Hepatitis, or an infection or inflammation in the liver, bile obstruction, liver shunts (portosystemic shunts), cirrhosis, and liver cancer can all benefit from acupuncture and herbal remedies.  The liver has a tremendous capacity to heal and regenerate itself, if given time and opportunity.  Therefore, routine blood work is recommended to catch changes early for best preventative care. 

            The liver in traditional Chinese veterinary medicine (TCVM) is responsible for the smooth flow of energy, or qi.  Whenever there is pain or disease, the flow of energy is disrupted or stagnant.  By tonifying--or treating the liver with acupuncture--disease processes and pain can be improved.  Liver qi can also become stagnant through pensiveness, worrying or anxiety.  There are many syndromes in TCVM that can be traced to liver qi stagnation, or disrupted energy flow.  Sometimes liver overacts on “spleen” causing digestive upsets such as diarrhea, inappetance, or constipation.  The liver can also generate too much heat from lack of flow, creating symptoms such as hyperthyroidism, irritability, or seizures.

            We understand through modern medicine that the liver is the great detoxifier, kind of like the oil filter on a car.  It can get sludgy if bile is not flowing smoothly.  Gallstones and bile buildup can cause pain and nausea.  The liver, along with the kidneys, metabolizes all the medications and chemicals the body is exposed to.  So proper function is essential to keep the body healthy.  Bitters, or dark green leafy vegetables and herbs, are a traditional and effective way of encouraging the release of bile.  Bile is important for food digestion, in the right amounts.  Qi gong meditation, exercise and deep breathing exercises also help promote the smooth flow of liver qi energy through the body. 

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