TCM Pattern: Liver-Blood Deficiency + Heart-Blood Deficiency

On this page, you will learn:

• What this pattern means from the perspective of TCM and Western medicine
• Where your symptoms come from and how they are connected
• Which specific treatment methods can help you now
• How to restore your blood and nourish your liver and heart with TCM herbs, acupressure, qigong, and nutrition

The good news: A deficiency in liver blood and heart blood can be treated very effectively with the right measures. With a blood-nourishing diet, soothing acupressure, gentle qigong, and time-tested TCM herbs, you can replenish your blood and regain your inner peace.

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 liver and heart are inextricably linked through the blood (Xue). The liver stores blood and regulates its steady flow through the body. The heart governs the blood and propels it through the vessels. When the blood is depleted, both organs suffer—and their functions become unbalanced.

The liver nourishes the tendons, ligaments, and eyes with its blood. It ensures the free flow of qi and promotes emotional balance. The heart, in turn, houses the Shen—the spirit. It needs sufficient blood to provide a stable home for the spirit. When the blood of both organs is depleted, the body loses its nourishing substance and the spirit loses its anchor.

Blood is formed from the essence of food, which is processed by the spleen. That is why TCM states: „The spleen is the source of blood.“ If the spleen is weakened, it cannot produce enough blood—and both the liver and the heart suffer as a result of this deficiency.

The consequence of a combined liver and heart blood deficiency: The body is weakened in two ways. The liver can no longer perform its functions—the tendons become stiff, the eyes tire quickly, and the nails become brittle. At the same time, the mind finds no peace in the heart and blood—resulting in insomnia, inner restlessness, and heart palpitations.

The typical signs of a liver-blood and heart-blood deficiency:

• Pale face, pale lips and nail beds
• Insomnia with many dreams or problems falling asleep
• Inner restlessness, anxiety, and heart palpitations
• Blurred vision, dry and tired eyes
• Dizziness, especially when standing up
• Muscle cramps, numbness, and tingling in the limbs — persistent tingling or numbness should be evaluated by a doctor (including for vitamin B12)
• Brittle, ridged nails and dry, dull hair
• Irregular, light, or absent periods — if your period doesn't come, first rule out pregnancy
• Forgetfulness and lack of concentration

The good news: With the right measures, you can effectively strengthen the blood of the liver and heart. Through a blood-nourishing diet, TCM herbs, calming acupressure, and gentle exercise, you can nourish both organs and regain inner peace.

From a Western medical perspective, this condition combines symptoms of anemia with neurological and psychovegetative symptoms. The body does not have enough red blood cells or hemoglobin to adequately supply all tissues—particularly the brain, eyes, muscles, and nerves—with oxygen.

Imagine your blood as a supply network: The red blood cells are the transporters that deliver oxygen and nutrients to every cell. In the case of a combined liver and heart blood deficiency, there are too few transporters circulating, and two particularly sensitive organ systems suffer simultaneously: the nervous system (which corresponds to the heart’s function in TCM) and the liver system (metabolism, detoxification, eye health).

The liver is the body’s central metabolic organ and stores important nutrients such as iron, vitamin B12, and folic acid. If there is a deficiency of these substances, the liver can no longer perform its functions optimally. At the same time, the brain and nervous system are particularly sensitive to oxygen and nutrient deficiencies—resulting in sleep disturbances, cognitive impairments, and emotional instability.

What does modern medicine show?

• Iron deficiency: the most common cause of anemia, especially in women
• Vitamin B12 and folic acid deficiencies: Can lead to neurological symptoms such as numbness, tingling, and difficulty concentrating
• Sleep Disorders in Anemia: Well Documented, Possibly Due to Imbalances in Neurotransmitter Levels
• Vision problems: Anemia can lead to vision problems and dry eyes
• Heart palpitations and a racing heart: The body tries to compensate for the lack of oxygen by increasing the heart rate
• Hair loss, brittle nails: Signs of nutrient deficiency in peripheral tissues

Modern research confirms: The TCM pattern „Liver Blood and Heart Blood Deficiency“ correlates strongly with measurable values such as low hemoglobin, ferritin (iron stores), vitamin B12, and folic acid. Studies have shown that classic TCM formulas that nourish the blood have positive effects on blood formation and nerve function.

This is exactly where TCM treatment comes in: It strengthens the spleen as the source of blood production, specifically nourishes the blood of the liver and heart through special herbs and foods, calms the mind, and supports the absorption of important nutrients—in a profound, sustainable, and gentle way.

