Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is our country’s traditional medicine, which has been passed down and developed for thousands of years. From the earliest texts such as the Huangdi Neijing (Yellow Emperor’s Inner Canon) and Shennong Bencao (Shennong’s Herbal), to Shanghan Lun (Treatise on Cold Damage) and Mai Jing (Pulse Classic), and to the world-renowned classic Bencao Gangmu (Compendium of Materia Medica) written by the famous Ming Dynasty physician Li Shizhen in 1578, TCM is one of the earliest and most comprehensive medical systems.
TCM diagnosis primarily relies on the four examinations: observation, listening, inquiry, and palpation. Observation focuses on the body shape and facial features. Listening involves hearing the breath and voice, as well as smelling the body odor; inquiry mainly involves asking about the medical history and various recent symptoms; palpation, known as “taking the pulse” in southern China, requires the patient to refrain from breakfast and sit quietly for 60 minutes to ensure accuracy. This method significantly enhances the accuracy of diagnosis, and we at “Enjoy Health” have added hand diagnosis to further improve diagnostic precision.
Imbalances in the internal organs’ yin and yang necessitate a fundamental treatment to regulate this balance. In TCM, distinguishing between yin and yang is crucial; without this distinction, treatment may often be misguided.
For example, kidney deficiency can be categorized into yang deficiency and yin deficiency. Those with yang deficiency require yin tonification, leading to increasing lower back pain, while those with yin deficiency need yang tonification, resulting in increasing soreness in the lower back. The differentiation of yin and yang through observation primarily considers four aspects.
1. Body shape: Yin deficiency presents as thin, while yang deficiency appears as stout.
2. Tongue appearance: Yang deficiency shows a pale tongue with a swollen shape and thick white coating; yin deficiency presents a red tongue with a thin shape and scanty, thin coating.
3. Spirit and demeanor: Yang deficiency manifests as shortness of breath, reluctance to speak, and depression; yin deficiency presents as dryness, heat, and restlessness.
4. Cold and heat: Yang deficiency is sensitive to cold, while yin deficiency is sensitive to heat; those with yang deficiency sweat coolly, while those with yin deficiency sweat hotly.
Part One: The Relationship Between the Five Organs and Six Bowels
In TCM, the term “zangfu” refers to the internal organs of the human body.
The five organs are: Heart (Xin), Liver (Gan), Spleen (Pi), Lung (Fei), and Kidney (Shen) (the heart is covered by the Pericardium).
The six bowels are: Small Intestine (Xiao Chang), Large Intestine (Da Chang), Gallbladder (Dan), Stomach (Wei), Bladder (Pang Guang), and San Jiao (Triple Burner).
The organs work together, with the five organs as the main leaders and the six bowels as assistants, to complete various functions of the body. This leads to the concept of mutual relationships: the Liver and Gallbladder are interrelated, the Heart and Small Intestine are interrelated, the Spleen and Stomach are interrelated, the Lung and Large Intestine are interrelated, and the Kidney and Bladder are interrelated.
1. Liver and Gallbladder
The Liver and Gallbladder are mutually interrelated. “The Liver stores blood”; the Liver has the function of storing and regulating blood, hence the saying “the Liver governs blood.” The smooth flow of Liver qi promotes vitality and a calm spirit, allowing one to feel energetic and at peace.
(1) “The Liver opens to the eyes”; the Liver is the root of the eyes. When the Liver’s essence is abundant, the eyes are bright, clear, and spirited. If Liver fire rises, the eyes may appear red; if the Liver is deficient, the eyes may become dry and vision unclear.
(2) “The Liver governs the tendons, and its manifestation is in the nails”; when the Liver’s essence is sufficient, it nourishes the tendons, allowing for flexible movement. Healthy nails are full, shiny, transparent, and pink; when the Liver is deficient, the tendons may become stiff, movement sluggish, and nails may appear dirty, concave, and lack color.
(3) “Anger harms the Liver”; when Liver qi flows smoothly, a person is energetic and calm, fostering friendly interactions. However, when Liver qi stagnates, it can lead to anger, fierce gazes, and a flushed face, causing unpleasant body odors that others may avoid.
The Liver yin includes blood and the lubricating fluids necessary for the movement of tendons and muscles—yin fluids. When Liver yin is sufficient, the body feels light and confident, free from anger and disharmony. Symptoms of Liver discomfort can be categorized into yang excess and yin deficiency, and it is essential to distinguish between these two conditions, as they have different characteristics:
1. Those with Liver yang excess are irritable and energetic; those with Liver yin deficiency are anxious yet fatigued.
2. Liver yang excess may present with red, dry eyes, corneal spots, or swollen, drooping eyelids; Liver yin deficiency may present with sunken eye sockets, dry eyes, blurred vision, tearing in the wind, or conditions like retinal detachment and cataracts.
3. Liver yang excess may cause fullness under the ribs after meals or pain in the right rib; Liver yin deficiency may cause dull pain in the right rib.
4. Those with Liver yang excess may experience restless legs; those with Liver yin deficiency may have weak legs.
5. Those with Liver yang excess may be irritable and careless; those with Liver yin deficiency may feel overwhelmed yet lack the energy to act.
2. Heart and Small Intestine
In TCM, the Heart encompasses both the heart and the brain. For example, when we say “thinking in the heart,” it refers to the brain’s activity rather than the heart itself.
