TCM Notes by Prakash Pethe by Anil Khadke

INDEX Title

Pg.no

Acupressure

Five Elements Theory

Theory of Yin and Yang

Meridian Theory

Heart Meridian

Large Intestine Meridian

Lung Meridian

Pericardium Meridian

10.

Small Intestine Meridian

11.

Triple Warmer Meridian

104

12.

Gall Bladder Meridian

119

13.

Kidney Meridian

141

14.

Liver Meridian

158

15.

Stomach Meridian

169

16.

Spleen Meridian

195

Sr.no

17.

Urinary Bladder Meridian

210

18.

Conception Vessel Meridian

250

19.

Governing Vessel Meridian

265

20.

Extra Points

287

21.

Acupressure Point Selection

297

22.

Some Important Acupressure Points

309

23.

T. C. M. Acupuncture & Meridian Byol Charts

315

24.

Acupressure Definition Acupressure is a form of touch therapy that utilises the principle of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine. In Acupressure, the same points on the body are used as in Acupuncture, but are stimulated with Finger pressure or use of magnets, seeds, or other means such as Metal Stars etc. instead of insertion of needles. Acupressure is used to relieve a variety of symptoms and pains.

Description Acupressure massage Performed by a therapist can be effective both as prevention and a treatment for many health conditions, including headaches, general aches and pains colds and flu, Arthritis, Allergies, Asthma, Nervous tensions, menstrual cramps, Sinus problems, Sprains, Tennis elbows and Toothache. Unlike Acupuncture which requires visit to a professional, Acupressure can be performed by a lay person. Acupressure techniques are fairly easy to learn, and have been used to provide quick, cost-free and effective relief from many symptoms. Acupressure points can also be stimulated to increase energy and feelings of wellbeing, reduce stress, stimulate the immune system, and alleviate sexual dysfunction.

Origins One of the oldest texts of Chinese medicine is the Huang Di nei jing su wen, “The Yellow Emperor's Classic of Internal Medicine” (黃帝內經素問) which may be at least 2,000 years old. Chinese medicine has developed Acupuncture, Acupressure, Herbal remedies, Diet, Exercise, Lifestyle changes, and other remedies as part of its healing methods. Nearly all of the forms of Oriental medicine are used in the West today including Acupuncture, Acupressure, Shiatsu, and Chinese herbal medicine and Ayurveda as alternative medicine. One legend has it that Acupuncture and Acupressure evolved as early Chinese healers studied the puncture wounds of Chinese warriors, noting that certain points on the body created Interesting results when stimulated. The oldest known text specifically on Acupuncture points, The Systematic Classic of Acupuncture, dates back to 282 A.D. Acupressure is the non-invasive form of Acupuncture, as Chinese physicians determined that stimulating points on the body with massage and pressure could be effective for treating certain problems. Outside of Asian American communities, Chinese medicine remained virtually unknown in the United States until the 1970s, when Richard Nixon became the first U.S. President to visit China. On Nixon's trip, journalists were amazed to observe major operations being performed on patients without the use of Anaesthetics; instead, wide awake patients were being operated on, with only Acupuncture needles inserted into them to control pain. At that time, a famous columnist for the New York Times, James Reston, had to undergo surgery and elected to use Acupuncture for Anaesthesia. Later, he wrote some convincing stories on its effectiveness. 3

Despite being neglected by mainstream medicine and the American Medical Association (AMA), Acupuncture and Chinese medicine became central to alternative medicine practitioners in the United States. Today, there are millions of patients who attest to its effectiveness, and nearly 9,000 practitioners in all 50 states in the U.S.A. Acupressure/Acupuncture is practiced as a treatment by Chinese medicine medical practitioners and acupuncturists, as well as by massage therapists. Most massage schools in America include Acupressure techniques as part of their bodywork programs. Shiatsu massage is very closely related to Acupressure, working with the same points on the body and the same general principles, although it was develop ed over centuries in Japan rather than in China. Reflexology is a form of bodywork based on Acupressure concepts. Jin Shin Do (The way of the compassionate Spirit) is a bodywork technique with an increasing number of practitioners in America that combines Acupressure and Shiatsu principles with Qigong, Reichian theory, and Meditation.

Acupressure and Chinese medicine Chinese medicine views the body as a small part of the universe, subject to laws and principles of harmony and balance. Chinese medicine does not make a sharp distinction as Western medicine does between mind and body. The Chinese system believes that emotions and mental states are every bit as influential on diseases rather than purely physical mechanisms, and considers factors like work environment, and relationships as fundamental to a patient's health. Chinese medicine also uses very different symbols and ideas to discuss the body and health. While Western Medicine typically describes health as mainly physical process composed of chemical equations and reactions, the Chinese use ideas such as Yin and Yang, Qi, and the Organ Meridian System to describe health and body. Everything in the universe has properties of Yin and Yang. Yin is associated with cold, female, passive, downward, inward, dark, or wet. While Yang can be described as Hot, Male, Active, Upward, Outward, Light, Dry, and so on. Nothing is either completely Yin or Yang. These two principles always interact and affect each other, although the body and its organs can become imbalanced by having either too much or too little of either. Qi (pronounced Chee, also spelled Chi or Ki in Japanese Shiatsu or Prana in Hindu culture) is the fundamental life energy. It is found in food, air, water, and sunlight, and it travels through the body in channels called Meridians. There are 12 major meridians in the body that transport Qi, and there are 12 main organs that correspond to the Meridians, categorised by Chinese medicine. Chinese Medicine theory uses the names of the organs to help illustrate a pattern of related physical and psychological issues and its relationships within the body. It is also important to remember that organs should not be thought of as being identical with the physical, anatomical organs of the body.

Key terms Acupoint â&#x20AC;&#x201D; A pressure point stimulated in acupressure.

Qi -

Basic life energy. 4

Meridian — A channel through which Qi travels in the body. Moxibustion — An Acupuncture technique that burns the herb moxa or mugwort. Shiatsu — Yin Yang –

Japanese form of Acupressure massages. Universal characteristics used to describe two aspects of the natural World.

Disease is viewed as an imbalance of the organs & the Qi in the body. Chinese medicine has developed intricate system of how organs are related to physical and mental symptoms, and it has devised corresponding treatment using the Meridian and Acupressure point networks that are classified and numbered. The goal of Acupressure and Acupuncture is to stimulate and unblock the circulation of Qi, by activating very specific points called Acupoint or Pressure point. Acupressure seeks to stimulate the points on the Meridian that pass close to skin as these are easiest to unblock and manipulate with figure pressure or using various stimulants. Acupressure can be used as part of a Chinese physician's prescription, as a session of massage therapy, or as a selftreatment for common aches and illnesses. A Chinese medicine practitioner examines a patient very thoroughly looking at physical, mental and emotional activity, taking the pulse usually at the wrists, examining the tongue and complexion, and observing the patient's demeanour and attitude, to get a complete diagnosis of which organs and meridian points are out of balance. When the imbalance is located, the physician will recommend specific pressure points for Acupuncture or Acupressure. If Acupressure is recommended, the patient might opt for a series of treatments from a massage therapist or use of various stimulants like Magnets, Metal stars, Seeds etc... In classical Acupressure an Acupressurist will evaluate a patient’s symptoms and overall health, but with a Massage Therapist, diagnostic training isn’t as extensive as Chinese Physician’s. In Massage therapy treatment, a patient lies down on a table or mat, with thin clothing on. The Acupressurist will gently feel and palpate the abdomen and other parts of the body to determine energy imbalances. Then the therapist will work with different Meridians throughout the body, depending on which organs are imbalanced in the abdomen. The therapist will use different type of finger movement and pressure on different acupoints, depending on whether the Qi needs to be increased or dispersed at different points. The therapist observes and guides the energy flow throughout the session. Sometimes special herb (Artemisia vulgaris or Moxa) may be placed on the point to warm it, a process called Moxibustion. A session of Acupressure is very pleasant experience, and some people experience great benefits immediately. For more chronic conditions, several sessions may be necessary to relieve and improve conditions. Acupressure is easy to learn, and there are many good books that illustrate the position of acupoints and meridians on the body. It is also very versatile, as it can be done anywhere, and it's a good form of treatment for spouses and partners to give to each other and for parents to perform on children for minor conditions. While giving selftreatment or performing Acupressure on another, a mental attitude of calmness and attention is important, as one person's energy can be used to help another's. There are three general techniques for stimulating a pressure point.

•

Tonifying is meant to strengthen the weak Qi, and is done by pressing the thumb or finger into an acupoint with a firm, steady pressure, holding it for up to two minutes.

•

Dispersing is meant to move stagnant or blocked Qi and the finger or thumb is moved in a circular motion or slightly in and out of the point for two minutes.

•

Calming the Qi in a pressure point utilises the palm to cover the point and gently stroke the area for about two minutes.

There are many pressure points that are easily found and memorised to treat common ailments from headaches to colds. •

For headaches, toothaches, sinus problems, and pain in the upper body, the “LI4" point is recommended. It is located in the web between the thumb and index finger, on the back of the hand. Using the thumb and index finger of the other hand, apply a pinching pressure until the point is felt, and hold it for two minutes. Pregnant women should never press this point.

•

To calm the nerves and stimulate digestion, find the "CV12" point that is four thumb widths above the navel in the center of the abdomen. Calm the point with the palm, us ing gentle stroking for several minutes.

•

To stimulate the immune system, find the "TW5" point on the back of the forearm tw o thumb widths above the wrist. Use a dispersing technique or circular pressure with the thumb or finger, for two minutes on each arm.

•

For headaches, sinus congestion, and tension, locates the "GB20" points at the base of the skull in the back of the head, just behind the bones in back of the ears.Disperse these points for two minutes with the fingers or thumbs.

•

Also find the "Yintang" point, which is in the middle of the forehead between the eye brows. Disperse it with gentle pressure for two minutes to clear the mind and to relieve headaches.

Precautions Acupressure is a safe technique, but it is not meant to replace professional health care. Just symptomatic self-treatment can exacerbate chronic conditions. An Acupressure physician should always be consulted when there are doubts about medical conditions or if the condition is chronic. Acupressure should not be applied to open wounds, or where there is swelling and inflammation. Areas of scar tissue, blisters, boils, rashes, or varicose veins should be avoided. Finally, certain Acupressure points should not be stimulated on people with High or Low Blood Pressure and on pregnant women.

Research and general acceptance In general, Chinese medicine has been slow to gain acceptance in the West, mainly becaus e it rests on ideas very foreign to the scientific model. For instance, Western scientists hav e trouble with the idea of Qi, the invisible energy of the body, and the idea that pressing on certain points can alleviate certain conditions seems sometimes too simple for scientists to believe. Western scientists, in trying to account for the action of acupressure, have theorised that Qi is actually part of the neuroendocrine system of the body.

Celebrated orthopaedic surgeon Dr Robert Becker, who was twice nominated for the Nobel Prize, wrote a book on the subject called ‘Cross Currents: The Promise of Electro medicine; The Perils of Electro pollution’. By using precise electrical measuring devices, Dr Becker and his colleagues showed that the body has a complex web of electromagnetic energy, and that traditional Acupressure meridians and points contained amounts of energy that non-Acupressure points did not have. The mechanisms of Acupuncture and Acupressure remain difficult to document in terms of the biochemical processes involved, numerous testimonials are the primary evidence backing up the effectiveness of Acupressure and Acupuncture. However, a body of research is growing that verifies the effectiveness in Acupressure and Acupuncture technique in treating many problems and in controlling pain. In the late 1940’s, a German medical doctor and engineer, Dr Reinhardt Voll, began researching and proving an innovative testing method now known as EAV (Electro-Acupuncture according to Voll, EDS, Electro-Dermal Screening or MSA, Meridian Stress Assessment). This method was documented and proven in over a decade of hospital studies in Germany and today EAV/MSA is widely used throughout Europe by over 25,000 medical practitioners.

How Acupressure/Acupuncture works Broadly speaking, Acupressure/Acupuncture has three primary effects: 1. It relieves pain. 2. It reduces inflammation. 3. It restores homeostasis. Homeostasis refers to the body’s ability to regulate its environment and maintain internal balance. All diseases involve a disturbance of homeostasis, and nearly all diseases involve some degree of pain and inflammation. In fact, research over the last several decades suggests that many serious conditions like Heart disease previously thought to have other causes are in fact primarily caused by chronic inflammation. If we understand that most diseases are characterized by pain, inflammation and disturbance of homeostasis, we begin to understand why Acupressure/Acupuncture can be effective for so many conditions. Several modes of action have been identified for Acupressure/Acupuncture, which we will discuss below. The mechanisms can get quite complex. But ultimately Acupressure/Acupuncture is a remarkably simple technique that depends entirely upon one thing: the stimulation of the peripheral nervous system. It’s important to point out that when nerves supplying acupoints are cut or blocked there is no Acupressure/Acupuncture effect. A large body of evidence indicates that acupoints, or “superficial nodes” as they are more accurately translated, have abundant supply of nerves. According to Chen Shaozong, “For 95% of all points, in the range of 1.0 cm around a point there exist nerve trunks or rather large nerve branches.” The following is a list of relevant mechanisms that have been identified so far: •

Acupressure/Acupuncture promotes blood flow. This is significant because everything the body needs to heal is in the blood, including oxygen, nutrients we absorb from food, immune substances, hormones, analgesics (painkillers) and antiinflammatories. Restoring proper blood flow is vital to promoting and maintaining health. For example if blood flow is diminished by as little as 3% in the breast area 7

cancer may develop. Blood flow decreases as we age and can be impacted by trauma, injuries and certain diseases. Acupressure has been shown to increase blood flow and vasodilation (dilation of blood vessels) in several regions of the body. •

Acupressure/Acupuncture stimulates the body’s built-in healing mechanisms. Acupressure creates “micro traumas” that stimulate the body’s ability to spontaneously heal injuries to the tissue through nervous, immune and endocrine system activation. As the body heals the micro traumas induced by acupressure/acupuncture, it also heals any surrounding tissue damage left over from old injuries.

•

Acupressure/Acupuncture releases natural painkillers. Stimulating the point sends a signal through the nervous system to the brain, where chemicals such as endorphins, norepinephrine and Enkephalin are released. Some of these substances are 10-200 times more potent than morphine.

•

Acupressure/Acupuncture reduces both the intensity and perception of chronic pain. It does this through a process called “descending control normalization”, which involves the serotonergic nervous system.

•

Acupressure/Acupuncture relaxes shortened muscles. This in turn releases pressure on joint structures and nerves, and promotes blood flow.

•

Acupressure/Acupuncture reduces stress. This is perhaps the most important systemic effect of acupuncture. Recent research suggests that acupressure stimulates the release of oxytocin, a hormone and signalling substance that regulates the parasympathetic nervous system. You’ve probably heard of the “fightor-flight” response that is governed by the sympathetic nervous system. The parasympathetic nervous system has been called the “rest-and-digest” or “calm-andconnect” system, and in many ways is the opposite of the sympathetic system. Recent research has implicated impaired parasympathetic function in a wide range of autoimmune diseases, including arthritis, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease.

Several other mechanisms have been identified, but the ones we have listed above are the most relevant and clearly understood.

The physiology of pain Before we explain the mechanism, we have to give you a little background on the physiology and neurology involved. There are two types of nerves involved in our perception of pain: sensory (nociceptive) and position (proprioceptive) nerves. Both of these nerve types are firing at the same time in an area where we’re experiencing pain. These nerves travel to the spine and pass their information on to neurons in the Spinothalamic tract. This tract travels up the lateral dorsal horn of the spinal cord to the mid-brain. The sensory nerves register pain. The position nerves tell the brain where that pain is coming from. So the sensory nerves say “Ouch!” and the position nerves say “my Knee!” There are two different types of sensory nerves involved in the acupressure response. There are A-Delta fibres, which transmit sharp, burning pain messages. And there are Cfibres, which transmit dull, throbbing pain messages. A-Delta fibres are responsible for acute pain, and the signals they send are short-lived. They fire for a while and then the signals die off. C-fibres are responsible for chronic pain and fire over an extended period of time. 8

A-Delta fibres are surrounded by a fatty, myelin sheath and the signals they send travel at 60 ft. per second (that’s fast!). C-fibres are unmyelinated and their signals travel at 20 ft. per second. The A-Delta fibres mediate what is known as the “gamma loop”. The gamma loop is what gets activated when you stick your hand in a fire and your hand jumps back. These nerve fibres respond so quickly that your hand is immediately pulled back out of the fire. A chronic pain is a C-fibre problem, so C-fibre signals don’t travel quite this quickly. Now, if the signal strength of the position nerves (the ones that register the location of pain) is what it’s supposed to be, the brain will release powerful natural pain relieving substances called Enkephalins when it starts to receive those C-fibre messages. The Enkephalins then plug up pain receptor sites in the brain, spine and capillary beds where the pain is located. This stops the pain in its tracks.

When things go wrong Unfortunately, this is not what happens in people with chronic pain. Why? The current explanation is that the position nerve signal going up to the brain is too weak. The midbrain can’t figure out where the pain is coming from, so the Enkephalins don’t get released. This is why people in chronic pain often have trouble identifying exactly were the pain is. The neural threshold of the position nerve pathway is too low, so these people aren’t getting a clear signal where the pain is emanating from. Because the brain isn’t getting the message, the nerves keep firing. And keep firing. After a while the nerves become inflamed, which in turn further weakens the signal’s ability to jump the threshold and get the message to the brain. So that’s the first problem. The nerve signals are too weak and aren’t stimulating the brain to release the natural painkillers. The second problem involves a survival mechanism that the brain evolved a very long time ago. Let’s take a knee injury as an example. When we bang our knee into something, the brain immediately takes measures to protect it. The brain doesn’t know what happened to the knee, but it assumes a worst-case scenario. Maybe you were bitten by a poisonous snake, or perhaps you seriously cut your knee and are losing a lot of blood. What the brain does in this situation is restrict the blood supply going into the knee and the blood return coming out of the knee. This is actually a very intelligent choice. If you were bitten by a venomous snake, reducing blood flow around the knee will lessen the chance that the poison will spread. And if you were cut badly, reducing the blood flow will lessen your chances of bleeding to death. This phenomenon is known as “guarding”. One of the results of reducing blood flow to the knee is that it becomes stiff and weak (sound familiar?). The brain wants it to feel weak because it is attempting to protect the knee. The brain doesn’t want whatever happened to the knee to threaten your chances for survival. So the brain sacrifices the health of the knee in order to keep you alive. This was a great strategy before the advent of western emergency medicine. Almost everyone would prefer to lose function in their knee to death. But this isn’t a choice most of us have to make anymore, because when we cut our knee or get bitten by a snake we can go to the hospital and they can save our lives. And the problem is that cutting off blood flow to the knee – while it may have saved our lives in times past – dramatically limits the knee’s ability to heal.

Because everything we need to heal is in the blood. The blood contains analgesics (painkillers), anti-inflammatories, nutrients absorbed from food, oxygen, hormones and immune substances to fight infection. If the blood flow is restricted to a particular area, healing won’t occur. No blood flow, no healing. Stop and think about this for a minute. It’s such an obvious fact that it’s often overlooked in medicine. It’s not taught in such a direct way in medical school, but when we have explained it to a couple of doctors they both said something to the effect of, “Huh. I never thought of it that way, but it makes perfect sense.” How Acupressure/Acupuncture helps Okay, now we’re finally coming to the part where we have explained how Acupressure/Acupuncture fits into this picture. Applying activation device at peripheral sites “jumps” the neural threshold on the position nerve pathway, so that the signal can reach the brain. Once the signal reaches the brain, the whole series of events we described in the paragraphs above kicks in. The brain recognizes there is pain and where it’s coming from and releases Enkephalins (painkillers). This initial response is very fast. It should be perceived as almost instantaneous by the patient. But after the Acupressure/Acupuncture therapy the patient goes home and the pain comes back. The old bad habit of the nerve chronically firing below the threshold reestablishes itself. The body, just like the mind, has a hard time breaking bad habits. But if the patient returns in a couple of days to get another treatment, the neural threshold will be jumped again. And if you keep jumping the neural threshold, eventually the central and peripheral nervous system figure out that it’s better to operate in the non-pain state than in the pain state. The technical term for this is the re-establishment of neurological homeostasis. Once this happens, the brain is no longer receiving pain signals from the knee. It no longer thinks the knee is injured or threatening the survival of the body. Now instead of restricting blood flow to the knee, the brain does the opposite. It immediately vasodilates (Widens) the capillaries and vanes around the knee, which increases blood flow and begins the healing process. What we have described above is how acupressure/acupuncture relieves pain via the peripheral and central nervous system. There’s another pain relief mechanism that involves activating the immune system. In Acupuncture treatment needles are seen as foreign invaders to our body. Inserting a needle into the skin creates a micro-trauma that in turn stimulates the activity of immune cells that controls the inflammation. There are millions of immune cells called mast cells in the dermis of the skin. These cells are like water balloons full of fatty molecules called leukotriene and prostaglandins A & B. When a needle is inserted into the skin, it pops the mast cells and releases the Leukotrienes and prostaglandins. Prostaglandins cause the cutaneous nerve in the area to fire (which activates the process described in the previous paragraphs). Leukotrienes are the strongest anti-inflammatory substance the body can produce. Leukotriene’s cause local capillaries to vasodilate and become permeable. White blood cells called macrophages leak out through the capillaries and immediately begin to heal the damage caused by the needle stick. However, the healing caused by the needle insertion isn’t limited to the damage caused by the needle. If there is other damage in the area from previous traumas, or injuries, that will also be addressed by the immune chemicals released by application of Acupressure device or, in Acupuncture by the needle insertion. 10

What’s more, the micro-trauma caused by the needle or acupressure devise starts a systemic immune response. This promotes healing of the soft tissue throughout the body – not just at the needling site. After the pressure device / needles are removed, the induced lesions continue to stimulate the body until the lesions heal. This means that the anti-inflammatory effect of Acupressure/Acupuncture persists for 2-3 days (and sometimes as long as a week) after the device is withdrawn. Summary Genetically the body is not designed to be in chronic pain. It will do everything it can to get us out of pain. Acupressure/ Acupuncture really “Reminds” the body how it should be functioning, and helps its powerful inbuilt pain relieving mechanisms kick into gear. It’s a bit like jump starting a car. You’re not changing how the car works, or even adding anything to the engine. You’re just giving the battery a little jolt so the car can run how it’s supposed to. It’s important to understand that this neurochemical mechanism not only provides pain relief, but also promotes homeostasis and tissue healing and regulates the immune, endocrine, cardiovascular and digestive systems. This explains why getting Acupressure/Acupuncture treatment for your knee pain also addresses other problems you might have, such as Asthma, Irritable bowel, High blood pressure, Anxiety and Insomnia etc...

Five Elements Theory The theory of the five elements has an interesting history and is utilised in the different forms of Acupuncture/Acupressure very differently. It seems that some forms, Japanese in particular (including Shiatsu), take it more seriously and it is absolutely instrumental in diagnosis. TCM seems to take it with a grain of salt. Mostly they use it to help explain the etiology (cause) of disease and to associate symptoms or signs to particular organ pathologies found in the five element chart.

History The theory of five elements or Wu Xing 五行, (In Chinese Wu means “five” and Xing Expresses the idea of movement, to go).This theory was most likely conceived in or around the Warring States Period (476--221 BC) by someone named Zou Yen. Interestingly, many translators think that using the term "elements" is almost wrong. Paul Unschuld ( Historian of Chinese medicine) translates it as "phase" and this seems to be the best translation yet, although it seems elements has stuck in people's heads and thus it isn't going anywhere. By calling them phases it allures more to the processes that are occurring in both nature and the microcosm that is the body. Particularly it better explains the motion of the Generating and Controlling cycle (see below). In early texts these same five things are also referred to as basic materials of the universe with an addition of grain as a sixth, so I guess they can be thought of in both ways. Therefor keep the term "phase" in mind as you learn more.

Five Element Correspondences Without further ado here they are, pretty much unchanged from the way it is in the Huang Di Nei Jing su wen (Yellow Emperor's Classic of Internal Medicine).

Five Elements Seasons Planet Environment Zang Fu Directions Tastes Sense Organs Tissues Emotions

Wood

Fire

Earth

Metal

Late Autumn Summer Jupiter Mars Saturn Venus Wind Heat Damp Dry Liver Heart/ Pericardium Spleen Lung Small Intestine/ Large Gallbladder Stomach Triple Warmer Intestine East South Middle West Sour Bitter Sweet Pungent Eye Tongue Mouth Nose Tendon Vessel Muscle Skin and Hair Anger Joy Worry Grief Spring

Summer

Water Winter Mercury Cold Kidney Bladder North Salty Ear Bone Fear

[Quick note: pay attention to the seasons being the first on the list. The Earth element or phase has an interesting position here. In this table it is denoted as Late Summer. In parts of the Huang di Nei Jing su wen it is said that it also corresponds to the time in between the seasons.] The five phases are usually used to describe the state in nature: •

Wood/Spring=(72 days) a period of growth, which generates abundant wood and vitality 12

•

Fire/Summer=(72 days) a period of swelling, flowering, brimming with fire and energy

•

Earth=(72 days=4x18days (4 transitional seasons x 18days each) the in-between transitional seasonal periods, or a separate 'season' known as Late Summer or Long Summer - in the latter case associated with levelling and dampening (moderation) and fruition

•

Metal/Autumn=(72 days) a period of harvesting and collecting

•

Water/Winter = (72 days) a period of retreat, where stillness and storage Pervade.