A deficiency in liver blood and heart blood is very treatable! TCM offers you a variety of effective methods to replenish your blood and nourish your liver and heart. You don't have to do everything at once—choose the methods that work best for you and your daily routine.

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.

Herbal medicine (or, in modern terms, phytotherapy) is the MOST IMPORTANT tool of TCM. It is an integral part of every traditional TCM treatment. Today, there is a suitable herbal blend for every TCM pattern.

Acupressure is acupuncture without needles. - you can apply them yourself at any time. By applying gentle pressure to certain points, you activate the energy flow in the meridians and nourish the blood.

These three points form an effective combination for nourishing the blood of the liver and heart. Le 03 nourishes the liver and its blood reservoirs, He 07 calms the mind and strengthens the blood of the heart, and MP 06 nourishes the blood of all three Yin meridians simultaneously. Regular stimulation is especially important in cases of liver and heart blood deficiency — Patient care systematically restores the blood supply to both organs.

Qi Gong is moving meditation — Gentle, flowing exercises that harmonize your energy flow and nourish your blood. If you have a deficiency of liver and heart blood, these exercises help open the liver meridian, calm the Shen, and lay the foundation for the production of new blood.

Regular practice of qigong (as little as 10–15 minutes a day) has been shown to have positive effects on blood formation, relaxation, and overall well-being.

These Qi Gong exercises are specifically selected to nourish the liver and heart blood. „Opening the Heart“ calms the mind for better sleep, „Looking Back“ strengthens the liver and the eyes, and „Gathering Qi“ builds up the energy needed for blood production.

All of these exercises are especially effective when you do them in the morning or in the evening before going to bed—in the morning for the liver and the eyes, and in the evening to calm the Shen and promote sleep.

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

The following exercises specifically activate the Heart Meridian—because the heart governs the blood and provides a home for the spirit (Shen). In cases of combined Liver and Heart Blood deficiency, the spirit’s anchoring in the Heart Blood is disrupted, leading to sleep problems and inner restlessness.

Both exercises activate the heart meridian, which runs along the inside of the arm and is connected to the heart. The heart governs the blood and houses the Shen - by activating this meridian you support both blood circulation and mental calmness.

Particularly effective: Hold each position for 3-5 breaths, visualizing nourishing, red energy filling your heart-blood and calming your mind.

„Let food be your medicine.“ — This principle has been followed in TCM for thousands of years. In cases of liver-blood and heart-blood deficiency, proper nutrition is especially important to restore an adequate blood supply to both organs.

Blood belongs to the elements Wood (liver) and fire (heart) and needs warm to neutral, nutritious, easily digestible food, to be formed and stored. Red foods nourish the heart and blood; green foods strengthen the liver.

What you eat, HOW you eat and WHEN What you eat—all of that affects your blood, your eyes, your sleep, and your inner peace.

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

Our suggestion for getting started:

1. Eat 3–5 red dates daily — 2 weeks
2. Introduce a hot breakfast (oatmeal with goji berries and walnuts) — 2 weeks
3. Cut back on raw foods, cold drinks, and alcohol — 2 weeks

Step by step, you'll notice how your liver and heart blood are being restored—your vision will become clearer and your sleep will become deeper.

Your blood—and your Shen—will thank you for it!

Breathing is the bridge between body and mind. In TCM, it is said: „The lungs govern the qi“—according to this concept, through conscious breathing you can directly influence your qi flow and find a deeper sense of calm.

Breathe calmly and slowly: Deep abdominal breathing noticeably calms many people—their breathing becomes deeper, their shoulders relax, and their minds become clearer. The good news: Just 5–10 minutes a day can make a difference in your well-being.

When your body is relaxed, Things tend to flow more easily. Persistent tension keeps you in a constant state of stress. By using specific relaxation techniques, you signal to your body to calm down and recharge.

Progressive muscle relaxation It is one of the best-known relaxation methods and has been practiced for over 100 years. It helps you become aware of tension, actively let go of it, and achieve a state of deep relaxation—whenever you want.

Meditation calms the mind — and a calm mind is good for your whole being. In TCM, it is said that every emotion affects a specific organ. Through regular meditation, you’ll learn to step away from racing thoughts, find emotional balance, and strengthen your inner center.

Just 10 minutes a day can do a lot to help you find inner peace. As a result, many people find that their daily lives become more relaxed and clear.

In addition to traditional TCM treatment methods There are many small daily habits that can strengthen your liver and heart blood. Since both organs are affected, it’s especially important to both calm the mind and nourish the liver.

