Functions of the Kidneys
The Kidney is the seat of Mingmen.
Commentary: Mingmen, the gate of the life, the source of vitality, has its seat in the Kidneys. Mingmen, the life gate, corresponds to the Yang aspect of the Kidneys and the Kidney Essence. It is the basic fire of life, and the basis of sexual and reproductive functions. It warms and nourishes all organs, and is closely involved in growth, development, and aging. The Spleen and Stomach require the warming function of the life gate fire for function of movement and transformation to be normal. If the fire of the life gate declines, the functional activity of all organs will be impaired, leading to tiredness, depression, lack of vitality and feeling of cold.