Organ Profiles for Spring: Liver & Gallbladder

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) theory, there are five primary elements (Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, Water) that correspond with the five seasons (Spring, Summer, Late Summer, Fall/Autumn, and Winter), as well as certain systems and qualities, such as organs, tissues, emotions and colors.

Paying attention to these throughout the year can help cultivate increased balance (yin and yang) within the body, mind and spirit. The following organ profiles feature the key SPRING organs: Liver (yin) and Gallbladder (yang).

Liver (Root of Life's Action)

The liver is the body’s largest internal organ and sits in the upper right abdomen. It stores and distributes nutrients for the entire body, as well as breaks down and filters toxins from the blood. When the liver is overloaded, toxins accumulate leading to many acute and chronic health problems. The liver is sensitive to negative emotions and easily harbors trapped emotions.

Trapped Emotion(s): Anger, Frustration
Chakra: SOLAR PLEXUS
Gemstone: Jade, Moss Agate
Essential Oil: Holy Basil, Peppermint
Herbal Support: Dandelion Root, Nettle
Nutritional Support: Milk Thistle, Glutathione
Foods to Nourish: Bitter, leafy greens
Foods to Avoid: Alcohol, Excessive sour foods
Active Time: 1-3 a.m.
Affirmation: “It is okay for me to feel and acknowledge anger and resentments in my life.”

The liver is affected by our external and internal environments. An abundance of fresh herbs and bitter, leafy greens moves any stagnation through the liver and helps with new bile production. Tuning into your thoughts and feelings and offering a break from chemicals and substances is vital for a healthy liver.

Gallbladder (The Decision Maker)

According to TCM, the swift actions of the body are carried out by the gallbladder. The gallbladder stores and secretes bile for digestion, specifically the breakdown of fats. Bile is critical in detoxification as well as hormone synthesis.

Trapped Emotion(s): Resentment, Bitterness
Chakra: SOLAR PLEXUS
Gemstone: Yellow Jasper, Amber
Essential Oil: Lemon, Turmeric
Herbal Support: Burdock, Globe Artichoke
Nutritional Support: Choline
Foods to Nourish: Beets, Bitters
Foods to Avoid: Fats, especially from animals and fried foods
Active Time: 11 p.m. to 1 a.m.
Affirmation: “I have permission to set boundaries without feeling guilty.”

Allowing the gallbladder to rest is helpful for supporting the assimilation of nutrients and reducing dysfunction. Reducing fat consumption before noon and focusing on plant-based fats will reduce the stress on this important organ. Noticing where you are overextending yourself and setting boundaries will greatly support the health of your gallbladder as well.