Why Sleep Is Crucial for Liver and Heart Health

During sleep, the blood returns to the liver, and the Shen finds rest in the heart:

• Blood returns to the liver between 1 and 3 a.m. — the "liver time" on the body clock
• Go to bed before 11 p.m. — by 1 a.m., you should be in deep sleep so your liver can regenerate
• Get 7–8 hours of sleep—both the liver and the heart need enough time to regenerate
• Darken the bedroom — Light disrupts the Shen and liver regeneration
• Avoid screens 1–2 hours before bedtime — blue light tires the eyes and stimulates the mind

Bedtime Rituals

Preparing the Mind for Sleep:

• For insomnia: Apply acupressure to He 07 (Shenmen) before bedtime—it calms the Shen
• Longan-Date Tea as a Nightcap — Nourishes the Heart and Blood and Promotes Restful Sleep
• A warm foot bath before bed — directs energy downward and calms the heart. If your feet feel numb or tingly, check the temperature with your hand or a thermometer (no more than 40 °C) — numb skin doesn't signal that the water is too hot
• Soothing Teas: Lavender, Chamomile, Passionflower
• No exciting conversations or messages in the evening

Midday rest

Short rest during the day supports blood formation:

• A 10–20-minute nap at lunchtime is ideal
• Between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. is "Heart Time"—perfect for a break
• Even just closing your eyes and taking a deep breath helps
• No longer than 30 minutes - otherwise your night's sleep will be disturbed

Limit Screen Time

The eyes use up liver blood—when there is a deficiency, they become tired and dry particularly quickly:

• The 20-20-20 Rule: Every 20 minutes, look at something about 6 meters away for 20 seconds
• Prolonged computer work depletes the already scarce supply of liver blood
• Cut back on screen time in the evening — it's easier on your eyes and helps you sleep
• Use blue light filters when working on a screen is unavoidable

Eye Exercises and Eye Care

Regular care strengthens the connection between the liver and the eyes:

• Look at something green — green is the color of the liver and helps relax the eyes
• Roll your eyes in circles—first to the left, then to the right, 10 times each
• Practice looking into the distance — look into the distance regularly, especially after doing close-up work
• Warm eye compresses in the morning and evening — promote blood circulation

Goji Berries for the Eyes

The Classic TCM Food for the Liver, Blood, and Eyesight:

• Eat goji berries every day—they nourish the liver and blood and improve eyesight
• Goji Berry Tea: Pour hot water over 1 tablespoon of goji berries and let steep for 10 minutes
• Combine with chrysanthemum flowers (Ju Hua)—this further clears the eyes
• Also great as a topping for porridge, soups, or congee

Hot meals

The spleen loves warmth—and a strong spleen produces blood:

• Prefer cooked food - it is easier to digest
• Also eat breakfast warm (porridge, congee, warm soup)
• Raw food only as a side dish, not as a main meal
• Avoid cold drinks, even in summer
• Soups and stews are ideal for building up blood

Eat regularly

The spleen likes rhythm:

• 3 meals at fixed times
• Largest meal at lunchtime (when digestive power is at its strongest)
• Eat light and early in the evening (before 7 pm)
• Reduce snacks between meals - the spleen needs breaks
• Don't eat too late - the spleen needs rest at night

Avoid brooding

Worry weakens the spleen and, as a result, blood production:

• Excessive thinking directly depletes the spleen energy
• Don't work or watch the news while eating
• Breaking through spirals of worry - through exercise or conscious distraction
• Actively solve problems instead of endlessly brooding

Recommended Forms of Exercise

Gentle, rhythmic exercise is ideal for liver and heart-blood deficiency:

• Qi Gong — Exercises Specifically for the Heart and Liver
• Tai Chi — this meditative form of exercise nourishes the blood and calms the mind
• Gentle Yoga — without overexertion, with a focus on stretching
• Walks in nature — the Wood element is strengthened by trees and greenery
• Swimming in warm water — at a steady pace and gently

What you should avoid

Intense exertion depletes the already scarce blood supply:

• Intense endurance sports (marathon, HIIT) — deplete blood and cause exhaustion
• Heavy sweating — depletes the body's fluids and blood
• Exercising in the evening — can disrupt sleep and unsettle the Shen
• Strength training to exhaustion
• Exercise When You Feel Tired or Weak — Fatigue Is a Warning Sign

Exercise after eating

A short walk aids digestion and blood formation:

