The functions of the TCM Small Intestine

The Small Intestine receives the food and drink which has been transformed by the Stomach, it’s function is to further separate the clean from the dirty. It influences mental clarity and judgment, making decisions (different from the Gallbladder which gives us the courage to make decisions, the Small Intestine gives us the clarity to make decisions well).

The functions of the Small Intestine are:

• Controls receiving and further transforming
• Separates fluids Effects dreams
• Relations with the Heart

Controls receiving and further transforming

It’s main duty: the further separation of clean and dirty (useable and non-useable) from the food stuffs sent to it from the Stomach.

The Spleen takes and transports the clean to the body (just as with the Stomach), and the dirty parts are transported to the Large Intestine and Bladder for excretion.

This TCM view correlates very closely with that held by western medicine.

TCM Small Intestine Separates Fluids

This function is the same as for food outlined above, although this activity is made possible by the warming action of the Kidney Yang.

If this function is impaired, there can be excessive or scanty urination depending on whether the organ has heat or cold.

TCM Small Intestine Dreams

“When one has small intestinal parasites they will dream of crowds. When they have long parasites they will dream of fights and mutual destruction.” (Simple Questions).

 â€œWhen the Small Intestine is deficient, one dreams of large cities.” (Spiritual Axis).

Small Intestine's  Relationship with the Heart

This relation is not as strong as that of the Liver Gallbladder or that of the Spleen Stomach. This relation between the Heart and the Small Intestine is best shown in the mental activities of the two. We know it is of great importance to our spirit to be of clear mind and make wise decisions.

Giovanni Maciocia recommends SI 5 (Yanggu) to tonify the strength of this relation and proper functioning. Heart-Fire can transmit to the Small Intestine causing thirst, bitter taste, tongue ulcers, and blood in the urine.