Which organ's function includes ripening and transportation of food essence?

The organ associated with the ripening and transportation of food essence is the Spleen. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the Spleen is considered crucial in the digestive process, where it plays a significant role in extracting the essence from food and transforming it into the vital substances necessary for overall health.

The Spleen also governs the transportation of this vital essence throughout the body, ensuring that all organs receive the nourishment they need to function optimally. This process involves the transformation of the food substances into Qi (energy) and blood, which are then circulated to support various bodily functions. The Spleen's ability to effectively manage the intake, ripening, and distribution of these essences is fundamental to maintaining balance and vitality within the body. Thus, its function is integral to both nutrition and the overall fluid balance in TCM.