In Chinese medicine there are five elements: Fire, Earth, Metal, Water, and Wood. Each of these elements has unique properties that are associated with, among other things, organs, emotions, seasons, colors, and tastes.   

Fire is associated with the Heart and Small Intestine organs, and bitterness is its elemental flavor. Earth, connected with the sweet taste, is linked to the digestive functions of the Stomach and Spleen. The Lungs and Large Intestine are stimulated by the pungent, or spicy, flavor, and saltiness is connected to the Water element of the Kidney and Bladder. Finally, the Wood element, represented by the Liver and Gall Bladder, is linked with the sour flavor.

Both food and Chinese herbs are categorized based on flavor, which allows them to be intentionally used to heal as well as maintain health. By harmonizing the organs using the appropriate balance of flavors, physical and energetic health can be optimized. Call me to learn more about which flavors best suit your constitution.