In Traditional Chinese Medicine, which vital substance is associated with the Kidney?

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Jing, often translated as "essence," is the vital substance that is primarily associated with the Kidney. It is considered one of the Three Treasures, along with Qi and Shen (spirit). Jing represents the fundamental essence of life and is responsible for growth, development, reproduction, and aging.

In TCM theory, the Kidneys are seen as the root of all Yin and Yang energies in the body, and they store Jing. This makes the health of the Kidneys vital for overall vitality and longevity. The state of Jing can determine a person’s constitutional strength as well as their potential to resist disease and age well.

Additionally, Jing is associated with the reproductive system, as it is believed to be the essence that supports fertility and the health of future generations. This makes its relation to the Kidneys particularly significant in TCM practices that focus on longevity and reproductive health.

While Qi, Blood, and Body Fluids are all essential vital substances in TCM, they do not specifically correlate with the Kidney in the same way that Jing does. Qi, for example, is a broader life force that flows through all organs, and Blood is a vital substance related to nourishment and circulation. Body