Fluid metabolism regulation in TCM

Fluid metabolism regulation in TCM refers to the holistic management of body fluids (Jin-Ye) necessary for nourishing tissues, facilitating digestion, maintaining temperature and skin health, and supporting detoxification[8][1][2][7]. It is governed chiefly by the Spleen (transport), Lungs (movement), and Kidneys (transformation) systems, with imbalances leading to patterns such as edema, dampness, dryness, and phlegm syndromes[1][7][8]. Herbal medicines (e.g., Poria, Alismatis Rhizoma) and specific TCM formulas modulate these processes, partly by acting on aquaporins and other molecular systems in modern research[6]. However, this "target" is a broad network concept in classical medicine, not a molecular entity suitable for standard drug targeting or biomarker selection[8][1][6][7].

Other names

Fluid metabolismJin-Ye regulationWater passage regulationBody fluid homeostasis in TCM

Modulation of water metabolism through organ system effects (Spleen transport, Lung rhythmic descent/ascent, Kidney qi transformation). Regulation of aquaporin expression in kidney and intestinal tissues (herbal medicines can alter AQP1, AQP2, AQP3, AQP4, etc.). Promotion of diuresis, clearance of dampness, improvement of digestion and metabolism. Systemic approaches (e.g., balancing yin and yang, qi and blood).