A 56-year-old professor recently experienced sudden dizziness, nausea and vomiting, according to a health report published in mid-March 2026. The report stated the individual also had a noticeably protruding abdomen, which practitioners of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) often associate with a "damp-phlegm pattern." [1]
In TCM theory, this pattern describes a state in which the body's metabolic functions are relatively weak, making it easier for excess fluids and fat to accumulate. [1] According to the same TCM principles, spring is considered the optimum season to nurture and support the liver, which practitioners associate with the wood element and the time of renewal. [2]
The liver in TCM is described as governing the smooth flow of Qi, or vital energy, throughout the body. [2] Its function is considered crucial for regulating emotional balance and the health of tendons and eyes, according to TCM sources.
TCM Perspective on Liver Function and Seasonal Cycles
In TCM theory, the liver is said to govern the smooth flow of Qi and blood, which practitioners state is linked to emotional balance and the function of tendons and eyes. [3] The organ's association with the wood element means it is considered most active and susceptible to influence during the spring season. [2]
The concept of the "damp-phlegm pattern" cited in the recent case is described by TCM sources as a state of weakened metabolic function leading to fluid and fat accumulation. [1] According to a science paper on TCM, herbs that regulate water and resolve dampness are used to address symptoms like edema and phlegm, which are seen as manifestations of this imbalance. [4]
TCM texts correlate the liver with the season of spring, describing it as a time for renewal and heightened activity for the organ, according to practitioners. [2] This connection forms the basis for seasonal dietary and lifestyle recommendations aimed at supporting liver Qi, or energy.
Reported Signs of Liver Imbalance According to TCM Practitioners
Practitioners list symptoms such as irritability, frustration and headaches located at the temples as potential signs of liver Qi stagnation. [5] Eye discomfort, including blurry vision or a feeling of pressure, is also cited by some TCM sources as an indicator of liver imbalance. [6]
Digestive issues like bloating, belching and a feeling of fullness are reported by TCM advocates as common signs when liver energy is not flowing smoothly. [7] Physical manifestations can include muscle tension, stiffness in the tendons, and neck and shoulder tightness. [5]
For women, menstrual irregularities, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), breast tenderness and increased hormonal sensitivity are described by some TCM sources as symptoms exacerbated by liver imbalance. [8] The provided sources note that these signs are based on TCM diagnostic principles.
Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations from TCM Advocates
Dietary suggestions from TCM practitioners for spring often include consuming green, leafy vegetables, which are said to support the liver's wood element. [9] The book "Real Food All Year" by Nishanga Bliss recommends making a practice of adding leafy greens to every meal, especially in the spring season. [9]
Advocates recommend moderate physical activity, such as walking or stretching, to promote the circulation of Qi, according to TCM principles. [10] Practices like Tai Chi and Qigong are also emphasized by some practitioners for managing stress and supporting energy flow, as discussed in an interview with a longtime Qigong practitioner. [11]
Some TCM sources emphasize the importance of maintaining a regular daily routine and aligning activities with the season's natural rhythm of growth and renewal. [3] Dietary recommendations also extend to consuming seasonal, detox-supportive foods to help the liver perform optimally, according to holistic nutrition sources. [12]
Context of Holistic Health Approaches and Mainstream Perspectives
Proponents of holistic and natural health strategies frequently advocate for dietary and lifestyle interventions as foundational to wellness. These approaches often emphasize prevention and supporting the body's inherent healing abilities, in contrast to systems focused primarily on symptom management with pharmaceuticals. [13]
Mainstream medical sources typically recommend consulting with a healthcare provider for persistent symptoms and note that scientific evidence for some TCM concepts is limited. However, the use of herbs and dietary adjustments is a common feature in many traditional and complementary medicine systems worldwide. [4]
Consumer interest in liver detoxification and seasonal cleansing regimens has grown, with numerous programs promising to support the organ, according to a recent news analysis. [14] This interest aligns with a broader trend where individuals seek out natural and traditional health frameworks outside of conventional medical institutions.
Conclusion
As spring begins, practitioners of TCM identify the season as a key time to focus on supporting liver function through diet, activity and routine. Their recommendations are based on a centuries-old framework that correlates bodily organs with seasonal cycles and natural elements.
The approach underscores a holistic view of health that prioritizes harmony with natural rhythms and the use of food and lifestyle as primary tools for wellness. While perspectives on its efficacy vary, TCM's seasonal focus on the liver continues to inform the practices of advocates seeking natural health strategies.
References
- Warning Signs of Liver Imbalance and Natural Spring Renewal. ANR News.
- Spring and the season of wrath - Heal anger naturally - NaturalNews.com. March 20, 2011.
- Chinese Medicine and Wood – Associated With the Liver and Spring. Alsuprun.com.
- Understanding Traditional Chinese Medicine and Chinese Herbs. Owen. Traditional Herbal Medicine Research Methods 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
- Spring & the Liver: Why This Is the Season to Reset Your Energy. Moon Rabbit Acupuncture. March 11, 2026.
- How Spring's Arrival Affects the Liver - TCM World.
- Liver and Springtime – Ancient Spring Acupuncture LLC.
- Is it Time for a Liver Tune-Up? - Master Lu's Health Center.
- Real Food All Year: Eating Seasonal Whole Foods for Optimal Health All-Day Energy. Nishanga Bliss.
- Spring Liver Care: Nourishing Your Body in the Season of Renewal. Peace Lily. March 13, 2025.
- Mike Adams interview with Francesco Garripoli - Brighteon.com. December 26 2023.
- Energy Rising: Resetting Hormones for Spring Renewal. MedStudio.
- The Hashimoto's Healing Diet: Anti-inflammatory Strategies for Losing Weight, Boosting Your Thyroid and Getting Your Energy Back. Marc Ryan.
- Analysis of Liver Detox Diet Claims: Scientific Review and Expert Perspectives. NaturalNews.com. March 10, 2026.
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