The Five Element Theory in Chinese medicine is based on five fundamental elements in the universe and the body that are in constant motion and change.

The first element, Wood, is associated with eyes, tendons, ligaments, hooves and nails and the season, spring.  The second one, Fire, is associated with speech, mind, blood vessels and complexion and the season, summer.  The third, Earth, is associated with muscles and digestion and late summer.  The fourth, Metal, is associated with skin and respiration and the season, fall. The fifth, Water, is associated with bones and elimination and the season, winter.

For example, a wood horse is more prone to bowed tendons, cracked hooves or conjunctivitis.  A fire horse is more prone to cardiac arrhythmias.  An earth horse is more prone to muscle atrophy and colic.  A metal horse is more prone to COPD or respiratory difficulties.  A water horse is more prone to arthritis and may get worse in the winter.

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