KIDNEY (Zang-Fu Pathomechanisms)

Question 1

Key functions of the TCM KIDNEY (3):

Answer 1

1. Stores ESSENCE (prenatal*, postnatal form Spleen)
2. Governs BONES and engenders MARROW
3. Rules HEARING

+ Kidney Yin and Kidney Yang are the root of yin & yang of all organs

Question 2

Kidney as “Water”…

Answer 2

1. PRENATAL Essence, stored in the Kidney like a deep artesian well
2. BODILY WATER/fluids which the Kidney Yang transforms into urine
3. YIN of the body which holds Yang Fire in check

Question 3

Kidney Essence functions (3):

Answer 3

1. Growth, Development, Maturation
2. Longevity
3. Fertility
4. Strong BONES, back, knees, teeth
5. Healthy BRAIN function
6. Normal HEARING

Question 4

Essence Deficiency (symptoms):

Answer 4

• Developmental disorders/Inherited illnesses
• Late closing of fontanels
• Infertility
• Premature aging
• Weakness in low back & knees
• Weak bones & teeth
• Poor cognitive development
• Dizziness
• Memory loss, dementia
• Hearing loss & tinnitus
• Premature head hair loss

“Old, cold, and angry”

Question 5

Kidney Yang functions (4) & pathologies:

Answer 5

1. “Distills” bodily fluids via HEAT / transforms waste fluids into URINE → Copious clear urine/no urine
2. “Contains” urine in the bladder, preventing leakage → Incontinence
3. “Expels” urine from bladder → Weak, dribbling stream

Question 6

Kidney Yang Deficiency (symptoms):

Answer 6

• Cold limbs
• Somnolence
• Copious clear urine
• Anuria + edema
• Incontinence
• Weak dribbling urinary stream
  NOT ENOUGH HEAT & FORCE