When it comes to passing gas, most people consider it a normal occurrence. However, if flatulence becomes frequent—exceeding ten times a day—and is accompanied by persistent abdominal bloating, it is no longer normal. This could potentially be a distress signal from your liver.

If the liver is not functioning well, the first areas to show noticeable symptoms are the spleen and stomach. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the liver belongs to the Wood element, while the spleen and stomach belong to the Earth element. Since Wood overcomes Earth, any issues with the liver will first affect the spleen and stomach. For instance, if there is liver qi stagnation, it leads to poor circulation of vital energy (qi), which in turn affects the spleen. The spleen is responsible for transporting and absorbing the food we consume; when the spleen is deficient, food cannot be properly transformed and transported. This accumulation generates a large amount of gas, resulting in frequent and foul-smelling flatulence. Furthermore, because the food remains undigested, it often leads to issues such as abdominal bloating, frequent belching, and a loss of appetite.

At the same time, a deficiency in the spleen can lead to water accumulation. When this fluid flows into the large intestine, it results in loose, shapeless stools. In such cases, it is necessary to soothe the liver and strengthen the spleen; Chaihu Shugan Wan can be considered to soothe the liver, regulate Qi, and strengthen the spleen.

Furthermore, prolonged liver stagnation can easily transform into "fire." Since the liver and stomach are neighbors, excessive liver fire can affect the stomach, leading to symptoms such as nausea, a desire to vomit, a burning sensation in the stomach as if there were a fire, a dry mouth with a constant thirst for water, and a feeling of pressure, bloating, or pain under the ribs. At this point, it is necessary to clear the liver and harmonize the stomach; Zuojin Wan can be considered to clear liver fire and harmonize the stomach.

A reminder to everyone: Traditional Chinese Medicine requires syndrome differentiation. If needed, please consult a professional physician for timely diagnosis, treatment, and conditioning.