ELEMENT

Properties

Extended Meaning

WOOD

Flexing and extending

Growing, Ascending, Developing freely

FIRE

Flaming upward

Warming, Brightening, Moving upwards

EARTH

Cultivating and reaping

Growing, Supporting, Transporting, Receiving

METAL

Changing

Purifying, Astringing, Descending

WATER

Moistening and flowing downward

Moistening, Moving downwards, Cooling, Storing

Movement of the Five Phases The five phases have a flow in which they move called the Generating Cycle. Again looking at the seasons put the phases in order by season and you get the image to your right. (We wonder if this cycle was originally formed from the concept of Earth being Late Summer or if that was extrapolated later to give some reasoning for this cycle.) Starting with water (a good way to remember it), water generates wood, wood generates fire, fire generates earth, earth generates metal, and metal generates water. The Nei Jing or Classic of Difficulties makes the analogy of mother to son when it comes to the generating cycle (e.g., fire is the mother and earth is the son, water is the mother and wood is the son of water, etc.). This becomes more relevant when we look at the application of this theory to medical applications. The doctrine of five phases describes two cycles of interactions between the phases, a Generating or creation (生, sheng) cycle, also known as "mother-son" relation, and an overcoming or Destruction (剋/克, kè) cycle, also known as "grandfather-nephew" relation. In Chinese medicine the effects of these two main relations are further elaborated: • •

Inter-promoting (mother/son) Inter-acting (grandmother/grandson) 13

•

Over-acting (kè cycle)

•

Counter-acting (reverse kè)

The way we can remember Generating Cycle:- Water is the necessary ingredient for plants to grow, thus you get wood. Wood can be rubbed together to form and transform into Fire. Fire burns the Wood to ash and what is left is Earth. Earth in the form of continents crashes together to create mountains of rock from which Metal can be drawn. Then the rain falls on the mountains of rock and from the Metal, Water flows down the ground to nourish the trees. It's a little bit of a stretch but it works. Think up your own interpretation and you'll remember it perfectly. Now, in true democratic form and of course to preserve balance, the five phases also have a system of checks & balances. This cycle, as seen below, is called the Controlling Cycle. Here the phases ensure that no phase is too long or too strong. Again starting from Water, water controls Fire, Fire controls Metal, Metal controls (cuts) Wood, Wood controls Earth, and Earth controls Water. Another cycle which is just a further example of the image to the right is the Over-Acting Cycle. Basically the over-acting cycle is when any given phase is overly strong and not controlled enough. It then takes the element it controls and does damage to it (e.g. water controls fire, but if too much water is used the fire will go out completely, etc.) The way I remember it is: Water can be thrown to dose out fire. Fire melts metal. Metal in the form of an axe or knife cuts wood. Wood in the form of a tree breaks through the earth to grow. Earth clouds and turns water to mud.

A third way to look at this same image is to reverse the direction of the arrows. If you do this you get the Insulting Cycle. If any phase is extremely strong, it can actually turn around and put down the phase which normally controls it.

The common memory jogs, which help to remind in what order the phases of Generating Cycle are: • • •

Wood feeds Fire. Fire creates Earth (ash). Earth bears Metal. 14

• •

Metal enriches Water (as in water with minerals, is more beneficial to the body than pure water). Water nourishes Wood. The Cycle which Controls each other is as follows

•

Wood parts Earth (such as roots; or, Trees can prevent soil erosion).

•

Earth dams (or muddles or absorbs) Water.

•

Water extinguishes Fire.

•

Fire melts Metal.

•

Metal chops Wood.

Application of Five Elements Applying this theory to the body is actually just a matter of plugging in for the variables. Wherever you see an element, replace it with its corresponding Zang & Fu organs. The examples below show the Zang organs.

This simple substitution of relative organs is enough to explain how the organs interact within the body. Oriental Medicine, being mostly a system based on imbalances as the cause of disease, now has a second form of pathology along with the Yin-Yang theory. The examples below will make more sense as you read on and learn the functions of the organs.

Application Examples of the Cycles 1. One of the most common pathologies, as you will learn, is Liver Qi Stagnation. This pathology is often accompanied by problems with the digestive system. This is an excess of the liver. According to this theory, the Liver controls the Spleen. If the Liver is in excess as it is here, it will over-act on the Spleen and interfere with its ability to transform and transport food. 2. Using the Generating cycle, we see that the Kidneys generate or are the mother of the Liver. You will learn later on that the Kidneys are the root of the Yin of the body. Additionally, the Liver stores the blood of the body and is susceptible to deficiency of blood, if too much is used during the active hours of the day. Since the Kidney is the 15

mother of the Liver, you can nourish the Yin of the Kidneys, to in turn nourish the blood of the Liver (as blood is part of the Yin of the body). 3. The Heart controls the Lungs. When the heart is in excess it will over-act upon the lungs. Symptoms of heart excess are often accompanied by shortness of breath and chest oppression, affecting the ability of the Lungs to control the airways.

Application Examples of the 5 Element Chart Five Elements Seasons Environment Zang Fu Directions Tastes Sense Organs Tissues Emotions

Metal Autumn Dry Lung Large Intestine West Pungent Nose Skin and Hair Grief

Remember the chart that you saw on the previous page. Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s take the element Metal as an example. Here you have a chart of correspondences. If a patient comes to you complaining of anything in the chart you attribute it to an imbalance in that particular organ. If someone comes in and is in grief, has either skin issues or dry and brittle hair, or maybe a pungent taste in the mouth, you attribute the imbalance to the Lung. The same goes for the rest of the organs. In addition, the colours are important, which are noted by the colour of the cell in chart. The Japanese school of five phases, for example, rubs the skin of the forearm and then looks to see colour shading. If it was green for example, they would attribute imbalances to the Liver. If it was red it would be Heart, pale white would be Lung, yellow would Spleen and dark or black would be Kidney.

Application Examples from the Nei Jing su wen In many chapters of the Nei Jing su wen, particularly chapter 69, it discusses how to utilize the mother-son principle for Tonifying and reducing the elements (Sedating) to create balance. The general principle is to tonify the mother in case of deficiency and to reduce (Sedate) the son in case of excess. For example, if the Liver is excess, you should sedate the Heart. If the Kidney is deficient, you should tonify the Lung and so on.

If Deficient in Spleen Lung Kidney Liver Heart

Tonify Heart Spleen Lung Kidney Liver

If Excess in Spleen Lung Kidney Liver Heart

Reduce/Sedate Lung Kidney Liver Heart Spleen

Multitude of Possibilities Okay, now to tie it all together here. So, imagine, if you see a deficiency in an organ there are a lot of possibilities as to what is causing it. There is a good picture in Giovanni Maciocia's book “Foundations of Chinese Medicine” that describes almost all of the possible pathologies that any organ can have according to five phase. Take a look to get a cool pictorial view. For our purposes, let's take the Spleen (earth) as an example here. The Spleen is susceptible to becoming deficient or attacked at least 4 different ways. 1. The Liver controls the Spleen. If the Liver is excess it can over-act on the Spleen. 2. The Spleen controls the Kidneys. If the Kidneys are excess they can insult the Spleen. 3. The Heart is the mother of the Spleen. If the Heart is deficient, it will not have enough to nourish the Spleen. 4. The Lung is the son of the Spleen. If the Lungs are deficient, they may drain too much from the mother Spleen. Now you can see how complex diagnosing can become. If you take into account the fact that there are 2 organs per element (four for Fire since the Pericardium and Triple warmer are both associated with fire), at least 4 different ways for imbalance to occur per organ, you get a nice and easy 48 possible diagnoses to look at. Let's not think that this is just one aspect of organ and body disharmony. Don't worry, it gets worse) We have put the explanation of the Zang/Fu next. Usually a discussion of the fluids and influences of the body come next in most texts but we think this way will make it easier to understand the concepts of Qi and blood.

Five Elements Healing In the Chinese system the five elements are not static forms- the more accurate translation would be ‘The Five Walks’ or ‘The Five Moves’. Every person is characterised by one of these elements or seasons (or a combination of them). In our life cycle we travel through different phases corresponding to different elements and each season which has its own rhythm. While all five elements are present in every person, one or blend of two or three elements are dominant and form the personal rhythm. This tells us a great deal about the individual’s health challenges, personality and spiritual journey. Each element has certain strength and certain vulnerabilities. When one element is excessively strong or weak, physical, emotional, and spiritual imbalances may occur.

Water corresponds with the season of winter Wood with the season of spring Fire with the season of summer Earth with the time of the Solstice or Equinox Metal with the season of autumn.

The Water Element

The Rhythm of Winter embodies the seed, the embryo, or the potential. Strong Water/Winter people embody a fresh spirit with childlike enthusiasm. Their energies may be limited, since their season has little sun, but they know how to retreat into themselves and regenerate. They reflect deeply and talk slowly. Their walk is unhurried and rolling like water. Courage is their foundation... which under stress may turn into fear.

Meridians: Kidney and Urinary Bladder Meridians

The Wood Element

The Rhythm of spring - New Growth Spring's rhythm embodies the power and insistence of new life. Wood Element people are strong and claim their space. Their vision of truth and justice inspire others. They are sure of themselves with good judgement and wise decisions. The spring person is at risk of becoming arrogant, inflexible and opinionated. Wood Element people talk loudly, in choppy and Skippy rhythm. Their walk also is choppy, hitting the ground with clear, concise movements. When under stress the spring person's assertiveness may turn into anger.

Meridians: Gallbladder and Liver Meridians

The Fire Element

The Rhythm of summer - Fulfilment The energy of a Fire Element person is like wildfire, spreading in every direction with a rapid, random and wild rhythm. Summer people act from their heart. They are warm, empathic, and joyful to exuberant characters. They are charismatic people with the ability to pull their surrounding out of selfimposed limitations and spread confidence. They talk with laughter and skip in their walk. They often talk with their hands, arms or even entire bodies. When Fire Element people are stressed, their joy and passion may turn into panic and hysteria.

Meridians: Heart and Small Intestine Meridians Triple Warmer and Pericardium Meridians

Five Elements Healing

The Earth Element

The Rhythm of the Equinox - Late Summer - Harvest Cantered and in transition - in perfect balance... Earth Element people know about holding steady, symbol for justice, fairness, stability and being properly anchored. Earth is the element of harvest time, abundance, nourishment, fertility, and the mother-child relationship. Earth Element people's motion is patient, reliable, logical, governed by service and duty to others, militaristic, stubborn, and very energetic in a steady, patient kind of way.

Meridians Stomach and Spleen Meridians Five Elements Healing

The Metal Element

The Rhythm of autumn - Ending The Metal Element is also known as the Air Element. It is the force of gravity, the minerals within the earth, the patterns of the heavenly bodies and the powers of electrical conductivity and magnetism. Metal has structure, but it can also accept a new form when molten. Metal Element people seem to be stretched between heaven and earth. The energies are serene, barren yet dignified. Autumn embodies completion and the dying of the old making way for the new. Autumn people have an urge for perfection and high achievements. What is perceived as impure - ideas, behaviour, systems...- is eliminated. Metal Element people understand the world's grief - out of this sadness they are able to bring forth kindness, honesty and integrity. Autumn people may become overly serious or even sink into depression, shunning fun and lacking pleasure. The talk of an autumn person has a weeping sound. Their walk is gliding; upright and tall with their head held high gazing forward.

Meridians: Lung and Large Intestine Meridians

The Five elements Theory is one of the major systems of thought within Chinese medicine. From a historical perspective it is an important underpinning of medical theory and serves as one of the major diagnostic and treatment protocols. In modern clinical practice, the five element theory is used in varying degrees depending on the practitioner and Style of Acupuncture/Acupressure that they practice. For practitioners or Traditional Chinese Medicine, the theory may be used to help form a diagnosis when there is conflicting signs and symptoms. Additionally, elements of the theory are useful for assisting patients with nutritional balancing and/or working through emotional issues. The theory is used extensively by Japanese Acupuncturists within the five phase treatment protocols and by Classical five element practitioners, such as those who follow the teachings of the late J.R. Worsley. The information below discusses the Five Element theory and clinical applications in detail.

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Primary Correspondences Within Five Element Theory

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Five Element Cycles, Relationships and Interactions

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Five Element Pathology and Clinical Applications

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Classical Five Element (Worsley) style.

Primary Correspondences within Five Element Theory The Five Element theory is based on the observation of the natural cycles and interrelationships in both our environment and within ourselves. The foundation of the theory rests in the correspondences of each element to a variety of phenomena. The most common correspondences are listed in the chart below:

Five Elements

FIRE

EARTH

METAL

WATER

WOOD

Yin Organs

Heart & Pericardium

Spleen

Lungs

Kidneys

Liver

Yang Organs

Small Intestine& Triple Warmer

Stomach

Large Intestine

Urinary Bladder

Gall Bladder

Sense Organs

Tongue

Mouth

Nose

Ears

Eyes

Tissues

Vessels

Muscles

Skin

Bone

Tastes

Bitter

Sweet

Pungent

Salty

Sour

Colours

Red/Orange

Yellow

White

Blue/Black

Green

Sounds

Laughing

Singing

Crying

Groaning

Shouting

Odour

scorched

fragrant

rotten

putrid

rancid

Emotions

Joy

Fear

Anger

Seasons

Summer

Late Summer

Autumn

Winter

Spring

Environment

Heat

Dampness

Dryness

Cold

Wind

Developmental Stages

Growth

Transformation

Harvest

Storage

Birth

Direction

South

Centre

West

North

East

Body Types

Worry/Pensiveness Grief/Sadness

Pointed features, Large features, Small hands, Strong legs, Quick, Calm, Generous. Energetic.

Tendons

Tall Round Triangular Slender, features, features, Strong Strong Strong voice, bones, and digestion, Meticulous, Joints, Loyal, Enjoys Strong willed. Hard movement. workers.

Five Element Cycles, Relationships and Interactions Within five element theory there are four main relationships or ways in which the elements interact. The first of these is the Generating (ç&#x201D;&#x;, sheng, or mother-child) cycle. This cycle describes the ways in which each element, serving as a mother, promotes the growth and development of the following child element. Examples of this cycle are the Wood element providing the generative force for Fire, Fire providing the generative force for Earth, etc. This relationship provides the foundation for understanding of the theory of five elements and, consequently, where imbalances may 25

arise within the cycle. If Earth, for example, is weakened from a poor diet and overwork you will see that more nourishment is requested from the Fire element to nourish Earth. Additionally, if Earth is weakened the Metal element may also be affected. From a clinical perspective you may see these people develop digestive issues from irregular eating, excessive worry and overwork which lead to a proliferation of dampness which then affects the Metal element. Within this case you may see a combination of bloating, gas and poor energy with the development of Metal (Lung) symptoms such as sinusitis or phlegm-type asthma.

The second is Controlling (ĺ&#x2030;&#x2039;/ĺ&#x2026;&#x2039;, ke, Grandparent-Grandchild) cycle provides for a check and balance system among all of the elements. Within this cycle Earth, for example, provides a control for Water and is controlled by Wood. An example of this relationship within the body is in cases of anxiety (Fire) which is related to LV Qi Stagnation (Wood) where, over time, you begin to see more Kidney (Water) related signs as the Water element attempts to control the overactive Fire.

The third is Overacting cycle (cheng) which is an imbalance within the controlling cycle where the grandmother element provides too much control over the grandchild and 26

weakens the element. Within nature you may see Water putting out Fire, Earth soaking up Water and so on. A clinical example of this relationship would be Liver (Wood) overacting on the Spleen (Earth). In this case you have an overactive Wood element over controlling Earth leading to disruptions in the digestive system.

The last is Insulting cycle (wu) which is also an imbalance within the controlling cycle where the grandchild insults or returns the controlling force generated by the grandmother. Using examples from nature you can see Fire burning up Water and Water washing away Earth and so on. Clinically you may see this in cases where people have long-term psychological problems (Fire) which eventually affect the Kidneys (Water) as seen in the development of more Yin (Water) deficiency signs.

Theory of Yin and Yang

Yin and Yang are one of the most fundamental concepts in TCM because it makes up such a large chunk of the foundation of diagnosis and treatment. First appearing in the Book of Changes Yi Jing, the theory has probably been around since prior to the Warring States Period (pre 221 B.C.). The common meaning of the traditional characters for Yin and Yang stand for the dark and light sides of a hill, respectively (simplified characters in parentheses).

This leads us to the basic metaphor of Yin and Yang being the cycle of the day, with Yin being night and Yang being day. The two are opposite. However, one will eventually lead into another in an endless cycle. Furthermore, the two define themselves by being the opposite of each other. The ancients then looked in nature for other representations of this dichotomy. They began with fire and water and went on from there. To the Yang side went all that is bright, exciting, moving and warm. To the Yin side went all that is dark, dull, still and cold. When they were done they had a list which placed every natural occurrence and state into one of the two camps. Here is a small example: Yang

Yin

Fire Sun Male Excess Active Energy Function

Water Moon Female Deficient Inactive Matter Structure

The Yin-Yang symbol [also known as Tai ji tu - [Taijitu is a symbol representing the religious and philosophical tradition of Taoism (also called Daoism). The term means a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;diagram of the supreme ultimateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; and it refers to the famous Chinese concept of Yin and Yang, of opposites existing in complete harmony], draws off of the day and night and association of Yin and Yang. The story goes that the ancients plotted a graph made up of 6 concentrically larger rings. In the centre they placed an 8 foot high stick and measured the shadow cast by the sun throughout the year in all seasons. They then coloured in where the shade landed and where there was none. When they looked at the 28

graph from above, they ended up with a picture that extremely resembles the Yin-Yang without the two dots on either side.

The addition of the smaller black and white circles is inserted into the opposite sides to further show the inseparable relationship between the two. A fun explanation of Yin and Yang is to think of a coin with Yang being heads and Yin being tails. They are two sides of the same thing. Now take that coin and spin it on a table and watch it make what looks like a globe. That is how close their relationship is.

By observing the sky, recording the Dipper's positions and watching the shadow of the Sun from an 8-foot (Chinese measurement) pole, ancient Chinese determined the four directions. The direction of sunrise is the East; the direction of sunset is the West; the direction of the shortest shadow is the South and the direction of the longest shadow is the North. At night, the direction of the Polaris star is the North. They noticed the seasonal changes. When the Dipper points to the East, its spring; when the Dipper points to the South, its summer; when the Dipper points to the West, its fall; when the Dipper points to the North, its winter. When observing the cycle of the Sun, ancient Chinese simply used a pole about 8 feet long, posted at right angles to the ground and recorded positions of the shadow. Then they found the length of a year is around 365.25 days. They even divided the year's cycle into 24 Segments, including the Vernal Equinox, Autumnal Equinox, Summer Solstice and Winter Solstice, using the sunrise and Dipper positions. They used six concentric circles, marked the 24-Segment points, divided the circles into 24 sectors and recorded the length of shadow every day. The shortest shadow is found on the 29

day of Summer Solstice. The longest shadow is found on the day of Winter Solstice. After connecting each lines and dimming Yin Part from Summer Solstice to Winter Solstice, the Sun chart looks like below. The ecliptic angle 23 26' 19'' of the Earth can be seen in this chart.

The Ecliptic is the Sun's apparent path around the Earth. It's tilted relative to the Earth's equator. The value of obliquity of the Ecliptic is around 23 26' 19'' in year 2000.

By rotating the Sun chart and positioning the Winter Solstice at the bottom, it will look like this the light colour area which indicates more sunlight is called Yang (Sun). The dark colour area has less sunlight (more moonlight) and is called Yin (Moon). Yang is like man. Yin is like woman. Yang wouldn't grow without Yin. Yin couldn't give birth without Yang. Yin is born (begins) at Summer Solstice and Yang is born (begins) at Winter Solstice. Therefore one little circle Yin is marked on the Summer Solstice position. Another little circle Yang is marked on the Winter Solstice position. These two little circles look like two fish eyes.

In general, the Yin Yang symbol is a Chinese representation of the entire celestial phenomenon. It contains the cycle of Sun, four seasons, 24-Segment Chi, and is the foundation of the I-Ching and the Chinese calendar.

Four Properties of Yin & Yang There are four basic properties that help to understand the relationship of yin and Yang and make it easier to apply these principles to the microcosm that is the human body. 1) The Opposition of Yin & Yang Yin and Yang are opposite, however only relative to each other. Nothing is wholly yin or wholly Yang. Each contains even the smallest of seeds of the other inside it. At any given time the two are in a constantly changing balance, with each vying for that one step ahead. Yang natured things (e.g., heat) counter and dispel Yin natured things (e.g., cold) and viceversa. If one predominates, it can overact on the other, cause imbalance and lead to disease. 2) The Interdependence of Yin & Yang Yin and Yang, though relatively opposite to one another, cannot exist independently. They define each other, much as night and day do. One cannot know light without dark, or dark without light. They only exist in relation to the other. In addition, they feed off of each other. Yang is energy, and it needs nutrients to exert itself. Yin is nutrient and needs energy to form. 3) The Mutual Consuming & Supporting Nature of Yin & Yang Being in a constant balance, yin and Yang are constantly attempting to adjust to levels of the other. Outside influences may cause levels of one to either become significantly greater or lesser than the other. Four possibilities can occur: Yang Deficiency or Heat Xu, Yang Excess of Heat Shi, Yin Deficiency or Cold Xu, Yin Excess or Cold Shi.

There are two things to take note of here. The first is to pay attention to the heat and the cold attributes. Interchanging the words yang and Yin with heat and cold respectively, plus combining with deficiency (xu) and excess (shi), you can get a rather good sense how to apply this to the body imbalances. For example, yin deficiency can also be thought of as cold deficiency. With a lack of cold in the body, false heat signs can be seen. The second thing to note is the level of the non-deficient part of a xu/deficient condition. Since yin & yang draw off each other to exist, any deficient condition will cause a general deficiency of both yin and yang. For example, Yin deficiency will also have a minor deficiency of Yang that puts it just below its balanced level. 4) The Inter transformation of Yin & Yang The dynamic balance of Yin & Yang is such that the two can transform into each other. Summer will eventually turn to winter, day will become night, and even the most wild sugar rush will eventually lead to a resounding depression. The change is not spontaneous but needs certain factors or precursors to exist. Internal factors are primary, yet external factors also have an effect. In addition, the timing of these things must be right. Consider the transformation of matter to energy. The internal conditions of the composition of matter must be right and external factors must be applied at the right time for Mass to multiply by C2 and cross over that equal sign to Energy.

Application of Yin Yang Theory to Body Every sign, symptom and aspect of the body can be contemplated with Yin and Yang in mind. Before looking at medical applications and imbalances, first the structure of the body is placed into the two categories by their nature. This includes both the external surface of the body as well as the internal organs and meridians or channels (Surprisingly no introductory texts actually explain the origin of meridians and where they fit, thus we are throwing them in as well).

Yin Yang Application to Body Structure There is a story that says the application of yin and yang to the body came from watching the way the noon time sun would hit an animal. Just as every hill had a sunny side and a shady side, so too does the animal. Every part of the animal that touched the sunlight was associated with yang and every part that was in shade was associated with yin. To yang went the entirety of the head, the posterior-lateral arms and legs, the posterior of the 32

torso, etc. To yin went the anterior of the torso, the anterior-medial arms and legs, etc. Internally, those organs which are in direct contact with the outside world, mostly from mouth to anus, went to Yang (a.k.a. the hollow organs Fu). Those organs which open to the outside only indirectly went to Yin (solid organs Zang). Here are the basics:

Body Structure Aspects Yang Yin Superior Inferior Posterior Anterior Lateral Medial Exterior Interior Organ Function Organ Structure Qi Blood/Body Fluids Hollow Organs(Fu) Solid Organs(Zang) As for the meridians, the split is correlated to both the meridians organ association and its location. Interestingly, all of the hollow organs (Fu) have meridians which run along the posterior-lateral aspects of the arms and legs. Similarly all the solid organs (Zang) have meridians that run along the anterior-medial aspects of the arms and legs. (What's curious is even though some meridians have a greater percentage of points on one aspect of the body, they fall into the other.)

Yin and Yang are the two interrelated forces which together with the concept of Qi form the foundation of eastern medicine. Yin and Yang are mutually exclusive and together form a whole which in balance constitutes a state of harmony and health and when out of balance indicates illness. From a medical perspective, the relationship between Yin and Yang form the general basis for all diagnoses and treatment protocols. A clinical example would be a person who has Liver Fire signs such as headaches, flushed face and anger. In this case the Yin Yang relationship may be 70% Yang and 30% Yin, leading to excessive Yang symptomology. The information below discusses the Yin Yang theory and clinical applications in detail.

Basics of Yin Yang Theory •

Yin and Yang are opposite qualities

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Never exist in isolation: Everything contains both Yin and Yang aspects, even extreme Yang contains the seed of Yin and vice versa

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Never exist in a static 50-50 balance: While a theoretical ideal, in reality Yin and Yang are always in a dynamic relationship

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Are always spoken of in relative terms: Antarctica’s climate is more Yin than Alaska's and Mexico's climate is more Yang than Ireland's

•

Are interdependent: One cannot exist without the other, they can be distinguished but not separated 33

â&#x20AC;˘

Are mutually consumptive: Extreme Yin (cold/wet) extinguishes Yang (fire), extreme Yang (fire) burns up Yin (water)

â&#x20AC;˘

Are mutually transformative: Extreme Yin ultimately transforms into Yang and vice versa

Yin Yang Relationships Yin and Yang Pathological Relationships Yin

Yang

Chronic conditions Acute conditions Fatigue/tiredness

Insomnia

Dampness

Dryness

cold/cool

hot/warm

Lethargic

Restless

Underactive

Overactive

Weak musculature Tight musculature Lack of thirst

Thirst

Pale

Red

Soft

Hard

Curled up

Stretch out

Pale tongue

Red tongue

Empty pulse

Full pulse

Yin and Yang Constitutional Relationships Yin

Yang

Introvert

Extrovert

Calm quiet environments Stimulating energizing environments Prefers rest and balance

Prefers socializing

Lower blood pressure

Higher blood pressure

Yin and Yang Body Relationships Yin

Yang

Body

Head

Organs

Surface

Yin organs

Yang organs

Blood and fluids

Lower body

Upper body

inside of limbs outside of limbs Anterior

Posterior

Yin and Yang Organ Relationships Yin

Yang

Solid (Zang)

Hollow(Fu)

Store pure essences, vital substances [qi, blood, shen(spirit), Jing]

No storage - transform, digest and excrete impurities

Yin organs

Yang organs

Yin-Yang and Five Element Theory relationship

The theory of Five Elements is combined with that of Yin and Yang, so that Wood is called ‘Young Yang’, Fire as ‘Great Yang’, Metal as ‘Young Yin’, Water as ‘Great Yin’, and Earth is the element of Central Harmony.