The Heart governs the spirit and consciousness, overseeing higher central nervous system activities, and plays a leading role in the functions of other organs. Individuals with abundant qi and blood are joyful and radiant, while those with Heart qi deficiency may experience palpitations, dull eyes, and lack of interest, leading to severe cases of anorexia.
(1) Sufficient Heart qi results in a radiant complexion.
Individuals with sufficient Heart qi have a complexion that is rosy and smooth; those with Heart qi deficiency have a dull complexion with enlarged pores, leading to excessive sweating, and in severe cases, profuse sweating that depletes yang.
(2) Sufficient Heart qi produces a clear and resonant voice.
Those with sufficient Heart qi have a voice like a ringing bell, are expressive, and show their emotions; those with Heart qi deficiency have a low voice, often sighing, speaking little, and may feel depressed and unhappy, with various causes for this deficiency, such as overexertion, emotional distress, or aging.
Heart regulation also has yin and yang distinctions; insufficient Heart yang can consume yin and generate heat, while insufficient Heart yin can lead to heat damaging qi. The characteristics of yang deficiency and yin deficiency are as follows:
A. “The tongue is the sprout of the heart”; a plump, pale tongue indicates yang deficiency, while a thin, red tongue indicates yin deficiency.
B. Ulcers on the tongue tip indicate yang deficiency if the tongue is white, and yin deficiency if the tongue is red.
C. Sighing and spontaneous sweating indicate yang deficiency, while flushed face and spontaneous sweating indicate yin deficiency.
D. A feeling of tightness in the heart area, difficulty breathing, and timidity indicate yang deficiency, while dryness and irritability in the heart area indicate yin deficiency.
3. Lung and Large Intestine
The Lung is located in the upper chest and is the pathway for qi, with the throat as its gateway, opening to the nose, allowing for the exchange of gases. “The Lung governs the blood vessels”; the clear qi inhaled by the Lung combines with the essence of food transformed by the Spleen to generate yuan qi, sustaining life. The Lung and Heart are both part of the upper jiao and depend on each other; the Lung governs qi, while the Heart governs blood; without qi, blood cannot survive, and without blood, qi cannot thrive.
1. Sufficient Lung qi indicates vitality; when Lung qi is abundant, the blood is rich in oxygen, leading to vitality. Healthy young women often have smooth, fair skin due to sufficient Lung qi.
2. The Lung governs the skin and hair; when Lung qi is sufficient, the skin is well-nourished, soft, smooth, and with fine pores. When Lung qi is deficient, the skin’s resistance weakens, leading to symptoms such as subcutaneous rashes, skin lesions, facial redness, acne, and skin allergies.
3. Sufficient Lung qi results in a refined nose; when Lung qi is abundant, the nose appears bright and delicate, while Lung qi deficiency may lead to enlarged pores or redness of the nostrils, potentially resulting in conditions like rosacea.
4. Sufficient Lung qi prevents obesity; the Lung regulates water pathways, directing fluids to the Bladder. The Lung’s regulation of body fluids requires cooperation with the Spleen and Kidney; if any link fails, it can lead to poor water metabolism, resulting in obesity or even edema.
When Lung qi is sufficient, the nose is free from inflammation, and the sense of smell is acute. When Lung qi is deficient, one is prone to nasal and pharyngeal allergies, sometimes unable to distinguish between scents. “The Lung governs sorrow”; when Lung qi is sufficient, one often laughs, while when it is deficient, one tends to be melancholic. The Lung can also be categorized into yin and yang deficiency, with different symptoms:
When Lung yang is deficient, one may experience weak cough and shortness of breath, clear nasal discharge, and in severe cases, wheezing or difficulty breathing, with clear, thin phlegm, fatigue, low voice, sensitivity to cold, spontaneous sweating, and a pale tongue. When Lung yin is deficient, one may experience dry cough with little phlegm, tidal fever, night sweats, flushed cheeks, hot palms and soles, dry throat, hoarseness, and a red, dry tongue with scanty coating.
4. Spleen and Stomach
The Spleen and Stomach are the sources of transformation and generation, the foundation of postnatal life. The Spleen governs transportation and transformation, distributing water and essence throughout the body to meet various needs and maintain normal organ function. All food enters through the Spleen, which is the source of nutrient generation, thus the health of the body during the day is closely related to the Spleen.
1. Sufficient Spleen qi leads to robust muscles; when Spleen qi is abundant, the muscles are plump and vibrant, and the face appears lively and energetic. Some individuals may not be conventionally attractive but still appear appealing, which is often referred to as having “lovely flesh”.
2. Sufficient Spleen qi results in a non-bloated face; a healthy, plump face in women is considered beautiful, while other types of bloating are often due to edema. The Spleen governs the transportation of dampness; if Spleen qi is deficient, it can lead to water retention. Edema caused by Kidney deficiency typically occurs in the legs, while edema from Spleen deficiency often appears in the face and throughout the body.
There are two main causes of Spleen deficiency: one is diet, and the other is overthinking. Excessive consumption of cold foods, overeating fruits, and binge eating can harm the Spleen, while excessive worry can also damage it.
3. “The Spleen opens to the mouth, and its manifestation is in the lips”; when Spleen qi is sufficient, the lips are plump and rosy, and the breath is odorless. A healthy Spleen can discern the flavors of grains, while those with weak Spleen qi have pale, rough lips. If cold congeals in the Spleen, the lips may appear purple or black, and the breath may have a strong odor, with food lacking flavor.
