Understanding the Lung & Large Intestine

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and its Zangfu theory, the lungs and the large intestine are considered paired organs that share a connection with the season of autumn.

Autumn is the transition between the Yang (the active energy of summer) to the Yin (the introverted season of winter). It’s our season for renewal, as we begin to prepare to completely turn inwards for winter.

Lung Health

The lungs are responsible for governing respiration, controlling the circulation of Qi (vital energy), and regulating the skin's health. They are also associated with the emotion of grief.

During autumn, the air tends to be drier and cooler, which can affect the respiratory system. People may be more prone to respiratory issues during this season (allergies, cough, asthma, shortness of breath).

The lungs are closely connected to skin and immunity, which is considered the "third lung" because it is responsible for respiration through its pores. Additionally, the lungs are also associated with the immune system and the protection of Wei Qi (defensive qi).

Large Intestine Health

The large intestine plays a crucial role in the elimination of waste and the absorption of water from the stool. Imbalances in the large intestine can lead to issues such as constipation or diarrhea.

The primary function of the large intestine is to collect, store, and eliminate waste products from the body. Proper elimination is crucial for maintaining overall health and preventing the accumulation of toxins in the body. The large intestine is responsible for regulating the timing and frequency of bowel movements. Proper bowel function is essential for digestive health.

The Role of the LU/LI as a Pair

In TCM, balance and harmony are central concepts. The large intestine plays a role in maintaining the balance of body fluids which has a connection to the “moistening” of the lungs or respiration function. When the large intestine functions smoothly, it supports the overall balance and temperature of the body's internal systems. Any imbalances or issues in the large intestine can affect lung health and vice versa.

For example, an individual with chronic allergies may also experience dryness in the Large Intestine, as constipation, malabsorption or gut other related concerns.

Emotional and Psychological Aspects

In TCM, emotional imbalances are closely tied to organ health. Grief and sadness are associated with the lungs, and the ability to "let go" both physically (waste elimination) and emotionally (ireleasing negative emotions) is associated with the large intestine. The transition to autumn and its association with Metal can sometimes evoke emotions related to letting go and coping with loss, making emotional balance important during this season.

Just as the trees release their leaves, autumn is the season of shedding and letting go.

Diet and Lifestyle

TCM dietary and lifestyle recommendations often change with the seasons. During autumn, it is common to emphasize foods that support lung and large intestine health, such as foods with pungent flavors and those that help with moistening the respiratory system and promoting healthy bowel movements. Radish, Daikon, Pear, Garlic, Ginger, Yams, Onion, Dark Leafy Greens, Mushrooms, Mullein tea, Chrysanthemum tea, licorice root tea, and leeks are beneficial to lung health.

Pungent foods like radish and onion can help disperse or break up mucous and pears, honey and licorice tea can moisten and soothe a dry respiratory tract. Foods that support the large intestine are root vegetables high in fiber like sweet potatoes, cabbage, turnips, carrots, parsnips and probiotic rich foods like kimchi, sauerkraut, keifer and asparagus.

Additionally, warm and cooked foods are recommended for easy digestion. And most importantly, room temp or hot water moistens and supports the body’s natural detoxification.

One influences the other…

This lung/large intestine pairing is important for understanding how changes in the environment, emotions, and dietary choices can influence the health and balance of these organs.

The large intestine's role in TCM goes beyond mere waste elimination and encompasses aspects of digestion, fluid balance, emotional health, and its close connection to the lungs, breath and immune function within the body.