Our five senses – mouth, nose, eyes, ears, and tongue, are closely related to the five internal organs – spleen, stomach, lungs, liver, kidneys, and heart. By observing the changes in the five senses, one can reflect the health status of the internal organs and then take corresponding measures for regulation.
The lips, as the entry point for food, are closely related to the spleen and stomach. The color and redness of the lips can reveal the condition of the spleen and stomach. For example, lips that are dark or pale might indicate spleen and stomach deficiency, while overly red lips suggest heat in the spleen and stomach, and pale lips may signal deficiency in qi and blood, anemia, or malnutrition. Frequent cracking in the corners of the mouth is a manifestation of excessive heat in the spleen and stomach.
The nose, as the gateway for breathing, is linked to the lungs. A red nasal tip may indicate lung heat or internal fire; nosebleeds or excessive dryness may reflect an imbalance of yin and yang in the body with yin deficiency and excessive yang.
The eyes are seen as the external window of the liver. Liver disease often leads to yellow eyes, greenish corners, and blurry vision, which may be related to deficient liver blood. Redness and swelling of the eyes are signs of excessive liver fire, while dry eyes often result from insufficient yin and blood.
The ears, as the organs of hearing, are closely connected to the kidneys. According to traditional Chinese medicine theory, the “kidneys open to the ears.” When kidney function is poor, it is often accompanied by hearing loss or even deafness, whereas a link between good kidney function and auditory health exists.
As for the tongue, it is closely linked to the heart. A dark-colored tip of the tongue may indicate excessive heart fire; the appearance of ecchymosis may suggest hindered blood circulation; and ulcers on the tongue may be a signal of excessive heart fire. Certain heart issues can also lead to impaired tongue movement or coiling.
Maintaining the health of the five senses is an indirect way to nourish the internal organs:
– Eye care can start with diet by including foods rich in lutein and zeaxanthin, such as carrots, corn, tomatoes, etc., while also resting the eyes, avoiding prolonged screen time, and wearing UV-protective glasses outdoors. – Oral hygiene is vital, daily flossing to clean between teeth, balanced chewing, and regular dental check-ups. – Protect ears from noise disturbances, engage in balance exercises like walking backward or standing on one foot. – Nasal care includes daily cleaning, avoiding exposure to harmful gases, and prompt treatment of colds to prevent nasal diseases. – Throat health requires attention to vocalization methods, resting the vocal cords, using steam inhalation for relief, and adjusting sleep positions to reduce snoring.
Through these measures, we can not only improve the comfort of the five senses but also gently nurture the internal organs.
