The Metal Element in Traditional Chinese Medicine

Since ancient times, metal been regarded as a refined substance of great value. The Metal element in the Five Element theory of traditional Chinese medicine symbolizes the spiritual essence that has been transmuted from the other elements. Breath metaphorically corresponds to spirit (inspiration), and Metal correlates to the nose and lungs, through which breath enters the body. Also, Metal is associated with detachment and letting go; detaching from materialism allows us to connect with the spirit.

TCM Organs Associated with the Metal Element

The yin organ associated with Metal is the lungs, whose function is taking in life-giving oxygen and expelling harmful gases such as carbon dioxide. According to TCM, the lungs are the location of the Po, or corporeal soul. The lungs also control the Wei Qi, a type of protective external immune system that acts as a defense against invading pathogens. People with a deficiency in the Metal element may suffer from respiratory problems such as asthma and emphysema, and may be especially susceptible to infectious diseases, upper respiratory congestion and sinus problems.

The yang organ associated with Metal is the large intestine, whose function is elimination of waste, that which is unneeded, again in keeping with the idea of releasing or letting go. Those with a Metal imbalance may be troubled by constipation.

Emotions Associated with the Metal Element

Grief is the emotion associated with Metal, and with it comes the ability to let go of that which has been lost. Working through grief can lead to a sense of detachment and serenity.

Those who have a predominantly Metal personality tend to be disciplined, methodical, structured, and logical. They hold virtue, refinement and beauty in high regard. If the Metal element is out of balance, it can manifest psychologically as inhibition or aloofness, with tendencies to be autocratic, overly strict or self-righteous.

Other Correspondences to the Metal Element

The Metal element corresponds to the hours of 3-5 am. This is the best time to do activities that strengthen the lungs and breathing, such as Qigong or yoga. Health issues that occur during these hours may point to a disharmony in the Metal element.

The sound of the Metal element is sobbing or crying, which correlates with the emotion of grief.

The skin is the body part associated with Metal. Skin is a vitally important organ that is sometimes called the "third lung" due to its ability to absorb nutrients and eliminate toxins and waste products through perspiration. Skin ailments may be an indication of an imbalance in the Metal element. The orifice correlated with Metal is the nose, which opens to the lungs.

The color corresponding to Metal is white, which symbolizes purity and detachment from material or worldly things. The flavor associated with Metal is spicy, pungent or acrid, which has a dispersing energy.

Sources

Harriet Beinfield and Efrem Korngold. Between Heaven and Earth: A Guide to Chinese Medicine. Ballantine Books, 1991.

Michael and Lesley Tierra. Chinese Traditional Herbal Medicine, Vol. 1, Lotus Press, 1998.