TCM and the 5 Elements

The Qi in the microcosm of the body as well as the whole living being in the macrocosm is wrapped in complex dynamic of 5 phases which are assigned to the five elements. Each of these five phases is related to one Zàng organ, one Fu organ, cardinal direction, season, hour of the day, taste, sensory organ, body tissue, sensation, color and other characteristics. These characteristics help with diagnosis of the underlying problem and also guide the treatment strategy.

For example, the wood element (Mù) represents the Zàng organ of the liver and the Fu organ of the gallbladder. The wood element symbolizes the spring season, the morning hours of the day, the color green, the sour taste and the procreation process. Moreover, it is related to the eye, tendons and the feeling of anger. Therefore, in case of an eye diseases or turbulent emotions, acupoints on the liver meridian are activated or, in case of tense tendons, acupoints on the meridian of the gallbladder.

All 5 phases are part of a complex structure of a cycle, such as the cycle of creation or control. For example, the water element nourishes trees and plants, thus the water element nourishes the wood element. And the ax, i.e. the metal element, chops and breaks up wood and has control over the growth of the tree. According to the method of the 5 elements different strategies can be applied to balance an element that is in excess or in short supply.

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