Opening into the Nose

The nose is the gateway of respiration. Clear, unobstructed nasal breathing and smelling rely upon the good functioning of the lung qi. Since the nose is the opening of the lung, it will also be a passage for the invasion of external pathogenic heat which may attack the lung. Pathologically the lung also has a close relation with the nose. For example, if external pathogenic wind and cold block the lung, it will cause a dysfunction of lung dispersion manifested by stuffy nose, nasal discharge, dull olfaction, etc. If pathogenic heat accumulates in the lung there will be nasal discomfort caused by coarse breathing or dyspnea. In treating this condition, the dispersing method with pungent medicinal herbs is used to act on the lung and nose. Acupuncture stimulation is applied on ear acupoint "lung" to treat nasal polypus), chronic rhinitis, etc. The above-mentioned facts demonstrate the close relationship between the lung and the nose. The throat is also a gateway of respiration, and a vocal organ. The lung channel passes through the throat, so smooth qi flow and a clear voice are directly affected by the functions of lung qi. Hence when there is a pathological change of the lung, it will cause hoarseness of voice, sore throat, or other pathological changes.

It also has an exterior and interior relationship with the large intestine.

Large Intestine

The upper end of the large intestine is connected to the small intestine by the ileocecum, and its lower end connects to the anus. Its main physiological function is to receive the waste material send down from the small intestine and, in the process of transporting it to the anus, absorb a part of its fluid, and convert it into feces to be excreted from the body.

In Pathology,dysfunction of the large intestine produces the symptoms of borborygmus and diarrhea; if the fluid is further exhausted, the symptoms will be constipation and so on.


Spleen --- Barn official , acquired foundation , the source qi and blood

The spleen rules transformation and transportation

Since the spleen is the primary organ responsible for digestion, its main function is to transform food into essence used for qi and blood transformation. Once the ingested food and liquids get into the body, the spleen extracts a pure nutritive essence from them. This pure nutritive essence is used for the production of qi, blood and body fluids, which the spleen then transports throughout the body. Liquids extracted as pure nutritive essence are sent upwards to the lung for dissemination and redistribution. However, some will descend to the kidney and bladder to be excreted as urine.

If the transformation and transportation functions of the spleen are harmonious, there will be abundant nutritive essence for qi and blood,
in pathology, if the spleen is in disharmony, its digestive powers will be affected. As a result, abdominal distention, pain, diarrhea or malaise occurs.

The spleen rules ascending pure essence

• After transforming food into nutritive essence, the spleen sends it upwards to the heart and lungs where it is transformed into qi and blood for nourishment of the whole body. Food not transformed into nutritive essence becomes an impure substance. While the spleen ascends pure essence, the stomach, (the spleen's corresponding exterior organ), will descend the impure substances inside the digestive tract. By ascending the pure nutritive essence and descending the impure substances, a balance in the digestive system is created.

• the spleen plays a role in stabilizing the internal organs at their original locations , the vigor muscle , ligament and tendons that hold and fix the internal organs rely on the nourishment of the essential substances of drink and food , which is transported and transformed by the spleen

The spleen commands the blood

• Not only does the spleen transform food essence, it also governs the movement of blood by keeping it flowing in its proper pathways in the blood vessels. When spleen qi is sufficient, there is adequate production of qi and blood, and blood is, therefore, kept inside the blood vessels, preventing the extravasations of blood
  

• If the spleen's functions are in disharmony, the blood escapes from its normal pathways, leading to symptoms such as bloody vomit, blood in the stool, blood under the skin, blood in urine, or menorrhagia (excessive menstrual bleeding).

The spleen rules the muscles and flesh. It controls the Muscles and Four Limbs

This ties into the transformation and transportation function of the spleen to spread nutrients to the muscles and tissues. If the spleen is weak, the limbs and muscles aren't nourished and they become weak and tired.In TCM, the movements of the muscles and the four limbs depend on the power of the spleen. When spleen qi is sufficient, the limbs and muscles are healthy and strong because they are nourished by the blood and qi.

• In Pathology,If spleen qi is deficient, the muscles become weak and an individual may feel tired and have general malaise.

Opens into the mouth and its brilliance is manifested in the lips

The lips and mouth are also affected by the spleen's health. If spleen function is harmonious, the mouth can distinguish the five tastes (sweet, salty, sour, bitter and pungent spicy), and the lips appear red and moist.

• In Pathology, If the spleen is weak, the mouth cannot distinguish the different tastes and the lips will be pale.

Houses Thought

The spleen is directly related to our capacity for thinking. How well we manage things that require concentration is dependent on the strength of the spleen. So if you wanna ace that test, make sure your spleen qi is strong. Some translation use different words, some indicate worry as much as thought. Possibly it is meant that the spleen controls how much we over think and analyze and when strong the spleen is weak it can't keep the mind from running through things over and over.