Five Elements Wood Fire Metal Water Earth

Yin

Yang Young Yang Great Yang

Young Yin Great Yin Central Harmony

Pathology and Clinical Applications of Yin Yang Theory From a clinical perspective the theory of Yin and Yang is used to help determine the overriding factors involved in a particular condition. A condition is most likely to involve the Yin energies of the body if the problems are present or aggravated during the evening. Conditions such as insomnia and night sweats, for example, are often Yin related 35

conditions. If the symptoms occur during the day, the condition is more likely to be related to the Yang energies of the body. Symptoms of Yang deficiency include fatigue, weakness and lethargy. In accordance with the general principles of Yin Yang theory, there are four general patterns of disharmony.

Pattern

Symptoms

Excess Yin/Full Cold Cold limbs, weakness, contracture, pain improved with heat, 60% Yin - 50% Yang, Full pale tongue, slow pulse Excess Yin Excess Yang/Full Heat 60% Yang - 50% Yin, Full Excess Yang Yin Deficiency/Empty Heat 50% Yang - 30% Yin, False Excess Yang Yang Deficiency/Empty Cold 50% Yin - 30% Yang, False Excess Yin

Restlessness, headache, irritability, pain worse with pressure, red tongue, full pulse

Signs of heat but arising from a deficiency of Yin, night sweats, heat in the 5 palms, insomnia, red tongue, thin and rapid pulse

Signs of excess cold but arising from a deficiency of Yang, fatigue, weakness, pain which improves with heat and pressure, pale tongue, slow and weak pulse

Qi Qi, pronounced â&#x20AC;&#x153;Cheeâ&#x20AC;?, means energy. You may see it spelled as Chi or even Ki in Japanese, but they all carry the same meaning. The traditional Chinese culture Qi, or Gi as in Korean, or ki in Japanese, and Prana in the Hindu culture, or Chi in Igbo religion, Pnuma in ancient Greek, Mana in Tibetan Buddhism, Ruah in Hebrew culture ( and in Islamic culture) and Vital Energy in Western culture are one and the same. Some elements of Qi can be understood in the term energy when used by writers and practitioners of Alternative medicine. Qi is the energy of the body, of the meridian, of the food, of the universe. While it may seem nebulous topic, there are definite theories regarding the different types of Qi within the body, the creation and action of Qi, and ways to determine whether imbalances may arise within the body. Qi, Blood and Body fluid, which are the essential substances for life activities, flow constantly inside the body and all originate from the viscera. They are produced by Qitransforming activities of the viscera and infused into the viscera to nourish the organs and tissues of the body. Among the three, Qi is the most active but invisible substance; blood and body fluid are visible, but must depend on the propelling action of Qi to circulate in the whole body.

The basic concept of Qi The classic Chinese philosophy believes that the primary state of the universe is Qi, the constant movement of which produces all the things in the universe, including life. Thus people in ancient China thought that the accumulation of Qi would produce life while the dispersion of Qi would put an end to life. Qi is very active and in constant motion. Qi is also extremely fine and invisible. Qi is the most essential substance that makes up the body and maintains life activities (This is a very abstract concept). All vital substances in the body are transformed by constant motion and change of Qi. The viscera, the meridians, the five sensory organs, the nine orifices and the body itself are formed by the motion, transformation and accumulation of Qi. Qi exists right after the formation of individual life (conception). This kind of Qi is inherited from kidney-Qi of the parents during pregnancy. So it is called "Congenital Qi" which is the foundation of the development of new life. After birth, the human body keeps absorbing nutrients from the external world to nourish the congenital Qi. This is the acquired source of Qi, also known as "Acquired Qi". Acquired Qi originates from food nutrients and fresh air inhaled into the body. In fact, the "Congenital Qi"; and "Acquired Qi" are just two material sources of Qi. The process of Qi production also involves the other viscera. The inter-transformation among essence, Qi, blood and body fluid influences the production of Qi. 37

Basic Types of Qi Within the body there are two basic types of Qi. Congenital Qi is the Qi that we are born with. It is essentially limited and the quality and amount of this Qi represents our basic constitution. Acquired Qi, on the other hand, is derived from the foods we eat and the air that we breathe. The quality of acquired Qi depends on our lifestyle habits such as food quality, balance of emotions, physical exercise and so on. The details regarding these two basic types of Qi are below: â&#x20AC;˘

Congenital Qi o

Inherited from our parents.

Gathered and formed at conception.

Stored in the Kidneys.

Determines basic constitution, strength and vitality.

Essential to growth and development.

Can be conserved but not replenished.

This is basically a Composite of: Jing (Essence) Yuan (Original Qi)

â&#x20AC;˘

Acquired Qi o

Post Natal Qi.

Can be stored and replenished.

Composite of: Gu Qi (Essence of Food and Grain Qi) Kong Qi (Air Qi) Zong Qi (Gathering Qi)

Zhen Qi (True Qi) - Composite of Ying Qi (Nutritive Qi, YIN) & Wei Qi (Defensive Qi, YANG)

Map of the Creation of Qi

Detailed Types of Qi While we use the word Qi to mean energy, it is clear from the Chinese medical theories that there are many aspects and differentiations of Qi. Different types of Qi vary in how they are used by the body and what imbalances are caused by a deficiency. For example, Jing deficiency in children may present with signs of slow growth and poor mental development, whereas, a person with a deficiency of Wei Qi may experience frequent colds and/or infections. The various types of Qi and their corresponding sources, functions, distributions and relevance are described below: â&#x20AC;˘

Jing (Essence) o

Source: - Derived from parents, supplemented by Acquired Qi (Gu Qi & Wei Qi).

Function: - Responsible for growth, reproduction and development.

Distribution: - Stored mainly in the Kidneys.

Relevance: - Weak Jing in children may lead to poor bone development, slow learning and or poor concentration. - Weak Jing in the elderly may lead to deafness, osteoporosis and or unclear thinking.

•

Yuan Qi (Original Qi) o

Source: - Derived from Jing.

Function: - Promotes and stimulates functional activities of organs. - Provides the foundation/catalyst for the production of Zhen Qi.

Distribution: - Originates in the Ming men, circulates via the TH, pools in the meridians at the Yuan Source points.

Relevance: Deficiencies in Yuan Qi may lead to poor development of Acquired Qi.

GU Qi (Essence of Food and Grain Qi) o

Source: - Originates from the action of the Spleen on the food in the Stomach.

Function: - Combines with Kong Qi to form Zong Qi. - Some aspects are also transformed into Blood.

Distribution: - Arises in the ST/SP and is moved to the chest where it is further distributed.

Relevance: - Good quality food and a strong ST/SP are important to generate energy. - Weaknesses in the SP may lead to bloating, distention, fatigue, loss of appetite, etc.

Kong Qi (Air Qi) o

Source: - Originates from the air received by the Lungs.

Function: - Combines with GU Qi to form Zong Qi.

Distribution: - Distributed from the chest.

Relevance: - Good quality air and good breathing practices are essential for the formation of energy.

•

Zong Qi (Gathering Qi) o

Source: - Combination of GU Qi & Kong Qi.

Function: - Nourish the Heart and Lungs. - Aids the Lungs in their role of respiration and circulating energy throughout the body. - Assists the Heart in circulating Blood through the vessels.

Distribution: - Stored in the chest.

Relevance: - With a deficiency you will see the HT and LU most affected. - Low energy, weak voice, poor circulation in the extremities, etc. - Can be treated with CV 17 and the Yuan source points of the HT (HT 7) & LU (LU 9).

Zhen Qi (True Qi) o

Source: - Derived from Zong Qi when acted upon by Yuan Qi.

Function: - This is the form of Qi that circulates in the meridians and nourishes the organs.

Distribution: - Originates in the chest and is distributed throughout the body by respiration. - Composite of: Ying Qi &Wei Qi.

Relevance: - Deficiencies indicate either an imbalance in the functioning of the creation of acquired Qi or in a declining amount of Yuan Qi.

Ying Qi (Nutritive Qi) o

Function: - Nourishes the organs. - Helps to produce Blood.

Distribution: - Circulates in the main meridians. - Flows with the Blood in the main meridians and within the Blood vessels.

Relevance: - This is the aspect of Qi that is needled with acupuncture.

Wei Qi (Defensive Qi) o

Function: - Helps to protect the body.

- Warms the surface of the body. - Regulates body temperature by opening a/or closing the pores. o

Distribution: - On the surface of the body and within the muscles and skin, but not within the meridians. - Circulation is dependent on the Lungs.

Relevance: - People who catch colds easily/often have Wei Qi deficiency. - Deficiency may also make it difficult to regulate body temperature.

Functions of Qi in the Body Generally speaking, the Qi serves several vital functions within the body. When imbalances arise, they are seen as disruptions in the functions of Qi. A prolapse, for example, is seen as a disruption in the ability of Qi to provide the raising and stabilizing function on a particular organ. In this case certain acupuncture points which have a strong lifting and stabilizing effect such as GV 20 may be used to help rebalance the body. The main functions of Qi within the body are listed below: •

Catalysing Functions: Qi assists in the formation and transformations within the body, for example the transformation of food into Qi and Blood

•

Protecting Functions: Qi defends the body from external pathogens

•

Raising and Stability Functions: Qi holds organs in their place, keeps Blood in the vessels, governs the removal of fluids

•

Transporting Functions: Qi is the foundation of all movement and growth in the body.

•

Warming Functions: Qi helps to control homeostasis and provides warmth for the body.

Qi Disharmonies with Signs and Symptoms Qi has four main states of imbalance. These imbalances may affect many parts of the body at once or within a particular meridian, organ or area. Deficiency of Qi, for example, may affect the Lungs with symptoms of shortness of breath, the Stomach/Spleen with symptoms such as poor appetite and the body in general with symptoms of fatigue and weakness.

Patterns

Signs

Tongue

Pulse

LU, SP, HT, and/or KD Qi Deficiency

Fatigue, dizziness, SOB worse on exertion, pale face, weak spirit

Pale w/thin coat

empty

Sinking Qi

Qi deficiency signs with down bearing sensation in abdomen a/or prolapse of organs

Pale w/thin coat

empty

LV Qi Stagnation

Pain that is not fixed in the chest a/or hypochondriac areas

White coat

Wiry or tight

LU and/or ST Rebellious Qi

Coughing, belching, vomiting, hiccups, dizziness

Pale w/white coat Wiry or or Red w/yellow rapid coat

Within the field of acupuncture there are many styles, or schools of thought, and each of these schools contains within it unique diagnostic tools and theories which lead the practitioner to appropriate acupuncture point selection and treatment methods. This page discusses some of the basic Traditional Chinese Medicine methods for choosing appropriate treatment points. In general, the selection of treatment points is based on the multiple uses and actions of various points. They can be used locally to treat specific conditions, reduce inflammation in an area, etc. or distally which are often chosen based on broader acupuncture theory and by utilizing the acupuncture point categories.

THE MERIDIAN THEORY

The Chinese Medicine Meridian System So, what is a meridian anyway? This is one of the first questions students of Chinese medicine want to understand. Simply put, a meridian is an ‘energy highway’ in the human body. Qi (chee) energy flows through this meridian or energy highway, accessing all parts of the body. Meridians can be mapped throughout the body; they flow within the body and not on the surface, meridians exist in corresponding pairs and each meridian has many acupuncture points along its path. The term ‘meridian’ describes the overall energy distribution system of Chinese Medicine and helps us to understand how basic substances of the body Qi, blood and body fluids, permeate the whole body. The individual meridians themselves are often described as ‘channels’ or even ‘vessels’ which reflects the notion of carrying, holding, or transporting Qi, blood and body fluids around the body. The word meridian as used in East Asian medicine came into the English language through a French translation of the Chinese term jing-luo. Jing means “to go through” or “a thread of fabric”; and luo means “something that connects or attaches,” or “a net”. The meridians or channels are seen as a network of unseen conduits, which carry and distribute Qi to all parts of the body. It is tempting to think of the meridians of the human body the same way as we think of the circulatory system, as the meridians are responsible for the distribution of the basic substances throughout the body just like the circulatory system, but here is where the similarities end. Conventional anatomy and physiology would not be able to identify these pathways in a physical sense in the way that blood vessels can be identified. It is more useful to consider the meridian system as an energetic distribution network that in itself tends towards energetic manifestation. Meridians can be best understood as a process rather than a structure. The Meridians are defined as " the means whereby man is created, the means whereby the disease occurred, the means whereby man is cured , the means whereby the disease arises. The 12 Meridians are basis of all theory and treatment. Practitioners of Chinese Medicine must be as knowledgeable about these meridian channels as the Western Doctor is about anatomy and physiology of the physical body. Without this thorough understanding, successful acupuncture treatments would be difficult. A practitioner of Chinese Medicine must know how and where to access the Qi energy of the body to facilitate the healing process. There are twelve main meridians, or invisible channels, throughout the body with Qi or energy flows. Each limb is traversed by six channels, three Yin channels on the inside, and three Yang channels on the outside. Each of the twelve regular channels corresponds to the five Yin organs, the six Yang organs as well as the Pericardium and San Jiao. These are organs that have no anatomical counterpart in Western medicine but also relate to processes in the body. It is also important to remember that organs should not be thought of as being identical with the physical, anatomical organs of the body. Each meridian is a Yin Yang pair, meaning each Yin organ is paired with its corresponding Yang Organ: the Yin Lung organ, for example, corresponds with the Yang - Large intestine. 46

Cycle of Qi Qi flows in a precise manner through the twelve regular meridians or channels. First, Qi flows from the chest area along the three arm Yin channels (Lung, Pericardium, and Heart) to the hands. There they connect with the three paired arm Yang channels (Large Intestine, San Jiao and Small Intestine) and flow upward to the head. In the head they connect with their three corresponding leg Yang Channels (Stomach, Gall Bladder and Bladder) and flow down the body to the feet. In the feet they connect with their corresponding leg Yin channels (Spleen, Liver & Kidney) and flow up again to the chest to complete the cycle of Qi. ▪

Arm Tai Yin channel corresponds to the Lung (Lu)

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Leg Tai Yin channel corresponds to the Spleen ( Sp)

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Arm Shao Yin channel corresponds to the Heart (H)

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Leg Shao Yin corresponds to the Kidney (K)

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Arm Jue Yin corresponds to the Pericardium (P)

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Leg Jue Yin corresponds to the Liver (Liv)

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Arm Ming Yang corresponds to the Large Intestine (LI)

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Leg Ming Yang corresponds to the Stomach (St)

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Arm Tai Yang corresponds to the Small Intestine (SI)

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Leg Tai Yang corresponds to the Urinary Bladder (UB)

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Arm Shao Yang corresponds to the San Jiao ( Triple Warmer) (TW)

▪

Leg Shao Yang Channel corresponds to the Gall Bladder (GB)

Starting/Ending points of Meridians 47

The arm and leg channels of the same name (Tai, Shao, Jue, and Ming) are considered to ‘communicate’ with each other in Chinese medicine. Thus, problems in a given channel or organ can be treated by using various points on the communication ‘partner’. As an example: a problem with the Lungs can be treated by using points on the Spleen channel as they are both Tai Yin channels. In addition to the twelve regular meridians there are ‘Extraordinary Meridians’ that are not directly linked to the major organ system but have various specific functions: 1) They act as reservoirs of Qi and blood for the twelve regular channels, filling and emptying as required 2) They circulate Jing or ‘essence’ around the body because they have a strong connection with the Kidneys 3) They help circulate the defensive Wei Qi over the trunk of the body and, as such, play an important role in maintaining of good health 4) They provide further connections between the twelve regular channels The meridian system of the human body is a delicate, yet intricate web of interconnecting energy lines. If a person masters an understanding of this meridian system they will know the secrets of the flow of Qi energy in the body. The meridians correspond to each of the twelve Yin and Yang organs. There are also eight extra meridians. This is because they have independent points- points that are not also on any of the twelve regular meridians. In addition there are many small, finer, netlike minor meridians, called Luo meridians. The meridians move the chi and blood, regulate Yin and Yang, moisten the tendons and bones, and benefits the joints. Meridian Activity Times & Entry Exit Points

Organ Meridian

Organ Clock Time Maximum Qi

Anti- Organ Clock Time Minimum Qi

Lung Meridian Large Intestine Meridian Stomach Meridian Spleen Meridian Heart Meridian Small Intestine Meridian Urinary Bladder Meridian Kidney Meridian Pericardium Meridian Triple Warmer Meridian Gall Bladder Meridian Liver Meridian

3 AM to 5 AM 5 AM to 7 AM 7 AM to 9 AM 9 AM to 11 AM 11 AM to 1 PM 1 PM to 3 PM 3 PM to 5 PM 5 PM to 7 PM 7PM to 9 PM 9 PM to 11PM 11 PM to 1 AM 1 AM to 3 AM

3 PM to 5 Pm 5 PM to 7 PM 7 PM to 9 PM 9 PM to 11 PM 11 PM to 1 AM 1 AM to 3 AM 3 AM to 5 AM 5 AM to 7 AM 7AM to 9 AM 9 AM to 11AM 11 AM to 1 PM 1 PM to 3 PM

(HT) Heart Meridian The Heart meridian is a Yin meridian and is paired with the Small Intestine meridian. It reveals itself through the brightness in the eyes, governs Fire and Heat, rules the blood and its vessels and directs circulation - it is the House of the Spirit. It originates from the heart, emerges and spreads over the heart system, passes through the diaphragm to connect with the small intestine. The exteriorly (surface) running part runs to the lung, then turns downward along the arm. It ends in the inner tip of the little finger. It rules: Blood, Tongue, Throat, Sweat, facial complexion, Adrenals, Thyroid, Prostate and Pituitary glands. It opens into the tongue and controls speech. Element: Belonging to the element Fire, the Heart Meridian is associated with warmth, Laughter, and enthusiasm. Just as the summer season, associated with the Fire element, brings blossoming and maturing â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the flowering of all the seeds planted in the spring - love is the blossoming of a human being. It is indeed who we are in full "bloom". Nowhere is such love felt more deeply than the Heart. Physical Imbalances: Shortness of breath, cold feeling in the chest and limbs, palpitations, cold sweat, inability to speak, memory failure, nocturnal emissions and restless sleep. Emotional Imbalances: The heart is the ruler of all emotions. Signs of imbalance include sadness, absence of laughter, Depression, fear, anxiety, hysteria, erratic behaviour, alternating joy and melancholy, dullness, yearning for love, jealousy and sorrow. When balanced: Tranquillity, Gentleness, emotional balance, spirit, love, integrity, optimism, emotional and spiritual growth, zest for life, control of thoughts and senses, conscience and wisdom. Peak Hours: 11am-1pm Chakra: Heart Chakra

HT Image

The HT Meridian •

Internal/External Pathways Originates at the Heart Spreads over the heart system Descending branch: Passes through the diaphragm Connects with the small intestine Ascending branch: Runs alongside oesophagus Connects with the eye system Direct branch: Runs upward to lung Then down and out axilla at HT 1

•

Measurements Needed Axillary Fold -to- Cubital Crease = 9 Cun Cubital Crease -to- Wrist Crease = 12 Cun

•

Precautions - [all] HT 1 - (AA) Avoid Artery

•

Point Relationships Wrist - SI 5 - TH 4 - LI 5 || LU 9 - PC 7 - HT 7 Elbow Points - SI 8 - TH 10 - LI 11 || LU 5 - PC 3 - HT 3 52

•

Additional Helpful Information

•

No finger or hand measurements on the lower arm

•

Cun Measurement Reminders: (Cun measurements points along the meridian) Yin LU PC HT

Meridians || Upper Arm || Forearm 6, 5 || 7, 1.5, 1 7 || 5, 3, 2 3 || 1.5, 1, .5

Yang Meridians || Forearm || Upper Arm LI 3, 5, 8, 9, 10 || *1, 3, 7 TH 2, 3, 5, 7 || *1, 1, mid 11-13, -3 below TH 14 SI 5 ||

•

The (HT) Heart Meridian has 9 Acupuncture Points

HT 1

Highest Spring

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HT 1

•

English Name: Highest Spring ( also called Lymph of Heart)

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Pinyin Name: Ji Quan

•

Chinese Character: 極泉 o

Regulate Qi flow from the torso to the arm and vice versa - cold, numbness, pain in shoulder a/or arm.

Pain in the cardiac region - heart pain, chest pain, shortness of breath, anxiety, palpitations.

Frozen shoulder, elbow or arm pain. Coldness in upper arm.

Pain and/or distention of the upper thoracic area.

HT 2

Cyan Spirit

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HT 2

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English Name: Cyan Spirit

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Pinyin Name: Qing Ling

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Chinese Character: 青靈 o

Local point - in many classics needling this point is contraindicated. Moxabustion, however, is applicable.

Pain in the shoulder or arm, difficulty in raising the arm.

Pain in the lateral chest and/or hypochondriac regions.

When stimulated nourishes Liver Yin and Yang both.

HT 3

Lesser Sea

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HT 3

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English Name: Lesser Sea

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Pinyin Name: Shao Hai

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Chinese Character: 少海 o

Pain, numbness, tremors, etc. of the lower arms and or hands - Parkinson's, stroke, Paralysis of arm.

Good local point to move the Qi and Blood.

Spirit disorders from phlegm a/or heat etiologies - epilepsy, depression, anxiety, nervousness, poor memory, fuzzy thinking.

Water Point of heart Meridian - redness of the eyes, mouth ulcerations. 54

This is a motor point which pronates & flexes arm.

HT 4

Spirit Pathway

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HT 4

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English Name: Spirit Pathway

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Pinyin Name: Ling Dao

•

Chinese Character: 靈道 o

Sudden loss of voice due to any emotional set back or shock.

Restless Zang Disorder (refers to the organs considered to be yin in nature Heart, Liver, Spleen, Lung, Kidney) (fluctuating emotions, mania, depression, anxiety, insomnia), various emotional disturbances.

Chest pain that perhaps worsens with emotional distress.

Local point for Arthritic pain in the elbow and or arm.

Nausea with no vomiting / depression / phobias.

This is Metal point of Heart Meridian

HT 5

Connecting Li

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HT 5

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English Name: Connecting Li

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Pinyin Name: Tong Li

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Chinese Character: 通里

• o

Speech and/or vocal disorders - aphasia (post-stroke), stiff tongue, stuttering, sudden loss of voice, sore throat.

Spirit disorders and related physical manifestations, anxiety with palpitations, arrhythmia, nervousness, depression - although the point is generally not used for emotional disorders involving sleep such as insomnia, HT 7 is used more often for these more "physical" manifestations.

Excessive bleeding w/ menstruation from heat in the Blood.

Heat effecting the SI and leading to urinary symptoms - incontinence, enuresis.

Local point for wrist, elbow and/or hand pain - perhaps more so for weakness than simple pain.

HT 6

Yin Cleft

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HT 6

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English Name: Yin Cleft

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Pinyin Name: Yin Xi

•

Chinese Character: 陰郄

Night sweats, Steaming Bone Disorders, tonify Yin and Blood. Often used with SI 3 for night sweats.

Acute chest and or heart pain from Blood stasis. Palpitations, although HT 5 may be better.

Acute emotional disturbances - mania, anxiety, shock, sudden loss of voice.

Counter flow qi - panic attacks, vomiting blood, nosebleeds.

HT 7

Spirit Gate

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HT 7

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English Name: Spirit Gate

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Pinyin Name: Shen Men

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Chinese Character: 神門 o

Tonify deficiencies of the HT Qi, Blood, Yin and Yang.

Emotional issues, especially those with related sleep or thinking manifestations - insomnia, muddled thinking.

Heart and Phlegm fire leading to insomnia, anxiety, mania.

Physical responses to emotional stimuli - anxiety with palpitations, nausea with panic and or fear.

Heart palpitations from any etiology as well as irregular heartbeat, pounding heart, angina.

Tong Ren/Tam Healing System: Emotional/Psychological issues, used with PC 7 for sweat problems (too much or too little).

This is Earth point of Heart Meridian.

Refrigerates hotness in Heart Meridian.

Paralysis of Tongue and of Larynx.

HT 8

Lesser Mansion

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HT 8

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English Name: Lesser Mansion

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Pinyin Name: Shao Fu

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Chinese Character: 少府

HT Fire effecting the SI effecting the UB, heat descending to the lower jiao incontinence, difficult urination, fungal infections, genital itching.

Channel issues, sore throat, tongue stiffness, pain along the ulnar aspect of the arms.

Heart Qi Deficiency - palpitations, fear, hot palms.

Emotional disorders - although PC 8 may be a better choice.

HT Fire effecting the mouth - ulcers, canker sores, etc. - although PC 7 or PC 8 may be a better choice.

Local point for arm pain, elbow pain, and/or pain in the pinky finger (little figure).

This is Fire point of Heart Meridian.

HT 9

Lesser Surge

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HT 9

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English Name: Lesser Surge

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Pinyin Name: Shao Chong

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Chinese Character: 少沖

Jing Well Point - clear heat a/or obstruction from the opposite end of the channel, eye pain a/or redness, mouth ulcerations, sores.

Can be bled or needled for emotional disturbances - strong restlessness, anxiety, panic attacks, manic depression, epilepsy, etc.

Restore consciousness - heart attack, stroke.

Emergency heart attack point - strong stimulation.

