Liver is a very important organ in our body, which is responsible for our metabolism and detoxification functions. Traditional Chinese medicine believes that acupressure massage has a good effect on daily liver care. Below, I will recommend several methods of massage for liver care.
Methods of Massage for Liver Care
1. Sanyinjiao Acupoint
Location: Sanyinjiao acupoint is the intersection of the liver, spleen, and kidney meridians. It is located on the inner side of the lower leg, three fingers wide above the inner ankle, in the depression above the shinbone.
Method: Use your index finger to vigorously rub the Sanyinjiao acupoint on both sides for 5 minutes. You can also follow the sequence of massaging the Yanglingquan acupoint, pressing the Chengshan acupoint, and then rubbing the Sanyinjiao acupoint for better results.
Effect: By massaging the Sanyinjiao acupoint, it can activate the meridians of the liver, spleen, and kidney, promote the smooth circulation of qi and blood, and effectively nourish the liver and other organs.
2. Taichong Acupoint
Location: Taichong acupoint is located on the dorsum of the foot, in the depression behind the first metatarsal space.
Method: Use the tip of your thumb to apply strong pressure and massage the acupoint on both sides, causing a strong soreness and swelling sensation in the area. Massage for 3-5 minutes each time.
Effect: Taichong acupoint is suitable for people who often feel irritable, anxious, and depressed. Massaging Taichong acupoint can make people feel clear-minded, replenish qi and blood, and calm the mind.
3. Yanglingquan Acupoint
Location: Yanglingquan acupoint is located below the knee, on the outer side of the lower leg, slightly in front of the small head of the fibula.
Method: Place your thumbs on both sides of the Yanglingquan acupoint, first massage for 1 minute, then use a strong horizontal plucking motion to stimulate the tendons in the area 3-5 times, until you feel a sore and tingling sensation.
Effect: Massaging the Yanglingquan acupoint can help unblock the gallbladder meridian. The liver and gallbladder are closely related, so it can also relieve liver stagnation and reduce liver fire.
Traditional Chinese Medicine Recommended Liver-regulating Tea
1. Mulberry Leaf and Goji Berry Tea
Ingredients: 6g mulberry leaves, 12g goji berries, 3g green tea.
Method: Put the above three ingredients in a cup, pour boiling water and let it steep for 5 minutes before drinking.
Effect: Mulberry leaves can dispel wind-heat, clear the liver, and improve eyesight. Goji berries can nourish yin, strengthen the body, and replenish qi. Therefore, mulberry leaf and goji berry tea is a health tea that nourishes yin, moistens the lungs, and nourishes the liver and improves eyesight.
2. Yupu Tea
Ingredients: 5g turmeric, 3g Acorus calamus, 3g raw Rehmannia, 3g flower tea.
Method: Brew with 300ml boiling water, drink when the taste is light.
Effect: Clear heat and stop bleeding, regulate liver and qi. Mainly used for hot accumulation in the small intestine causing hematuria; blood stranguria with restlessness and heat in the heart.
3. Rose and Buddha's Hand Tea
Ingredients: 1.5g rose petals, 3g Buddha's Hand, 3g flower tea.
Method: Brew with boiling water. You can add some rock sugar if desired.
Effect: Rose and Buddha's Hand tea can regulate liver and qi, regulate menstruation, and relieve pain.
Daily Liver Care Methods
1. Balanced Diet
The liver is the largest digestive gland in the human body and the center of metabolism for various substances. An unbalanced diet can increase the burden on the liver. Therefore, it is important to maintain a balanced diet to provide adequate nutrition and protection to the liver.
2. Adequate Sleep
The normal sleep time for adults should be 8 hours. It is recommended to go to bed around 11 pm and enter deep sleep between 1 am to 3 am, which is the best time for liver blood nourishment.
3. Moderate Exercise
Engage in moderate exercise in the morning or evening, for about half an hour each time, without feeling fatigued. Consistency is key to reap the benefits of exercise, which not only nourishes the liver but also other organs and the mind.
4. Positive Attitude
In spring, pay special attention to regulating emotions and avoiding liver stagnation, which can lead to various illnesses. It is beneficial to go out and cultivate some interests, as it can help disperse liver qi and prevent stagnation.
5. Protect the Eyes
According to Chinese medicine, the liver opens into the eyes. Therefore, if the liver is damaged, the eyes may feel dry and tired. On the other hand, taking care of the eyes can also protect the liver.