Stomach

Situated below the diaphragm, the stomach's upper outlet connects with the esophagus, and its lower outlet with the small intestine.
Its main physiological function is

• to receive and hold foodstuff - 'Great Barn'' ,''Official in charge of Barn'' , Reservoir of food '' , '' Sea of food and drink''
• dominating primary digestion food- ripening of food and producing qi and blood
  
• functioning downward - stomach qi downward to send chyme to small intestine , discharge waste to large intestine
  

where the essential substances are transformed and transported by the spleen to the whole body. The spleen and the stomach collectively are known as the "acquired foundation," that is, their proper nourishment establishes the foundation for a healthy life.

Clinical diagnosis and treatment place great stress on the strength and weakness of the stomach and spleen qi. Generally, it is considered that whatever kind of disease occurs, if stomach qi is still strong, the prognosis will be good. It is said, "Stomach qi is the foundation of the human body. When there is stomach qi, there is life. When there is no stomach qi death will follow." Preserving stomach qi is therefore considered an important principle of treatment.

In Pathology, normal stomach qi descends. If it fails to descend,adverse flow of qi , symptoms such as anorexia, fullness, pain and distension of the upper abdomen, nausea, vomiting, hiccough, etc. will appear.

exterior / interior relationship spleen and stomach

1. Stomach governs descending & the spleen controls ascending
2. coordination of digestion and transportation / transformation
   
3. Stomach needs more fluid to be moistened , '' the stomach likes damp , is disgusted at dryness ''
4. Spleen needs more dryness to avoid damp , '' the spleen desires dryness and show disgust at dampness ''

Kidney

In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), the kidneys are the most important organs of the body; they are viewed as the root of life activities and the origin of our congenital (inherited) foundation.
The kidneys are the root of all pre-natal qi in the body, just as the Spleen is the root of all post-natal qi. Anything that might be considered genetic or hereditary in modern terms stems from the kidneys, as all of our ancestral information is stored there. Thus, the kidneys are also the source of the base yin and yang of the body. Within the kidneys the interdependence of yin and yang are even more pronounced than in the yin and yang of the other organs. It is internally-externally related to the Bladder. Its element is Water.TCM practitioners view the kidneys as a very important organ that not only regulates the urinary system but also exercises control over the reproductive, endocrine and nervous systems.

The main physiological functions and indicators of the kidneys are: (1) storing essence, controlling human reproduction, growth and development; (2) controlling water metabolism; (3) receiving qi; (4) producing marrow, filling up the brain, controlling the bones, manufacturing blood and influencing hair luster; (5) opening into the ear, perineal ante-tract and perineal post-tract; (6) connects with the urinary bladder to which it is connected from the exterior and the interior.


Stores Essence & Governs Reproduction & Development

Essence (jing), comes in 2 forms: pre and post natal. Post-natal Essence is simply the pure substances made by workings of the Spleen (transformation), Lungs and Heart. Pre-natal Essence is all that is inherited. It, in turn, controls how the baby develops and matures, and makes up the basic constitution of a person. It is also the basis for sexual function and its strength is proportionally related to its ability to reproduce. When pre-natal Essence is strong and abundant: fetus develops properly, constitution is strong, person can reproduce without problem. When pre-natal Essence is weak and deficient: fetus is underdeveloped, can have birth defects, constitution is weak, infertility, physical and mental retardation. The strength of the Essence pushes a person through their lifelong developments of adolescence, puberty, reproduction, aging, menopause, etc. Additionally, it is the root of all yin and yang of the Kidney (which is in turn the root of all yin and yang of the body).
(Note: The "Su Wen" states that development occurs in periods of 7 years for men, and 8 years for women. These ages are milestones and are the norm with which a child's development should be compared.)

Controls Water Metabolism

The kidneys control the water in the lower warmer as the lungs do in the upper warmer. This function helps the kidney to regulate the yin (form) and the yang (function) of the body, by releasing or holding in fluids (processing and urination as in allopathic medicine). The kidneys provide the Qi necessary for the bladder to hold and release fluid and for the large and small intestines to separate pure and impure fluids. Additionally, remember it warms the fluids to send to the Lungs and upper warmer in the form of mist.

