Which element would you associate with the stomach and spleen meridians?

The element associated with the stomach and spleen meridians is Earth. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), each organ system is linked to one of the five elements: Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water. The stomach and spleen are closely related to the Earth element because they are primarily responsible for digestion and nourishment, which are foundational to maintaining the balance and integrity of the body's energy and health.

The Earth element represents stability, grounding, and nourishment, akin to the role that the stomach and spleen play in transforming food into vital energy (Qi) and blood. This element also symbolizes the ability to provide support and sustenance, mirroring how the spleen extracts pure essence from our food, while the stomach is responsible for the initial digestion.

In TCM, imbalance in the Earth element can lead to digestive issues, fatigue, and problems with the absorption of nutrients, reflecting the crucial role these organs play within the broader context of health. Recognizing this connection helps practitioners understand the relationships and diagnostics within the TCM framework.