An Overview of the Theory of Meridians and Collaterals

An Overview of the Theory of Meridians and Collaterals

The theory of meridians and collaterals studies the distribution, physiological functions, pathological changes of the human meridian system, and its relationship with the organs. It is an important component of the theoretical system of traditional Chinese medicine. The theory of meridians and collaterals was developed by ancient physicians through long-term medical practice and has guided … Read more

Detailed Explanation of the Fifteen Luo-Connecting Points

Detailed Explanation of the Fifteen Luo-Connecting Points

The Luo-connecting points are the acupoints where the Luo vessels branch out from the main meridians. Each of the fifteen Luo vessels has one acupoint, referred to as a Luo point (Luo-xue), also known as the “Fifteen Luo Points.” The term “Luo” implies connection and distribution. Each of the twelve main meridians has a corresponding … Read more

The Pathways of Meridians in the Human Body

The Pathways of Meridians in the Human Body

1. Composition and Pathways of Meridians in the Human Body The meridians are the channels through which the body’s vital energy (qi) flows, encompassing both the primary meridians (jingmai) and the collateral meridians (luomai). The term “jing” refers to the primary meridians, akin to direct pathways, serving as the main trunk of the meridian system; … Read more

Interpretation of the Huangdi Neijing (Fifty-One)

Interpretation of the Huangdi Neijing (Fifty-One)

Interpretation of the Huangdi Neijing (Fifty-One) The Theory of Meridians The term “meridians” refers to the collective name for the jingmai (经脉, meridians) and luomai (络脉, collaterals). Jingmai are the main pathways of the meridian system, while luomai are the branches. The meridians function to circulate qi and blood throughout the body, connect the zang-fu … Read more

Fifteen Collaterals of the Hand and Foot

Fifteen Collaterals of the Hand and Foot

The Shou Taiyin (Hand Taiyin) collateral, named Liekui (Lie Que), originates from the wrist at the point Fen Jian (Fen Jian), and runs along the Hand Taiyin channel, directly entering the palm and dispersing into the Yujì (Fish Border). In cases of excess, it manifests as sharp pain and heat in the palm, which should … Read more

What Happens When the Collaterals are Vacuous and Wind Invades? A Powerful Method to Expel Wind and Unblock the Collaterals

What Happens When the Collaterals are Vacuous and Wind Invades? A Powerful Method to Expel Wind and Unblock the Collaterals

Liang, male, 39 years old, date of visit: 2021-01-18 Main Complaint: Facial paralysis for 1 week. Present Illness:The patient reports that one week ago, after drinking and being exposed to cold wind, he experienced disappearance of the right forehead lines, disappearance of the nasolabial fold, slight pain in the right ear, right eye closure revealing … Read more

The Composition of the Meridian System

The Composition of the Meridian System

The meridian system is the channel through which Qi and blood flow in the human body, consisting of meridians (jing mai) and collaterals (luo mai). The term “jing” refers to the main pathways, while “luo” refers to the branching networks. The meridians primarily run vertically, forming the main part of the meridian system, while the … Read more

What are Meridians?

What are Meridians?

When discussing acupuncture points, one cannot avoid the topic of meridians. Are meridians a creation of the working people or a discovery by those who practice introspection? What exactly are meridians? Are they blood vessels, nerves, channels of qi and blood, or something else entirely? The theory of meridians is an important component of traditional … Read more

Understanding the Meridians in Traditional Chinese Medicine

Understanding the Meridians in Traditional Chinese Medicine

The meridians are a collective term for the jingmai (经脉) and luomai (络脉). They serve as pathways for the circulation of qi (气) and blood (血) in the human body, connecting the organs (脏腑) and facilitating communication between the internal and external environments, as well as traversing vertically and horizontally throughout the body. The functions … Read more

The Fifteen Collaterals (7) – The Foot Taiyang Collateral

The Fifteen Collaterals (7) - The Foot Taiyang Collateral

Foot Taiyang Collateral, one of the fifteen collaterals, is a branch of the Foot Taiyin Spleen Meridian. The acupuncture point is Gong Sun (公孙), located 1 cun posterior to the base of the big toe, branching into the Foot Yangming Stomach Meridian. Its branch enters the abdomen and connects with the intestines and stomach; if … Read more