TCM has long recognized a connection between the digestive system and the mind, which aligns closely with our modern understanding of the gut-brain axis. This bidirectional communication network between the digestive system and the central nervous system links one’s health on the physical level of the gut with mental and emotional well-being. Though TCM does not describe this axis in the same scientific terms, it has deep wells of holistic wisdom to explore when it comes to these interconnections. Furthermore, this ancient tradition of medicine has predated and informed our understanding of the bidirectional nature that this axis spins upon, reminding that we can promote multidimensional healing by tending to any of its parts.
In TCM, the gut is primarily encompassed by the Spleen, Stomach, Small Intestine, and Large Intestine. The Spleen is essential for digestion, nutrient absorption, and mental clarity. Balanced Spleen Qi is said to support clear thinking, concentration, and emotional stability, but if the Spleen is weak or its Qi stagnant, it can lead to mental fatigue, overthinking, and even anxiety or depression. This highlights the importance and intelligence of TCM dietary guidance, which is primarily concerned with preventing and relieving Dampness. Dampness obstructs the flow of Qi and causes stagnation, and it most often originates through diet. Akin to a Western conception of gut inflammation, it is understood in the west to lead to cognitive fog and emotional disturbances, which echoes TCM's understanding of Spleen imbalance.
Herbal Support: Chaga, Astragalus, Lion’s Mane, Rose, Turkey Tail, Eleuthero
The Stomach is viewed as the origin of Qi transformation, where food is first broken down so that it can be utilized by the body. It is understood in TCM to work closely with the Spleen, governing “receiving and ripening,” or the breaking down of food. Stomach imbalances can lead to rebellious Qi (e.g., nausea, acid reflux), mental distress, and difficulty “digesting” emotions. From a Western perspective, gastric hormones, such as ghrelin (the hunger hormone) and other gut peptides, influence appetite and mood, paralleling TCM’s idea of the Stomach’s role in physical and emotional health. Modern medicine also acknowledges that stress affects gastric motility and acid production, causing conditions like acid reflux or functional dyspepsia, which mirrors TCM’s concept of rebellious Stomach Qi.
Herbal Support: Lion’s Mane, Rose, Tremella
Poor digestive health, particularly in the Spleen and Stomach, is thought to disturb Shen, a TCM concept that means “spirit” and also encompasses our psyche and mind. Closely associated with the Heart, Shen represents consciousness, emotions, and mental clarity—further highlighting the intricacies of our physical and mental-emotional connections. Since the Heart (which houses Shen) and the Spleen are connected, TCM teaches that an imbalance in one can disrupt the other. Therefore, when digestive health is poor, mental and emotional imbalances like insomnia, anxiety, or depression are common. Indeed, we can indirectly support digestive health by nourishing Shen, including through minimizing stress, promoting emotional balance, and encouraging the flow of Qi.
Herbal Support: Pearl, Reishi, Rose, and our Shen formula
In TCM, the Small Intestine is responsible for separating the pure from the impure in both concrete terms (nutrients, toxins) and more abstract ways (thoughts, emotions, and information). Playing a crucial role in our metabolic health, it sends usable nutrients upward (to nourish the body) and waste downward (for elimination). When it is functioning optimally, the Small Intestine works alongside the Heart, its paired organ, to support clarity, mental acuity, strong decision-making skills, and personal integrity. Imbalances can manifest as emotional confusion, indecision, poor judgement, or abdominal discomfort. Western medicine also recognizes the central role of the Small Intestine to digestion and nutrient absorption, while highlighting its production of metabolites that regulate neurotransmitter levels (e.g., serotonin and dopamine), influencing mental clarity and emotional health.
Herbal Support: Chaga, Lion’s Mane
The Large Intestine, which corresponds to the Autumn season in TCM’s Five Elements framework, governs the elimination of waste and helps maintain a smooth flow of Qi in the body. It also supports our capacity to extract meaning and wisdom from our experiences before letting go of emotional baggage and moving on. Imbalances in this organ-meridian system can manifest as constipation, diarrhea, and emotional stagnation (e.g., difficulty letting go of past emotions or grief). From a Western perspective, it is filled with beneficial bacteria and other microorganisms, collectively known as the gut microbiome. When the gut microbiome is disrupted, it can heighten the body's stress response, creating a vicious cycle. Chronic constipation or diarrhea, often tied to conditions like IBS, have been linked to anxiety and depression, echoing TCM’s association of Large Intestine imbalance with emotional stagnation.
Herbal Support: Rose, Turkey Tail, Pine Pollen, Pearl
We intuitively know that emotional imbalances can impair gut health, as evidenced by anecdotal observations like a loss of appetite when we feel depressed, or experiencing digestive upset when our fight or flight response is triggered. However, TCM offers a comprehensive system for tracing the connections between the various components of digestive health with our mental and emotional health. Modern science now confirms many of TCM's insights by showing how gut health can influence the nervous system, immune system, and hormones that affect mood and cognition.