Fullness below the heart - stagnation, pain and/or distension in the HT area.

(LI) Large Intestine Meridian The Large Intestine Meridian is a Yang meridian and paired with the Lung Yin Meridian. It controls the transformation of digestive wastes from liquid to solid state and transports the solids outwards for excretion through the rectum. It plays a major role in the balance and purity of bodily fluids and assists the lungs in controlling the skin's pores and perspiration. The large intestine meridian begins by the outside corner of the index fingernail. It runs along the edge of the finger, between the two tendons of the thumb at the wrist joint and along the outer edge of the arm to the elbow. It continues to the outside of the shoulder muscle, then crosses the shoulder blade and travels upward over the muscle at the side of the neck to the cheek, passing through the lower gums, then over the top lip. It ends beside the nostril. Element: Metal Physical Imbalances: Paired with the lungs, the large intestine depends on the lungs for movement via the expansion and contraction of the diaphragm, which works like a pump to give impetus to peristalsis by regulating abdominal pressure. Sluggish bowels may be stimulated by deep diaphragmatic breathing and by tonifying lung energy. Congested lungs and clogged bronchial passages may be cleared by purging the bowels, Symptoms of abdominal pain, intestinal cramping, diarrhoea, constipation and dysentery as well as disorders of the mouth, teeth, nose and throat. Emotional Imbalances: The Large Intestine is affected by the emotions of sadness, grief, and worry. An energetic imbalance in the Large Intestine can result in physical weakness and provoke emotional introversion, accompanied by feelings of depression, irritability, discouragement, distress and apathy. Low self-esteem Peak Hours: 5am-7am

The LI Meridian Internal/External Pathways Up the posterior aspect of the arm Enters the lung at the chest A branch goes down and connects with the large intestine Another branch goes up around the mouth to the other side of the body â&#x20AC;˘

Measurements Needed Axillary Fold -to- Cubital Crease = 9 cun Cubital Crease -to- Wrist Crease = 12 cun Thumb width = 1 Cun Four fingers = 3 Cun

â&#x20AC;˘

Precautions - [all] LI 1 - No Moxa LI 4 - No Moxa or Needling in Pregnancy LI 13 - AA LI 19 - No Moxa LI 20 - No Moxa 61

•

Point Relationships Wrist - SI 5 - TH 4 - LI 5 || LU 9 - PC 7 - HT 7 Elbow Points - SI 8 - TH 10 - LI 11 || LU 5 - PC 3 - HT 3

•

Additional Helpful Information

•

Cun Measurement Reminders: (Cun measurements points along the meridian) Yin LU PC HT

Meridians || Upper Arm || Forearm 6, 5 || 7, 1.5, 1 7 || 5, 3, 2 3 || 1.5, 1, .5

Yang Meridians || Forearm || Upper Arm LI 3, 5, 8, 9, 10 || *1, 3, 7 TH 2, 3, 5, 7 || *1, 1, mid 11-13, -3 below TH 14 SI 5 ||

The (LI) Large Intestine Meridian has 20 Acupuncture Points

LI 1

Metal Yang

•

LI 1

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English Name: Metal Yang

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Pinyin Name: Shang Yang

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Chinese Character: 商陽

Jing Well Point, for heat, pain, stagnation, especially at the opposite end of the channel, for eye and ear pain and inflammation, toothache.

Bleed for high fever, coma

LI 2

Second Space

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LI 2

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English Name: Second Space

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Pinyin Name: Er Jian

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Chinese Character: 二間 o

Shown to increase saliva production and to effect the areas of the brain involved in saliva production. Useful for dry mouth (xerostomia).

LI 2 & LI 3 are not used often clinically as LI 4& LI 11 have broader applications.

Sedation Point and Ying Spring Point, treats excess and clears heat from opposite end of the channel, for toothache, eye redness and pain, gum inflammation, sore throat.

This is Water Point of Large Intestine meridian.

LI 3

Third Space

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LI 3

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English Name: Third Space

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Pinyin Name: San Jian

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Chinese Character: 三間

• o

Expel wind and heat particularly from the throat, teeth, mouth, face and eyes.

Diarrhoea.

LI 4

Union Valley

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LI 4

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English Name: Union Valley

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Pinyin Name: He Gu

•

Chinese Character: 合谷 o

Releases the exterior for wind-cold or wind-heat syndromes

Strengthens the wei qi, improves immunity

Regulates the sweat glands, for excessive sweating tonify LI 4 then disperse KD 7 and vice versa.

Any problem on the face - sense organs, mouth, teeth, jaw, toothache, allergies, rhinitis, hay fever, acne, eye problems, etc.

Toothache use both LI 4 & ST 44 - LI for the lower jaw & ST for the upper jaw.

Headache, especially frontal a/or sinus (yangming area).

Chronic Pain

Influence the circulation of Qi and Blood - Use the four gates, LI 4 & LV 3 to strongly move the Qi and Blood in the body clearing stagnation and alleviating pain.

Promote labour or for retained placenta

LI 5

Yang Ravine

•

LI 5

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English Name: Yang Ravine

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Pinyin Name: Yang Xi

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Chinese Character: 陽谿 64

Local point for wrist pain.

Classically noted with LI 7 for "seeing ghosts," may be useful in manic conditions.

LI 6

Veering Passageway

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LI 6

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English Name: Veering Passageway

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Pinyin Name: Pian Li

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Chinese Character: 偏歴

• o

Luo Connecting Point, influences the descending and dispersing function of the Lungs - useful for upper body edema a/or facial puffiness.

The Luo channel travels upward to the face effecting the jaw, teeth and ears, tinnitus, deafness, toothache, nosebleeds.

LI 7

Warm Dwelling

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LI 7

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English Name: Warm Dwelling

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Pinyin Name: Wen Liu

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Chinese Character: 溫溜 o

Xi Cleft Point useful for pain due to stagnation along the meridian in the shoulders, elbows and wrist. 65

Classically noted with LI 5 for "seeing ghosts," may be useful in manic conditions.

LI 8

Lower Ridge

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LI 8

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English Name: Lower Ridge

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Pinyin Name: Xia Lian

•

Chinese Character: 下廉

The following relationships exist between the ST and the LI and can be used to treat ST, LI and SI organ problems:

SI: LI 8 & ST 39

LI: LI 9 & ST 37

ST: LI 10 & ST 36

Blood in the urine arising from heat in the SI - use with CV 3 & ST 39.

Calms the spirit, clear Yang Ming fire - mania, headaches, and stroke.

LI 9

Upper Ridge

•

LI 9

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English Name: Upper Ridge

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Pinyin Name: Shang Lian

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Chinese Character: 上廉 o

The following relationships exist between the ST and the LI and can be used to treat ST, LI and SI organ problems:

SI: LI 8 & ST 39

LI: LI 9 & ST 37

ST: LI 10 & ST 36

Local point for shoulder, elbow, and arm pain.

Stagnation in the large intestine - abdominal pain, dark/difficult urination.

Numbness of the limbs - particularly the upper limbs, stroke recovery.

LI 10

Arm Three Li

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LI 10

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English Name: Arm Three Li

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Pinyin Name: Shou San Li

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Chinese Character: 手三里

The following relationships exist between the ST and the LI and can be used to treat ST, LI and SI organ problems:

SI: LI 8 & ST 39

LI: LI 9 & ST 37

ST: LI 10 & ST 36

Shoulder, elbow & wrist pain issues, general achiness in these areas.

Paralysis in the upper limbs.

Less dispersive & more tonifying than other LI points.

Epigastria & abdominal pain, ulcers, vomiting.

Tong Ren/Tam Healing System: Abdominal issues, any digestive issues, pain in the arm/shoulder/neck, builds energy level.

LI 11

Pool at the Bend

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LI 11

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English Name: Pool at the Bend

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Pinyin Name: Qu Chi

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Chinese Character: 曲池 o

Reduction of high fevers, patients with the 4 bigs, combines with LI 1, LI 2 or LI 4.

Damp Heat skin diseases, red, itchy, oozing & inflamed (hives, herpes zoster, acne), may be used with UB 40 for any skin disease.

ST Excess Issues, burning diarrhoea.

Elbow and upper limb disorders, pain and inflammation, atrophy, tremors expels wind dampness from the channel.

Hot flashes a/or menstrual issues with heat in the Blood.

Expels summer heat with UB 40 & SP 10, for heat stroke add SI 3.

Tong Ren/Tam Healing System: Useful for any blood circulation issue (Raynaud’s, anaemia, etc.), skin problems (hives, itchiness), and tennis elbow.

LI 12

Elbow Bone Hole

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LI 12

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English Name: Elbow Bone Hole

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Pinyin Name: Zhou Liao

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Chinese Character: 肘髎

•

Local point for pain in the elbow and/or upper arm, tennis elbow.

LI 13

Arm Five Li

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LI 13

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English Name: Arm Five Li

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Pinyin Name: Shou Wu Li

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Chinese Character: 手五里 o

Local point for pain in the elbow and upper arm.

Difficulty breathing, cough, vomiting of blood.

Scrofula

LI 14

Upper Arm

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LI 14

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English Name: Upper Arm

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Pinyin Name: Bi Nao

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Chinese Character: 臂臑

• o

Local point for pain in the shoulder and upper arm.

Weakness in the upper arms

Benefits the eyes - redness, swelling, pain.

Scrofula

LI 15

Shoulder Bone

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LI 15

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English Name: Shoulder Bone

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Pinyin Name: Jian Yu

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Chinese Character: 肩髃

• o

Shoulder Disorders, rotator cuff injuries, adhesive capsulitis, frozen shoulder, any ROM issues.

Seminal emission due to taxation.

LI 16

Great Bone

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LI 16

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English Name: Great Bone

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Pinyin Name: Ju Gu

Chinese Character: 巨骨 o

Adjunctive point with LI 15 for shoulder issues, particularly chronic issues related to blood stasis.

Resolve Blood stagnation in the chest & lungs, vomiting a/or coughing of Blood.

LI 17

Celestial Tripod

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LI 17

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English Name: Celestial Tripod

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Pinyin Name: Tian Ding

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Chinese Character: 天鼎 71

Sore throat, loss of voice, sensation of something "stuck" in the throat ("plum pit qi").

Tong Ren/Tam Healing System: Used to effect the circulation within the carotid artery. The left side is used more for physical complaints and the right side more for psychological issues due to the internal connections of the common carotid. Useful for Alzheimer’s, brain tumours, dyslexia, MS, and many brain issues related to circulation as well as the full range of psychological issues.

Falls into the category of Window of the Sky points within the Tam Healing system.

LI 18

Protuberance Assistant

•

LI 18

•

English Name: Protuberance Assistant

•

Pinyin Name: Fu Tu

•

Chinese Character: 扶突 o

Window of the Sky Point for sudden loss of voice with qi obstruction in the throat.

High blood pressure, for which Window of the Sky Points are sometimes indicated, may also be useful for low blood pressure.

Tong Ren/Tam Healing System: Used to effect the circulation of the common carotid artery as well as affect the vagus nerve. Due to the connection with the vagus it is useful for lung, oesophagus, heart, stomach, intestine and gall bladder issues - reflux, palpitations, digestive issues, etc.

Falls into the category of Window of the Sky points within the Tam Healing system.

LI 19

Grain Bone Hole

•

LI 19

•

English Name: Grain Bone Hole

•

Pinyin Name: He Liao

•

Chinese Character: 口禾髎 o

Sinus congestion.

Nasal polyps, sores.

Nosebleed (combination with GV 23 and LI 19)

LI 20

Welcome Fragrance

•

LI 20

•

English Name: Welcome Fragrance

•

Pinyin Name: Ying Xiang

•

Chinese Character: 迎香 o

Loss of smell or taste, nasal discharge, any nose a/or sinus issues, nasal polyps, rhinitis, sinusitis, allergies. Often combined with LI 19 and other local points.

Tong Ren/Tam Healing System: Sinus issues, often combined with LI 17 and the huatuo of C3.

(LU) Lung Meridian The Lung Meridian is a Yin meridian and controls breath and energy. It is paired with the Large Intestine Meridian. Together with the Heart Meridian it assists with circulation of the blood. Breathing also directly controls the autonomous nervous system, which is why it is basis for meditation and Chi exercises (Tai Chi, Chi Gong, Yoga...) This way Breathing forms a bridge between body and mind. Meridian Route The lung meridian begins deep in the solar plexus region (middle burner) and descends to meet the large intestine. Winding up past the stomach, it crosses the diaphragm, divides, and enters the lungs. It then re-unites, passes up the middle of the windpipe to the throat and divides again, surfacing in the hollow region near the front of the shoulder (LU-1). From here it passes over the shoulder and down the front of the arm along the outer border of the biceps muscle. It continues down the forearm to the wrist just above the base of the thumb (LU-9). The channel crosses the height of the thumb muscle to finish at the corner of the thumbnail. Element: Metal Physical Imbalances: Disorders of the chest, lung, throat and nose Emotional Imbalances: The Lungs are responsible for establishing the foundation of Qi for the entire body. The Lungs house the body's Seven Emotions and are responsible for self-protection and self-preservation. Their negative attributes are disappointment, sadness, grief, despair, anxiety, shame and sorrow. When Balanced: Righteousness, dignity, integrity and high self esteem PEAK HOUR: - 3 am to 5 am

The LU Meridian â&#x20AC;˘

Internal/External Pathways Originates in the Middle Energizer A branch goes down to connect with the large intestine 75

Returns up along the upper orifice of the Stomach Passes through the Diaphragm Enters Lung A branch goes up to the throat Then down transversly and out at LU 1 •

Measurements Needed Sternum -to- Coracoid Process = 6 cun Sternum -to- Acromion Process = 8 cun Axillary Fold -to- Cubital Crease = 9 cun Cubital Crease -to- Wrist Crease = 12 cun

•

Precautions - [all] LU 1 - NDN Toward Sternum LU 2 - NDN Toward Sternum LU 3 - No Moxa LU 5 - No Moxa LU 8 - No Moxa - AA LU 9 - AA LU 11 - No Moxa

•

Point Relationships Wrist - SI 5 - TH 4 - LI 5 || LU 9 - PC 7 - HT 7 Elbow Points - SI 8 - TH 10 - LI 11 || LU 5 - PC 3 - HT 3

•

Additional Helpful Information

•

No finger or hand measurements on the lower arm

•

Cun Measurement Reminders: (Cun measurements points along the meridian) Yin LU PC HT

Meridians || Upper Arm || Forearm 6, 5 || 7, 1.5, 1 7 || 5, 3, 2 3 || 1.5, 1, .5

Yang Meridians || Forearm || Upper Arm LI 3, 5, 8, 9, 10 || *1, 3, 7 TH 2, 3, 5, 7 || *1, 1, mid 11-13, -3 below TH 14 SI 5 || •

Japanese Acupuncture Point Location LU 7 is located 1.5 cun proximal to the wrist crease, proximal to the styloid process and on a line between LU 9 -LU 6. Pressure pain is usually found on the radial side of the the radial artery. The (LU) Lung Meridian has 11 Acupuncture Points

LU 1

Central Treasury

•

LU 1

•

English Name: Central Treasury

•

Pinyin Name: Zhong Fu

•

Chinese Character: 中府 o

Lung Front MU Point - useful for all LU Issues, especially of Excess Type cough, wheezing, asthma.

LU disharmonies involving Phlegm/Heat excess arising from the middle warmer - vomiting, difficult ingestion.

LU 2

Cloud Gate

•

LU 2

•

English Name: Cloud Gate

•

Pinyin Name: Yun Men

•

Chinese Character: 雲門 o

Similar to LU 1 but used more often as a local shoulder point.

Cough, asthma, tension in the chest.

LU 3

Celestial Storehouse

•

English Name: Celestial Storehouse

•

Pinyin Name: Tian Fu

•

Chinese Character: 天府

Window of the Sky Point, regulates head/body Qi flow - goitres, swellings in the neck.

Lung related spirit disharmonies - stress induced asthma, poor memory, fuzzy/muddled thinking, depression, "floating corpse ghost talk", "melancholy crying ghost talk" (classical descriptions possibly for seeing ghost, talking about ghosts a/or people who have died, being in constant long-term grief about someone who has passed, etc.).

LV invading the LU pathologies.

Generally for heat related issues whether from excess or deficiency nosebleed, coughing blood.

LU 4

Guarding White

•

LU 4

•

English Name: Guarding White

•

Pinyin Name: Xia Bai

•

Chinese Character: 俠白 o

Local Point.

May be used for cough, shortness of breath, chest pain, and heart pain.

Pain in the medial aspect of the upper arm.

LU 5

Cubit Marsh

•

LU 5

•

English Name: Cubit Marsh

•

Pinyin Name: Chi Ze

•

Chinese Character: 尺澤

He Sea Point - useful for counter flow Qi/diarrhoea, hot skin conditions, phlegm-heat excess.

Acute/Chronic or Exterior/Interior Conditions.

Upper body edema, enuresis.

Local point for the elbow - tendonitis, tennis elbow.

Classically noted for the 5 types of Lumbar Pain - possibly the upper body equivalent of UB 40.

LU 6

Collection Hole

•

LU 6

•

English Name: Collection Hole

•

Pinyin Name: Kong Zui

•

Chinese Character: 孔最

Xi Cleft Point - for Acute attacks of OPI's, usually wind-heat or wind-dry cough, wheezing, asthma, and sore throat.

Dry hacking cough, especially at night.

Local point for pain along the meridian, especially at the joints.

LU 7

Broken Sequence

•

LU 7

•

English Name: Broken Sequence

•

Pinyin Name: Lie Que

•

Chinese Character: 列缺

Exterior Wind - body aches, chills/fever, runny nose, scratchy throat, sneezing. 80

Internal Wind - Bell's palsy, twitching, spasms, lockjaw.

As Master Point of the CV, paired with KD 6of the Yin Qiao Mai - treats genitourinary and gynaecological issues also Yin deficient sore throat.

Command Point of the Head and Posterior Neck - useful for any conditions involving these areas.

Pain of the thumb - Luo Connecting Point spreads over the thinner eminence.

LU 8

Ditch

•

LU 8 Channel

•

English Name: Channel Ditch

•

Pinyin Name: Jing Qu

•

Chinese Character: 經渠 o

Not as broad of an effect as LU 7, still useful for expelling wind, tonifying Qi and Yin.

Pain in the area of KD 1 - plantar fasciitis.

Wrist pain - carpal tunnel syndrome.

LU 9

Great Abyss

•

LU 9

•

English Name: Great Abyss

•

Pinyin Name: Tai Yuan

•

Chinese Character: 太淵 o

Tonify LU Qi and Yin - cough, asthma, wheezing, SOB, chronic runny nose w/watery discharge.

Palpitations.

Wrist pain, arm pain along meridian.

Hui Meeting Point of the Vessels - circulation issues, clarifying an indiscernible pulse (for diagnosis).

LU 10

Fish Border

•

LU 10

•

English Name: Fish Border

•

Pinyin Name: Yu Ji

•

Chinese Character: 魚際 o

Clear Excess or Deficiency Heat from the LU Channel and Organ.

Sore throat w/excess heat.

Reckless bleeding from heat.

LU 11

Lesser Shang

•

LU 11

•

English Name: Lesser Shang

•

Pinyin Name: Shao Shang

•

Chinese Character: 少商 o

Extreme sore throat (may bleed point to reduce heat).

Revival point especially from wind-stroke. 82

(PC) Pericardium Meridian The Pericardium Meridian (also called 'Heart Constrictor' or 'Circulation-Sex' Meridian) is a Yin meridian and is paired with the Triple Warmer Meridian (also known as the Triple Energizer/Burner Meridian).

The Pericardium Meridian Flow This begins in the middle of the chest at the pericardium. A branch descends internally through the diaphragm to the upper, middle, and lower burners. From the starting point a branch of the main channel crosses the chest to emerge just outside the nipple. It then ascends on the surface around the front of the armpit and flows down the arm, through the biceps muscle. At the elbow crease it passes just to the inside of the biceps tendon, then down the middle of the front of the forearm, between the heart and lung channels to the wrist. It crosses the middle of the palm to PC8 where it divides. The main channel continues to the outer corner of the middle fingernail. Known as the 'King's Bodyguard' (in this case... the 'king' is the heart), the pericardium is the heart's protector. It is regarded as a Fire-energy organ. The Pericardium provides the heart with physical protection; its energy also protects the heart from damage and disruption by excessive emotional energies generated by the other organs, such as anger from the liver, fear from the kidneys, and grief from the lungs. Extreme outbursts of the Seven Emotions are regarded as powerful disruptors of energy balance and major causes of disease. Without the pericardium to protect it, the heart would be subject to damage from the strong fluctuations in energy caused by emotional ups and downs of the day. Paired with: Triple Warmer Meridian Element: Fire Physical Imbalances: Disorders of the heart, chest, stomach and mind Emotional Imbalances: Difficulty feeling and expressing emotions, depression, sexual perversion, aversions, and phobias When Balanced: Joy, happiness and healthy relationships Peak Hours: 7 pm-9 pm Foods: Sunlight

The PC Meridian â&#x20AC;˘

Internal/External Pathways

Originates in the Chest 84

Enters the pericardium Descends through the diaphragm to the abdomen Connecting with the Triple Heater Another branch emerges at PC 1 •

Measurements Needed

Sternum -to- Coracoid Process = 6 cun Sternum -to- Acromion Process = 8 cun Axillary Fold -to- Cubital Crease = 9 cun Cubital Crease -to- Wrist Crease = 12 cun Nipple -to- PC 1 = 1 cun Anterior Midline -to- PC 1 = 5 cun Root of Breast = 5th Intercostal Space •

Precautions

- [all]

PC 1 - NDN •

Point Relationships

Wrist - SI 5 - TH 4 - LI 5 || LU 9 - PC 7 - HT 7 Elbow Points - SI 8 - TH 10 - LI 11 || LU 5 - PC 3 - HT 3 •

Additional Helpful Information

•

No finger or hand measurements on the lower arm

•

Cun Measurement Reminders: (Cun measurements points along the meridian) Yin Meridians || Upper Arm || Forearm LU 6, 5 || 7, 1.5, 1 PC 7 || 5, 3, 2 HT 3 || 1.5, 1, .5 Yang Meridians || Forearm || Upper Arm LI 3, 5, 8, 9, 10 || *1, 3, 7 TH 2, 3, 5, 7 || *1, 1, mid 11-13, -3 below TH 14 SI 5 ||

•

Japanese Acupuncture Point Location PC 6 is located on the ulnar side of the Palmaris longus tendon. It is less

than 2 cun proximal to the wrist crease, and usually shows distinctive pressure pain.

The (P) Pericardium Meridian has 9 Acupuncture Points PC 1

Celestial Pool

•

English Name: Celestial Pool

•

Pinyin Name: Tian Chi

•

Chinese Character: 天池

•

Window of the Sky Point, fullness of the chest, counter flow qi, headache, axillary sweating, blurred vision.

•

Breast disorders, insufficient lactation. •

Intersection Point of the PC & GB Channels

PC 2

Celestial Spring

•

English Name: Celestial Spring

•

Pinyin Name: Tian Quan

•

Chinese Character: 天泉 •

Local Point.

•

May be used for angina

PC 3

Marsh at the Bend

•

English Name: Marsh at the Bend

•

Pinyin Name: Qu Ze

•

Chinese Character: 曲澤 87

•

Chronic angina.

•

Tremors of the hand a/or arm, Parkinson's disease.

•

Gastrointestinal disorders, "sudden turmoil disease" - vomiting and diarrhea.

•

PC 4

Clears Ying Stage Heat.

Xi Cleft Gate

•

English Name: Xi Cleft Gate

•

Pinyin Name: Xi Men

•

Chinese Character: 郄門 •

Acute palpitations, angina.

•

Acute heat in the Blood, coughing or vomiting of Blood, bleeding haemorrhoids.

•

Spirit disorders typically due to Blood stasis, yin spirit problems, depression, fear of people, grief.

PC 5

Intermediary Courier

PC 5 English Name: Intermediary Courier Pinyin Name: Jian Shi Chinese Character: 間使 •

Phlegm issues effecting the chest, heart, lungs a/or throat.

•

Heat disorders effecting the heart, chest pain, restlessness, insomnia, red tongue tip.

•

Sudden heart pain, angina.

•

Wheezing with phlegm that you can feel and hear, combine with CV 22.

•

Distal point for enlarged thyroid PC 6

Inner Pass

•

English Name: Inner Pass

•

Pinyin Name: Nei Guan

•

Chinese Character: 內關 •

Similar to PC 3 but more for Chronic Heart symptoms from Qi stagnation.

•

Opens and relaxes the chest, chest tightness, asthma, angina, palpitations.

•

Insomnia a/or other spirit disorders of an excess or deficient nature, mania, nervousness, stress, poor memory.

•

Nausea, seasickness, motion sickness, vomiting, epigastric pain.

•

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.

PC 7

Great Mound 89

•

English Name: Great Mound

•

Pinyin Name: Da Ling

•

Chinese Character: 大陵

•

Cooling heat that is affecting the Heart of a deficient or excess nature.

•

Clears Ying and Blood heat, fever deep in the body that is drying up fluids.

• •

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, combine with PC 5, PC 6 & SP 9.

Tong Ren/Tam Healing System: Emotional issues, w/HT 7 for sweat issues (too much or too little), hot flashes.

PC 8

Palace of Toil

English Name: Palace of Toil •

Pinyin Name: Lao Gong

•

Chinese Character: 勞宮 •

Excess heat conditions, more cooling than PC 7 which can be used for heat from an excess or deficient issue.

•

Heat in the mouth, mouth or tongue ulcers, cold sores from Heart or Stomach Fire. 90

•

Cools Ying and Blood stage heat, fevers with damage to the yin.

•

Cools the Blood, blood in the stool or urine, nosebleeds.