4. “The Spleen governs blood, ensuring smooth circulation within the vessels”; when Spleen qi is deficient and unable to govern blood, it can lead to “blood not following the vessels,” resulting in subcutaneous bleeding and bruising. In severe cases, sweat may appear red, and some women may experience prolonged menstrual bleeding. The Spleen and Stomach are interrelated; the Spleen is like a workshop, and both are essential for each other, yet they have different preferences: the Spleen prefers dryness and dislikes dampness, while the Stomach prefers moisture and dislikes dryness. When Spleen qi rises and the central qi is sufficient, Stomach qi descends, allowing for smooth digestion and absorption. The symptoms of normal and abnormal Spleen and Stomach function are as follows:
1. When Spleen qi is deficient, the lips may appear pale, and in severe cases, colorless; when Stomach fire rises, the lips may become dry, and in severe cases, cracked.
2. Prolonged Spleen qi deficiency may lead to gum recession, while prolonged Stomach qi deficiency may lead to lower gum recession.
3. Spleen qi deficiency may cause loose stools, and in severe cases, diarrhea, while Stomach fire may lead to dry, hard stools.
4. When Spleen qi is deficient, the limbs may feel cold; when Stomach fire is strong, the person may feel hot.
5. Insufficient Stomach yang may cause bloating and vomiting of clear saliva.
5. Kidney and Bladder
The Kidney is the root of congenital essence; when Kidney qi is abundant, one has sharp hearing and clear vision, abundant energy, and a youthful appearance, potentially delaying aging by decades. When Kidney qi is deficient, one may experience fearfulness, and in severe cases, mental illness may occur.
1. “The Kidney governs water”; when Kidney qi is sufficient, it can regulate body fluids and expel excess water promptly. When Kidney qi declines in women, the body may retain water that should be expelled, leading to virtual obesity or even edema. If the face also appears swollen, it indicates a serious condition. However, replenishing Kidney qi can reduce waist size without necessarily losing weight, as “the Kidney governs bones”; when Kidney qi is sufficient, bone density increases, which may lead to weight gain.
2. “The Kidney governs hair”; when Kidney qi is sufficient, hair is thick and shiny, while insufficient Kidney qi may lead to hair loss and dryness. Therefore, the fundamental treatment for hair loss is nourishing the Kidney. Sufficient Kidney qi leads to a straight neck and strong teeth, as the Kidney governs bones, and teeth are extensions of bones. When Kidney qi is deficient, the cervical spine may lack strength, leading to conditions like bone hyperplasia. Therefore, when middle-aged individuals experience bone hyperplasia or loose teeth, they should not rush into surgery but should focus on nourishing the Kidney, which can fundamentally resolve the issue and preserve the teeth.
3. “The Kidney receives Lung qi, and the Lung governs the skin”; when Kidney qi is sufficient, it can accept Lung qi, allowing the Lung to nourish the skin. When Kidney qi is deficient, it can obstruct the Lung’s descending function, leading to facial blemishes, and some individuals may develop acne due to Kidney deficiency preventing the acceptance of Lung qi.
4. Sufficient Kidney qi leads to harmonious marital relations; “the Kidney opens to the two yin below and to the ears above”; when Kidney qi is sufficient, hearing is good. The Kidney is the mother of the Liver, and when both the Liver and Kidney are sufficient, one has sharp hearing and clear vision. Kidney deficiency can lead to poor hearing, tinnitus, dizziness, or even deafness.
When replenishing the Kidney, it is essential to determine whether it is yang deficiency or yin deficiency; yang deficiency requires yang tonification, while yin deficiency requires yin nourishment. Misdiagnosing can lead to ineffective treatment and adverse effects. The characteristics of Kidney yang deficiency and yin deficiency are as follows:
Yang deficiency: sensitivity to cold, cold hands or feet.
Yin deficiency: sensitivity to heat, hot palms, soles, and inner heat, known as “five hearts heat”.
1. A pale, swollen tongue with a white coating indicates yang deficiency; a thin, red tongue with scanty coating indicates yin deficiency.
2. Yin deficiency tends to be thin, while yang deficiency tends to be overweight.
3. Yang deficiency leads to fatigue, while yin deficiency leads to dryness and restlessness.
4. Yang deficiency presents with a pale, dull complexion, while yin deficiency presents with flushed cheeks and a reddish face.
From the above introduction, we can conclude that beauty is composed of various factors, and only when these factors are balanced can one achieve beauty. Maintaining physical balance is paramount, as a balanced body will produce a balanced mental state, which in turn promotes physical balance, creating a positive cycle.
Physical balance primarily involves the circulation system of the five organs and their interrelationships. The relationships between the five organs are mutually supportive and restrictive; the imbalance of one organ can lead to the imbalance of others. Therefore, while women pursue beauty in appearance and demeanor, they must not neglect the fundamentals, as this can lead to failure.
Next, we will discuss the relationship between the five organs and their corresponding yin-yang and five-element relationships, which illustrate the mutual support and restriction among the five organs. Mutual support means that they nourish and assist each other, while mutual restriction means that they control and limit each other.
First, we need to understand the five elements: Metal, Wood, Water, Fire, and Earth.
