Gallbladder (Fu/Yang) - Internal TCM Organs

Gallbladder (Fu/Yang) - Internal TCM Organs

Functions of the Gall Bladder

The Gall Bladder is unusual among Yang Organs, because it does not receive, transform or transport digestate and waste products, but it stores bile. Bile is a pure (refined) substance, unlike the digestate and its products, which are impure substances.

Hence, since the Gall Bladder stores a pure substance, it resembles a Yin Organ. For this reason the Gall Bladder is included in the "Curious Organs".

The Gall Bladder Stores and Releases Bile

It receives bile from the Liver and stores it, releasing it when needed during digestion (same as in Western biomedicine).

Smooth flow of bile aids Stomach and Spleen digestive functions.

When Liver Qi stagnates and bile does not flow smoothly, digestive signs such as nausea and belching occur.

Gall Bladder Controls Judgment

  1. (Liver controls planning), Gall Bladder controls ability to make decisions. These two functions are interdependent.
  2. Gall Bladder gives a person courage and initiative, i.e., courage to make decisions, act, make changes: positive and decisive action. Deficient Gall Bladder can result in indecision, timidity and easily becoming discouraged.

Controls the Sinews (Tendons), With the Liver

Wood element (Gall Bladder and Liver) control sinews. Liver nourishes tendons with Blood, Gall Bladder provides Qi to ensure correct movement and flexibility of tendons. The influential point for tendons is Gall Bladder 34, i.e., on Gall Bladder channel.

References Used

The TCM information presented here has been referenced from numerous sources; including teachers, practitioners, class notes from Five Branches University, the following books, as well as other sources. If you have benefited from this information, please consider supporting the authors and their works by purchasing the books below.