Receives & Grasps Qi

The kidneys work hand in hand with the lungs by taking the qi sent down to the lower warmer and holding it. If it cannot do this we have something called counter flow qi where there is qi above, but none below. This can lead to breathing issues, as well as deficiencies of the lower warmer.
"the lungs are the master of qi, the kidneys are the root of qi, the lungs exhale qi and the kidneys inhale qi"

Produces Marrow to Fill the Brain & Control the Bones

Get your mind away from the word "marrow" as in where blood cells come from. This marrow is found in both the bones and the brain and spinal cord. The Essence produces the marrow and the marrow in turn makes the bones strong and fills the spinal cord and brain to garner the intelligence and concentration. The brain is often called the "Sea of Marrow" for this reason. Everything involved in aging is governed by the kidneys as you can see. When the kidneys finally go weak, the memory and quality of thought is poor (brain), the bodies reactions and speed are slowed (spine), the teeth crack and fall out (bone), and the bones become brittle.

Opens Into the Ear

The state of hearing is directly related to the strength of the Kidneys.

Manifests in the Hair

The shine, health, and abundance of hair is related to the kidneys as well. Thus when we get old and our essence is weak, our hair stops growing or falls out.

Houses Will Power

No real explanation here. This is all that is said in the Su Wen so assume it means determination and adherence to principles.

kidney essence is the material basis, kidney qi is the functional force. Kidney essence and kidney qi are complementary and closely associated.

Pathological syndromes

Kidney-Essence deficiency --soreness and lumbar or knee aches, poor bones and maldevelopment
Kidney Yin deficiency - may manifest clinically as soreness, aching and weakness of the lumbar region and knees, blurred vision, and poor memory
Kidney Yang deficiency - with decreased impetus show symptoms of lassitude, lumbar and knee pain and coldness, cold extremities and frequent urination, with diseases including inadequate reproductive ability, impotence, premature ejaculation, and poorly reactive cold uterus.

Urinary Bladder

The main function of the urinary bladder is to store and discharge urine. It has an exterior and interior relationship with the kidney.
the bladder is responsible for storing and excreting urine. The "turbid' water collected by the kidneys that cannot be reused by the body is sent to the bladder for excretion as urine. TCM describes this function as "vaporization" of urine in the bladder. Disharmony of the bladder can lead to urinary problems such as incontinence or difficult urination. Kidney function complements bladder function so a problem with the bladder often indicates kidney problems as well.

Pathologically, if the urinary bladder has a dysfunction of qi, dysuria or retention of urine will appear. If its restrictive function is lost, there may be excessive urination or incontinence of urine.

Sanjiao

It collective refers to the upper jiao and lower jiao , the three sections of the human body, it is generally recognized as a large Fu organ and contains all internal organs, with the functions to dominate every kind of qi , control the trans-formative function of qi and circulating water fluid as well.

Physiological function

• Dominating various kinds of qi
• Pathway of body fluids
• controlling the place for trans-formative function of qi

The upper jiao contains the heart and lung, The middle jiao contains the spleen and stomach, and The lower jiao contains the kidney and urinary bladder.
Thus the heart and lung function is to distribute qi and body fluid by a spreading and moistening action. The spleen and stomach must digest, absorb, and transfer the qi, blood, and body fluid transformed from the essential substances; a similar process to that of soaking in water to cause decomposition and dissolution. The kidney and urinary bladder function to transport fluids and water.

The following are the categories of function as described by the Lingshu:
The function of the upper jiao is to act like a fog; the function of the middle jiao is like fermentation vat(bubbling pool); the function of
the lower jiao is like sewer ( water passage / drainage ditch)

Pathological problems in any of the three jiao will effect the organs located there.

The Extraordinary Yang Organs

there are 6 extraordinary Fu(yang) organs, which include the brain , marrow ,bone , blood vessels ,uterus and gallbladder.
characteristic :

• filled with and convey refined essence
• no receiving food and drinks and discharging waste
• no interior-exterior relationship with zang
• no classification by five elements
• some related to eight extra meridians

They function like a Yin organ by storing essence (kidney essence, marrow, or blood) and not excreting, but have the shape of a Yang organ (hollow). They are all directly or indirectly functionally related to the Kidneys.

The Brain

Cranium (skull) , convergence of marrow , "the sea of marrow"
The Brain controls memory, concentration, sight, hearing, touch, and smell (the special senses) , The Brain also depends greatly on nourishment from Heart blood,also governs the mental activities ,the liver regulate emotion function and the Kidney essence produces marrow which fills the Brain and spinal cord. Therefore the Brain is closely related to the Kidneys both anatomically and functionally.


The Marrow
This Marrow is the common substance which forms the bone-marrow, and fills the brain and spinal cord. It is produced by the Kidney Essence enriched by acquired essence produced from food and drink.

Physiological function :

• nourish the brain
• supplement the bones
• engender the blood

The Bone

The Bone is the house of Marrow ,The Bones are also related to the Kidneys. They are considered an extraordinary organ because they store bone-marrow. If the Kidney Essence or Marrow are deficient the Bones will be weak and easy to fracture or breakage. Treating the Kidneys can help with the healing of bone fractures or breaks.

