Hello everyone, I’m Old Liu!
“The hands are the second face of the body.” This is not only because hands can skillfully perform various actions but also because they subtly reflect our health, especially the liver, the “silent general.” In traditional Chinese medicine, the liver governs the flow of qi and is closely related to our emotions, digestion, and the overall circulation of blood and energy in the body. Today, let’s talk about three subtle changes that may appear in the hands of those with liver issues, as well as how to rejuvenate the liver through daily diet to make it healthier!
Mastering the winds in the palm, a warning for the liver
1. Abnormal nails, signals of insufficient liver blood
Have you paid attention to your nails? Healthy nails should be rosy, smooth, and shiny. However, if you notice that your nails have become pale and colorless, or if they appear uneven and brittle, then you should be cautious. Traditional Chinese medicine believes that “the beauty of the liver is reflected in the nails,” meaning that the state of the nails directly reflects the prosperity or decline of liver blood. If liver blood is insufficient to nourish the nails, various abnormalities will arise.
The “Huangdi Neijing” states: “The liver stores blood, and blood houses the soul.” Here, “blood” refers not only to the blood itself but also encompasses its nourishing function. Sufficient liver blood allows all parts of the body to be nourished, and naturally, the nails will show a healthy state.
2. Red palms, a mark of excessive liver heat
Spread your palms and observe carefully. If you notice that the area around the base of your thumb (the thenar) is unusually red, or even presents patchy congestion that lightens when pressed but quickly returns after releasing, this may indicate excessive liver heat. Traditional Chinese medicine refers to this as “liver palm,” a typical symptom of stagnant liver qi that has transformed into fire.
The “Qianjin Fang” mentions: “Those with liver heat have red hands.” This clearly indicates the relationship between liver heat and palm color. Excessive liver heat not only affects emotions, leading to irritability and anxiety, but also manifests through the palms as a “barometer.”
3. Prominent veins, signs of stagnant liver qi
Carefully observe your palms, especially the back of your hands. If you notice prominently exposed veins, particularly subtle blood vessels that are usually not noticeable, this may indicate stagnant liver qi and unimpeded blood flow. Traditional Chinese medicine asserts that the liver governs the flow of energy, and if liver qi is stagnant, the circulation of energy and blood is obstructed, making the veins more visible.
The “Suwen: Discussion on the Six Roots of the Universe” states: “When the wood is bound, the great void is dim; clouds and objects disturb, strong winds arise, roofs break wood, and wood changes.” Here, “wood bound” refers to stagnant liver qi, which affects the growth of all things in the natural world and also impacts the flow of qi and blood in the human body.
Nutrition for health, the guardian of the liver
1. Green vegetables, excellent for liver detoxification
Green enters the liver, so eating green vegetables like spinach, broccoli, and celery can not only replenish essential vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber but also help the liver detoxify and reduce its burden. The chlorophyll and other components in these vegetables possess strong antioxidant properties, capable of clearing free radicals from the body and protecting liver cells from damage.
2. Goji berries and red dates, beneficial for nourishing the liver and kidneys
Goji berries and red dates are commonly used nourishing ingredients in traditional Chinese medicine. Goji berries are neutral and sweet, entering the liver and kidney meridians, and are known for nourishing the liver and kidneys, benefiting essence, and improving vision; red dates can replenish energy, nourish blood, and calm the spirit. The two