That is: Liver (Gallbladder) belongs to Wood, Heart (Small Intestine) belongs to Fire, Spleen (Stomach) belongs to Earth, Lung (Large Intestine) belongs to Metal, and Kidney (Bladder) belongs to Water.
Part Two: The Mutual Support and Restriction of the Five Elements
1. Mutual Support
1. Wood generates Fire: Wood can burn to create fire; the Liver’s function promotes the normal function of the Heart. When Liver function is normal, qi flows smoothly, leading to a cheerful mood and nourishing the Liver.
2. Fire generates Earth: Fire causes Wood to burn and transform into Earth; good Heart function promotes normal Stomach function, and a strong Heart supports a healthy Spleen.
3. Earth generates Metal: Metal is extracted from Earth; good Spleen function promotes normal Lung function, as the Spleen transforms food and essence to nourish the Lung, thus nurturing Earth to generate Metal.
4. Metal generates Water: Mountains with stones can grow trees; the higher the mountain, the higher the water. Stones symbolize Metal; without stones, there can be no water, and without water, there can be no grass. Stones contain metal elements, and the ancients referred to “Metal generates Water”; good Lung function promotes normal Kidney function.
5. Water generates Wood: Flowers, grass, and trees depend on water for growth; good Kidney function promotes normal Liver function.
2. Mutual Restriction
1. Wood restricts Earth: The seeds of trees break through the soil; poor Liver function can affect the normal function of the Spleen and Stomach.
2. Earth restricts Water: Earth can block water; poor Spleen function can affect normal Kidney function.
3. Water restricts Fire: Water can extinguish fire; poor Kidney function can affect Heart function, leading to renal heart disease.
4. Fire restricts Metal: Fire can melt Metal; poor Heart function can affect Lung function, such as in heart-lung failure.
5. Metal restricts Wood: Using an axe to chop wood symbolizes that poor Lung function can affect Liver function.
(1) Meridians
In TCM, meridian theory posits that meridians are the pathways of qi and blood in the body. “Jing” refers to the main pathways of the meridian system, which circulate deeply, while “Luo” refers to the branches, connecting the entire body like a network. The meridians serve as channels for the flow of qi, blood, and nutrients, linking various organs and tissues, protecting the body. They connect the internal organs and external limbs, communicating internally and externally, and running through the body. There are fourteen main meridians, each with numerous acupoints, which are the points where the meridians open and treat specific conditions.
Yin-yang theory posits that all things have two opposing aspects, summarizing the attributes of all things. In terms of structure, the external is yang, the internal is yin, the back is yang, the abdomen is yin, the upper body is yang, the lower body is yin, the five organs are yin, and the six bowels are yang. Since all things have yin and yang distinctions, meridians also have yin and yang distinctions. The human body has fourteen meridians, including twelve primary meridians, which are further divided into three yang and three yin for both hands and feet, along with the Ren and Du meridians.
1. Hand Three Yang (Hand Yangming Large Intestine Meridian, Hand Taiyang Small Intestine Meridian, Hand Shaoyang Sanjiao Meridian)
1. Hand Yangming Large Intestine Meridian:
Pathway: Begins at the Shangyang point beside the inner corner of the index finger, travels from the hand to the head, running along the outer edge of the upper limb and the front of the face. It ends at the Yingxiang point beside the nose.
Treatment: Common cold, fever, headache, cough, coma, toothache, eye diseases, pharyngitis, tonsillitis, rhinitis, goiter, deafness, tinnitus, etc.
2. Hand Shaoyang Sanjiao Meridian:
Pathway: Begins at the Guanchong point beside the inner corner of the ring finger, travels along the outer midline of the upper limb, and ends at the Sizhukong point at the brow.
Treatment: Deafness, tinnitus, throat tumors, pain on the outer side of the elbow, movement disorders, tonsillitis, pharyngitis, neck pain, migraine, etc.
3. Hand Taiyang Small Intestine Meridian:
Pathway: Begins at the Shaoze point beside the inner corner of the little finger, travels from the hand to the head, and ends at the Tinggong point in front of the ear.
Treatment: Tinnitus, deafness, otitis media, parotitis, tonsillitis, toothache, eye diseases, etc.
2. Hand Three Yin (Hand Taiyin Lung Meridian, Hand Jueyin Pericardium Meridian, Hand Shaoyin Heart Meridian)
1. Hand Taiyin Lung Meridian:
Pathway: Begins at the Zhongfu point in the chest, travels from the chest to the hand, running along the inner edge of the upper limb, and ends at the Shaoshang point beside the radial side of the thumb.
Treatment: Respiratory diseases, acute and chronic bronchitis, asthma, pneumonia, emphysema, leading to cough, wheezing, chest pain, hemoptysis, chest tightness, etc.
2. Hand Jueyin Pericardium Meridian:
Pathway: Begins at the Tianchi point beside the nipple, travels along the midline of the upper limb, and ends at the Zhongchong point at the tip of the middle finger.
Treatment: Palpitations, chest pain, irritability, facial redness, mental disorders, rib pain, elbow spasms, palm heat, chest tightness, etc.
3. Hand Shaoyin Heart Meridian:
Pathway: Begins at the Jiquan point under the armpit, travels from the chest to the head, running along the inner edge of the upper limb, and ends at the Shaochong point beside the radial side of the little finger.
