Spleen

The spleen is an indispensable organ in both Western and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) paradigms. In Western medicine, it is a crucial component of the lymphatic system, responsible for hosting white blood cells to combat pathogens and regulating hematological elements like red and white blood cells and platelets (World Health Organization, Lymphatic System Overview; U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Hematology Review). In cases of acute hemorrhage, the spleen can release stored erythrocytes back into circulation. TCM extends the spleen's functions to include transforming and transporting food essence, Qi, and bodily fluids (National Institute of Health, Complementary Medicine Review). Emotional factors like worry are posited to impact the spleen and are crucial for muscular and limb functions (Journal of Immunology, 2019). Nutritional aspects are corroborated by United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) data.