Liver Qi stagnation (stress-related digestive disruption)

Liver Qi stagnation is one of the most common patterns seen in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), particularly in today's fast-paced, high-stress lifestyles. It affects both emotional wellbeing and digestive health, leading to symptoms like bloating, abdominal pain, irregular bowel habits, and emotional tension.

Understanding Liver Qi Stagnation in TCM

In TCM, the Liver is responsible for ensuring the smooth flow of Qi (vital energy) throughout the body. When stress, frustration, or emotional repression disrupt this flow, Qi becomes "stagnant," leading to a range of physical and emotional symptoms.

Common causes include:

• Emotional stress or anxiety
• Poor diet or irregular eating habits
• Sedentary lifestyle
• Chronic digestive imbalances

Symptoms often affect both the digestive system and the emotional state.

How Acupuncture Helps with Liver Qi Stagnation

Acupuncture restores balance by:

• Regulating Liver Qi flow
• Releasing tension in the diaphragm and abdomen
• Calming the nervous system
• Harmonising the Liver and Spleen relationship for better digestion

Key acupuncture points along the Liver, Gallbladder, Spleen, and Stomach meridians are selected to smooth Qi flow and ease symptoms.

Research published in the Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine Studies (2022) shows acupuncture significantly improves symptoms like bloating, constipation, loose stools, and stress levels associated with Liver Qi stagnation.

How Chinese Herbal Medicine Supports Liver Qi Movement

Herbal therapy complements acupuncture by:

• Moving stagnant Liver Qi
• Harmonising Liver and Spleen functions
• Strengthening digestion and emotional resilience
• Nourishing Blood to support Liver function

Commonly used herbs include:

• Chai Hu (Bupleurum Root): Moves Liver Qi and relieves emotional stress
• Xiang Fu (Cyperus Rhizome): Regulates Qi and eases abdominal tension
• Bai Shao (White Peony Root): Nourishes Blood and softens the Liver
• Chen Pi (Aged Tangerine Peel): Harmonises the Middle Jiao and resolves bloating

Formulas are personalised to address the specific balance between Qi stagnation, deficiency, or accompanying Dampness.

How Liver Qi Stagnation Affects Digestion

When Liver Qi stagnates, it disrupts the Stomach and Spleen's ability to digest and transport food. This leads to symptoms like:

• Bloating after eating
• Abdominal distension or cramping
• Alternating constipation and diarrhoea
• Poor appetite
• Nausea or belching

Stress and emotional upset often worsen these digestive symptoms, creating a vicious cycle.

Emotional and Physical Symptoms of Liver Qi Stagnation

Beyond digestion, Liver Qi stagnation can also cause:

• Mood swings, irritability, or depression
• Tightness in the chest or throat
• Menstrual irregularities in women
• Headaches, particularly on the sides of the head
• Fatigue and lack of motivation

TCM views emotional and physical health as deeply interconnected. Treating Liver Qi stagnation supports both digestive function and emotional wellbeing.

Lifestyle and Dietary Recommendations for Liver Qi Stagnation

Simple daily changes can help relieve Liver Qi stagnation. At Vital Duo, we recommend:

• Regular, moderate exercise like walking, Tai Chi, or yoga
• Eating meals at regular times and chewing food thoroughly
• Avoiding overeating or eating under stress
• Choosing easy-to-digest, warm, cooked foods
• Reducing consumption of greasy, fried, and overly spicy foods
• Practising relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or meditation

Creative activities, spending time outdoors, and maintaining social connections also support healthy Liver Qi flow.

Final Thoughts

Stress-related digestive disruption doesn't have to be a daily struggle. With the natural methods of Traditional Chinese Medicine, you can smooth Qi flow, support your digestion, and find greater emotional ease.