TCM diagnosis: Liver overcomes spleen

On this page, you will learn:

• What this diagnosis means from the point of view of TCM and Western medicine
• Where your symptoms come from and how they are connected
• Which specific treatment methods can help you now
• How you can use TCM herbs, acupressure, Qi Gong and nutrition to restore harmony between your liver and spleen, free your liver Qi and strengthen your digestive power

The good news: The disharmony between the liver and spleen can be treated very well with the right measures. With stress reduction, gentle exercise, a targeted diet and TCM herbs, you can bring both organs back into balance and gain a new sense of lightness.

Take your time, Get to know the different treatment approaches—you don't have to implement everything at once. Choose what feels right for you and what you can easily integrate into your everyday life.

In traditional Chinese medicine, the five phases of transformation - wood, fire, earth, metal and water - are linked by complex relationships. One of these relationships is the „control cycle“: each element keeps another in check. Wood controls earth, just as tree roots penetrate and hold the earth.

The liver belongs to the element wood, the spleen to the element earth. In a healthy state, the liver is like a gentle spring breeze that ventilates and revitalizes the earth. However, when the liver has stagnant Qi - due to stress, suppressed emotions or lack of exercise - this gentle wind becomes a storm. The liver then „overcomes“ the spleen instead of controlling it harmoniously.

This pattern, called „Gan Qi Fan Pi“ (肝气犯脾) in Chinese, is one of the most common disharmony patterns in TCM practice. It explains why so many people get digestive problems when they are stressed.

The mechanics: The liver is responsible for the free flow of Qi throughout the body. It ensures that everything circulates smoothly - including digestive energy. If the liver Qi stagnates, it can no longer fulfill this task. Instead, it „attacks“ the next element in the control cycle: the earth, i.e. the spleen. The spleen, which is actually responsible for transforming food and transporting nutrients, is disrupted in its function.

The typical signs of „liver overcomes spleen“:

• Bloating and flatulence, especially after eating
• Abdominal pain or cramps that get worse with stress
• Alternating between diarrhea and constipation
• Belching, nausea or acid regurgitation
• Irritability, frustration and emotional fluctuations
• Tiredness after eating
• Tightness in the chest and ribs
• PMS with digestive complaints in women

The good news: This pattern of disharmony can be treated very well with the right measures. By freeing the liver qi AND strengthening the spleen at the same time, we restore the natural balance between the two organs.

From a Western perspective, „liver overcomes spleen“ describes something that modern medicine has only researched in recent decades: the close connection between stress, emotions and digestion - the so-called gut-brain axis.

Imagine your nervous system like a highway network: There are the main highways (the central nervous system in the brain and spinal cord) and a huge network of secondary highways in the abdomen (the enteric nervous system). This „abdominal brain“ contains more nerve cells than the spinal cord and constantly communicates with the brain - in both directions.

When you experience stress, your sympathetic nervous system (the „fight-or-flight“ part of the nervous system) activates and curbs digestion. Blood is diverted to the muscles and brain, away from the digestive tract. The production of digestive enzymes decreases and intestinal movement changes. This makes sense in the short term - digestion is not a priority in times of danger. But with chronic stress, this condition persists.

What does modern research show?

• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS): The most common functional bowel disease in which stress plays a major role
• Functional dyspepsia: Upper abdominal complaints without an organic cause, often stress-related
• Gallbladder dyskinesia: Functional gallbladder problems without gallstones
• Stress-related intestinal barrier disorder: Increased intestinal permeability („leaky gut“) due to stress
• Altered microbiome: Chronic stress has a negative impact on the intestinal flora

Remarkable: What TCM calls „liver overcomes spleen“ corresponds in many cases to what Western medicine classifies as a „functional gastrointestinal disorder“ or „psychosomatic digestive disorder“. The difference: TCM recognized this connection 2000 years ago and offers a clear treatment approach.

This is exactly where the TCM treatment in „Liver overcomes spleen“ comes in: It calms the overactive stress system, relaxes the liver (stress regulation), strengthens the digestive power of the spleen and restores balance - holistically, sustainably and with few side effects.

A liver-spleen disharmony is very treatable! TCM offers you a variety of effective methods to free your liver Qi and strengthen your digestive power. You don't have to do everything at once - choose the methods that suit you and your everyday life.