•

PC 9

Tong Ren/Tam Healing System: Important point for qi gong healing can increase internal energy by placing PC 8 on GV 20.

Central Hub

•

English Name: Central Hub

•

Pinyin Name: Zhong Chong

•

Chinese Character: 中衝 •

Jing Well Point for clearing heat in the Heart.

•

Stiff tongue, speech disorders, especially those arising after a stroke.

•

Restoring consciousness.

(SI) Small Intestine Meridian The small intestine meridian is a Yang meridian and is paired with the Heart yin meridian. It receives and transforms food by separating the Pure from the Impure, with the pure becoming bodily fluids and the Impure becoming urine - this function also operates on emotional, mental and spiritual levels. This meridian is responsible for digestion, water absorption, nutrient absorption and bowel functions The Small Intestine Meridian Route The Small Intestine Meridian starts from the tip of the little finger and crosses the wrist. It runs upwards along the posterior side of the forearm until it reaches the back of shoulder where it ends at the uppermost part of the back (the bottom of the neck). At this position, it travels externally across the neck and cheek until it reaches the outer corner of the eye and then ends in the ear. Physical Imbalances: Signs include bluish lips with white border, emaciation, profuse sweating, swellings of nodules, hemicranias, tinnitus, pain around the ear, and pain depressing the abdomen. Emotional Imbalances: A feeling of mental deficiency due to Inability to assimilate ideas, and insecurity. forgetfulness, indecision, unclear thought process. restlessness and difficulty in expressing emotions. When Balanced: Healthy expressions are love, joy, warmth, vitality, excitement, memory, and ability in making decisions, clarity of thought. Peak Hours: 1-3 pm Chakra: Root Chakra - Base Chakra Element: Fire

Foods: Root Vegetables such as turnips and celery. Bitter greens (spinach, kale...).

The SI Meridian

•

Measurements Needed Sternum -to- Coracoid Process = 6 cun Sternum -to- Acromion Process = 8 cun Axillary Fold -to- Cubital Crease = 9 cun Cubital Crease -to- Wrist Crease = 12 cun Thumb width = 1 cun Four fingers = 3 cun

•

Precautions - [all] SI 18 - No Moxa

•

Point Relationships Wrist - SI 5 - TH 4 - LI 5 || LU 9 - PC 7 - HT 7 Elbow Points - SI 8 - TH 10 - LI 11 || LU 5 - PC 3 - HT 3

•

Additional Helpful Information

•

No finger or hand measurements on the lower arm

•

Cun Measurement Reminders: (Cun measurements points along the meridian) Yin LU PC HT

Meridians || Upper Arm || Forearm 6, 5 || 7, 1.5, 1 7 || 5, 3, 2 3 || 1.5, 1, .5

Yang Meridians || Forearm || Upper Arm LI 3, 5, 8, 9, 10 || *1, 3, 7 TH 2, 3, 5, 7 || *1, 1, mid 11-13, -3 below TH 14 SI 5 | The (SI) Small Intestine Meridian has 19 Acupuncture Points

SI 1

Lesser Marsh

•

SI 1

•

English Name: Lesser Marsh

•

Pinyin Name: Shao Ze

•

Chinese Character: 少澤

• o

Breast disorders of any etiology, insufficient lactation, mastitis, and breast abscess, cysts.

Jing Well Point, clear heat from the opposite end of the channel, for eye redness, earache, tinnitus, sore throat, stiff tongue.

Headache, dizziness, loss of consciousness.

Local point for problems of the little finger and the course of the channel pain and/or weakness of the arm and/or shoulder.

SI 2

Front Valley

•

English Name: Lesser Marsh

•

Pinyin Name: Shao Ze

•

Chinese Character: 少澤

Local point for pain, swelling, numbness of the fingers. As the water point it will remove heat - febrile disease, hot palms, and darker urine. 95

Clear heat from the opposite end of the channel, tinnitus, headache, sore throat, neck, ear and/or eye pain and/or swelling.

SI 3

Back Ravine

•

SI 3

•

English Name: Back Ravine

•

Pinyin Name: Hou Xi

•

Chinese Character: 後谿 o

Master Point of the GV, effects entire pathway.

Pain in the scapula, arm a/or hand combine with local points.

Stiff neck, cervical strain/sprain, pain of the back or neck.

Occipital headaches, combine with local points.

Night sweats, combine with HT 6.

Clears heat and excess from the head, ears and eyes, eye redness, inflammation, visual dizziness, earache, tinnitus, sore throat.

Calms the spirit, anxiety, manic depression.

SI 4

Wrist Bone

•

SI 4

•

English Name: Wrist Bone

•

Pinyin Name: Wan Gu

•

Chinese Character: 腕骨 96

Local point for shoulder, arm, hand and wrist problems particularly along the course of the meridian.

Useful point to treat problems with all fingers - contracture, pain, swelling, stiffness.

Headache, neck pain.

Jaundice.

SI 5

Yang Valley

•

SI 5

•

English Name: Yang Valley

•

Pinyin Name: Yang Gu

•

Chinese Character: 陽谷 o

Local point for the hand and wrist.

Neck and shoulder pain and/or swelling.

Toothache, lockjaw.

Clears heat from the hearts - calms the spirit, manic behaviour.

SI 6

Nursing the Aged

•

SI 6

•

English Name: Nursing the Aged

•

Pinyin Name: Yang Lao

•

Chinese Character: 養老 o

Acute and Severe Pain, in the neck, shoulder a/or arms. 97

Useful point for treating elderly patients, deafness, tinnitus, failing vision, upper body/limb stiffness.

Overwork a/or overstrain, fatigue in the extremities.

SI 7

Branch to the Correct

•

SI 7

•

English Name: Branch to the Correct

•

Pinyin Name: Zhin Zheng

•

Chinese Character: 支正 o

Local point for pain and/or strength/control issues in the elbow, arm, and fingers. May be helpful for weakness of all the limbs as well.

Stiff neck, headaches, vision issues - blurry, obstructed.

Useful with onset of exterior wind-heat conditions such as colds/flus that start with neck and/or back pain.

Calms the spirit - manic behaviour, anxiety, panic attacks, and fear.

SI 8

Small Sea

•

SI 8

•

English Name: Small Sea

•

Pinyin Name: Xiao Hai

•

Chinese Character: 小海 o

Elbow problems, swelling, trembling, pain, numbness, weakness - channel issues with excess wind a/or heat. 98

Submandibular region swelling or pain, toothache, gums, cheek, neck, scapula, axilla.

Epilepsy

SI 9

True Shoulder

•

SI 9

•

English Name: True Shoulder

•

Pinyin Name: Jian Zhen

•

Chinese Character: 肩貞 o

Local point for shoulder and arm pain and/or movement/control issues. Motor control issues of the hand.

Wind-heat invasion - chills and fever from the common cold.

Tinnitus, deafness.

•

SI 10

Upper Arm Shu

•

English Name: Upper Arm Shu

•

Pinyin Name: Nao Shu

•

Chinese Character: 臑俞

SI 10

Local point for shoulder and upper arm pain, swelling and/or weakness.

Wind-heat, wind-cold - chills and fever. 99

SI 11

Celestial Gathering

•

SI 11

•

English Name: Celestial Gathering

•

Pinyin Name: Tian Zong

•

Chinese Character: 天宗 o

Breast problems, mastitis, insufficient lactation, breast pain.

Emotional issues, anxiety that presents with asthma, expands and relaxes the chest, asthma generally.

Local point for channel pain within the shoulder, scapula region, elbow, arm, face and jaw.

SI 12

Grasping the Wind

•

SI 12

•

English Name: Grasping the Wind

•

Pinyin Name: Bing Feng

•

Chinese Character: 秉風 o

Local point for shoulder, scapula and/or arm pain, numbness, weakness along the course of the channel.

SI 13

•

SI 13

Crooked Wall 100

•

English Name: Crooked Wall

•

Pinyin Name: Qu Yuan

•

Chinese Character: 曲垣 o

Local point for shoulder and/or scapular region pain, weakness and/or stiffness. Useful for chronic shoulder problems.

SI 14

Outer Shoulder Shu

•

SI 14

•

English Name: Outer Shoulder Shu

•

Pinyin Name: Jian Wai Shu

•

Chinese Character: 肩外俞 o

Local point for shoulder and scapular region pain.

Neck pain and/or rotation issues, and pain of the upper back.

SI 15

Central Shoulder Shu

•

SI 15

•

English Name: Central Shoulder Shu

•

Pinyin Name: Jian Zhong Shu

•

Chinese Character: 肩中俞 o

Asthma, cough, coughing up of blood (Haemoptysis).

Local point for shoulder, neck and/or upper back pain.

101

SI 16

Celestial Windows

•

SI 16

•

English Name: Celestial Windows

•

Pinyin Name: Tian Chuang

•

Chinese Character: 天窗 o

Both SI 16 & SI 17 are Window of the Sky Points and are useful for throat distension, swelling, goitres, lumps in neck a/or throat, voice issues.

Ear issues - tinnitus, deafness, pain.

Local point for neck and/or shoulder problems.

Tong Ren/Tam Healing System: Used to effect the circulation within the vertebral artery and the occipital artery. Useful for occipital headache, Alzheimer’s, brain tumours, dyslexia, MS, and many brain issues related to circulation. Often used with Tian Dong as a starting point.

Falls into the category of Window of the Sky points within the Tam Healing system.

SI 17

•

SI 17

Celestial Countenance

Both SI 16 & SI 17 are Window of the Sky Points and are useful for throat distension, swelling, goitres, lumps in neck a/or throat.

Chest oppression, wheezing, cough, asthma.

Ear issues - tinnitus, deafness.

Tong Ren/Tam Healing System: Used to effect the circulation to the brain, and the facial nerves. Useful for facial issues such as TMJ, gum problems, etc. Also used with headaches, hearing issues, dizziness and/or high blood pressure.

102

Falls into the category of Window of the Sky points within the Tam Healing system.

SI 18

Cheek Bone Hole

•

SI 18

•

English Name: Cheek Bone Hole

•

Pinyin Name: Quan Liao

•

Chinese Character: 顴髎 o

Local point for facial disorders, Bell's palsy, trigeminal neuralgia, spasm, twitching of the eyelids, facial muscles, etc..

Upper jaw tooth ache.

Yellowing of the sclera.

SI 19

Auditory Palace

•

SI 19

•

English Name: Auditory Palace

•

Pinyin Name: Ting Gong

•

Chinese Character: 聽宮 o

Ear problems of any etiology, inflammation, deafness, tinnitus, hearing loss.

TMJ, toothache.

Calms the spirit - manic behaviour, epilepsy, sensation of pressure below the heart.

103

(TH) Triple Warmer Meridian Also known as Triple Heater Meridian

The Triple Warmer Meridian is responsible for the movement and transformation of various solids and fluids throughout the system, as well as for the production and circulation of nourishing and protective energy. It is a functional energy system, involved in regulating the activities of other organs, composed of three parts, known as 'burners', located in thorax, abdomen, and pelvis. The Upper Burner controls intake, the Middle Burner controls transformation, the Lower Burner controls elimination. The Triple Warmer Meridian (also known as Sanjiao/Triple burner/ Heater/ Energizer) is a Yang meridian and paired with the Pericardium Meridian Triple Warmer Meridian Route The Triple Warmer Meridian originates from the tip of the ring finger, by the outside corner of the nail, passes between the knuckles of the fourth and fifth fingers, on to the wrist. From here it ascends between the two bones of the forearm (radius and ulna), through the tip of the elbow, and up the back of the arm to the shoulder. It moves forward into the chest to connect with the pericardium. The upper burner, the abdomen and the middle and lower burners. Re-emerging from the chest at the collarbone, the meridian ascends the side of the neck and around the back of the ear. One branch rises internally to meet the gallbladder meridian on the forehead, and then descends to join the small intestine meridian on the cheek. The superficial branch continues to the front of the ear and crosses to the outer corner of the eyebrow, where it again joins the Gallbladder meridian. Element: Fire The Rhythm of summer â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Fulfilment The energy of a Fire Element person is like wildfire, spreading in every direction with a rapid, random and wild rhythm. Summer people act from their heart. They are warm, empathic, and joyful to exuberant characters. They are charismatic people with the ability to pull their surrounding out of selfimposed limitations and spread confidence. They talk with laughter and skip in their walk. They often talk with their hands, arms or even entire bodies. When Fire Element people are stressed, their joy and passion may turn into panic and hysteria. Meridians: Heart and Small Intestine Meridians, Triple Warmer and Pericardium Meridians Peak Hours: 9 pm - 11 pm

104

The TW Meridian â&#x20AC;˘

Internal/External Pathways Originates on the tip of the finger Travels up the arm Passes and goes across the Gall Bladder Meridian in the shoulder region A branch goes to the chest and connects with the Pericardium Meridian Then it travels down to the abdomen 105

A branch originates from the chest Goes up the neck around the ear to the outside of the eye Another branch enters the ear and continues to the outer canthus and links up with the Gall Bladder Meridian •

Measurements Needed Cubital Crease -to- Wrist Crease = 12 cun Thumb width = 1 cun Four fingers = 3 cun

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Precautions - [all] TH 19 - AA NB (don't bleed) TH 22 - AA TH 23 - No Moxa

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Point Relationships Wrist - SI 5 - TH 4 - LI 5 || LU 9 - PC 7 - HT 7 Elbow Points - SI 8 - TH 10 - LI 11 || LU 5 - PC 3 - HT 3

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Additional Helpful Information

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TH 15 - midway between GB 21 and SI 13

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GB 21 - find CV 14 and the end of the acromion process, divide this in half, grasp the muscle and divide in half, point is on the top of the shoulder between these two muscles

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SI 13 - medial extremity of the suprascapular fossa midway between SI 10 and the spinous process of T2

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Cun Measurement Reminders: (Cun measurements points along the meridian) Yin LU PC HT

Meridians || Upper Arm || Forearm 6, 5 || 7, 1.5, 1 7 || 5, 3, 2 3 || 1.5, 1, .5

Yang Meridians || Forearm || Upper Arm LI 3, 5, 8, 9, 10 || *1, 3, 7 TH 2, 3, 5, 7 || *1, 1, mid 11-13, -3 below TH 14 SI 5 || The (TH) Triple Warmer Meridian has 23 Acupuncture Points

106

TH 1/TW 1

Passage Hub

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TH 1

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English Name: Passage Hub

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Pinyin Name: Guanchong

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Chinese Character: 關衝 o

Similar to TH 3 which is used more clinically.

TH 2/TW 2

Humor Gate

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TH 2

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English Name: Humor Gate

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Pinyin Name: Yemen

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Chinese Character: 液門 o

Similar to TH 3 which is used more clinically

107

TH 3/TW 3

Central Islet

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TH 3

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English Name: Central Islet

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Pinyin Name: Zhongzhu

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Chinese Character: 中渚 o

Ear Problems of any etiology such as excess tinnitus, especially those arising from a LV issue such as LV Qi Stagnation or LV Yin Deficiency.

Distal point for temporal headaches, shoulder a/or upper back pain, pain a/or inflammation in the throat.

Eye diseases with GB 37.

TH 4/TW 4

Yang Pool

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TH 4

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English Name: Yang Pool

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Pinyin Name: Yangchi

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Chinese Character: 陽池

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Dorsal wrist issues such as strains, sprains or subluxations.

108

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Wasting & thirsting disorder, regulates water metabolism, alleviates dry mouth a/or thirst.

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Moxa to tonifying the Yang of the body

TH 5/ TW 5

Outer Pass

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TH 5

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English Name: Outer Pass

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Pinyin Name: Waiguan

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Chinese Character: 外關 o

Beginning exterior conditions, tonify for wind-cold, cold-damp & sedate for wind-heat, fever.

Headache from exterior wind as well as migraines and headaches in any area especially with stiffness or pain in the posterior and lateral aspects of the neck.

Upper limb disorders including the elbow, forearm, wrist and hand.

Shaoyang stage diseases - alternating fever and chills, etc.

Luo connecting point of the TH connects to the PC, TH 5 & PC 6 as master points of the Yang Wei and Yin Wei respectively can affect the balance of yin and yang in the body. If right pulse is stronger than the left (more Qi than Blood) disperse TH 5 & tonifying PC 6 and vice versa

109

TH 6/ TW 6

Branch Ditch

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TH 6

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English Name: Branch Ditch

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Pinyin Name: Zhigou

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Chinese Character: 支溝 o

Effects the Triple Warmer in the following ways:

Lower: Constipation due to stagnation and heat in the body.

Middle: Issues with the chest & hypochondria, often used with GB 34 for chest & rib pain, also "sudden turmoil disorder" (vomiting & diarrhoea).

Upper: Febrile diseases with no sweating, eye redness & pain, ear pain, inflammation.

TH 7/ TW 7

Convergence and Gathering

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TH 7

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English Name: Convergence and Gathering

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Pinyin Name: Huizong

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Chinese Character: 會宗

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Local Point. 110

TH 8/ TW 8

Three Yang Connection

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TH 8

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English Name: Three Yang Connection

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Pinyin Name: Sanyangluo

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Chinese Character: 三陽絡 o

Effects the Triple Warmer in the following ways:

Lower: Constipation due to stagnation and heat in the body.

Middle: Issues with the chest & hypochondria, often used with GB 34 for chest & rib pain, also "sudden turmoil disorder" (vomiting & diarrhoea).

Upper: Febrile diseases with no sweating, eye redness & pain, ear pain, inflammation.

. TH 9/ TW 9

Four Rivers

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TH 9

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English Name: Four Rivers

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Pinyin Name: Sidu

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Chinese Character: 四瀆 o

Local Point. 111

TH 10/ TW 10

Celestial Well

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TH 10

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English Name: Celestial Well

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Pinyin Name: Tianjing

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Chinese Character: 天井 o

Transforms phlegm, reduce lymph swellings, thyroid disorders.

Elbow pain, tendonitis.

One-sided headache, migraines.

Useful for depression a/or anxiety, especially with chest pain or oppression, angina a/or palpitations.

Epilepsy (phlegm obstruction), possibly mania as well.

Differentiation:

TH 5 is for headache anywhere whereas TH 10 is specifically for one-sided headaches

TH 11/ TW 11

Clear Cold Abyss

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TH 11

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English Name: Clear Cold Abyss

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Pinyin Name: Qinglengyuan

112

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Chinese Character: 清冷淵 o

Local Point.

TH 12/ TW 12

Dispersing Riverbed

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TH 12

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English Name: Dispersing Riverbed

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Pinyin Name: Xiaolou

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Chinese Character: 消濼 o

Local Point.

TH 13/ TW 13

Upper Arm Convergence

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TH 13

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English Name: Upper Arm Convergence

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Pinyin Name: Naohui

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Chinese Character: 臑會 o

Local Point

113

TH 14/ TW 14

Shoulder Bone Hole

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TH 14

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English Name: Shoulder Bone Hole

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Pinyin Name: Jianliao

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Chinese Character: 肩髎 o

Shoulder problems, especially those involving the lateral or posterior aspects of the shoulder

TH 15/ TW 15

Celestial Bone Hole

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TH 15

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English Name: Celestial Bone Hole

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Pinyin Name: Tianliao

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Chinese Character: 天髎 o

Local Point.

TH 16/ TW 16

114

Celestial Window

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TH 16

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English Name: Celestial Window

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Pinyin Name: Tianyou

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Chinese Character: 天牖 o

Local Point.

Tong Ren/Tam Healing System: Used to effect the circulation within the occipital artery and the vertebral artery. Useful for occipital issues, glaucoma, etc.

Falls into the category of Window of the Sky points within the Tam Healing system.

TH 17/ TW 17

Wind Screen

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TH 17

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English Name: Wind Screen

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Pinyin Name: Yifeng

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Chinese Character: 翳風 o Wind problems deriving from internal or external sources, Bell's palsy. o

Ear problems, tinnitus, deafness, acute earache due to wind cold

TH 18 TW 18

115

Spasm Vessel

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TH 18

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English Name: Spasm Vessel

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Pinyin Name: Qimai

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Chinese Character: 契脈 o

Local Point

TH 19/ TW 19

Skull Rest

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TH 19

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English Name: Skull Rest

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Pinyin Name: Luxi

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Chinese Character: 顱息 o

Local Point.

TH 20/ TW 20

Angle Vertex

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TH 20

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English Name: Angle Vertex

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Pinyin Name: Jiaosun

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Chinese Character: 角孫 o

Local Point.

116

TH 21/ Tw 21

Ear Gate

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TH 21

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English Name: Ear Gate

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Pinyin Name: Ermen

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Chinese Character: 耳門 o

Ear problems of an excess or deficient nature, tinnitus, deafness, earache.

TMJ problems, upper jaw toothache, combine with ST 6 & ST 7

TH 22/ TW 22

Harmony Bone Hole

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TH 22

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English Name: Harmony Bone Hole 117

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Pinyin Name: Erheliao

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Chinese Character: 耳和髎 o

Local Point.

TH 23/ TW 23

Silk Bamboo Hole

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TH 23

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English Name: Silk Bamboo Hole

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Pinyin Name: Sizhukong

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Chinese Character: 絲竹空 o

Eye pain, redness, swelling, twitching, drooping eyelid.

Liver Wind or Liver Fire headache, combine with local points

118

(GB) Gall Bladder Meridian The Gallbladder Meridian is a Yang meridian and is paired with the Liver Meridian. This Meridian's Qi is responsible for decision making and good judgments, as well as providing courage and initiative. For Courage and Vitality The Gallbladder Meridian Route This meridian begins just outside the outer corner of the eye, turns down towards the ear and then up to the forehead just within the hair line, then descends behind the ear to the corner of the skull. It then returns to the forehead above the centre of the eye and moves down the head to the bottom of the skull. The Gallbladder Meridian continues down the neck to the shoulder, descends the side of the body along the ribs, to the waist and pelvic. It continues down the outside of the leg, to the ankle, ending on the outside of the 4th toe. Physical Imbalances: insomnia - waking up suddenly, very early in the morning and not being able to fall asleep again, tendons, tears, nails, eye diseases, glaucoma, and night blindness, stiff neck, ringing in the ears, dizziness Emotional Imbalances: timidity, indecision, easily discouraged... and resentment. When Balanced: courage and initiative, decision making and good judgment, sound sleep, healthy expression and processes of creativity, planning, Brainstorming, analysis, and decision-making Gallbladder Meridian Element: Wood Peak Hours: 11pm - 1am Gallbladder Meridian Foods: 'Woody foods' -leafy greens, grains... A great habit to take on, is having a green smoothie (leafy greens + other veggies - juiced or blended) a day! Works wonders!

119

120

121

The GB Meridian •

Internal/External Pathways Originates at the outer canthus of the eye Loops down and up to the forehead within the hairline Descends behind the ear to the corner of the skull Returns to the forehead arcing across the side of the head Descends to the back of the head Down the side of the body Meets the Bladder Meridian at the sacrum Runs down the outside of the leg and ends on the 4th toe

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Measurements Needed Nipple (ST 8) -to- Nipple (ST 8 = 9 cun Anterior Hairline -to- Posterior Hairline = 12 cun Glabella -to- Anterior Hairline = 3 cun Conception Vessel Meridian on Chest -to- LU 1 = 6 cun Conception Vessel Meridian on Chest -to- Acromial end of the Clavicle = 8 cun Greater Trochanter -to- Centre of the Patella = 19 cun Centre of Patella -to- External Malleolus = 16 cun

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Precautions - [all] GB 1 - No Moxa GB 3 - No Deep Needle GB 9 - No Moxa GB 21 - No Needle During Pregnancy, No Needle with History of Heart Disease GB 22 - No Moxa GB 33 - No Moxa GB 42 - No Moxa

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Additional Helpful Information

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You must know the Governing Vessel Meridian head points.

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To Find the Points on the Head: First find GV 20 For Posterior points find GV 16 (6 cun below) Split in half and you have GV 18 Split each remaining half for GV 17 and GV 19 respectively For Anterior points GV 24 is .5 cun posterior to the hairline GV 23 is .5 cun posterior to GV 24 GV 22 is 1 cun posterior to GV 23 Midway between GV 22 and GV 20 is GV 21

122

GB 1

Pupil Bone Hole

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GB 1

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English Name: Pupil Bone Hole

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Pinyin Name: Tong Zi Liao

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Chinese Character: 瞳子髎 o

LV Yang/Heat Rising effecting the head - headache, eye problems, similar to Taiyang (extra point) which is used more.

Local point for manifestations of heat - pain, inflammation, etc

GB 2

Auditory Convergence

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GB 2

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English Name: Auditory Convergence

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Pinyin Name: Ting Hui

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Chinese Character: 聽會

• o

Ear issues (along with TH 21 & SI 19) - tinnitus, otitis media, deafness.

Eliminate wind locally - TMJ disorder, facial paralysis, trigeminal neuralgia, toothache

GB 3

Upper Gate

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GB 3

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English Name: Upper Gate

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Pinyin Name: Shang Guan

123

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Chinese Character: 上關 o

Local point, usually for headache

GB 4

Forehead Fullness

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GB 4

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English Name: Forehead Fullness

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Pinyin Name: Han Yan

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Chinese Character: 頷厭

• o

Local Point, usually for headache

GB 5

Suspended Skull

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GB 5

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English Name: Suspended Skull

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Pinyin Name: Xuan Lu

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Chinese Character: 懸顱 o

Local Point, usually for headache

124

GB 6

Suspended Tuft

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GB 6

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English Name: Suspended Tuft

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Pinyin Name: Xuan Li

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Chinese Character: 懸厘 o

Local Point, usually for headache

GB 7

Temporal Hairline Curve

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GB 7

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English Name: Temporal Hairline Curve

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Pinyin Name: Qu Bin

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Chinese Character: 曲鬢 o

Local Point, usually for headache

GB 8

Valley Lead

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GB 8

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English Name: Valley Lead

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Pinyin Name: Shuai Gu

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Chinese Character: 率谷 o

Migraine, one-sided or unilateral headaches and associated nausea, vomiting a/or visual disturbances.