• 10-15 minutes of slow walking after eating
• Helps the spleen to transform food
• Do not lie down immediately after eating
• Light housework or gentle stretching is also good

Understanding the Emotional Side

Liver and Heart Blood Deficiency make one emotionally vulnerable:

• A deficiency of liver blood causes irritability, frustration, and emotional sensitivity
• Heart-Blood Deficiency causes anxiety, nervousness, and inner restlessness
• Together, these two factors can lead to a feeling of „groundless uncertainty.“
• These emotions are not a weakness—they reveal a lack of nourishment
• As blood production increases, emotions also stabilize

Meditation and Mindfulness

Calming and Grounding the Shen:

• 10–15 minutes of silent meditation every day — calms the Shen and nourishes the heart
• Mindfulness Exercises in Everyday Life — Eating, Walking, and Breathing Mindfully
• Keep a journal instead of brooding endlessly—it gives your thoughts a place to go
• „Set aside “worry time”—only think about problems during that time, then consciously let them go

Creativity and Nature

Activities That Are Good for the Liver and Heart:

• Creative activities nourish the heart and soul—painting, music, crafts, writing
• Being in nature — strengthening the Wood element and relaxing the liver
• Seek out green surroundings—trees, parks, and gardens soothe the liver
• Cultivate relationships that nourish you rather than weigh you down
• Create a calm, harmonious environment—no exciting news or heated arguments

During menstruation

Take extra care of yourself:

• More rest and sleep than usual
• Hot food and drinks - no raw food
• No intensive sports units
• Hot water bottle on the stomach if you feel cold
• No cold water - not even for washing your hands

After menstruation

Targeted Regeneration of Liver and Heart Blood:

• Foods that are particularly rich in nutrients for the blood during the first few days afterward
• Chicken Soup with Dates and Goji Berries — a Classic
• Beet, spinach, liver
• Longan fruit and red dates — nourish the blood; longan also calms the shen
• Get extra rest and sleep during the first few days after your period

Important to know

Over the years, many women develop chronic blood deficiency due to monthly blood loss. This is particularly evident in cases of combined liver and heart blood deficiency: Before menstruation, irritability and sleep problems increase; afterward, one feels exhausted and anxious. Targeted blood-building after each menstrual period breaks this cycle in a lasting way.

Strengthening the liver and heart blood takes time and patience. Building up the blood is like filling a reservoir—it happens step by step. Pay attention to the signals from your body and mind: insomnia, inner restlessness, tired eyes, and irritability are signs that you need more nourishment and rest. With consistent care, you’ll notice that your sleep becomes deeper, your eyes see more clearly, and inner peace returns.

When to see a doctor? If you experience severe insomnia, pronounced paleness, persistent vision problems, a racing heart, or panic attacks, you should see a doctor and have the following levels checked: hemoglobin, ferritin, vitamin B12, and liver function—and if you have vision problems, see an ophthalmologist. TCM and Western medicine complement each other perfectly in this regard.

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:

• Weeks 1–2: Include blood-nourishing foods in your daily diet (dates, goji berries, spinach)
• Weeks 3–4: Acupressure on Le 03, He 07, and MP 06 daily
• Weeks 5–6: Qi Gong „Opening the Heart“ and „Looking Back,“ 10 minutes daily.
• Weeks 7–8: Add your TCM herbal blend
• From week 9: Add further methods as required

Realistic expectations

After 2–3 weeks: First improvements noticeable

• Better Sleep and Fewer Dreams
• Less inner turmoil
• Initial improvement in complexion

After 6–8 weeks: Significant improvements

• Significantly more restful sleep
• Clearer vision, less eye strain
• Less dizziness and heart palpitations

After 3–6 months: Sustainable healing

• Noticeable Improvement in Liver and Heart Blood Flow
• Inner peace and emotional balance
• Stronger nails, shinier hair, a more vibrant complexion

TCM vs. Western medicine

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

When Western medicine is important:

• In case of severe anemia (hemoglobin below 10 g/dl)
• If vision problems persist
• In case of unexplained blood loss
• For accurate diagnoses (complete blood count, ferritin, B12, liver function tests)

Where TCM has its strengths:

• For mild to moderate blood deficiency
• To support iron supplementation
• For sustainable blood nourishment and Shen calming
• In cases of recurrent anemia

Ideal: Combine both approaches! Have your blood and liver function levels checked regularly, and use TCM to build up your blood over the long term and strengthen your body’s natural healing abilities.

Important: Never stop taking prescribed iron supplements or medication without authorization!
Talk to your doctor when you start TCM treatment.