What does the heart regulate according to Traditional Chinese Medicine?

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the heart is central to several crucial functions. One of its primary roles is the regulation of blood circulation. It ensures that blood flows effectively throughout the body, supplying oxygen and nutrients to various organs and tissues. The heart is also perceived as the "emperor" of the body's organs, meaning it has a governing role over the overall well-being of the body.

Additionally, the heart is intimately connected to mental and emotional health, particularly in relation to dreaming and consciousness. In TCM, dreams are thought to reflect the state of the heart and mind, indicating how emotional or psychological issues might influence physical health. Thus, the notion that the heart regulates not only the circulation of blood but also the control of dreams encapsulates its multifaceted importance in both physiological and psychological aspects of health.

The other options focus on functions associated with different organs. For example, the metabolism of water is more closely related to the kidneys, and storage and essence dominance pertain to the kidneys as well. The regulation of Qi is a function shared among various organs, but it is not specific to the heart alone. Hence, the function of the heart as a regulator of blood circulation and control of dreams is uniquely tied to its role in T