Hangover, eases headache and harmonizes the middle jiao.

In the Bronze Man this point is indicated for cold & phlegm in the Diaphragm & ST, injury by alcohol & agitation & fullness with ceaseless vomiting

GB 9

Celestial Hub

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GB 9

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English Name: Celestial Hub

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Pinyin Name: Tian Chong

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Chinese Character: 天沖 o

Local Point, usually for headache

125

GB 10

Floating White

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GB 10

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English Name: Floating White

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Pinyin Name: Fu Bai

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Chinese Character: 浮白 o

Local Point, usually for headache

GB 11

Head Portal Yin

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GB 11

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English Name: Head Portal Yin

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Pinyin Name: Tou Qiao Yin

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Chinese Character: 頭竅陰 o

Local Point, usually for headache

GB 12

Completion Bone

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GB 12

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English Name: Completion Bone

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Pinyin Name: Wan Gu

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Chinese Character: 完骨 o

Dispel exterior & interior wind from the head - tinnitus, tremors in the head, occipital headache, and neck rotation ROM issues.

Regulates and calms the spirit - insomnia

126

GB 13

Root Spirit

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GB 13

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English Name: Root Spirit

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Pinyin Name: Ben Shen

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Chinese Character: 本神 o

Regulate Liver/Gallbladder, Clear Wind, Calm the Mind.

Stiff Neck, Headache.

Epilepsy.

Tong Ren/Tam Healing System: Used to effect the frontal lobe. Used on the (R) side for psychological conditions such as anxiety and depression and on the (L) side for attention related conditions such as ADD/ADHD. Also useful for issues which come from subconscious influences.

GB 14

Yang White

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GB 14

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English Name: Yang White

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Pinyin Name: Yang Bai

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Chinese Character: 陽白 o

Frontal/temporal (ST/TH area) headaches.

Eye issues (direct needle towards eye) - redness, swelling, itching, twitching, etc.

127

GB 15

Head Overlooking Tears

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GB 15

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English Name: Head Overlooking Tears

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Pinyin Name: Tou Lin Qi

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Chinese Character: 頭臨泣 o

Excessive tearing from internal or external wind effecting the eyes.

Sinus issues (with GV 23, Yintang and/or LI 20) - sinusitis, rhinitis

GB 16

Eye Windows

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GB 16

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English Name: Eye Windows

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Pinyin Name: Mu Chuang

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Chinese Character: 目窗 o

Local Point.

GB 17

Upright Construction

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GB 17

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English Name: Upright Construction

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Pinyin Name: Zheng Ying

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Chinese Character: 正營 o

Clears Heat and Regulates the Gallbladder.

Headache, Dizziness

128

GB 18

Spirit Support

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GB 18

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English Name: Spirit Support

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Pinyin Name: Cheng Ling

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Chinese Character: 承靈 o

Local Point.

GB 19

Brain Hollow

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GB 19

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English Name: Brain Hollow

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Pinyin Name: Nao Kong

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Chinese Character: 腦空 o

Local Point.

Tong Ren/Tam Healing System: Used to effect the visual cortex. Useful for muscle/coordination problems with the eyes from conditions such as MS, Parkinson's, etc.

129

GB 20

Wind Pool

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GB 20

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English Name: Wind Pool

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Pinyin Name: Feng Chi

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Chinese Character: 風池 o

Dispel Exterior or Interior Wind - (exterior) - fever/chills, stiff neck; (internal) paralysis, twitching, tremors, numbness, dizziness, vertigo.

All issues of the head, brain (seizures, memory, and mental/neurological disorders), face, throat and sense organs (eyes, ears, nose, and tongue).

Headache, especially occipital.

Eye issues.

Issues of the neck, shoulders a/or upper back - pain, weakness, stiffness.

Hypertension, especially with LV Yang Rising.

Tong Ren/Tam Healing System: Used most often in conjunction with the huatuo points of C1 and C2 to open the spinal cord, generally used to relieve neck tension.

130

GB 21

Shoulder Well

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GB 21

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English Name: Shoulder Well

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Pinyin Name: Jian Jing

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Chinese Character: 肩井 o

Local point for occipital headache, tight trapezius muscles and/or neck/shoulder pain.

Phlegm related issues of the head and neck - embolic stroke, neck lumps, swollen lymph nodes, and tumours.

Phlegm related issues of the breast and chest - mastitis, breast abscess, asthma, dyspnea.

Strong influence Qi downward - useful for rebellious Qi, cough.

Contraindicated in Pregnancy, useful for difficult labour, retained placenta.

Gao Wu felt that balancing GB 21's strong descending action with ST 36's strong centring action is important.

Tong Ren/Tam Healing System: Release the neck and shoulders and descend energy.

GB 22

Armpit Abyss

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GB 22

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English Name: Armpit Abyss

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Pinyin Name: Yuan Ye

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Chinese Character: 淵腋

131

Local Point.

GB 23

Sinew Seat

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GB 23

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English Name: Sinew Seat

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Pinyin Name: Zhe Jin

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Chinese Character: 輒筋 o

Local Point.

The Great Compendium indicates GB 23 as the GB Front Mu

GB 24

Sun and Moon

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GB 24

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English Name: Sun and Moon

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Pinyin Name: Ri Yue

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Chinese Character: 日月

• o

LV & GB issues, especially involving heat and stagnation - gallstones, hepatitis, jaundice.

LV/GB attacking the SP - nausea, vomiting, sour belching, bitter taste, acid reflux.

GB related emotional imbalances - fearfulness, shyness, indecisiveness, timidity, sighing.

The Ling Shu indicates GB 24 (GB Front Mu) &UB 19 (GB Back Shu) for frequent indecisiveness.

132

GB 25

Capital Gate

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GB 25

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English Name: Capital Gate

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Pinyin Name: Jing Men

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Chinese Character: 京門 o

Local point for pain in the lumbar a/or lateral costal region especially when presenting with a KD deficiency.

KD/SP Issues involving dampness - diarrhoea (esp. watery/cold), bloating, abdominal distention.

Diuretic point - urinary retention, difficult urination, edema.

Uterine stones - assists passage

GB 26

Girdling Vessel

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GB 26

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English Name: Girdling Vessel

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Pinyin Name: Dai Mai

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Chinese Character: 帶脈

• o

GB 26, GB 27 & GB 28 are all useful points on the Dai Mai meridian which influences the GB, KD, Chong Mai, and CV & GV Meridians.

GB 26 is most useful for women's issues - leucorrhoea from any etiology, gynaecological disorders, prolapses, infertility.

Menstrual related pains, cramping, bloating a/or migraines.

Local point for the lower back and waist

133

GB 27

Fifth Pivot

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GB 27

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English Name: Fifth Pivot

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Pinyin Name: Wu Shu

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Chinese Character: 五樞 o

GB 26, GB 27 & GB 28 are all useful points on the Dai Mai meridian which influences the GB, KD, Chong Mai, and CV & GV Meridians.

GB 27 is more useful for male issues - testicular pain a/or retraction, lower abdominal pain, Shan disorder

GB 28

Linking Path

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GB 28

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English Name: Linking Path

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Pinyin Name: Wei Dao

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Chinese Character: 維道 o

GB 26, GB 27 & GB 28 are all useful points on the Dai Mai meridian which influences the GB, KD, Chong Mai, and CV & GV Meridians.

Local Point.

GB 29

Squatting Bone Hole

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GB 29

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English Name: Squatting Bone Hole

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Pinyin Name: Ju Liao

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Chinese Character: 居髎

134

Hip pain, especially with pain radiating from the hips, sciatica.

Shoulder pain, using the opposite joints needling method

GB 30

Jumping Round

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GB 30

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English Name: Jumping Round

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Pinyin Name: Huan Tiao

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Chinese Character: 環跳 o

Sciatica, pain, numbness, atrophy of lower back, hip, buttocks a/or lower limbs.

Bi (painful obstruction) or Wei (flaccidity, weakness) of the leg.

Urticaria, red, itchy skin issues from wind

GB 31

Wind Market

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GB 31

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English Name: Wind Market

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Pinyin Name: Feng Shi

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Chinese Character: 風市 o

Lateral and posterior leg issues - sciatica, weakness, numbness, and poststroke symptoms of lower limbs.

Red, itchy, skin disorders from wind a/or dampness anywhere on the body.

Tong Ren/Tam Healing System: Sciatic nerve issues, lower back pain, leg muscle issues.

GB 32

Central River

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GB 32

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English Name: Central River

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Pinyin Name: Zhong Du

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Chinese Character: 中瀆 135

Local Point.

GB 33

Knee Yang Joint

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GB 33

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English Name: Knee Yang Joint

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Pinyin Name: Xi Yang Guan

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Chinese Character: 膝陽關 o

Local Point.

GB 34

Yang Mound Spring

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GB 34

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English Name: Yang Mound Spring

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Pinyin Name: Yang Ling Quan

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Chinese Character: 陽陵泉 o

Hui Meeting of the Sinews - useful for treating soft tissue anywhere in the body, contracture, cramping, pain, spasm, weakness, numbness, paralysis.

Sciatica and issues with the low back, hip, and/or lower limbs, knees.

All disorders of the lateral regions of the body.

Lower He Sea of the GB - effects GB organ, usually with GB Damp-Heat conditions, cholecystitis, hepatitis, jaundice, nausea, vomiting, bitter taste in mouth, gallstones.

Shao Yang level diseases presenting with alternating chills/fevers, costal pain, bitter taste in mouth.

LV attacking SP - counter flow Qi, nausea, vomiting, indigestion.

Tong Ren/Tam Healing System: Sciatic nerve issues, leg muscle issues (cramps, fatigue), gallstones.

136

GB 35

Yang Intersection

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GB 35

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English Name: Yang Intersection

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Pinyin Name: Yang Jiao

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Chinese Character: 陽交 o

Local Point.

GB 36

Outer Hill

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GB 36

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English Name: Outer Hill

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Pinyin Name: Wai Qiu

•

Chinese Character: 外丘 o

Mentioned in the Bronze Man for treating rabies w/rage, fever, convulsions moxa 3 cones after bite.

Acute cholecystitis.

Acute painful skin conditions

GB 37

Bright Light

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GB 37

•

English Name: Bright Light

•

Pinyin Name: Guang Ming

•

Chinese Character: 光明 o

Eye issues, especially LV related - redness, itching, blurry vision, night blindness, optic nerve atrophy, cataracts.

Lower leg, calf a/or foot problems - dropped foot, edema, atrophy, obstruction. 137

Headaches effecting the region around the eyes - temporal, infra/supraorbital, migraines.

Breast issues from stagnant LV Qi - pain, insufficient lactation

GB 38

Yang Assistance

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GB 38

•

English Name: Yang Assistance

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Pinyin Name: Yang Fu

•

Chinese Character: 陽輔 o

Moving point for GB channel issues - pain, heat, stagnation along the channel.

Fire Point - useful for treating the fever period of Shao Yang stage diseases (alternating fever and chills)

GB 39

Suspended Bell (alt. Severed Bone)

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GB 39

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English Name: Suspended Bell (alt. Severed Bone)

•

Pinyin Name: Xuan Zhong (alt. Jue Gu)

•

Chinese Character: 懸鐘 o

Hui Meeting of the Marrow - excess or deficiency conditions effecting the bone marrow, ligaments, tendons, muscles a/or bones - pain, spasms, numbness, weakness.

Chronic Bi or Wei syndromes especially with KD Deficiency - thought to strengthen immunity.

Neck issues, stiffness, arthritis, strain, sprain, whiplash, headache.

Descends rising LV/GB heat - dizziness, tinnitus.

138

GB 40

Hill Ruins

•

GB 40

•

English Name: Hill Ruins

•

Pinyin Name: Qiu Xu

•

Chinese Character: 丘墟 o

Local point for issues of the lower limbs a/or ankles - weakness, paralysis, atrophy.

Wrist issues using the cross joints needling method.

Chronic malaria where chills are predominant

GB 41

Foot Overlooking Tears

•

GB 41

•

English Name: Foot Overlooking Tears

•

Pinyin Name: Zu Lin Qi

•

Chinese Character: 足臨泣 o

Moves LV Qi - menstrual/breast disorders, distal point for headaches (lateral or migraines - classical mentioned for occipital or vertex).

As the name indicates - "foot overlooking tears," useful for eye problems, redness, swelling and lacrimation issues, tearing, excessive lacrimation.

Local point for lateral foot issues - pain, cramping

GB 42

Earth Fivefold Convergence

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GB 42

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English Name: Earth Fivefold Convergence

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Pinyin Name: Di Wu Hui

•

Chinese Character: 地五會 o

Local Point.

139

GB 43

Pinched Ravine

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GB 43

•

English Name: Pinched Ravine

•

Pinyin Name: Xia Xi

•

Chinese Character: 俠谿 o

Ying Spring Point - clears heat from the entire channel.

Effects opposite end of the channel - headaches, dizziness, tinnitus, eye a/or ear pain.

GB Damp Heat stagnations in the channel - swelling in axillary region, lateral costal pain, breast abscesses, knee pain

GB 44

Foot Portal Yin

•

GB 44

•

English Name: Foot Portal Yin

•

Pinyin Name: Zu Qiao Yin

•

Chinese Character: 足竅陰 o

Insomnia especially with nightmares - LV/GB heat rising to effect the HT (fullness below the heart).

Issues with the sense organs (eyes, ears, nose, mouth, tongue) related to excesses a/or stagnation - pain, inflammation, speech disorders, stiff tongue

140

(KD) Kidney Meridian The kidney meridian is a Yin meridian (flows upward), controls the Growth and development of bones and nourishes the marrow, which is the body's source of red and white blood cells. A weak kidney meridian is therefore a prime cause of anaemia and immune deficiency. In Traditional Chinese Medicine Kidney is Mother of all organs. In traditional Chinese medicine, the spinal cord and the brain are forms of marrow, and therefore poor memory, inability to think clearly, and backache are all regarded as indicators of impaired kidney function and deficient kidney energy. Kidney vitality is reflected externally by the condition of head and body hair and is associated with the entrance hole of the ears. Tinnitus (ringing ears) is thus a sign of kidney dysfunction. The kidneys are the seat of courage and willpower, and therefore any impairment in kidney energy results in feelings of fear and paranoia. Intense fear can cause involuntary urination, a phenomenon also known to Western medicine. The kidneys are responsible for filtering waste metabolites from the blood and moving them onwards to the bladder for excretion in urine. Along with the large intestine, the kidneys control the balance of fluids in the body. In addition, they regulate the body's acid-alkaline balance (pH) by selectively filtering out or retaining various minerals . Paired with: The Urinary Bladder Meridian Element: Water Physical Imbalances: Chest pain, asthma, abdominal pain, irregular menstruation, impotence, hernia Emotional Imbalances: Hysteria, paranoia, Depression, fear, loneliness, insecurity and shock When Balanced: Wisdom, rationality, clear perception, gentleness and selfunderstanding. Peak Hours:5-7 pm Foods: Water Juice fasting and water fasting are great ways get your kidneys back into shape... including a kidney cleanse...

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The KD Meridian â&#x20AC;˘

Internal/External Pathways Originates at the inferior aspect of the small toe Runs obliquely towards the sole Ascends along the medial side of the leg towards GV 1 Enters the Kidney and connects with the Bladder Passes through the Liver and Diaphragm and enters the Lung Runs along the throat and terminates at the root of the tongue Another branch springs from the Lung and joins the Heart and links with the Pericardium

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Measurements Needed Lower border of the Medial Condyle of the Tibia (SP 9) -to- Tip of the Medial Malleolus = 13 cun 143

Upper border of the Symphysis Pubis -to- Medial epicondyle of the Femur = 18 cun Sternal Costal Angle -to- CV 8 = 8 cun Anterior Midline -to- Kidney Meridian on the Abdomen = .5 cun Anterior Midline -to- Kidney Meridian on the Chest = 2 cun Clavicular Lateral Measurement = 8 cun Upper Border of the Symphysis Pubis -to- Umbilicus (CV 8) = 5 cun •

Precautions - [all] KD 21 - No Deep Needle, Avoid Liver on Right Side KD 22 - No Deep Needle, Avoid Heart KD 23 -thru- KD 27 - No Deep Needle, Needle Obliquely

•

Point Relationships CV 8 - KI 16 - ST 25 - SP 15 CV 12 - KI 19 - ST 21 5th ICS - CV 16 - KI 22 - ST 18 - SP 17 1st ICS - CV 20 - KI 26 - ST 14 - LU 1

•

The (KD) Kidney Meridian has 27 Acupuncture Points

KD 1

Gushing Spring

•

KD 1

•

English Name: Gushing Spring

•

Pinyin Name: Yongquan

•

Chinese Character: 涌泉 o

Descends excess from above, useful for LV Yang Rising or LV Fire headaches, tinnitus, hypertension, and epilepsy.

Cooling KD empty heat - chronic sore throat, dry mouth, low back pain.

Tonifying KD/HT Yin - insomnia, palpitations, anxiety, poor memory, mania, rage w/desire to kill, hot flashes, night sweats.

Loss of consciousness, yang collapse.

Tong Ren/Tam Healing System: Used to descend the energy in the body particularly after qi gong exercises, energy healing sessions, etc. Useful for headache, nausea, insomnia, etc. 144

KD 2

Blazing Valley

•

KD 2

•

English Name: Blazing Valley

•

Pinyin Name: Rangu

•

Chinese Character: 然谷 o

Generally useful for clearing excesses & acute presentations.

Ying Spring Point - clears heat, especially KD empty heat - chronic sore throats, irritability, night sweats, thirst.

Lower abdomen/sex organ/genital issues - Irregular menstruation, uterine prolapse, seminal emissions, impotence, genital itching and/or pain, difficult urination.

Wasting and Thirsting Disorder - thirst, dry mouth.

Local point for foot problems - swelling and/or pain, restless feet.

KD related emotional imbalances - fear of being apprehended, fright.

Moxa for tonifying KD Yang.

KD 3

Great Ravine

•

KD 3

•

English Name: Great Ravine

•

Pinyin Name: Taixi

•

Chinese Character: 太谿 o

Tonifying KD Qi, Yin or Yang Deficiencies from any etiology.

Asthma from KD Deficiency - difficulty inhaling.

Tonifies Yin of KD (chronic sore throat, empty heat), LV (dizziness, tinnitus, headache) a/or HT (anxiety, insomnia, excessive dreaming). 145

Tonifies Yang of KD (impotence, premature ejaculation, seminal emission, weak low back/knees, and frequent urination).

Low back pain, usually of a chronic nature.

Local point for heel a/or ankle pain.

KD 4

Large Goblet

•

KD 4

•

English Name: Large Goblet

•

Pinyin Name: Dazhong

•

Chinese Character: 大鐘 o

Luo Connecting Point - can be used to treat the LI (opposite the Chinese clock).

Important point for somnolence, fright/fear, palpitations, reluctance to interact with others.

Cough, asthma, wheezing, shortness of breath, painful/sore throat.

Chronic low back pain from KD Deficiency.

Local point for heel/ankle issues - pain, strain.

KD 5

Water Spring

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KD 5

•

English Name: Water Spring

•

Pinyin Name: Shuiquan

•

Chinese Character: 水泉 o

Generally nourishes Yin and Blood and moves the uterus.

KD related menstrual issues, amenorrhea, dysmenorrhea (pain/cramps), delayed menstruation, sensations of oppression below the heart (possibly at onset of menstruation).

146

Uterine prolapse.

KD 6

Shining Sea

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KD 6

•

English Name: Shining Sea

•

Pinyin Name: Zhaohai

•

Chinese Character: 照海 o

Sore throat from any etiology, especially empty heat from yin deficiency.

Other Yin Deficient throat related issues - swollen, dry, loss of voice, difficult swallowing.

A range of menstrual issues such as amenorrhea, dysmenorrhea, infertility from cold in the uterus, leucorrhoea.

Genital issues (Shan disorders) such as swelling, itching, seminal emission and/or involuntary erections in men.

Constipation from Yin Deficiency.

Plum Pit Qi.

Night-time epilepsy, insomnia, disturbed sleep with nightmares, yin deficient symptoms such as hot hands/feet, night sweats.

A range of anxiety disorders, fear/fright.

KD 7

Recover Flow

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KD 7

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English Name: Recover Flow

147

•

Pinyin Name: Fuliu

•

Chinese Character: 復溜 o

Tonifies KD Yang, especially with respect to water regulation - sweating (too much or too little, spontaneous), swellings, urinary issues.

Oedema, especially chronic effecting the abdomen a/or lower legs.

Five types of Lin Disorder - resolve accumulation of damp a/or damp-heat.

Diarrhoea, abdominal distention, haemorrhoids, constipation.

Low back pain from deficiency a/or stagnation.

KD 8

Intersection Reach

•

KD 8

•

English Name: Intersection Reach

•

Pinyin Name: Jiaoxin

•

Chinese Character: 交信 o

Issues of movement and mobility of the medial aspect of the lower limbs, ankle, heel - sprains, pain

KD 9

Guest House

•

KD 9

•

English Name: Guest House

•

Pinyin Name: Zhubin

•

Chinese Character: 築賓 o

Strong spirit disorders - anger, cursing, mania.

Deficient yang, cold, in the abdomen - Shan disorder, hernia, pain a/or retraction of the scrotum.

148

Useful in a detox prescription to assist the cleansing, especially with respect to emotional outbreaks

KD 10

Yin Valley

•

KD 10

•

English Name: Yin Valley

•

Pinyin Name: Yingu

•

Chinese Character: 陰谷

Clears damp or damp-heat in the lower warmer - urgent/difficult urination, genital pain/itching, leukorrhea, uterine bleeding.

Used to tonify the LV in 5 Phase Treatments

KD 11

Pubic Bone

•

KD 11

•

English Name: Pubic Bone

•

Pinyin Name: Henggu

•

Chinese Character: 橫骨 o

KD 11, KD 12, KD 13, KD 14 & KD 15 all intersect the Chong Mai and are useful as local points for abdominal /or gynaecological issues

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KD 12

Great Manifestation

•

KD 12

•

English Name: Great Manifestation

•

Pinyin Name: Dahe

•

Chinese Character: 大赫 o

KD 11, KD 12, KD 13, KD 14 & KD 15 all intersect the Chong Mai and are useful as local points for abdominal /or gynaecological issues

KD 13

Qi Hole

•

KD 13

•

English Name: Qi Hole

•

Pinyin Name: Qixue

•

Chinese Character: 氣穴 o

KD 11, KD 12, KD 13, KD 14 & KD 15 all intersect the Chong Mai and are useful as local points for abdominal /or gynaecological issues

KD 14

Fourfold Fullness

•

KD 14

•

English Name: Fourfold Fullness 150

•

Pinyin Name: Siman

•

Chinese Character: 四滿 o

KD 11, KD 12, KD 13, KD 14 & KD 15 all intersect the Chong Mai and are useful as local points for abdominal /or gynaecological issues

KD 15

Central Flow

•

KD 15

•

English Name: Central Flow

•

Pinyin Name: Zhongzhu

•

Chinese Character: 中注

• o

KD 11, KD 12, KD 13, KD 14 & KD 15 all intersect the Chong Mai and are useful as local points for abdominal /or gynaecological issues

KD 16

Huang Shu

•

KD 16

•

English Name: Huang Shu

•

Pinyin Name: Huangshu

•

Chinese Character: 肓俞 o

Cold a/or Dry effecting the lower abdomen a/or intestines - constipation, abdominal pain, five types of Lin, Shan disorder

151

KD 17

Shang Bend

•

KD 17

•

English Name: Shang Bend

•

Pinyin Name: Shangqu

•

Chinese Character: 商曲 o

Local point for abdominal and colon pain and functional issues.

Diarrhoea, constipation, abdominal pain.

KD 18

Stone Pass

•

KD 18

•

English Name: Stone Pass

•

Pinyin Name: Shiguan

•

Chinese Character: 石關 o

Local Point for abdominal and intestinal issues.

Pain, hiccups, vomiting, harmonizes stomach.

Fertility issues involving stagnation in the lower warmer.

Abdominal pain following childbirth.

152

KD 19

Yin Metropolis

•

KD 19

•

English Name: Yin Metropolis

•

Pinyin Name: Yin Du

•

Chinese Character: 陰都 o

Local point for abdominal and intestinal pain.

Vomiting, reflux, nausea, bloating - harmonizes stomach.

Fertility issues, primarily by moving blood stagnation in the lower warmer.

KD 20

Open Valley

•

KD 20

•

English Name: Open Valley

•

Pinyin Name: Tonggu

•

Chinese Character: 腹通谷 o

Local point for abdominal and digestive issues.

Mania, epilepsy, palpitations, mouth/tongue deviation/swelling - largely through resolving phlegm.

Chest pain, coughing, wheezing.

153

KD 21

Dark Gate

•

KD 21

•

English Name: Dark Gate

•

Pinyin Name: Youmen

•

Chinese Character: 幽門

• o

Local point for abdominal and intestinal pain and functional issues.

Reflux, vomiting, food stagnation, dysentery - harmonizes stomach.

Liver stagnation affecting the breasts - insufficient lactation, breast distention.

KD 22

Corridor Walk

•

KD 22

•

English Name: Corridor Walk

•

Pinyin Name: Bulang

•

Chinese Character: 步廊 o

Local Point, generally useful for cough, chest tension, constricted breathing

154

KD 23

Spirit Seal

•

KD 23

•

English Name: Spirit Seal

•

Pinyin Name: Shenfeng

•

Chinese Character: 神封 o

Local Point, generally useful for cough, chest tension, constricted breathing.

Vomiting - harmonizes stomach.

KD 24

Spirit Ruins

•

KD 24

•

English Name: Spirit Ruins

•

Pinyin Name: Lingxu

•

Chinese Character: 靈墟 o

Local Point, generally useful for cough, chest tension, constricted breathing.

