According to Traditional Acupuncture Therapy, LIVER is the main important official organ of judgment It is situated in the right hypochondriac region, related externally and internally with the GALL BLADDER the official of execution judged by the LIVER.
Its main physiological functions are storing blood, maintaining patency for the flow of QI, and controlling the tendons
1. Storing Blood - The LIVER possesses the function of storing blood and regulating the volume of circulation During rest, part of the blood remains in the LIVER, while during vigorous activity blood is released from LIVER to increase the volume of blood circulation to all organs at the required amount.
•The LIVER, along with the HEART supplies the tissues and organs with blood and it influences menstruation as well.
• LIV 3 and LIV 8 carry out this function.
2. Maintaining Patency for the flow of qi(vital functions) means that the LIVER is responsible for harmonious and unobtructed functional activities of the human body, • The LIVER is related to emotional activities, especially depression and anger. Prolonged mental depression or a bit of anger may weaken the LIVER so that it is unable to promote the unrestrained and free flow of qi.
• LIV 1 and KD 3 carry out this function.
• The harmonious and free flowing functional activity of the LIVER promotes the functioning of the other zang fu organs, channels and collaterals, especially those of the SPLEEN and STOMACH in digestion and absorption.
• LIV 2 and ST 45 carry out this function.
• The function of the LIVER also affects bile secretion, its storage in the GALL BLADDER and excretion into the intestines
• GB 34 and SP 1 carry out this function.
3. Controlling the tendons - The Yin and blood of the LIVER nourish the tendons keeping them in a normal state of contraction and relaxation.
• LI 4 and SP 5 carry out this function
The LIVER opens into the eye. Each zang fu organ has a certain influence on the function of the eye. The LIVER stores blood and its channel directly communicates with the eye, than other zang fu organs
• TW 23 and UB 1 carry out this function.
The zang fu organs and five sense organs collectively form the structural and functional connections for all coordination.
