Research and Clinical Applications of Meridians

Author: Wang Qicai / et al.
Editor-in-Chief: LiuCongming
Publisher:
Publishing Date: 1998-10-01
Features:
Content Summary This book is divided into five chapters. The first three chapters briefly and systematically introduce the basic knowledge, historical origins, and research progress of the meridian theory. The last two chapters comprehensively discuss the organic connections between the meridian theory and traditional Chinese medicine's theory of yin and yang, the five elements, physiology, and pathology. They also explore the guiding significance of the meridian theory for the holistic concept of traditional Chinese medicine, particularly its specific applications in TCM diagnosis, syndrome differentiation and treatment, drug meridian classification, acupuncture, massage, Qigong, and various medical specialties such as internal medicine, gynecology, ophthalmology, otolaryngology, geriatrics, and preventive medicine, supported by extensive clinical and scientific evidence. The book offers significant insights into the theoretical aspects of the meridian theory and presents original perspectives on its clinical applications. The format is standardized, the structure is well-organized, the content is rich and innovative, with a strong emphasis on clinical relevance and practicality. It holds high practical value for those engaged in acupuncture teaching, clinical practice, and research, as well as for medical students studying, applying, and researching the meridian theory.
Excerpt:
Chapter Overview The meridian theory is a vital component of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) theory, forming part of the theoretical system alongside the theories of yin and yang, the five elements, zang-fu organs, qi and blood, etc. It permeates all aspects of TCM, including physiology, pathology, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention, holding immense significance for guiding clinical practice across various TCM disciplines, especially in acupuncture, acupuncture anesthesia, massage, and Qigong. The meridian theory is not only the theoretical core of acupuncture medicine but also a key basis for understanding human life activities (including physiological phenomena, pathological changes, as well as diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases). The Lingshu chapter Jingbie states: "The twelve meridians are what cause diseases and what constitute diseases, what treat diseases, and what give rise to diseases." This concise statement highlights the close connection between meridians and human life (i.e., the entire process of birth, aging, illness, and death). deeply recognized the importance of the meridian theory, considering it the most fundamental and crucial theory in TCM. To study medicine is to study meridians, and to practice medicine is to master meridians. Beginners in TCM must start with this, and even highly accomplished physicians are judged by their proficiency in the meridian theory. For example, the Lingshu chapter Jingbie says: "The twelve meridians are the beginning of learning and the limit of expertise." Song Dynasty physician Dou Cai's Bianque Xinshu states: "If one does not understand meridians when studying medicine, every word and action will be in error. Without clarity in meridians, one cannot identify the root causes of diseases or trace the transmission of yin and yang. Meridians are the key to understanding diseases." Ming Dynasty physician Ma Yuantai's Huangdi Neijing Suwen Lingshu Zhen Zheng Fa Mi says: "The twelve meridians are the essential principle for learning medicine, and one must study them diligently." Ming Dynasty physician Zhang Jiebin's Lei Jing states: "The theory of the twelve meridians is the starting point for beginners in learning medicine, and even the best practitioners stop there." The significance of the meridian theory in TCM is evident.
1. The Concept of Meridians
Meridians refer to the Jing (meridians) and Luo (collaterals) systems. Ming Dynasty physician Li Qian's Yixue Menru explains: "Jing means a path; the straight ones are Jing, and the branches that extend sideways are Luo." Jing implies a path or route, running vertically through the body, connecting the interior and exterior of zang-fu organs, serving as the main trunk of the meridian system. Luo implies connection and networking, running horizontally between meridians, interweaving throughout the body, serving as the branches of the meridian system. The Lingshu chapter Hai Lun states: "Meridians internally connect to zang-fu organs and externally link to limbs and joints," revealing the organic connection between meridians and the human body. The Lingshu chapter Ben Zang summarizes the functions of meridians: "Meridians transport qi and blood to nourish yin and yang, moisturize muscles and bones, and facilitate joint movement." Meridians serve as channels that connect the interior and exterior, link the upper and lower parts, circulate qi and blood, distribute nutrients, coordinate the functions of zang-fu organs, and maintain the body's life activities. For an organism, meridians are not only a (connection system) of the body's parts, a (circulatory system) for transporting qi and blood, and a (movement system) that governs bone and joint mobility, but also a (reactive system) for disease transmission, a (defense system) against external pathogens, and an (regulating system) for balancing yin and yang.