Enemies of the Spleen:
Cold, Cold Food, and Dampness

Cold and dampness can do more harm to the body than most people realize. In many traditional healing systems, these factors are believed to weaken the spleen, which is considered a central organ supporting the lymphatic and immune systems. Every day, the body produces around two liters of lymph from tissue fluid. This lymph continuously moves through the body, helping remove metabolic waste, toxins, and cellular debris.

It is possible to live without a spleen, but such individuals often need additional support for immune function. The lymphatic system plays a vital role in protecting the body from infections. When the spleen becomes weak or inflamed, overall health may decline, and treatments for other conditions sometimes appear less effective.

In traditional health philosophies, proper spleen function supports many organs, including the kidneys, liver, heart, lungs, digestive system, urinary tract, and pancreas.

When spleen function weakens, symptoms may include easy bruising, nosebleeds, muscle fatigue, heaviness in the limbs, loss of appetite, altered taste sensations, nausea, and general weakness.

Spleen and Heart
When spleen energy is depleted, it may influence heart function. Possible signs include palpitations, pale complexion, weak pulse, and memory difficulties.

Spleen and Kidneys
In traditional medicine, the kidneys are associated with vitality and longevity. The spleen nourishes the kidneys, while the kidneys provide warmth and energy that support spleen function. When either organ weakens, both systems can suffer, potentially affecting lymphatic and urinary health.

Spleen and Liver
The liver stores blood, while the spleen is believed to help regulate and distribute it while removing aged blood cells. Emotional stress, anxiety, and negative self-perception are often associated with imbalances between liver and spleen function. Symptoms may include digestive discomfort, chest tightness, bloating, poor appetite, and belching.

Spleen and Pancreas
Together, these organs are thought to influence muscle tone, body constitution, physical strength, and energy levels.

Taste perception, saliva production, and the condition of the lips are traditionally viewed as indicators of spleen and pancreatic health. Healthy spleen function is often associated with naturally pink lips, while pale or dry lips may suggest imbalance.

Some traditional systems describe a condition known as mucus toxicity, where impaired spleen and pancreatic function contributes to lymph stagnation and excessive mucus production. This may be associated with chronic respiratory conditions such as bronchitis, asthma, sinus inflammation, cystitis, gastritis, and colitis.

Cold exposure, cold food, and damp environments are often believed to contribute to spleen weakness.

Maintaining warmth through appropriate clothing and comfortable indoor temperatures may support overall circulation and immune resilience. Thorough chewing of food is also considered important for digestive and spleen support.

Protecting the lower back and abdominal area from prolonged dampness is traditionally recommended, as moisture exposure is believed to contribute to lymph stagnation and inflammatory conditions.

Herbal remedies have long been used in traditional wellness systems to support digestion, immunity, and circulation. Examples include:

• Chicory root, traditionally used to support digestion and pancreatic function
• Wormwood, often prepared as an herbal infusion
• Pomegranate juice, valued for its antioxidant content
• Cabbage juice, sometimes used in digestive support protocols
• Yarrow and calendula, traditionally used in herbal blends
• Sage, considered supportive for immune health
• Horsetail, used traditionally for lymphatic and urinary support
• Thyme, valued for antimicrobial properties
• Dandelion root, commonly used to support liver and digestive health

Whole grains, leafy greens, root vegetables, herbs, spices such as turmeric and ginger, fermented foods, seeds, sea vegetables, and green tea are often included in supportive dietary approaches.

Hydration
Proper hydration is essential for lymphatic circulation. Drinking clean, mineral-rich water is often recommended in traditional wellness practices.

Dietary Fiber
Fruits, vegetables, and whole grains provide fiber that helps support digestive cleansing and toxin elimination.

Natural Clay (Traditional Practice)
Some traditional detox methods include small amounts of edible clay mixed with water. Such practices should only be approached cautiously and with professional guidance.

Some traditional bodywork methods encourage stimulating lymph flow through manual techniques such as skin pinching or massage. These practices aim to improve circulation and reduce stagnation.

Lymphatic circulation depends heavily on movement and deep breathing. The diaphragm acts as a natural pump that helps move lymph through the body. Regular physical activity, walking, and breathing exercises are considered essential for maintaining lymphatic health.

• Persistent fatigue
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Pale or swollen eyelids
• Low blood pressure
• Fever
• Tenderness in the left upper abdomen
• Frequent infections
• Reduced immune resistance

Traditional wellness approaches often emphasize supporting lymphatic health through nutrition, hydration, herbal support, movement, and temperature balance.