Breast distention - moves qi stagnation in the chest.

Palpitations, abdominal bloating, panic attacks arising from digestive issues.

155

KD 25

Spirit Storehouse

•

KD 25

•

English Name: Spirit Storehouse

•

Pinyin Name: Shencang

•

Chinese Character: 神藏 o

Local Point, generally useful for cough, chest tension, constricted breathing.

Vomiting, reflux, digestive issues - harmonize stomach.

KD 26

Lively Centre

•

KD 26

•

English Name: Lively Centre

•

Pinyin Name: Yuzhong

•

Chinese Character: 彧中 o

Local Point, generally useful for cough, chest tension, constricted breathing useful for phlegm stagnation.

Digestive issues, nausea, vomiting - harmonizes stomach.

Steaming Bone Disorder.

156

KD 27

Shu Mansion

•

KD 27

•

English Name: Shu Mansion

•

Pinyin Name: Shufu

•

Chinese Character: 俞府 o

Opens & relaxes the chest - asthma, constricted breathing, cough, chest tightness.

Tonify KD Deficiency leading to adrenal exhaustion - fatigue, lowered immunity.

Local point for neck a/or jaw issues - pain, tension

157

(LV) Liver Meridian The Liver Meridian is a Yin meridian paired with the Gallbladder Meridian It is responsible for filtering, detoxifying, nourishing, replenishing, and storing blood. It regulates the amount of blood circulating, withdrawing and storing it when resting or sleeping, and releasing it during exercise. In Traditional Chinese Medicine Liver is Father of all Organs. Meridian Route:- The Liver Meridian starts inside of the big toenail, crosses the top of the foot, passes in front of the inside ankle and up the inner aspect of the leg. It continues upwards, passes the knee, and continues along the inner thigh to the groin and pubic region, where it circulates the external genitals. It connects with the conception vessel in the lower abdomen and further up enters both the liver and gallbladder. The meridian then dips into the ribcage, runs up through the throat, opening to the eye, and ends at the crown of the head where it connects with the governing vessel. One meridian branch circles the mouth and another branch, from within the liver, reaches the lungs, which then restarts the cycle of qi. Element: Wood Physical Imbalances: Liver function is reflected externally in the condition of finger- and toenails and by the eyes and vision. Blurry vision is often a result of liver malfunction rather than an eye problem (even Western medicine recognizes the symptomatic yellow eyes of liver jaundice). Emotional Imbalances: The liver governs growth and development, drive and desires, ambitions and creativity. Obstruction of liver energy can cause intense feelings of frustration, rage, and anger... as well as irritability, resentment, jealousy and depression When Balanced: Kindness, benevolence, compassion, and generosity Peak Hours: 1am-3am Foods: Leafy Greens... try a liver detox ... and an all-around detox diet [Note on The Wood Element: - The Rhythm of Spring - New Growth Spring's rhythm embodies the power and insistence of new life. Wood Element people are strong and claim their space. Their vision of truth and justice inspire others. They are sure of themselves with good judgement and wise decisions. The spring person is at risk of becoming arrogant, inflexible and opinionated. Wood Element people talk loudly, in choppy and Skippy rhythm. Their walk also is choppy, hitting the ground with clear, concise movements. When under stress the spring person's assertiveness may turn into anger]

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159

The LV Meridian •

Internal/External Pathways Originates on the lateral side of the big toe Runs up the medial aspect of the leg Curves around the external genitalia Around the Stomach and connects with the LV and GB Branches out in the costal and hypochondriac regions A branch runs up the posterior aspect of the throat Connects with the eye system and meets the governing vessel meridian at the vertex of the head Another branch runs into the Lungs and links the the lung meridian

•

Measurements Needed Lower border of the Medial Condyle of the Tibia (SP 9) -to- Tip of the Medial Malleolus = 13 cun Upper Border of the Symphysis Pubis -to- Medial Epicondyle of the Femur = 18 cun Sternum -to- Acromion Process = 8 cun CV Meridian -to- LU 1 = 6 cun

•

Precautions - [all] LV 12 - No Needle LV 14 - No Deep Needle

LV 1

Large Pile

•

LV 1

•

English Name: Large Pile

•

Pinyin Name: Da Dun

•

Chinese Character: 大敦 o Jing Well Point - loss of consciousness, moves Qi in the genital area. o

Shan Disorder - swollen genitals.

Lin Disorders.

Uterine/Menstrual bleeding from excess or deficiency.

Emotional manifestations of LV Qi Stagnation - inappropriate emotions, depression, lethargy.

160

LV 2

Moving Between

•

LV 2

•

English Name: Moving Between

•

Pinyin Name: Xing Jian

•

Chinese Character: 行間 o Generally, clears LV Fire - extreme irritability, red face/eyes/tongue. o

Clears Heat from the Lower Jiao - burning urination.

Useful for "true heat, false cold" - lack of Qi flow to the extremities (cold hands/feet).

LV 3

Great Surge

•

LV 3

•

English Name: Great Surge

•

Pinyin Name: Tai Chong

•

Chinese Character: 太沖

Generally, resolves stagnation and tonifies Yin - balancing for all LV pathologies.

LV Qi Stagnation / LV Yang Rising - headaches, dizziness, canker sores.

Eye issues - blurred vision, red, swollen, painful eyes.

Menstrual issues from Deficient Blood, Yin, Qi a/or LV Qi Stagnation dysmenorrhea, amenorrhea, PMS, breast tenderness.

Genital issues - pain/swelling, hernia, impotence, seminal emission.

161

Stagnation in the middle warmer - subcostal tension, chest/flank pain, swellings in the axillary region.

Digestive issues from LV attacking ST/SP - nausea, vomiting, constipation, diarrhoea w/ undigested food.

Calming point - anger, irritability, insomnia, anxiety.

With LI 4, four gates treatment - powerfully effects the flow of Qi and Blood in the body.

Tong Ren/Tam Healing System: Important point to descend energy in the body, generally used after qi gong exercises, energy healing sessions, etc. Helps to avoid qi gong sickness (or running fire) where energy is stuck in the upper part of the head/body and causes issues such as shortness of breath, psychological issues, headache, etc.

LV 4

Mound Centre

•

LV 4

•

English Name: Mound Centre

•

Pinyin Name: Zhong Feng

•

Chinese Character: 中封

• o

Generally, moves stagnation and clears heat - Hepatitis, Jaundice

Lin Disorders.

Medial Knee/ankle pain.

162

LV 5

Woodworm Canal

•

LV 5

•

English Name: Woodworm Canal

•

Pinyin Name: Li Gou

•

Chinese Character: 蠡溝 o Genital Issues, especially damp-heat related infections/discharges.

LV 6

Central Metropolis

•

LV 6

•

English Name: Central Metropolis

•

Pinyin Name: Zhong Du

•

Chinese Character: 中都 o Acute hepatitis. o

Pain along the channel, genital region or medial knee.

163

LV 7

Knee Joint

•

LV 7

•

English Name: Knee Joint

•

Pinyin Name: Xi Guan

•

Chinese Character: 膝關 o Local point.

LV 8

Spring at the Bend

•

LV 8

•

English Name: Spring at the Bend

•

Pinyin Name: Qu Quan

•

Chinese Character: 曲泉 o Tonifying LV Yin and Blood, clears excess heat patterns. o

Genital issues related to damp-heat - pain/swelling, retention of urine, cystitis, prostatitis, ovarian cysts.

Tonifying Yin from mental, physical, emotional strain.

Medial knee pain.

Tong Ren/Tam Healing System: Knee problems, even if on the lateral side of the knee, also useful for abdominal pain, urination issues, groin issues (itch/pain). 164

LV 9

Yin Bladder

•

LV 9

•

English Name: Yin Bladder

•

Pinyin Name: Yin Bao

•

Chinese Character: 陰包 o Local point.

LV 10

Foot Five Li

•

LV 10

•

English Name: Foot Five Li

•

Pinyin Name: Zu Wu Li

•

Chinese Character: 足五里 o Local point.

165

LV 11

Yin Corner

•

LV 11

•

English Name: Yin Corner

•

Pinyin Name: Yin Lian

•

Chinese Character: 陰廉 o Local point. o

The LV 9 - LV 11 area may be reactive in women with fertility problems moxa at LV 11 may be helpful.

LV 12

Urgent Pulse

•

LV 12

•

English Name: Urgent Pulse

•

Pinyin Name: Ji Mai

166

•

Chinese Character: 急脈 o Local Point. o

May be useful for groin pain.

LV 13

Camphorwood Gate

•

LV 13

•

English Name: Camphorwood Gate

•

Pinyin Name: Zhang Men

•

Chinese Character: 章門 o Assist with SP Deficient signs esp. from the LV invading the SP - pain and distention of the abdomen, vomiting, constipation, diarrhoea (or alternating), bloating, undigested food in the bowels. o

Hui Meeting Point of the Zang - tonifying all Zang organs.

Running Piglet Disorder.

LV 14

Cycle Gate

•

LV 14

•

English Name: Cycle Gate

•

Pinyin Name: Qi Men

167

•

Chinese Character: 期門 o Strong effect on the middle and upper warmers - subcostal tension, chest/rib pain, LV overacting on the LU (cough, SOB). o

Effects LV organ, Qi/Blood stagnation - hepatitis, gallstones.

Emotional imbalances - anger, irritability.

Running Piglet Disorder.

168

(ST) Stomach Meridian The stomach meridian is a Yang meridian and is paired with the Spleen yin meridian. It functions with the Spleen Meridian in the assimilation of Qi from food through digestion and absorption.

The Stomach Meridian Route The stomach meridian starts at ST1, between the lower eyelid and the eye socket, and runs down the face and loops up to the forehead. At ST8, it backtracks down across the shoulder, down the ribs, along the stomach, and then down the leg ending at ST45, the outside edge of the second toe. Stomach Meridian Element: Earth element with strong nurturing qualities.

Physical Imbalances: Digestive and stomach problems - abdominal pain, distension, edema, vomiting, sore throat, facial paralysis, upper gum toothache, nose bleeding.

Emotional Imbalances: Anxiety, Worry, scepticism, poor confidence, feelings of suspicion or mistrust. When Balanced: Fairness, openness and nurturance. Peak Hours: 7-9 am Chakra: Root Chakra Foods: Root Vegetables such as Carrots, parsnip, turnips, and all the other Types of food that come from the earth.

169

170

171

The ST Meridian •

Internal/External Pathways Originates on the lateral side of ala nasi Around mouth and along the lower portion of the cheek Passes through diaphragm, enters the Stomach and connects with the Spleen Down the leg along the anterior border of the tibia Ends on the lateral side of the tip of the 2nd toe

•

Measurements Needed Stomach 1-30 Nipple (ST 17) -to- Nipple (ST 17) = 8 cun Anterior Midline -to- ST 12 thru ST 18 on the Chest = 4 cun Anterior Midline -to- ST 19 thru ST 30 on the Abdomen = 2 cun Sternal Costal Angle -to- CV 8 = 8 cun Upper border of Symphysis pubis -to- Umbilicus (CV 8) = 5 cun ST 8 -to- ST 8 = 9 cun Stomach 31-45 Prominence of the Greater Trochanter -to- Middle of the Patella = 19 cun Centre of the Patella -to- Lateral Malleolus = 16 cun Tip of Lateral Malleolus -to- Heel = 3 cun Lower Border of the Medial Condyle of the Tibia (SP 9) -to- Tip of the Medial Malleolus = 13 cun Upper Border of Symphysis Pubis -to- Medial Epicondyle of the Femur = 18 cun

•

Precautions - [all] ST 1 - No Moxa, Slow Insert, No Manipulation ST 2 - No Moxa, No Deep Needle ST 5 - Avoid Artery ST 8 - No Moxa ST 9 - No Moxa, Avoid Artery, No Deep Needle ST 12 - Avoid Artery, No Deep Needle ST 17 - Landmark Only, No Needle, No Moxa ST 42 - Avoid Artery All Chest Points - Oblique Insertion Only

•

Point Relationships CV 8 - KD 16 - ST 25 - SP 15 CV 12 - KD 19 - ST 21 5th ICS - CV 16 - KD 22 - ST 18 - SP 17 1st ICS - CV 20 - KD 26 - ST 14 - LU 1 The (ST) Stomach Meridian has 45 Acupuncture Points

172

ST 1

Tear Container

•

ST 1

•

English Name: Tear Container

•

Pinyin Name: Chengqi

•

Chinese Character: 承泣 o

Any eye issue, although ST 2 is a good alternative and arguably safer to needle.

Excessive lacrimation, redness, dryness, painful a/or itchy eyes/eyelids, twitching of the eyelids.

Visual disturbances, night blindness.

ST 2

Four Whites

•

ST 2

•

English Name: Four Whites

•

Pinyin Name: Sibai

•

Chinese Character: 四白 o

Any eye problem - red, painful and/or itchy eyes, excessive lacrimation, twitching of the eyelids.

Facial paralysis.

173

Good alternative to ST 1 and safer to needle for those not properly trained.

ST 3

Great Bone-Hole

•

ST 3

•

English Name: Great Bone-Hole

•

Pinyin Name: Juliao

•

Chinese Character: 巨髎 o

Local point - Twitching eyelids, pain a/or swelling of the cheek, trigeminal neuralgia, toothache.

Deviation from stroke, bell's palsy, facial paralysis.

Swelling of the knee (Dead man text).

ST 4

Earth Granary

•

ST 4

•

English Name: Earth Granary

•

Pinyin Name: Dicang Chinese Character: 地倉 o

Facial pain - Bell's palsy, facial paralysis, trigeminal neuralgia, deviation of mouth from stroke, toothache.

Inability to close the eye, eye twitching, itching, night blindness. 174

Inability to eat.

May be helpful for atrophy and/or movement issues within the legs.

ST 5

Great Reception

•

ST 5

•

English Name: Great Reception

•

Pinyin Name: Daying

•

Chinese Character: 大迎 o

Local point - Pain a/or swelling of the cheek/jaw, neck pain, lockjaw, toothache.

Stiff tongue leading to speech problems, frequent yawning.

Inability to close eye.

ST 6

Jawbone

•

ST 6

•

English Name: Jawbone

•

Pinyin Name: Jiache

•

Chinese Character: 頰車

175

Eliminate wind from the face - TMJ, toothache, Bell's palsy, twitching, facial pain/paralysis.

Loss of voice, deviation of mouth/face, lockjaw.

ST 7

Below the Joint

•

ST 7

•

English Name: Below the Joint

•

Pinyin Name: Xiaguan

•

Chinese Character: 下關 o

TMJ, facial pain, lower jaw toothache.

Hearing issues, deafness, tinnitus, ear pain, ear discharge/infections.

ST 8

Head Corner

•

ST 8

•

English Name: Head Corner

•

Pinyin Name: Touwei

•

Chinese Character: 頭維 o

Classically mentioned for "splitting headache; headache w/nausea/vomiting; headache w/eye pain (migraine)" - particularly for frontal headaches.

Poor vision, twitching eyelids, eye pain, excessive tearing. 176

Dizziness.

Hair loss.

ST 9

Man's Prognosis

•

ST 9

•

English Name: Man's Prognosis

•

Pinyin Name: Renying

•

Chinese Character: 人迎 o

In ancient times the ST Qi was assessed by palpating the pulse here and at ST 42.

Regulation of Blood Pressure - lowering high blood pressure.

Headache, dizziness.

Sore throat, counter flow qi (vomiting), coughing, hiccups.

Acute lumbar sprain, lower back pain.

Window of the Sky Point - restores Qi flow between the body and the head useful with headache, chest tightness, and asthma.

Tong Ren/Tam Healing System: Used to effect the common carotid artery. With acupuncture and tui na we often use LI 18instead as it is safer, for Tong Ren and light tui na, however, it is fine to use.

Falls into the category of Window of the Sky points within the Tam Healing system.

ST 10

177

Water Prominence

•

ST 10

•

English Name: Water Prominence

•

Pinyin Name: Shuitu

•

Chinese Character: 水突 o

Local point - swollen/sore throat, shortness of breath, goitre, scrofula.

Tong Ren/Tam Healing System: Used to effect the circulation within the common carotid artery and the vagus nerve. Useful for issues such as high cholesterol, constipation, cancer of the larynx, etc.

Falls into the category of Window of the Sky points within the Tam Healing system.

ST 11

Qi Abode

•

ST 11

•

English Name: Qi Abode

•

Pinyin Name: Qishe

•

Chinese Character: 氣舍 o

Local point - sore/swollen throat - counter flow qi, cough, hiccups, reflux.

Neck pain - pain, inability to turn neck.

Tong Ren/Tam Healing System: Main point to open the circulation of the common carotid artery. Useful for conditions such as acid reflux, arteriosclerosis, hypertension, kidney cancer, bladder cancer, etc.

Falls into the category of Window of the Sky points within the Tam Healing system.

178

ST 12

Empty Basin

•

ST 12

•

English Name: Empty Basin

•

Pinyin Name: Quepen

•

Chinese Character: 缺盆 o

Shoulder pain (esp. that radiates to neck).

Neck/throat issues - tightness/pain.

Cough, counter flow qi, sore, swollen throat (rebellious lung qi).

Internal branch of the ST meridian connects here directly from the Stomach, Spleen & Diaphragm - tonify middle warmer.

Tong Ren/Tam Healing System: Used to effect the circulation within the subclavian artery. Useful for bursitis, tennis elbow, carpal tunnel syndrome, etc.

Falls into the category of Window of the Sky points within the Tam Healing system.

ST 13

Qi Door

•

ST 13

•

English Name: Qi Door

•

Pinyin Name: Qihu

•

Chinese Character: 氣戶 o

Asthma, cough, wheezing, chest distention, hiccups.

Local point - rib pain, inability to turn head, neck pain. 179

ST 14

Storeroom

•

ST 14

•

English Name: Storeroom

•

Pinyin Name: Kufang

•

Chinese Character: 库房 o

Cough.

Sensation of tightness a/or fullness in the chest.

ST 15

Roof

•

ST 15

•

English Name: Roof

•

Pinyin Name: Wuyi

•

Chinese Character: 屋翳

• o

Asthma, chest oppression, fullness a/or pain in the chest.

Breast pain, distention, mastitis, and abscess.

General pain, heaviness and/or itching of the whole body.

180

ST 16

Breast Window

•

ST 16

•

English Name: Breast Window

•

Pinyin Name: Yingchuang

•

Chinese Character: 膺窗 o

Chest tightness a/or pain, asthma, cough.

Breast pain, abscess, and mastitis.

Swelling of the lips (with LV 3).

ST 17

Breast Centre

•

ST 17

•

English Name: Breast Centre

•

Pinyin Name: Ruzhong

•

Chinese Character: 乳中

• o

Never needled or treated, simply a body landmark for locating points on the chest.

181

ST 18

Breast Root

•

ST 18

•

English Name: Breast Root

•

Pinyin Name: Rugen

•

Chinese Character: 乳根 o

Any issues with the breasts - mastitis, pain/swelling, insufficient lactation.

Chest tightness/oppression, asthma, cough.

ST 19

•

Not Contained

•

ST 19

•

English Name: Not Contained

•

Pinyin Name: Burong

•

Chinese Character: 不容 o

Abdominal pain, bloating, vomiting (rebellious stomach qi).

Gastric pain, gall bladder issues.

Anorexia, poor appetite.

ST 20

182

Assuming Fullness

•

ST 20

•

English Name: Assuming Fullness

•

Pinyin Name: Chengman

•

Chinese Character: 承满 o

Abdominal pain, bloating, hiccups, gastric pain, vomiting.

Anorexia, poor appetite, diarrhoea.

Shortness of breath, wheezing.

ST 21

Beam Gate

•

ST 21

•

English Name: Beam Gate

•

Pinyin Name: Liangmen

•

Chinese Character: 梁門 o

Tonifies Middle Warmer, assists CV 12.

Epigastria pain, accumulations of food in the abdomen a/or palpable masses, vomiting.

Diarrhoea, poor appetite, anorexia.

ST 22

Pass Gate

•

ST 22

•

English Name: Pass Gate

•

Pinyin Name: Guanmen

•

Chinese Character: 關門 183

Abdominal pain, bloating, gurgling in the stomach/intestines (borborygmus).

Diarrhoea, constipation, poor appetite.

Edema.

Useful for bedwetting with HT 7 and UB 40 orLU 1 and HT 7 (dead man text).

ST 23

Supreme Unity

•

ST 23

•

English Name: Supreme Unity

•

Pinyin Name: Taiyi

•

Chinese Character: 太乙 o

Abdominal pain, epigastria pain, bloating, poor appetite, diarrhoea.

Shan/Spirit related imbalances related to phlegm - manic depression, irritability, anxiety.

Used with ST 24 for manic depression with stiff/thrusting tongue.

ST 24

Slippery Flesh Gate

•

ST 24

•

English Name: Slippery Flesh Gate

•

Pinyin Name: Huaroumen

•

Chinese Character: 滑肉門 o

Epigastria pain, vomiting (rebellious qi).

Similar effects as ST 23 on phlegm related shen issues - manic depression, anxiety, mania.

Used with ST 23 for manic depression with stiff/thrusting tongue.

184

ST 25

Celestial Pivot

•

ST 25

•

English Name: Celestial Pivot

•

Pinyin Name: Tianshu

•

Chinese Character: 天樞 o

All intestinal issues - constipation, diarrhoea, dysentery, distention, pain, masses/accumulations of any type.

Irregular menstruation, painful menstruation, fibroids/cysts, fertility issues and leucorrhoea.

Connects the Upper and Lower Warmers (pre & post natal Qi).

ST 26

Outer Mound

•

ST 26

•

English Name: Outer Mound

•

Pinyin Name: Wailing

•

Chinese Character: 外陵 o

Abdominal pain, bloating, hernias.

Menstrual issues - dysmenorrhea (cramps/painful menstruation), amenorrhea (absence of menstruation), and irregular cycles.

185

ST 27

Great Gigantic

•

ST 27

•

English Name: Great Gigantic

•

Pinyin Name: Daju

•

Chinese Character: 大巨 o

Beneficial for multiple genito urinary issues in men - impotence (erectile dysfunction), seminal emission, premature ejaculation, difficult urination, etc.

Irregular menstruation.

Abdominal pain, bloating, hernia.

Fear/fright with palpitations, anxiety, panic attacks, insomnia, etc..

ST 28

Waterway

•

ST 28

•

English Name: Waterway

•

Pinyin Name: Shuidao

•

Chinese Character: 水道 o

Excess Cold/Damp Issues of the Lower Warmer - retention of urine, inflammations.

Gynaecological issues of an excess nature - dysmenorrhea, fibroids, and cysts.

Fertility issues in women, cold in the uterus.

Expel either the placenta after birth or a still born child.

186

ST 29

Return

•

ST 29

•

English Name: Return

•

Pinyin Name: Guilai

•

Chinese Character: 归来 o

Excess or Cold/Deficient disorders of the Lower Warmer - amenorrhea, irregular menstruation, dysmenorrhea, qi stagnation/masses, leucorrhoea.

Uterine prolapse, hernia.

Infertility, genital pain and/or swelling, impotence, seminal emission.

Running Piglet Disorder.

ST 30

Surging Qi

•

ST 30

•

English Name: Surging Qi

•

Pinyin Name: Qichong

•

Chinese Character: 氣沖 o

Upper Sea of Water & Grain Point - excess or deficient conditions of the Stomach - hypo gastric pain, bloating, abdominal pain.

Regulates the Intestines - borborygmus, hernia - rectal, inguinal.

Regulates genitalia - swelling and pain, impotence.

Regulates menstruation - irregular menstruation, dysmenorrhea, amenorrhea, uterine bleeding.

Running Piglet Disorder.

187

ST 31

Thigh Joint

•

ST 31

•

English Name: Thigh Joint

•

Pinyin Name: Biguan

•

Chinese Character: 髀關 o

ST 31, ST 32 & ST 33 are all useful for Bi-Syndromes a/or Wei Syndromes (flaccidity or weakness) of the lower legs.

Pain in the thigh, muscular atrophy/weakness, knee pain, low back pain.

ST 32

Crouching Rabbit

•

ST 32

•

English Name: Crouching Rabbit

•

Pinyin Name: Futu

•

Chinese Character: 伏兔 o

ST 31, ST 32 & ST 33 are all useful for Bi-Syndromes a/or Wei Syndromes (flaccidity or weakness) of the lower legs.

Muscular atrophy of the lower leg, thigh, knee pain, low back pain.

Beriberi (thiamine, B1 deficiency).

188

ST 33

Yin Market

•

ST 33

•

English Name: Yin Market

•

Pinyin Name: Yinshi

•

Chinese Character: 阴市 o

ST 31, ST 32 & ST 33 are all useful for Bi-Syndromes a/or Wei Syndromes (flaccidity or weakness) of the lower legs.

Weakness, numbness, motor control issues of the leg and/or knee.

ST 34

Beam Hill

•

ST 34

•

English Name: Beam Hill

•

Pinyin Name: Liangqiu

•

Chinese Character: 梁丘 o

Lateral knee issues, swelling, pain, difficult movement.

Pain, motor control, circulation issues of the knee and/or lower leg.

Excess & Acute issues of the Stomach and chest - acute Stomach pain, GERD, vomiting, acute breast pain.

189

ST 35

Calf's Nose

•

ST 35

•

English Name: Calf's Nose

•

Pinyin Name: Dubi

•

Chinese Character: 犊鼻 o

Knee problems. Often used with heding and the medial xiyan extra points.

Weakness and/or motor control issues of the lower leg, atrophy.

Beriberi (Thiamine, B1 deficiency).

ST 36

Leg Three Li

•

ST 36

•

English Name: Leg Three Li

•

Pinyin Name: Zusanli

•

Chinese Character: 足三里 o

Tonify deficient Qi a/or Blood.

