The Gut-Brain Connection in TCM: How Spleen and Liver Qi Affects Mental Health

It's no secret that mental health issues are on the rise in the United States. “In 2022, an

estimated 23.1% of U.S. adults (about 59.3 million people) experienced any mental illness (AMI) in the past year” (nimh.nih.gov). There are many factors that can contribute to mental health ailments.

1. Biological Factors: Genetics, brain chemistry, hormones, chronic illnesses

2. Psychological Factors: Trauma, low self-esteem, grief, poor coping skills

3. Environmental and Social Factors: Stress, substance abuse, isolation, discrimination,

trauma

4. Lifestyle Factors: Sleep issues, poor diet, inactivity, tech overuse

5. Socioeconomic and Cultural Factors: Poverty, lack of access to care, cultural stigma

While western medicine may focus on treating mental health problems by masking the

symptoms with medication; functional medicine treats issues by healing the root cause of the

problem. Did you know that about 90% of serotonin is produced in the gastrointestinal tract? Gut health is an important factor to consider when the goal is to improve mood and mental health. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, the gut-brain axis is the two- way communication network between your gastrointestinal system and your brain. When the gut is imbalanced it has negative effects on mood, cognition and behavior. Additionally, poor gut health is strongly linked to depression, anxiety and brain fog.

When the Spleen Qi (life force) is deficient it can show up at worry, brain fog, and fatigue.

Similarly, liver/spleen disharmony can lead to IBS-like symptoms with anxiety or mood swings. When energy flow (Qi) is obstructed in the spleen, depression and dullness arise.

Acupuncture improves the flow of blocked or stagnant Qi. Qi is the vital life force that animates the body and protects it from illness. When the body is in harmony, life force can flow freely and ailments dissipate. Herbal remedies can also help to balance the body and bring the gut back into harmony. Additionally, dietary considerations play a key role in improving mental ailments.

TCM Diet for Emotional Support:

-For Anger/ Liver Qi Stagnation: Leafy greens, sour or bitter foods to move Qi

-Anxiety & Calm: Warm grains, squash, congee-grounding and digestively gentle

-Sadness/Lung Support: Pears, ginger, warming soups to moisten and uplift

-Fear/Kidney Strength: Dark beans, walnuts, seaweed: hearty broths

-General Balance: Seasonal eating, warm cooked meals, mindful nutrition

By balancing Qi in the body with acupuncture and nourishing our gut health through herbs and dietary choices we provide the body with a gentle approach to a problem that has become so prevalent in today's society.