What is the primary function of the Upper Jiao in TCM?

The primary function of the Upper Jiao in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is indeed to disperse and vaporize body fluids of the upper body. This area, which includes organs such as the lungs and heart, plays a crucial role in the distribution of qi and fluids throughout the body. The lungs, in particular, are responsible for the transformation of clear fluids into vapor, which then gets distributed to nourish the skin and tissues of the upper body. This process helps maintain proper moisture and balance in the upper region, ensuring that the body functions optimally.

The Upper Jiao's role in dispersing and vaporizing fluids also connects it to aspects of respiration and warmth, as fluid management is essential for sustaining vitality and health. It highlights the interplay between the Upper Jiao’s functions and overall bodily equilibrium.

In contrast to other choices, storing vital substances is more associated with the Lower Jiao, which relates to the kidneys and urinary functions. The regulation of blood circulation is a function that generally spans various organ systems, but it is not the primary responsibility of the Upper Jiao. Lastly, the function of absorbing nutrients from food is primarily associated with the Middle Jiao, where the spleen and stomach are located, focusing on digestion and nutrient assimilation