1. Liver-Qi Stagnation

1. Liver-Qi Stagnation

Given that the liver normally requires smoothness and free flow, any loss of these qualities leads to liver-qi stagnation, which serves as the foundation for various liver-related syndromes. From this, conditions such as "liver wood overcoming earth," "liver stagnation transforming into fire," and "liver qi rising against the flow" can develop. Consequently, in recent years, researchers have conducted experimental studies on the nature of liver-qi stagnation. Some have employed multi-parameter synchronous detection^㉛^, revealing that the primary pathological basis of this syndrome is autonomic nervous system dysfunction, specifically a decreased CAMP/GCMP ratio, increased blood viscosity, and reduced small intestinal absorption function. Japanese scholar Matsumoto Katsuhiko believes that "the liver is a complex organ that can be classified as part of the autonomic nervous system, yet it is also connected to mental health, the central nervous system, vascular motor centers, and cardiac function." The Hunan Medical University Institute of Integrated Traditional and Western Medicine argues: "Current preliminary research indicates that the essence of the liver as described in TCM is closely linked to the nervous system and neurohumoral regulatory factors. Therefore, research on the essence of the liver must be based on the theories that the liver governs dispersal and stores blood."