In Traditional Chinese Medicine, which organ is responsible for storing blood?

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the liver is understood to play a crucial role in the storage and regulation of blood. The liver is viewed as a vital organ that not only stores blood but also allows for its proper distribution throughout the body according to the body’s needs. This function is essential for maintaining the balance of qi (vital energy) and blood, particularly during times of activity when more blood may be needed in the muscles and other organs.

The liver's ability to hold blood ensures that there is a sufficient reserve that can be utilized effectively whenever the body requires additional blood flow, such as during physical exertion or emotional stress. A well-functioning liver supports smooth circulation and helps to regulate menstrual cycles in women, underscoring its importance in reproductive health.

In contrast, while other organs such as the heart are vital in pumping blood and the spleen is important for the production of qi from the food we eat and some aspects of blood production, they do not have the primary responsibility for storing blood as the liver does. The kidneys play a role in overall fluid balance and the regulation of yin and yang but are not directly associated with blood storage in the same way as the liver. Thus, the liver’s unique function in blood storage is