Treatment: Heart pain, rib pain, dry throat, thirst, palm heat, arrhythmia, angina, neurasthenia, palm heat, etc.
3. Foot Three Yang (Foot Yangming Stomach Meridian, Foot Shaoyang Gallbladder Meridian, Foot Taiyang Bladder Meridian)
1. Foot Yangming Stomach Meridian:
Pathway: Begins at the Chengqi point below the eye socket, travels from the head to the foot, running along the front of the body, passing 4 cun beside the Ren meridian in the chest, and 2 cun beside the navel in the abdomen, ending at the Lidui point beside the outer side of the second toe.
Treatment: Stomach pain, vomiting, diarrhea, dysentery, gastric prolapse, headache, toothache, facial nerve paralysis, mastitis, hypertension, neurasthenia, physical weakness, etc.
2. Foot Shaoyang Gallbladder Meridian:
Pathway: Begins at the Tongziliao point at the outer corner of the eye, ascends to the temple, circles around the side of the head, descends behind the ear, reaches the shoulder, and travels through the chest to the lateral ribs, descending to the Huanjiao point at the hip joint, then along the outer side of the lower limb, passing the outer side of the knee, and ending at the Qiaoyin point at the outer side of the fourth toe.
Treatment: Chronic cholecystitis, gallbladder colic, acute and chronic hepatitis, migraine, neck pain, eye pain, toothache, throat pain, tinnitus, deafness, facial nerve paralysis, etc.
3. Foot Taiyang Bladder Meridian:
Pathway: Begins at the Jingming point at the inner corner of the eye, travels along the top of the head and the back of the neck, dividing into two lines on the back. The first line runs 1.5 cun from the Du meridian, and the second line runs 3 cun from the Du meridian, continuing down the back of the leg along the midline, passing behind the outer ankle to the outer side of the little toe.
Treatment: Eye pain, headache, neck and back pain, lower limb weakness, paralysis, sciatica, rheumatoid arthritis, and sequelae of polio.
4. Foot Three Yin (Foot Taiyin Spleen Meridian, Foot Jueyin Liver Meridian, Foot Shaoyin Kidney Meridian)
1. Foot Taiyin Spleen Meridian:
Pathway: Begins at the Yinbai point beside the inner corner of the big toe, travels from the foot to the chest, running along the inner side of the lower limb, passing in front of the inner ankle, running along the inner edge of the lower limb, and ending at the Dabu point in the chest.
Treatment: Indigestion, ulcer disease, diarrhea, dysentery, constipation, irregular menstruation, dysmenorrhea, amenorrhea, prostatitis, cystitis, impotence, etc.
2. Foot Jueyin Liver Meridian:
Pathway: Begins at the Dadun point beside the outer corner of the big toe, travels along the back of the foot, running along the inner edge of the lower limb, and ascends to the abdomen, running along the inner edge of the lower limb, circling around the genitals, reaching the lower abdomen, and ending at the Qimen point below the ribs.
Treatment: Acute and chronic hepatitis, cholecystitis, liver and spleen enlargement, irregular menstruation, dysmenorrhea, prostatitis, cystitis, hernia pain, hypertension, etc.
3. Foot Shaoyin Kidney Meridian:
Pathway: Begins at the Yongquan point on the sole of the foot, travels around the heel, running along the inner edge of the lower limb, ascending to the abdomen, running along the Ren meridian, and ending at the Shanzhong point below the collarbone.
Treatment: Impotence, nocturnal emissions, enuresis, irregular menstruation, dysmenorrhea, nephritis, cystitis, dizziness, lower back pain, tinnitus, toothache, throat pain, etc.
5. Ren Meridian
Pathway: Begins in the lower abdomen, below the uterus, exits at the Huiyin point, travels along the midline of the abdomen and chest, ascends to the throat, encircles the lips, and ends at the Chengjiang point below the lower lip, where it intersects with the Du meridian.
Treatment: Impotence, nocturnal emissions, irregular menstruation, gastritis, indigestion, chest tightness, cough, and asthma.
6. Du Meridian
Pathway: Begins in the lower abdomen, exits at the Changqiang point, travels along the spine, passing through the Fengfu point, entering the brain, ascending to the top of the head, and running along the midline of the forehead to the nose, ending at the Yinjiao point inside the upper lip, where it intersects with the Ren meridian.
Treatment: Schizophrenia, headache, shock, collapse, rhinitis, hemorrhoids, uterine prolapse, cold, and stroke sequelae.
The human body is an organic whole, and the meridians connect various organs and tissues, facilitating the flow of qi and blood, and protecting the body. They connect the internal organs and external limbs, communicating internally and externally, and running through the body. When the body absorbs high-sugar and high-fat substances, excess nutrients that are not fully utilized are stored throughout the body, or environmental stress obstructs the normal functioning of the meridians. This obstruction can exacerbate the functional balance of the organs, leading to conditions such as obesity, loss of appetite, dizziness, headache, blurred vision, and constipation. By identifying the corresponding meridians and unblocking them, these issues can be resolved.
