TCM Understanding of Stool and Urine Formations
The process of stool formation is similar. After food is received and ripened in the stomach, it is transformed and transported by the spleen. The "pure" (nutrient essence) goes from the spleen up to the heart and lungs where it is distributed to the whole body; the "impure" (partly digested foods) go to the small intestine where it is further separated into "pure" and "impure" substances. Finally the "impure" (waste) substances are directed down to the large intestine. The large intestine receives the "impure" parts of the digested food from the small intestine and continues to absorb water from these materials. At the end of the process, stool is formed and excreted through the anus.
Everything is interdependent and mutually interactive according to TCM theory; formation and excretion of urine and stool are supported by every part of the entire internal system. Among the organs, the kidney and the liver are actively involved with each other. The kidneys' vaporization function ensures the proper distribution of body fluids and excretion of urine by the bladder; moreover, the kidneys' propelling and warming functions enhance spleen, stomach and intestine functions. Because the liver regulates qi movements, it's flowing and spreading functions are crucial to spleen health.
Since the relationships between the internal organs are inter-dependent and inter-restricting, the problems of urine or stools should be viewed and managed from a holistic approach.