Overview and structure of the twelve meridians

The twelve meridians are the core of the meridian system of traditional Chinese medicine, including the three Yin meridians of the hand (Lung meridian of Hand Taiyin, the pericardial meridian of Hand Jueyin, and the heart meridian of Hand Shaoyin), the three yang meridians of the hand (Large Intestinal Meridian of Hand Yangming, the Sanjiao meridian of Hand Shaoyang, and the small intestine meridian of Hand Taiyang), the three Yang meridians of the foot (Stomach meridian of Foot Yangming, the gallbladder meridian of Foot Shaoyang, and the bladder meridian of Foot Shaoyang) and the three yin meridians of the foot (Spleen meridian of Foot Taiyin, Liver meridian of Foot Jueyin, and Kidney meridian of Foot Shaoyin). These meridians are symmetrically distributed in the human body, connect the organs and the body surface, and govern the movement of qi and blood. The following will introduce their trends, functions and related diseases in sequence, focusing on analyzing the physiological functions and clinical applications of meridians.

Detailed explanation of the three yin meridians of the hand and the three yang meridians of the hand

The three yin meridians of the hand run from the chest to the fingers and are closely related to the heart and lung function. For exampleHand Taiyin Lung MeridianMainly used to treat cough and asthma, andHand Shaoyin Heart MeridianRegulation of mental illness. The three yang meridians of the hands go from the fingers to the head and face, such asHand Yangming large intestine meridianAffects intestinal health,Hand Taiyang Small Intestine MeridianLinked to nutrient absorption. Acupoints on these meridians (such as "Taiyuan" on the lung meridian and "Hegu" on the large intestine meridian) are often used for acupuncture treatment, and their paths also guide massage and scraping operations.

Functions of the Three Yang Meridians of the Foot and the Three Yin Meridians of the Foot

The three yang meridians of the foot run from the head to the foot, covering the digestive, metabolic and other systems.Foot Yangming Stomach MeridianIt runs through the abdomen and is mainly used to treat stomach pain; "Zusanli" is an important point for health care.Foot Shaoyang Gallbladder MeridianIt moves sideways and affects bile secretion. The three yin meridians of the foot run from the foot to the chest and abdomen, asFoot Taiyin Spleen MeridianMainly transports water and dampness,Foot Shaoyin Kidney MeridianRelevant to reproductive and urinary functions. In clinical practice, the "Taichong point" on the liver meridian is often used to regulate emotions and reflect the relationship between meridians and emotions.

Synergy and conditioning methods of meridians

The twelve meridians are connected to each other through branches (such as collaterals) to form a qi and blood circulation network. For example, the lung meridian and the large intestine meridian are related to each other from the outside to the inside, and lung heat may cause constipation; the stomach meridian and the spleen meridian are yin and yang to each other, and together they are responsible for digestion. Treatment methods include acupuncture, moxibustion (such as "Guanyuan Point" to replenish vitality), traditional Chinese medicine (such as Danggui Buxue Decoction to unblock the meridians), and Daoyin techniques (such as Baduanjin). Modern research has confirmed that stimulating the meridians can regulate the neuro-endocrine system, but professional operation is required to avoid risks.

Summary and Notes

The twelve meridians are the cornerstone of TCM diagnosis and treatment, and their theories run through classics such as the Huangdi Neijing. In practical application, individual differences need to be taken into consideration to avoid blindly pressing acupoints or abusing meridian products. Regular manufacturers such asTongrentangof moxa sticks,Huatuo brandAcupuncture needles can be used as auxiliary tools, but they need to be used under the guidance of a physician. The following is a brief list of some meridian-related diseases:

Cited sources: "The Yellow Emperor's Internal Classic Lingshu", Li Shizhen's "Test of the Eight Meridians of the Qijing". Product examples: Tongrentang moxibustion strips (National Drug Approval Number Z11020473), Huatuo brand acupuncture needles (Medical Device Registration Certificate No. 20153172230).