Here you will find specific treatment approaches that have been proven effective in TCM for thousands of years and that you can largely apply yourself.

TCM herbs are the basis every classic TCM treatment. The carefully compiled mixtures have a synergistic effect — this means that the individual herbs reinforce each other's effects and balance out any possible side effects.

What modern medicine is only just discovering—the power of plant substances—has been used successfully by TCM for over 2,500 years.

Warum BS+ bei Leber überwindet Milz?

Wenn die Leber die Milz überwindet, greift das stagnierende Leber–Qi direkt die Verdauungskraft an. Die Milz — in der TCM das zentrale Organ für die Umwandlung von Nahrung in Qi und Blut — wird durch die übergriffige Leber in ihrer Funktion geschwächt. Die Folge: Blähungen, wechselnder Stuhlgang, Bauchschmerzen bei Stress und eine zunehmend gestörte Darmflora. Denn wenn die Milz nicht mehr richtig transformieren kann, entsteht Feuchtigkeit — ein idealer Nährboden für ein Ungleichgewicht im Darmmikrobiom.

BS+ delivers 11 prebiotic fibers und hilft so, deine Darmflora gezielt aufzubauen. Eine vielfältige, gut genährte Darmflora stärkt die Transportfunktion der Milz und unterstützt sie dabei, trotz des Leber–Übergriffs ihre Aufgaben zu erfüllen — damit die Mitte wieder stabil wird und die Harmonie zwischen Leber und Milz zurückkehren kann.

Besonders wichtig bei Leber überwindet Milz:

• Stärkt die geschwächte Milz–Funktion und unterstützt die Transformation von Feuchtigkeit
• Beruhigt die gereizte Darmschleimhaut, die durch den Leber–Milz–Konflikt belastet wird
• Fördert einen regelmäßigen Stuhlgang und reduziert stressbedingte Verdauungsbeschwerden

Acupressure is acupuncture without needles. - you can apply them yourself at any time. In the case of liver-spleen disharmony, it is important both to free the congested liver qi and to strengthen the weakened spleen.

These three points form the classic combination for harmonizing the liver and spleen. Le 03 frees the liver qi, while MP 06 and Ma 36 strengthen the digestive power of the spleen - This is how you bring both organs back into balance.

Qi Gong is moving meditation - Gentle, flowing exercises that harmonize your energy flow and release blockages. In the case of liver-spleen disharmony, these exercises help on two levels at once: They get the blocked liver qi moving again and at the same time strengthen your center - the digestive power of the spleen.

Regular practice of Qi Gong (as little as 10-15 minutes a day) has been shown to have positive effects on the flow of Qi, relaxation and harmony between the liver and spleen.

These Qi Gong exercises are specially selected to harmonize the liver and spleen. The first exercise releases the congested liver qi, the second strengthens the center and the third brings everything into balance.

As this disharmony affects both the wood and earth elements, it is particularly important to take both aspects into account: free the liver qi AND strengthen the spleen. This is the only way to restore harmony between the two organs.

Meridian Yoga combines yoga with traditional Chinese medicine. The result is a holistic exercise concept for better health and more energy.

In the case of liver-spleen disharmony, the congested liver qi attacks the digestive power of the spleen. The following exercises work on both levels: The straddle stretches the liver meridian and helps to release the congested qi. The bow activates the stomach meridian which, as a partner of the spleen, supports its function. This restores harmony between wood and earth.

This combination of exercises is ideal for liver-spleen disharmony: the straddle releases the congested liver qi (wood element), while the bow strengthens the spleen and stomach (earth element). This works on both sides of the imbalance - the liver is relaxed and the spleen strengthened.

Particularly effective: Hold each position for 3-5 breaths. In the straddle, imagine how tension and frustration flow out of your body with each exhalation. For the bow, visualize warm, golden energy in your abdominal region.

„Let food be your medicine.“ - This principle has been valid in TCM for thousands of years. In the case of liver-spleen disharmony, the right diet is particularly important to bring both organs back into balance.

This diagnosis concerns two elements at the same time: wood (liver) and earth (spleen). The aim of the diet is to gently move the congested liver qi and at the same time strengthen the weakened spleen - without neglecting either organ.

