As most of you know, spring is the time to cleanse the liver.
In TCVM, the liver is considered The General of the body. He is responsible for keeping the body in perfect working order. When we take time to cleanse and nourish the liver, we are allowing the body to "reset" and prepare for the year ahead.
The liver's main functions include:
- Maintaining a smooth flow of qi (energy) throughout the body
- Assisting in digestion
- Detoxing and nourishing the blood neutralizing the effects of pharmaceutical, vaccines, flea/tick and heartworm preventatives, food additives and preservatives
- Brightening the eyes for clearer vision
- Strengthening the tendons and ligaments for better mobility
- Protecting the immune system from overstimulation or suppression
When the liver is unbalanced we may see:
- Digestive Issues:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome
- Food Sensitivities
- Allergies
- Liver Disease
- Fatty Liver
- Elevated Liver Enzymes
- Gallstones
- Bile Flow Issues
- Eye Disorders
- Glaucoma
- Uveitis
- Conjunctivitis
- Decreased Tear Production
- Weeping or Chronic Eye Discharge
- Ear Infections
- Tendon/Ligament Damage
- ACL Injuries
- Tendonitis
- Bursitis
- Stiff Joints with Poor Mobility
- Autoimmune Diseases
- or Chronic Disease Related to a Poor or Ineffective Immune System
- Seizures or Strokes
- Skin Allergies
- Severe Itching or Red, Dry Skin
Here are a few ways you can keep your pet's liver healthy:
- Limit the toxins the liver has to deal with by:
- Reducing or Limiting Pharmaceuticals
- Titer Testing to Prevent Unnecessary Vaccines
- Reducing the Frequency of Chemical Flea/Tick/Heartworm Preventatives (especially during the spring)
- Feed a well balanced, species appropriate diet
- Receive Acupuncture to maintain a proper flow of qi
- Provide supplements to help detox and nourish the liver, (especially during the spring)
- Be proactive and address any of the imbalances listed above before they become chronic issues
