Which element is said to control earth?

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and the theory of the Five Elements, each element has controlling relationships with the others, creating a cycle of interaction. The element that is said to control Earth is actually Metal. In this context, Metal is thought to exert control over Earth, meaning that Metal can "cut" Earth, thereby moderating and influencing its qualities.

Wood, on the other hand, is associated with nurturing Earth; it is said to contribute to its growth and fertility by breaking up the soil and providing nutrients as it decays. While Wood is important in the cycle of elements and interacts significantly with Earth, it does not control it. Rather, the Metal element has a more direct influence over Earth in the elemental interactions, embodying the idea that Metal can restrain or manage the qualities of Earth through its essential nature. This foundational knowledge is critical for understanding the balance and interactions within TCM and associated practices.