(2) The Twelve Meridians and Health Preservation
As discussed earlier, when several organ systems are imbalanced within the five major circulatory systems of the Liver, Heart, Spleen, Bladder, and Kidney, it is necessary to nourish these systems at different times. The Twelve Meridians and their corresponding times are a principle revealed by ancient TCM sages, as the gravitational pull of the Earth’s position changes with the sun, causing the twelve meridians to experience periods of activity and dormancy. When the corresponding meridian is active, health preservation can be significantly enhanced. The twelve time periods are as follows:
12 Time Periods: Zi (11 PM to 1 AM), Yin (1 AM to 3 AM), Chen (3 AM to 5 AM), Mao (5 AM to 7 AM), Wu (11 AM to 1 PM), Wei (1 PM to 3 PM), Shen (3 PM to 5 PM), You (5 PM to 7 PM), Xu (7 PM to 9 PM), Hai (9 PM to 11 PM).
1. Zi (11 PM to 1 AM): The Gallbladder Meridian is most active. TCM theory states: “The excess qi of the Liver leaks into yang, condensing into essence. The Gallbladder is the official of righteousness; the five organs and six bowels depend on the Gallbladder. Qi strengthens the Gallbladder, preventing invasion by pathogens. When Gallbladder qi is deficient, one may feel timid, short of breath, and indecisive. This highlights the importance of the Gallbladder. The clarity of the Gallbladder reflects the clarity of the mind.” Those who sleep 1-2 hours before Zi will wake up with a clear mind and rosy complexion. Conversely, those who frequently stay up past Zi will have a pale complexion, especially if bile cannot be metabolized properly, leading to conditions like gallstones.
2. Chou (1 AM to 3 AM): The Liver Meridian is most active. “The Liver stores blood”; human thoughts and actions rely on the support of Liver blood. Old blood needs to be eliminated, and fresh blood needs to be produced, which typically occurs during the active period of the Liver Meridian. TCM theory states: “When a person sleeps, blood returns to the Liver. If one does not sleep before Chou, the Liver continues to expend energy to support thoughts and actions, preventing proper metabolism. Therefore, those who do not sleep before Chou may have a gray complexion, feel fatigued, and be prone to liver diseases.
3. Yin (3 AM to 5 AM): The Lung Meridian is most active. “The Lung governs the hundred vessels”; after the Liver pushes out old blood during Chou, it provides fresh blood to the Lung, which then distributes it throughout the body. Therefore, in the morning, individuals often have a rosy complexion and abundant energy. Those with lung diseases may experience severe symptoms, such as coughing and asthma, during this time.
4. Mao (5 AM to 7 AM): The Large Intestine Meridian is most active. “The Lung and Large Intestine are interrelated”; the Lung fills the body with fresh blood, which then stimulates the Large Intestine Meridian to absorb water and nutrients from food and eliminate waste.
5. Chen (7 AM to 9 AM): The Stomach Meridian is most active. Breakfast at 7 AM is the easiest to digest. If Stomach fire is excessive, the lips may become dry, and in severe cases, may crack or ulcerate.
6. Si (9 AM to 11 AM): The Spleen Meridian is most active. “The Spleen governs transportation and transformation, and it governs blood”; the Spleen is responsible for digestion, absorption, and excretion. When Spleen function is good, digestion and absorption are effective, leading to good blood quality. Therefore, rosy lips indicate sufficient blood, while pale or dark lips indicate blood deficiency or cold entering the Spleen.
7. Wu (11 AM to 1 PM): The Heart Meridian is most active. “The Heart governs the spirit and opens to the tongue, manifesting in the face”; Heart qi promotes blood circulation, nourishing the spirit and tendons. Thus, a short nap during this time is beneficial for heart health, allowing for energy throughout the afternoon and evening.
8. Wei (1 PM to 3 PM): The Small Intestine Meridian is most active. The Small Intestine separates the clear from the turbid, directing fluids to the Bladder and sending essence to the Spleen. During this time, the Small Intestine adjusts the nutrition of the body; if there is heat in the Small Intestine, one may experience coughing and flatulence.
9. Shen (3 PM to 5 PM): The Bladder Meridian is most active. The Bladder stores and expels fluids; if there is heat in the Bladder, it may lead to coughing and urinary incontinence. During this time, the body temperature is relatively high, especially for those with yin deficiency.
10. You (5 PM to 7 PM): The Kidney Meridian is most active. “The Kidney stores the essence of reproduction and the essence of the five organs and six bowels; the Kidney is the root of congenital essence.” After the body expels heat and toxins during Shen, the Kidney enters a phase of storing essence during You, making this the most effective time for Kidney nourishment.
11. Xu (7 PM to 9 PM): The Pericardium Meridian is most active. “The Pericardium is the outer membrane of the Heart, containing vessels and pathways for qi and blood; it protects the Heart from external pathogens.” The Pericardium Meridian is active during Xu, clearing external pathogens from around the Heart, ensuring its health.
12. Hai (9 PM to 11 PM): The Sanjiao Meridian is most active. The Sanjiao Meridian is the largest of the six bowels, responsible for regulating qi and unblocking water pathways. During Hai, the Sanjiao connects the hundred vessels; if one sleeps during this time, the hundred vessels can rest and rejuvenate, which is very beneficial for the body.
From the above explanation of the relationship between the twelve time periods and the twelve meridians, it is evident that humans are components of nature, and our lifestyle should align with natural laws.
