The Wood Element
Liver/Gall Bladder
The Wood Element is at its full potential in the Spring when it is reflected in nature as growth, birth, vision, hope, and activity. It is experienced as the forward and upward movement of new growth and energy, having a vision or a plan, and then moving forward with the energy to fulfill that vision.
When the Wood Element is out of balance, one can either have too much energy bursting out or not enough energy to fulfill or plan one’s vision. This can result in an inappropriate eruption of anger or decent into hopelessness.
The Officials of the Wood Element are the Liver and Gallbladder. The Wood Element governs the eyes, tendons and genitals. Common signs of Liver distress include dry, brittle, and thickened nails and pain just below the ribs. Common illnesses include migraines, eye problems, sinus issues, rashes, discharges and hernias. For women, menstrual problems are common including PMS, painful periods, and heavy bleeding. Uterine fibroids may be related to imbalance of the Liver meridian as well. The Liver and Gallbladder meridian pathways traverse the top and sides of the head, the most common sites for migraine headaches.
References: Worsley, J.R., The Five Elements and the Officials, J.R. and J.B. Worsley. 1998.