Tinnitus (Ringing in the ears) could be due to weakness of kidneys, liver,spleen and stomach according to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) concept.
First of all, we have to understand that the kidneys, liver, spleen and stomach mentioned above are different from the western medicine concept. While western medicine view those as individual organ, TCM sees those as functional system (zhang & fu organ). In LOHAS Meridian Self-Therapy Program conducted by Beacon LOHAS, the 5 element concept was described clearly. Read more about LOHAS Meridian Self-Therapy Program here.
According to the description, Kidney is not only about managing urination but also related to ear, hair, bone, reproductive system and fearful emotion. It is also important to note that TCM view human being and disease in a very holistic (comprehensive) way. One disease could be due to a few contributing factors. Thus, ringing in the ear could be mainly due to kidney but also involve other functional system, spleen, liver and stomach.
For our body to function at optimum health, good Qi and Blood circulation is vital. Lacking of Qi and Blood flow to our internal organs and body parts will result in deterioration of body function, including hearing issue. Liver in charge of storing of blood and spleen controls the blood flow. Kidney promote Qi and Blood flow to the ear. (You can imagine Liver is like our water dam and Spleen is the water utility authority that manage the water flow. Both have to work hand in hand to ensure smooth supply of water to various housing estate).
Thus, it is vital to ensure the smooth flow of Qi & Blood to different parts of body system. For example, in LOHAS Meridian Self-Therapy Program, participants were taught to take care of the 12 meridians (including the zhang & fu organs) in a simple and effective way through low intensity exercises and stretching. On top of the exercise, we were taught lifestyle that helps our meridian and how to use simple and useful daily activity to improve the Qi & Blood flow.
One of the favorite things all of like is soaking our leg with warm water. It helps promote the blood circulation and as the results, we are more relax, improve sleeping quality and also helps to improve energy level.
One simple trick to manage the ringing problem due to emotional stress, anger or anxiety is gently pull our our earlobe and massage the bone behind our ear lobe.
It’s is also important to take care of our daily food and cut down intake of alcohol, spicy and deep-fried food as these will increase liver fire which will affect not only hearing but also other body function such as skin issues.