What you eat, HOW you eat and WHEN you eat - all of this influences the harmony between your liver and spleen.

Start with ONE step!
Don't change everything at once.

Our suggestion for getting started:

1. Establish a hot breakfast - 2 weeks
2. Introduce regular meals without stress - 2 weeks
3. Integrate fennel and caraway as spices - 2 weeks

Step by step, you will notice how your digestion becomes calmer and the tension in your stomach eases.

Your liver and spleen will thank you!

Breathing is the bridge between body and mind. In TCM, we say: „The lungs govern qi“ — through conscious breathing, you can directly influence your energy flow, harmonize all organ systems, and activate your self-healing powers.

Studies show: Proper breathing activates the parasympathetic nervous system (rest & regeneration), massages the internal organs from within, improves oxygen supply, and reduces stress hormones. The good news: Just 5–10 minutes a day can have a measurable effect on your overall well-being.

When your body is relaxed, all organ systems can function optimally. Chronic tension blocks your body's self-healing powers and keeps you in a state of constant stress. Through targeted relaxation techniques, you activate the parasympathetic nervous system and send your body the signal: „Now I can regenerate, heal, and build strength.“

Progressive muscle relaxation is one of the most researched relaxation methods and has been used successfully for over 100 years. It helps you to recognize tension, actively release it, and achieve a state of deep relaxation—whenever you want.

Meditation calms the mind — and a calm mind harmonizes the body. In TCM, we know that every emotion affects a specific organ. Through regular meditation, you learn to break out of destructive thought patterns, find emotional balance, and strengthen your inner core.

Modern studies confirm: Meditation has been proven to change brain structure, reduce stress hormones, strengthen the immune system, and improve self-healing powers. Just 10 minutes a day can change your life forever.

In addition to traditional TCM treatment methods there are many small daily habits that can restore harmony between the liver and spleen. When the liver overpowers the spleen, measures are needed to calm the liver qi as well as to strengthen the digestive power. With the right habits, you can bring both organs back into balance.

Regular moderate exercise

Exercise frees the liver qi and relieves the spleen:

• At least 30 minutes of exercise daily
• Going for a walk - especially in nature
• Swimming - gentle and flowing like the element of water
• Cycling - rhythmic and liberating
• Light jogging or walking

What you should bear in mind

Find the right intensity:

• Not too intense - this further exhausts the spleen
• Regularity is more important than intensity
• If you are tired, it is better to move gently than not at all
• Exercise should be fun, not stressful
• First take a break after eating, then move

Integrating exercise into everyday life

Small units work wonders:

• Stairs instead of an elevator
• Short stretching breaks at your desk
• Take a walk during the lunch break
• Stand up and walk around when making a call

Practicing deep breathing

The breath immediately calms the liver qi:

• Deep abdominal breathing - the diaphragm massages the liver
• Emphasize long exhalation - releases tension
• 3-5 deep breaths during stress or before eating
• Consciously drop your shoulders as you exhale
• Sighing is allowed - it frees the liver qi

Regular breaks

Breaks break up the tension:

• A short break every 90 minutes
• During the break: open windows, fresh air
• Short stretching exercises or eye relaxation
• Consciously switch off - no cell phone during the break

Relaxation techniques

Regular relaxation harmonizes the liver and spleen:

• Meditation - even just 5-10 minutes a day helps
• Progressive muscle relaxation
• A warm bath in the evening
• Listen to soft music
• Mindfulness exercises in everyday life

Eat in peace

Stress while eating damages the liver and spleen in equal measure:

• Calm down briefly before eating
• 3 deep breaths before the meal
• Do not eat while standing or walking
• Do not eat when you are angry or upset
• Put your cell phone and screen away while eating

Regular meals

The spleen loves rhythm and regularity:

• Keep to fixed meal times
• Don't skip meals
• Hot breakfast strengthens the spleen in the morning
• Place the main meal at lunchtime
• Eat light and early in the evening

Chew consciously

Digestion begins in the mouth:

• Chew every bite thoroughly
• Do not gorge - this overstrains the spleen
• Choose small portions
• Put your fork down between bites
• Enjoy the meal, don't gulp it down

Learning to express feelings

Suppressed emotions dam up the liver qi:

