TCM regards the spleen and stomach as the "acquired foundation of life." The spleen is located in abdominal cavity. Its main physiological functions are governing transportation and transformation of nutrient essence and body fluid, controlling blood flow and supporting the muscles and four limbs. The mouth and lips are important to check externally to know how the spleen is functioning. The spleen meridian communicates with the stomach creating an exterior and interior relationship. Thus, these two organs influence each other closely.
The important signs in spleen and stomach diseases are poor appetite, gastric pain, vomiting, belching, hiccups, abdominal distention and pain, diarrhea, loose stools, general swelling and bleeding disorders.