Physiological function :

• store the marrow
• support the body
• protect the internal organs

The blood vessels

The Blood Vessels are considered an extraordinary organ because they contain blood. They can also be traced back to the Kidneys because the Kidneys produce bone-marrow and the bone-marrow contribute to the making of blood. Yuan Qi from the Kidneys also contributes to the transformation of Food (Gu) Qi into blood.

Physiological function :
circulation the qi and blood - vessels are passages through which the qi and blood circulate
transporting the nutrition - vessels carry the essential substances of drink and food to the entire body

Gallbladder

Extraordinary because the GB does not receive food and water like other Fu organs and does not communicate with the exterior
Stores Bile ,major function as :

• storing and discharging bile
• dominating decision - making , cooperate with the liver to regulate emotional activities

Disorder digestion and bile excretion

• poor digestion - abdominal distention , loose stool , anorexia
• gallbladder qi reverses , bitter taste
• overflow of bile , jaundice
• bile qi stagnation(long term)-retention of bile turn to heat , dampness heat burn bile , bile stones

Emotional change -- deficiency of bile qi may affect heart qi deficiency ,the bile will easy to be scared / frightened

Uterus

This is considered the most important of the extraordinary organs. It regulates menstruation, conception and pregnancy. It is very closely related to the Kidneys, Ren and Chong Mai.

Physiological function

Producing menstruation and nourishes the fetus

1. effect of Tiankui (reproductive substance) and kidney (kidney essence can dominate uterus)
2. effect of Chong & Ren Meridians , both channels starting from Ulterus , dominate the nourishment of fetus , the rise and fall of qi and blood in the two channels regulate and control by Tiankui
3. effect of Heart control blood , Liver store blood , Spleen commands the blood within vessels , generates blood .

The relationship between Liver blood and the Uterus is very important in practice.disorders of blood associated with any of these organs directly effects the health and functioning of the Uterus, in particular the menstruation.

• if the blood is deficient there can be amenorrhea.
  
• If the blood is hot there can be metrorrhagis or menorrhegia.
• if Liver Qi is stagnated there will be clotted menstrual blood and painful periods.
  

Disorders of reproduction on the other hand are often from weak Kidneys (miscarriage, infertility). The Uterus is also related to the Stomach via the connection from the Chong Mai. Morning sickness is usually due to changes in the Uterus explained through this connection.
Liver Blood disorder
* Menstrual problems
* Sterility

Kidney and Jing disorder
* Sexual and reproductive disorders

Related to Ren Vessel
* Pregnancy channel
* Must be free of obstruction in order for pregnancy to occur

Related to Chong channel
* The Sea of Blood must be abundant for fertility

Both the Chong Mai and Ren Mai originate in the Uterus ,The Uterus is supported by the Heart and Spleen because of their production and circulation of Blood.


Summary

Zang - Fu visceral in TCM are considered not only anatomical units but also conceptually are a part of the body's physiology and pathology, the main focus of attention was aimed at observing the external symptoms and signs of physiological functions and pathological changes , it was less geared towards observation of the morphology of the viscera , TCM places much emphasis on the importance of the wholeness of the human body , it is very widely different from those modern medicine.

In TCM, the physiological functions of the body are based on harmonious relationships between yin and yang organs. Central to these relationships is the interior and exterior relationship theory( see appendix), which states the interior belongs to yin and the exterior belongs to yang. Hence, yin organs are thought to have more internal functions and are called interior organs. They tend to play a more important role in TCM medical theory and practice. The yang organs, on the other hand, are believed to have more external functions and are considered exterior organs.


Appendix

Yin(Zang) Organ Liver Heart Spleen Lungs Kidneys
Yang(Fu) Organ Gallbladder Small Intestine Stomach Large Intestine Bladder
Orifices Eyes Tongue Mouth Nose Ears
Constituents Tendon Vessel Muscles Skin Bones
Emotion Anger Joy Pensiveness Grief Fear / Terror
Spirit Etherial soul Mind Intention Soul Will
External- Nail Face Lip Body hair Hair (head)
manifestation


References :
Handout
Textbook
http://tcmbasics.com/zangfu_5zang_kidney.htm
http://www.shen-nong.com/eng/front/index.html
http://www.tcmstudent.com/theory/Zang%20Fu.html
http://accupuncture.com
http://www.internethealthlibary.com/
http://www.hkcfp.org.hk/article/2007/08/page311_320dp.html
http://tcm.health-info.org/Zang%20Fu%20foundation/Extraordinary-Yang-organs.htm
http://altmed.iatp.org.ua/acupuncture/zang_fu/extrafu.htm