Zang and Fu Organs: Energy Storage and Production
In traditional Oriental therapies, organs serve dual functions. One is their physical role, while the other is associated with the use of energy, often referred to as their 'energetic function.' The twelve organs in traditional therapies are categorized into two groups known as zang and fu.
Zang organs are responsible for storing energy, while the fu organs produce energy and oversee the elimination of waste substances. Each zang organ is paired with a fu organ that shares a similar function. Although the pancreas is not explicitly mentioned, it is typically grouped with the spleen, and the 'triple heater' or 'triple burner' is associated with the solar plexus, lower abdomen, and thorax.
- The lungs function as a zang organ and are involved in assimilating energy from the air. They influence mental alertness and a positive attitude. They are paired with the fu organ, the large intestine, which receives sustenance from the small intestine, absorbs essential fluids, and eliminates waste materials through feces. It is also connected with self-confidence.
- The spleen, a zang organ, converts food into the energy required by the body and plays a role in mental functions such as concentration, thinking, and analysis. It is paired with the fu organ, the stomach, which prepares food for nutrient extraction and energy utilization. The stomach is also related to providing 'food for thought.'
- The zang organ of the heart participates in blood formation from ki (energy) and regulates blood flow and the circulatory system. It houses the mind, affecting awareness, belief, long-term memory, and emotions. It is matched with the fu organ, the small intestine, which separates food into necessary and unnecessary components, with the latter passing to the large intestine. The small intestine is also associated with decision-making.
- The kidneys function as a zang organ, producing fundamental energy or ki for the other five paired organs, as well as for processes like reproduction, birth, growth, and maturity. They support the skeletal system and the brain, providing willpower and drive. The kidneys are paired with the fu organ, the bladder, which stores waste fluids until they are excreted as urine. The bladder is also related to strength and courage.
- The zang organ of the 'heart governor' oversees the circulation of blood throughout the body. It serves as a protector and supporter for the heart and influences interpersonal relationships. This organ is paired with the 'triple heater' or 'burner,' responsible for circulating ki throughout the body and facilitating emotional connections with others.
- The liver is a zang organ that contributes to maintaining a consistent flow of ki, promoting optimal physiological effects and emotional tranquility. Positive emotions, humor, planning, and creativity are also linked to the liver. It is matched with the fu organ, the gall bladder, which stores bile produced by the liver and delivers it to the intestines. The gall bladder is associated with decision-making and forward thinking.