Lungs and Large Intestine (Five Zang and Six Fu Organs)
The lungs and large intestine possess the properties of "Metal" among the five elements: wood, fire, earth, metal, and water. The lungs and large intestine have an "exterior-interior relationship" (the lungs are Yin, and the large intestine is Yang).
The lungs govern respiration
The lungs are connected to the bronchi, throat, and nose, and they govern respiration. In Oriental medicine, these organs are considered to be included in the "functions of the lungs." When the function of the lungs is not normal, symptoms such as difficulty breathing and shortness of breath appear.
The lungs govern Qi
Through respiration, the lungs take in the Qi of heaven into the body and distribute Qi to every corner of the body. In Oriental medicine, it is believed that all Zang-Fu organs, organs, and physiological activities are maintained by the circulation of Qi throughout the body. If the function of the lungs is normal, breathing is deep and slow, the Qi of the whole body is full, and the voice is resonant and strong. If it is not normal, it manifests as abnormalities in breathing and vocalization.
The lungs govern the skin
By circulating Qi, the lungs moisturize and nourish the skin. If the function of the lungs is normal, the skin is moisturized and responds quickly to environmental changes by contracting and relaxing. For example, when a cold wind is blowing, the skin tightens, the fine hairs stand up appropriately, and it tries to protect the body. Also, when it is hot, the pores open and release sweat to regulate the body from becoming too hot.
Furthermore, the skin is the boundary that separates the body from the outside world, a kind of armor that protects the body. If the skin is healthy and strong, it means that it is not easily affected by the outside world, which means that the defensive power is strong.
When the function of the lungs is not normal, dryness of the skin, eczema, edema, etc., appear, and defensive power also weakens.
The lungs are related to the nose and nasal mucus
The lungs take in the Qi of heaven into the body through the nose and expel old Qi. Also, the nose distinguishes smells. When the function of the lungs is not normal, abnormal secretion of nasal mucus occurs, the nose becomes blocked or dry, and the sense of smell is lost.
Large intestine
The large intestine transforms the food and drink sent from the small intestine and excretes them from the anus as stool. When the function of the large intestine is out of order, it manifests as an abnormality in excretion, causing symptoms such as constipation, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
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A state in which the function of the lungs is lowered is called "Lung Deficiency." Symptoms of "Lung Deficiency" include cough, asthma, shortness of breath, and various nasal symptoms. Also, when you catch a cold, symptoms first appear in the lungs and respiratory system. Conversely, since the lungs are related to defensive power, when the function of the lungs is lowered, defensive power is lowered, and it becomes a state where it is easy to catch a cold.
As a way to improve the function of the lungs, there is dry skin friction. It is said to be effective for children with asthma, but it is also very effective for adults, even if they do not have asthma, to strengthen their defensive power. Also, you can just rub your arms and shoulders with your hands without using a cloth. It improves blood circulation and is also effective for stiff shoulders. It is one of the recommended health methods!
●Aoyama Acupuncture Clinic Note Top