During Mao (5 AM to 7 AM), the Large Intestine Meridian is active, facilitating elimination;
During Chen (7 AM to 9 AM), the Stomach Meridian is active, facilitating digestion;
During Si (9 AM to 11 AM), the Spleen Meridian is active, facilitating nutrient absorption and blood generation;
During Wu (11 AM to 1 PM), the Heart Meridian is active, facilitating overall blood circulation, with Heart fire nourishing Stomach earth for digestion;
During Wei (1 PM to 3 PM), the Small Intestine Meridian is active, facilitating nutrient absorption;
During Shen (3 PM to 5 PM), the Bladder Meridian is active, facilitating the expulsion of fluids and “fire” from the body;
During You (5 PM to 7 PM), the Kidney Meridian is active, facilitating the storage of the day’s essence;
During Xu (7 PM to 9 PM), the Pericardium Meridian is active, clearing pathogens around the Heart to prepare for sleep;
During Hai (9 PM to 11 PM), the Sanjiao connects the hundred vessels, and one should enter sleep, allowing the hundred vessels to rest and rejuvenate;
During Zi (11 PM to 1 AM), the Gallbladder Meridian is active, promoting the renewal of bile;
During Chou (1 AM to 3 AM), the Liver Meridian is active, promoting the renewal of Liver blood;
During Yin (3 AM to 5 AM), the Lung Meridian is active, delivering fresh blood stored in the Liver to the hundred vessels, welcoming the new day.
From Hai (9 PM) to Yin (5 AM) is the time for cellular rest and renewal, as well as the time when humans are turned away from the sun due to the Earth’s rotation, which is a time of stillness and rest. Resting during this time leads to good physical and mental health. To align with nature, one should follow the sun’s rhythm, waking when the sun rises and sleeping when it sets.
The authentic TCM perspective on weight loss is: “One should nourish to lose weight, not purge to lose weight, nor starve to lose weight.” Those who nourish to lose weight are energetic and less prone to illness, while those who use medications to purge often harm their Liver and Kidneys, and those who starve may suffer from qi and blood deficiency, leading to severe conditions like liver and kidney inflammation. As mentioned earlier, abnormal obesity results from the decline in the Spleen, Lung, and Kidney’s ability to regulate water, leading to an imbalance in body fluids, which is a deficiency syndrome. Deficiency syndromes can only be nourished and not purged; excessive purging leads to further deficiency. The weight temporarily lost through purging is often at the cost of abnormal dehydration, with predictable consequences.
Facial Diagnosis
The forehead reflects the brain and throat.
The area between the eyebrows reflects the Lung and Heart.
The tip of the nose reflects the Spleen and Stomach, while the center of the nose reflects the Liver.
The inner cheeks reflect the Small Intestine, while the outer cheeks reflect the Kidney.
The lower jaw also reflects the Kidney, while the upper cheeks reflect the shoulders.
The two cheeks reflect the knees, while the area beside the mouth reflects the thighs.
Tongue Diagnosis
A normal tongue: light red, thin white coating, flexible, and shiny.
Problematic tongues:
1. Distended veins on the underside of the tongue—indicating cardiovascular diseases.
2. Pale tongue: indicates reduced red blood cells and hemoglobin, suggesting deficiency and cold conditions (prone to anemia and chronic respiratory diseases).
3. Red tongue: indicates heat in the body (inflammation) and poor heart health.
4. Crimson tongue: (red with purple) indicates heat toxin attacking the heart or cold conditions in the abdomen.
5. Punctate tongue: indicates susceptibility to heart and lung issues, such as angina and chest tightness.
6. Cracked tongue: (often in the Spleen and Stomach area) indicates insufficient qi and blood.
7. Swollen tongue: indicates yang deficiency (sensitivity to cold in winter, lack of sexual desire, edema, lower back pain, temperature sensitivity, hair loss, forgetfulness, fatigue).
8. Thin tongue: indicates yin deficiency, with symptoms of five hearts heat, thirst, lower back pain, frequent urination, temperature sensitivity, hair loss, forgetfulness, poor sleep, tidal fever, and night sweats.
(3) Overview of Hand Medicine
The hand is a tool for survival and labor, and it serves as a concentrated reflection of the body’s five organs, limbs, and sensory organs. The Huangdi Neijing states: “The extremities are where yin and yang converge, and this is the great network of qi.” This indicates that the hand is a crucial area for the convergence of the meridians and the flow of qi and blood.
1. The relationship between palm lines and the nervous system.
The palm is a concentrated area of peripheral nerves, and there is a precise coordination between the hand and the brain. The skin of the palm is highly sensitive to sensations of cold, heat, softness, hardness, roughness, smoothness, and pain. This unique neural activity significantly influences the formation and changes of palm lines.
2. The relationship between palm lines and blood circulation in the hand.
The microcirculation in the hand is rich and dense. The patterns of the palm are controlled by bioelectric and non-bioelectric information and microcirculation. Changes in blood supply and microcirculation can alter the shape of the lines. When microcirculation is obstructed, local nutrient imbalances can lead to the shrinking of palm lines. When cellular metabolism and decomposition are affected, local areas of the hand may become raised or depressed, leading to the formation and disappearance of palm lines, creating new skin ridges and patterns. The color of the palm lines is closely related to microcirculation. If microcirculation is smooth, the palm lines will display a coordinated and uniform color. When carbon dioxide increases, the palm may turn dark due to lack of oxygen; when microcirculation is obstructed, the color may turn white. When blood lipids increase, excess fat particles may accumulate in the palm, and changes in palm lines may occur even before symptoms of high blood lipids are felt.