• Allow yourself to feel feelings - even unpleasant ones
• Seek discussions with trusted persons
• Journaling or writing a diary helps to organize thoughts
• Therapeutic support if required
• Crying is allowed - it solves stagnation

Finding creative outlets

Creativity is part of the wood element:

• Painting, drawing, handicrafts
• Make or listen to music
• Writing - stories, poems, letters
• Gardening - contact with the wood element
• Any form of creative expression frees the liver qi

Dealing with anger and frustration

Constructive expression instead of suppression:

• Physical expression: sports, pillow punching, stomping
• Singing or shouting loudly (in the car, in the forest)
• Write down what annoys you - then tear it up
• Using anger as energy - for positive change

Regular sleeping times

The liver regenerates between 1 and 3 am:

• Go to bed before 11 p.m. - so that you sleep soundly at 1 a.m.
• 7-8 hours of sleep are ideal
• Keep to regular bedtimes
• For sleep problems: Avoid screens 1 hour before sleep
• Darkness in the bedroom - the liver needs rest

Organize the evening well

A quiet evening supports the liver:

• No alcohol in the evening - puts additional strain on the liver
• Don't fall asleep with anger - it's better to talk it out or write it down beforehand
• No hard work or late night chats
• Soft music or a book instead of action movies
• Light stretching exercises before sleep

Nourish the wood element

The liver belongs to the wood element and loves green:

• Go to the forest or park regularly
• The color green has a calming effect on the liver
• Look at trees - they represent the wood element
• Walking barefoot on grass
• Consciously perceiving spring - the season of the liver

Fresh air and space

The liver needs freedom and expansion:

• Get out of confined spaces - seek wide open spaces
• Let your gaze wander into the distance
• Take a deep breath of fresh air
• Enjoying sunlight - regulates the rhythm
• Walking in the wind - wind is part of the wood element

Plants in everyday life

Small green oases also help:

• Set up houseplants
• Herb pots on the windowsill
• Planting a balcony or garden
• Put flowers on the table

Harmonizing the liver and spleen takes time and patience. As both organs influence each other, it is important to both calm the liver qi and strengthen the spleen. Pay attention to your body's signals: if digestive problems increase with stress or irritability is accompanied by bloating, your body is showing you that the liver and spleen are out of balance. With consistent care for both organ systems, you will notice how the symptoms subside.

When to see a doctor? If you have persistent severe abdominal pain, bloody stools, unexplained weight loss or if the symptoms do not improve despite self-care, you should see a doctor. Professional support is also important for severe mood swings, persistent irritability or if the symptoms are significantly restricting your everyday life. TCM and Western medicine complement each other perfectly here.

TCM is not a quick fix for symptoms., but rather a holistic healing process. You will achieve the best results if you consistently integrate the treatment into your daily routine and give your body time to regenerate.

Start with ONE step

Don't try to change everything at once! That's overwhelming and leads to
usually leads to you giving up. Instead:

• Week 1-2: Introduce stress reduction and regular meals
• Week 3-4: Acupressure Le 03 and Ma 36 daily
• Week 5-6: Qi Gong „Warming the center“ and „Looking backwards“ 10 min. daily.
• Week 7-8: Supplement TCM herbal mixture
• From week 9: Add further methods as required

Realistic expectations

After 2–3 weeks: First improvements noticeable

• Less flatulence and bloating
• Improved digestion
• Less irritability

After 6–8 weeks: Significant improvements

• Regular bowel movements
• Emotional balance
• Less abdominal pain

After 3–6 months: Sustainable healing

• Liver and spleen in harmony
• Body feels light and relaxed
• Digestive power is restored

TCM vs. Western medicine

TCM and Western medicine are not mutually exclusive — they complement each other!

When Western medicine is important:

• In acute emergencies
• In case of structural damage
• In case of infections
• For accurate diagnoses (laboratory, imaging)

Where TCM has its strengths:

• In case of functional disorders
• For chronic complaints
• For prevention
• For holistic healing

Ideal: Combine both systems! Use Western medicine for
Acute treatment and accurate diagnosis, TCM for lasting healing
and strengthening the body's self-healing powers.

Important: Never stop taking prescribed medication without consulting your doctor first!
Talk to your doctor when you start TCM treatment.