Relation Between Fu and Zang Organs, Stomach and Spleen

The interrelation between the Spleen and Stomach is so close that they could be considered as two aspects of the Organ system for digestion and distributing nutrients to the body.  The Stomach governs reception, rotting and ripening of food.  The absorption and distribution of nutrient substances depend on the Spleen’s function of transportation and transformation.  The Spleen’s function of transporting food qi to the body is dependent on the Stomach qi.  The Stomach is the origin of fluids, but relies on the Spleen to transform, separate and move them.  Dysfunction of reception by the Stomach may lead to poor appetite and a hungry sensation.  Dysfunction of transportation and transformation by the Spleen, due to retention of dampness, may lead to inability to ascend and clear and affect receiving and descending of the Stomach.  This leads to symptoms such as: poor appetite, nausea, vomiting; distention of the epigastrium.

Normally, Spleen qi ascends, distributing the essential substances of food and water up to the Heart and Lungs.  Stomach qi descends, moving the digested food and water downwards.  Pathologically, if Spleen qi descends, diarrhea or a prolapsed rectum may occur.  If Stomach qi ascends, nausea, vomiting and hiccups may occur.

1. The Stomach prefers wetness and dislikes dryness, while the Spleen prefers dryness and dislikes wetness.  If the Stomach is too dry, Stomach qi cannot descend and food cannot be moved down to the Small Intestine.  If the Spleen is too damp, Spleen qi cannot ascend and foods and fluid cannot be transported or transformed, which can lead to more dampness.
2. The Stomach is easily affected by excess, while the Spleen easily suffers from deficiency.
3. The Stomach tends to suffer from a yin deficiency, while the Spleen from a yang deficiency.
4. The Stomach is prone to pathogenic cold; the Spleen from heat.