3. The relationship between palm lines and acupoints.
The hand is a concentrated area for the flow of meridians. There are six meridians and 374 acupoints in the hand. The hand’s acupoints are second only to those on the head, indicating that the hands contain a wealth of information about the body. Since the hands are important junctions for the interconnection of meridians, the flow of qi and blood in the body directly influences the formation of palm lines.
4. The relationship between palm lines and the internal organs.
The hand is where six meridians run, all closely related to the internal organs. When there are issues with the internal organs, corresponding features will appear in the hand, making the palm a center of information. Any abnormalities in the internal organs will be reflected in the “screen” of the palm. Therefore, the physiological functions and pathological changes of the body’s organs can be gathered through the meridians in the hands, significantly influencing the formation of palm lines, colors, and shapes.
5. The palm lines as a life code.
In palmistry, the most important part of the hand’s latitude and longitude is the guide to understanding the life code, the key to unlocking the mysteries of life. There are three main lines: the Life Line, Wisdom Line, and Emotion Line. These lines are innate and remain unchanged throughout life (except for the Life Line). There are fourteen auxiliary lines: Fate Line, Indulgence Line, Ascending Line, Health Line, Sun Line, Venus Line, Saturn Line, Running Line, Marriage Line, Resistance Line, Obstacle Line, Influence Line, Children Line, and Surgery Line. The main and auxiliary lines display the original life energy and potential. When a person’s life is strongly influenced by external stimuli, the nervous system, will, and physical changes may occur, leading to alterations in the life code. When internal energy flow is obstructed, the life code cannot change its original structure, and feedback to the brain causes vibrations, waves, and changes in the energy field, altering the life information image.
6. Palm shapes.
Long and slender: associated with upper-level fields, white-collar workers, government officials, celebrities, with a balanced personality, influenced by health and emotions, prone to insomnia, forgetfulness, and neurasthenia (complex interpersonal and thought processes).
Square hands: good at management, technical types, prone to cardiovascular diseases, skilled in calculations and making money, relatively introverted.
Short and wide hands: prone to being indignant, having a big temper, and prone to liver and gallbladder diseases.
7. Palm color diagnosis.
1. Red and white palms indicate qi stagnation (qi blockage), leading to susceptibility to colds, coughs, cold sensitivity, and respiratory diseases.
2. Red palms (indicating internal heat) suggest irritability, shortness of breath, chest tightness, bitter mouth, hunger, dryness of the throat, and endocrine disorders, such as diabetes.
3. Purple palms (indicating blood stasis) may show purple spots at the Laogong point, indicating arteriosclerosis, coronary heart disease, or diabetes. If the tip of the middle finger appears swollen, it may indicate coronary heart disease; if flat, it may indicate diabetes.
4. Blue palms (indicating cold, pain, or inflammation).
5. Yellow palms (indicating liver issues) suggest susceptibility to liver and gallbladder diseases.
6. Brown palms indicate severe malignant diseases, cancers, and various malignant tumors, heart failure, and brain failure.
7. Prominent veins indicate constipation and impurities in the body.
8. The three main lines and fourteen auxiliary lines.
The three main lines: Life Line, Wisdom Line, Emotion Line.
1. Life Line (also known as the Earth Line or Fate Line):
Begins at the midpoint of the tiger’s mouth, descends along the first Mars Hill and Venus, and ends at the wrist line near the thumb.
Function: Represents a person’s vitality and constitution, indicating the digestive system.
2. Wisdom Line (also known as the Human Line or Heart Line):
Begins at the midpoint of the tiger’s mouth, forming a certain arc towards the Moon Hill.
Function: Represents a person’s heart.
3. Emotion Line (also known as the Opening Line or Love Line):
Begins at the Mercury Hill, running along the ulnar side, forming a reverse arc towards the space between the middle and index fingers.
Function: Represents a person’s liver and emotions, as well as character.
9. The fourteen auxiliary lines: mainly discussing eight pathological lines.
1. Career Line: Begins at the wrist line, passing through the center of the palm towards the middle finger.
Represents: A person’s career and overall health.
2. Health Line: Begins at the Earth Hill, running towards the little finger.
Represents: A person’s wealth accumulation, success level, independence, and management ability (one or two good lines are favorable; more than three may indicate excessive effort).
3. Success Line: Located below the ring finger on the Emotion Line.
Represents: A person’s wealth accumulation, success level, independence, and management ability (one or two good lines are favorable; more than three may indicate excessive effort).
4. Children Line: (absence may indicate infertility).
Represents: A person’s sexual vitality and robust life force.
5. Venus Ring: (also known as the Beauty Ring).
Formed between the middle and ring fingers, individuals with this line tend to be attractive but may have allergies, skin sensitivities, and issues like shoulder and neck pain due to blocked Liver qi.
6. Saturn Ring: Located at the base of the middle finger, indicating a solitary, eccentric personality, reluctance to communicate, poor health, and issues like breast lumps or hyperplasia.
7. Surgery Line: A horizontal line cutting across the Life Line or Career Line (about one centimeter) indicates a history of surgery or fractures; head surgeries are often indicated by cuts on the Emotion Line.
8. Indulgence Line: An arc line along the Earth Hill.
Excessive smoking, drinking, drug use, sexual indulgence, irregular lifestyle, and frequent late nights may lead to this line.
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