Tonify Wei Qi and Qi overall - low immunity, chronic illness, poor digestion, general weakness, particularly with moxibustion, very important acupuncture point for building and maintaining overall health.

190

All issues involving the Stomach a/or the Spleen - abdominal/epigastric pain, borborygmus, bloating, nausea, vomiting, GERD, hiccups, diarrhoea, constipation, etc.

Clear disorders along the course of the channel - breast problems, lower leg pain.

Earth as the mother of Metal - will support Lung function in cases of asthma, wheezing, dyspnoea.

Psychological/Emotional disorders - PMS, depression, nervousness, insomnia.

ST 37

Upper Great Hollow

•

ST 37

•

English Name: Upper Great Hollow

•

Pinyin Name: Shangjuxu

•

Chinese Character: 上巨虛 o

Generally for excess and more acute disorders of the intestines and digestive system involving dampness and/or heat - diarrhoea, dysentery, borborygmus, abdominal pain, bloating, distention, and constipation.

Sea of Blood Point - if excess the patient may have feelings of largeness, whereas, if deficient the patient may feel small.

ST 38

Ribbon Opening

•

ST 38

•

English Name: Ribbon Opening

•

Pinyin Name: Tiaokou

•

Chinese Character: 條口 o

Empirical point for shoulder issues - pain, motor control, adhesive capsulitis or "frozen shoulder."

Local point for lower leg issues - pain, atrophy, numbness. 191

ST 39

Lower Great Hollow

•

ST 39

•

nglish Name: Lower Great Hollow

•

Pinyin Name: Xiajuxu

•

Chinese Character: 下巨虛 o

Disorders of the Small Intestine organ - abdominal pain, diarrhoea, dysentery.

SI channel problems - breast issues, mastitis, and pain/swelling/numbness along channel.

Local point for lower leg issues - pain, numbness, motor control, atrophy.

ST 40

Beautiful Bulge

•

ST 40

•

English Name: Beautiful Bulge

•

Pinyin Name: Fenglong

•

Chinese Character: 豐隆 o

Empirical point to resolve phlegm in the body anywhere from any origin.

Phlegm in the head - headaches, dizziness / vertigo, depression, poor concentration, stronger shen disturbances - mania.

Phlegm in the body - chest oppression, breathing issues, asthma, cough.

Plum Pit Qi, sore throat, loss of voice.

Issues with the lower limbs involving pain, swelling, numbness, weakness, etc.

192

ST 41

Ravine Divide

•

ST 41

•

English Name: Ravine Divide

•

Pinyin Name: Jiexi

•

Chinese Character: 解谿 o

Opposite end of channel issues (i.e. head/face) - swelling, headache, dizziness / vertigo.

Abdominal pain, bloating, constipation.

Can aid roundedness and focus - ADD/ADHD, mania, restlessness, palpitations, epilepsy.

Local point for ankle issues - sprains, inflammation, motor impairment, foot pain, pain in the 1st and 2nd toes.

ST 42

Surging Yang

•

ST 42

•

English Name: Surging Yang

•

Pinyin Name: Chongyang

•

Chinese Character: 沖陽

193

Issues on the upper end of the channel (i.e. mouth/face/head) - upper mouth/teeth issues, toothache, deviation of the face as in Bell’s palsy or stroke.

Local point for foot pain - pain, swelling, redness - also motor control issues of the foot.

ST 43

Sunken Valley

•

ST 43

•

English Name: Sunken Valley

•

Pinyin Name: Xiangu

•

Chinese Character: 陷谷 o

Similar actions to ST 44 but used less often - will clear heat from the channel and organ.

Classically noted for clearing facial pain and/or edema / swelling. May be used for general edema.

Abdominal pain, bloating, borborygmus, frequent belching.

Local point for pain and/or swelling of the dorsum of the foot.

ST 44

•

ST 44

Inner Court 194

•

English Name: Inner Court

•

Pinyin Name: Neiting

•

Chinese Character: 内庭 o

Ying Spring Point - Clears heat from the channel and organ - febrile disease with absence of sweating.

Useful for issues of the Face & Jaw along with LI 4 - toothache, facial pain, Bell’s palsy, stroke, sore throat, eye pain.

Damp Heat in the intestines - diarrhoea, dysentery, distention, abdominal pain, constipation, GERD.

Interior heat that presents with cold signs - Feel hot but hands/feet are cold or Red tongue w/cold extremities.

Local point for pain and/or swelling of the dorsum of the foot.

ST 45

Severe Mouth

•

ST 45

•

English Name: Severe Mouth

•

Pinyin Name: Lidui

•

Chinese Character: 厲兌

•

ST 45 Severe Mouth o

Release heat a/or move stagnation from the channel and organ headaches, toothaches, facial pain, sore throat, TMJ, bell's palsy, facial deviation from stroke.

Agitation a/or insomnia w/heat signs, excessive dreaming, loss of consciousness, manic depression - calms the spirit.

Moves cold in the lower limbs, shin, and knee.

195

(SP) Spleen Meridian This meridian is a Yin meridian and is paired with the stomach Yang meridian Spleen Meridian Route The spleen meridian starts at the tip of the great toe. From there it runs along the medial aspect of the foot at the junction of the red and white skin. It continues up the inner leg, up across the groin, the stomach, through the diaphragm. It connects with the stomach and heart meridian. Boosts Your Self-esteem... . Element: Earth element with strong nurturing qualities. Physical Imbalances: Digestive and stomach problems. Emotional Imbalances: Worry, poor concentration, forgetful-ness, cloudy thought process, addiction, attachment, obsession, gluttony, Jealousy, self-pity, strong concern about opinions of others, stubbornness, low self-esteem, poor self-image. When Balanced: Fairness, openness, deep thinking and reminiscence, self esteem Peak Hours: 9-11 am

196

197

The SP Meridian â&#x20AC;˘

Internal/External Pathways Originates at the tip of the big toe Goes up leg and crosses and goes in front of the Liver Meridian Enters Abdomen and enters the Spleen Enters Stomach and continues up to root of the tongue Another branch continues from the Stomach to the Heart

â&#x20AC;˘

Measurements Needed Lower border of the Medial Condyle of the Tibia (SP 9) -to- Tip of the Medial Malleolus = 13 cun Upper border of the Symphysis Pubis -to- Medial epicondyle of the Femur = 18 cun 198

Sternal Costal Angle -to- CV 8 = 8 cun Anterior Midline -to- Spleen Meridian on the Abdomen = 8 cun Anterior Midline -to- Spleen Meridian on the Chest = 6 cun Clavicular Lateral Measurement = 8 cun Axillary Fold -to- 11th Rib = 12 cun Upper Border of the Symphysis Pubis -to- Umbilicus (CV 8) = 5 cun •

Precautions - [all] SP 6 - No Needle in Pregnancy SP 12 - Avoid Artery

•

Point Relationships SP 12 = 3.5 cun from CV 2 SP 13 = 4 cun lateral to the AML between CV 2 & CV 3 .7 cun laterosuperior to SP 12 SP 14 = Divide CV 6 & CV 7 in half (1.25 rounded to 1.3) SP 15 = 4 cun lateral to CV 8 (umbilicus) SP 20 = Directly below LU 1

•

Additional Helpful Information

•

SP 10 must have the knee flexed, use hand on the knee with fingers at a 45 degree angle and thumb facing the person - your thumb will be on the point.

•

SP 9 to the medial malleolus is 13 cun, subtract one cun from SP 9 to make 12 cun for measuring purposes on the leg.

SP 1

Hidden White

•

SP 1

•

English Name: Hidden White

•

Pinyin Name: Yinbai

•

Chinese Character: 隱白 o

Any Bleeding Issues, esp. from SP Deficiency - reckless bleeding, haemorrhage, blood in the urine/stools.

Emotional issues esp. with aspects of worry - worried dreams, depression.

Possibly useful for eating disorders originating from stress/worry.

199

SP 2

Great Metropolis

•

SP 2

•

English Name: Great Metropolis

•

Pinyin Name: Dadu

•

Chinese Character: 大都 o

Generally used to clear damp-heat - gout, painful obstructions.

Local point for issues with the big toe.

With SP 3 tonify SP organ - abdominal distention, diarrhoea and/or heart pain.

SP 3

Supreme White

•

SP 3

•

English Name: Supreme White

•

Pinyin Name: Taibai

•

Chinese Character: 太白 o

SP Qi and Yang Deficiency, especially those with excess pathologies abdominal a/or epigastric pain, digestive issues, heart pain.

Muscle atrophy in the lower legs, heaviness in the body.

SP 4

200

Yellow Emperor

•

SP 4

•

English Name: Yellow Emperor

•

Pinyin Name: Gongsun

•

Chinese Character: 公孫 o

Excess pathologies of the ST and Intestines - severe abdominal a/or epigastria pain, dysentery, food poisoning.

Gynaecological and Abdominal issues due to stagnation of Qi and Blood masses, fibroids, cysts, irregular menstruation.

With PC 6 for chest and heart pain, sheen disorders, sighing, anxiety, insomnia, nervousness.

SP 5

Shang Hill

•

SP 5

•

English Name: Shang Hill

•

Pinyin Name: Shangqiu

•

Chinese Character: 商丘 o

Tonifies the spleen and resolves dampness - lethargy, desire to lie down, and abdominal distention.

Calms the spirit - manic depression, anxiety, excessive thinking.

Speech disorders, stiffness at root of tongue.

SP 6

201

Three Yin Intersection

•

SP 6

•

English Name: Three Yin Intersection

•

Pinyin Name: Sanyinjiao

•

Chinese Character: 三陰交 o

Tonify Yin and Blood, all Spleen disorders.

Digestive disorders, sinking/prolapse.

Gynaecological issues, male sexual issues, difficult labour (expel foetus).

Menstrual issues (irregular, amenorrhea, and dysmenorrhea).

Bleeding disorders, uterine bleeding, and cool blood in hot skin diseases.

Insomnia, palpitations, and other anxiety related emotions.

Dizziness, hypertension.

SP 7

Leaking Valley

•

SP 7

•

English Name: Leaking Valley

•

Pinyin Name: Lougu

•

Chinese Character: 漏谷 o

Local point.

Continued muscle atrophy in the presence of adequate nutrition.

Promotes urination - difficult urination.

Resolves dampness - lower body swelling, ankle, and knee.

202

SP 8

Earth's Crux

•

SP 8

•

English Name: Earth's Crux

•

Pinyin Name: Diji

•

Chinese Character: 地機 o

Xi Cleft Point - acute and painful menstrual issues due to Blood stagnation clotting, fibroids, dysmenorrhea, irregular menstruation.

Male infertility - seminal emission, depleted essence.

SP 9

Yin Mound Spring

•

SP 9

•

English Name: Yin Mound Spring

•

Pinyin Name: Yinlingquan

•

Chinese Character: 陰陵泉 o

He Sea point - drains dampness (generally through urination), LV 8 will drain damp from the genital region and SP 9 will drain damp from the lower warmer.

Chronic yeast infections, candida.

Damp Bi, Medial Knee Pain.

Issues involving damp-heat in the GB - hepatitis, jaundice.

Tong Ren/Tam Healing System: Any water issue in the body (bloating, swelling, urinary issues, dry mouth, etc.). 203

SP 10

Sea of Blood

•

SP 10

•

English Name: Sea of Blood

•

Pinyin Name: Xuehai

•

Chinese Character: 血海 o

Any Gynaecological issues originating from Blood, Heat, Stasis a/or Deficiency - irregular menstruation, dysmenorrhea, amenorrhea, cramping, lin disorders, PMS, uterine bleeding.

Skin problems from damp-heat or hot Blood - eczema, painful/hot sores.

Genital issues - pain/swelling/itching of the scrotum/genitals.

Tong Ren/Tam Healing System: Any blood issues, although the huatuo of T1 and T7 are used more often.

SP 11

Winnower Gate

•

SP 11

•

English Name: Winnower Gate

•

Pinyin Name: Jimen

•

Chinese Character: 箕門 o

Used for a variety of urinary issues related to a collection of dampness/damp-heat - difficult urination/obstruction, retention of urine.

Swelling in the groin, pain/itching of the external genitalia. 204

SP 12

Surging Gate

•

SP 12

•

English Name: Surging Gate

•

Pinyin Name: Chongmen

•

Chinese Character: 沖門 o

Used for a variety of urinary disorders (retention, painful) due to its functions of draining dampness, clearing heat and regulating urination.

Abdominal pain, hernia, haemorrhoids by regulating qi and invigorating blood.

SP 13

Bowel Abode

•

SP 13

•

English Name: Bowel Abode

•

Pinyin Name: Fushe

•

Chinese Character: 府舍 o

Abdominal pain, abdominal masses (fibroids, cysts, etc.), hernia, thigh pain regulates the liver, qi, and alleviates pain.

205

SP 14

Abdominal Bind

•

SP 14

•

English Name: Abdominal Bind

•

Pinyin Name: Fujie

•

Chinese Character: 腹結 o

Warms the middle warmer and dissipates cold for lower abdominal pain, diarrhoea (from cold), abdominal pain, constipation.

Resolves counter flow qi - can be used to subdue fright (i.e. panic attacks) from counter flow qi disrupting the heart and/or cough from counter flow qi disrupting the lung.

SP 15

Great Horizontal

•

SP 15

•

English Name: Great Horizontal

•

Pinyin Name: Daheng

•

Chinese Character: 大横 o

Regulate the Qi of the Intestines - constipation, diarrhoea (ST 25 better for diarrhoea), abdominal pain and distention.

206

SP 16

Abdominal Lament

•

SP 16

•

English Name: Abdominal Lament

•

Pinyin Name: Fuai

•

Chinese Character: 腹哀 o

Aids intestinal issues by clearing heat in the intestines and resolving dampness - as well as generally moving the intestines.

Noted for undigested food in the stool.

Abdominal pain, dysentery, blood in the stool.

SP 17

Food Hole

•

SP 17

•

English Name: Food Hole

•

Pinyin Name: Shidou

•

Chinese Character: 食竇 o

Promotes smooth spleen qi (digestion), moves water stagnation - fullness of the chest and/or lateral costal region, abdominal distention perhaps with water swelling, belching, vomiting after eating, boborygmus.

207

SP 18

Celestial Ravine

•

SP 18

•

English Name: Celestial Ravine

•

Pinyin Name: Tianxi

•

Chinese Character: 天谿 o

Descends qi - chest oppression, shortness of breath, cough, hiccup, running piglet disorder.

Opens the chest and circulation in the breasts - breast pain, insufficient lactation.

SP 19

Chest Village

•

SP 19

•

English Name: Chest Village

•

Pinyin Name: Xiongxiang

•

Chinese Character: 胸鄉 o

Aids the descent of lung qi - cough.

Regulate lung qi - shortness of breath, chest oppression.

208

SP 20

All-Round Flourishing

•

SP 20

•

English Name: All-Round Flourishing

•

Pinyin Name: Zhourong

•

Chinese Character: 周榮 o

Aids the descent of lung qi - cough, shortness of breath, chest oppression.

Noted for difficulty in ingesting foods.

SP 21

Great Embracement

•

SP 21

•

English Name: Great Embracement

•

Pinyin Name: Dabao

•

Chinese Character: 大包 o

Mentioned classically that when this point is deficient, all the joints are flaccid, and when excess, pain all over the body.

Pain of the thoracic region.

Descends lung qi - cough, chest oppression, shortness of breath.

209

(UB) Urinary Bladder Meridian The Urinary Bladder Meridian is a Yang Meridian and is paired with the Yin Kidney Meridian.

Urinary Bladder Meridian - Flow This meridian is the longest and most complex meridian. It starts at the inner portion of the eyelid and travels across the front of the head to the back of the head. It then forms two branches that travel down the back to the sacrum along the spine. It then goes along the middle of the butt, and then to the back of the thigh. The two branches then meet behind the knee and travel between the calf along the Achilles tendon to the outside of the foot. The Urinary Bladder Meridian ends at the outside of the baby toe.

Element: Water Physical Imbalances: Headaches, back problems, or urinary problems including excessive urination and incontinence, pain in the eyes, tearing, colds.

Emotional Imbalances: Lack of energy, being inflexible, fearful - Resisting change and basic negative attitude are further expressions of Bladder Meridian imbalance.

When Balanced: Hopeful, looking forward, calmness, peaceful

Peak Hours: 3 pm -5 pm

210

UB Image

211

The UB Meridian â&#x20AC;˘

Internal/External Pathways Starts from the inner canthus and ascends to the forehead Joins the Governing Vessel Meridian at the vertex where a branch goes to the temple The straight portion enters and communicates with the brain It emerges and bifurcates to descend along the posterior aspect of the neck Runs down along the back enters the body cavity at the lumbar region Connects with the Kidney and joins the Bladder The lumbar branch descends through the gluteal region and ends in the popliteal fossa The branch from the neck runs down the back, and reunites in the popliteal fossa Descends the leg to the lateral side of the little toe 212

•

Measurements Needed GV 24 -to- ST 8 = 4.5 cun Anterior Hair Line -to- Posterior Hair Line = 12 cun Mastoid -to- Mastoid = 9 cun Posterior Midline (Spine) -to- Scapula = 3 cun 1st Bladder Meridian Line = 1.5 cun lateral to the spine 2nd Bladder Meridian Line = 3 cun lateral to the spine Gluteal Crease -to- Popliteal Fossa = 14 cun Centre of the Patellar Crease -to- External Malleolus = 16 cun

•

Precautions - [all] UB 1 - No Moxa, Slow Insert, No Manipulation UB 2 - No Moxa UB 3 - No Moxa UB 6 - No Moxa UB 8 - No Moxa UB 10 - No Moxa UB 30 - No Moxa UB 31 thru UB 34 - No Needling During Pregnancy UB 40 - No Moxa UB 67 - (Dr. So) No Moxa During Pregnancy Except to turn Breech

•

Point Relationships Governing Vessel Meridian line is important KD 3 is opposite UB 60

•

Additional Helpful Information

•

There are no points under T8

•

Before T8 the first Bladder Meridian line points have the second number of the vertebrae they are under (i.e. UB 12 is under T2, etc.)

•

There is an older numbering system for many of the Bladder Meridian points. To get the old numbers from the new system do the following: On the 2nd line on the back subtract 5 to get the old number On the posterior thigh add 14 to get the old number

213

UB 1

Bright Eyes

•

UB 1

•

English Name: Bright Eyes

•

Pinyin Name: Jing Ming

•

Chinese Character: 睛明 o

Main point for all eye disorders especially from wind (internal or external), excess, a/or heat.

Eye pain, strain, redness, swelling, itching, twitching, blurry vision, etc.

Myopia, color blindness, night blindness.

Glaucoma, optic nerve atrophy, cataracts.

UB 2

Bamboo Gathering

•

UB 2

•

English Name: Bamboo Gathering

•

Pinyin Name: Zan Zhu

•

Chinese Character: 攢竹 o

Local point for sinus congestion a/or headache.

Red, itchy, watery eyes - allergies.

Use in facial massage for headaches with GB 20, ST 8, LI 4, and UB 60.

Glaucoma, night blindness, blurry and/or weak vision.

Generally, needle towards UB 1 for eye disease or Yuyao for supraorbital pain.

214

UB 3

Eyebrow Ascension

•

UB 3

•

English Name: Eyebrow Ascension

•

Pinyin Name: Mei Chong

•

Chinese Character: 眉衝 o

Local point for headaches, nasal obstruction.

Epilepsy, agitation of the heart (possibly resulting in mania or excessive giddiness).

UB 4

Deviating Turn

•

UB 4

•

English Name: Deviating Turn

•

Pinyin Name: Qu Cha

•

Chinese Character: 曲差 o

Local point for headache and/or nasal issues.

Headaches, particularly frontal/sinus, eye pain, vision issues (dimness, blurry).

Nasal polyps, nosebleeds, allergies, rhinitis.

215

UB 5

Fifth Place

•

UB 5

•

English Name: Fifth Place

•

Pinyin Name: Wu Chu

•

Chinese Character: 五處 o

Local point for headache and/or eye pain.

Epilepsy, yang ascension issues (manic episodes, dizziness, etc.)

Sinus congestion, stuffy head.

UB 6

Light Guard

•

UB 6

•

English Name: Light Guard

•

Pinyin Name: Cheng Guang

•

Chinese Character: 承光 o

Local Point.

216

UB 7

Celestial Connection

•

UB 7

•

English Name: Celestial Connection

•

Pinyin Name: Tong Tian

•

Chinese Character: 通天 o

Local Point.

UB 8

Declining Connection

•

UB 8

•

English Name: Declining Connection

•

Pinyin Name: Luo Que

•

Chinese Character: 絡卻 o

Useful for removing obstructions causing Qi flow issues to the head/brain (heavy head, vertex pain, distention, depression)

217

UB 9

Jade Pillow

•

UB 9

•

English Name: Jade Pillow

•

Pinyin Name: Yu Zhen

•

Chinese Character: 玉枕 o

Local Point.

Tong Ren/Tam Healing System: Used to effect the cerebellum (muscle coordination, equilibrium). Useful for stroke recovery, ALS, MS, Parkinson's, etc.

UB 10

Celestial Pillar

•

UB 10

•

English Name: Celestial Pillar

•

Pinyin Name: Tian Zhu

•

Chinese Character: 天柱 o

Neck issues, stiffness, ROM, occipital headache. For stiffness on one-side of the neck combine with SI 3 on the same side &GB 39 on the opposite side.

218

Secondary point to release the exterior in wind-cold conditions, primary is GB 20.

UB 11

Great Shuttle

•

UB 11

•

English Name: Great Shuttle

•

Pinyin Name: Da Zhu

•

Chinese Character: 大杼 o

Wind disorders.

Hui-meeting point of the bones, useful with any bone or problem such as osteoporosis, arthritis, inflammation, sensation of heat in the bones, etc.

Useful adjunctive point to effect the lungs in cases of infections, colds a/or flus or asthma related conditions.

Sea of Blood Point with ST 37 & ST 39. According to the Ling Shu Treatise on the Seas, "when the Sea of blood is full, the patient has the sensation that his body is bigger than it is. One feels uneasy, and does not know the disease; when the Sea of blood is insufficient, one often feels the body is small, one feels uneasy and does not know the disease." May be useful for leukemia, anemia, said to tonify the bone marrow.

UB 12

Wind Gate

•

UB 12

•

English Name: Wind Gate

219

•

Pinyin Name: Feng Men

•

Chinese Character: 風門 o

Main point to expel wind from the Wei Qi level of the body, useful for early stages of wind-cold conditions.

Apply moxa here and on ST 36 to strengthen the Wei Qi.

UB 13

Lung Shu

•

UB 13

•

English Name: Lung Shu

•

Pinyin Name: Fei Shu

•

Chinese Character: 肺俞 o

Main point for all Lung problems: cough, asthma, bronchitis, sore throat, nasal congestion, shortness of breath, weakness of the voice, etc.

Useful for skin disorders, itching, acne, hives, etc.

Lung related emotional imbalances such as grief and sadness.

UB 14

Jue Yin Shu (Pericardium Shu)

•

UB 14

•

English Name: Jue Yin Shu (Pericardium Shu)

•

Pinyin Name: Jue Yin Shu

•

Chinese Character: 厥陰俞 o

For all heart conditions: palpitations, anxiety, stress, etc. Combine with PC 6 to open the chest.

220

As the "Jueyin Shu" you may also treat LV related conditions such as stagnation of LV Qi.

UB 15

Heart Shu

•

UB 15

•

English Name: Heart Shu

•

Pinyin Name: Xin Shu

•

Chinese Character: 心俞 o

Main point for all heart, blood and circulatory related issues of an excess or deficient nature.

Main point for all heart related emotional issues: palpitations, anxiety, stress, poor memory. Useful with PC 6, HT 7, CV 14 and/or UB 14.

Main point for insomnia.

Night sweats in Heart Qi a/or Yin deficiency.

UB 16

Governing Shu

•

UB 16

•

English Name: Governing Shu

•

Pinyin Name: Du Shu

•

Chinese Character: 督俞 o

Hot a/or toxic skin conditions (esp. on the back): acne, boils, etc.

221

UB 17

Diaphragm Shu

•

UB 17

•

English Name: Diaphragm Shu

•

Pinyin Name: Ge Shu

•

Chinese Character: 膈俞 o

Hui-meeting Point of the Blood, useful for all Blood related conditions. Classically combined with UB 19 to create the "Four Flowers" which is used to nourish the Blood, although in clinical practice UB 18 & UB 19may used equally as often.

For menstrual problems, from deficiency (scanty, light periods, amenorrhea) or stasis (dark clots, dysmenorrhea).

Important point for red, itchy skin disorders, from heat in the Blood: eczema, carbuncles.

As the "Diaphragm shu" it is useful for problems with diaphragmatic breathing or shortness of breath and other diaphragm related conditions such as belching or hiatal hernia.

UB 18

Liver Shu

•

UB 18

•

English Name: Liver Shu

222

•

Pinyin Name: Gan Shu

•

Chinese Character: 肝俞 o

Main point for all Liver related conditions: hepatitis, jaundice, cirrhosis, Blood stagnation, Qi stagnation, etc.

Main point for eye problems, pain, itching, dryness, redness, blurred vision, visual dizziness, twitching.

Main point for LV related emotional issues such as anger, depression, irritability, frustration, stress a/or PMS.

Useful for hypochondriac a/or subcostal pain/distention.

UB 19

Gallbladder Shu

•

UB 19

•

English Name: Gallbladder Shu

•

Pinyin Name: Dan Shu

•

Chinese Character: 膽俞 o

Shao Yang level diseases, alternating fever and chills.

Main point for damp heat in the Liver and Gall Bladder: hepatitis, cholecystitis, jaundice, vomiting, flank pain and distension, bitter taste in the mouth. Often combined with the LV Shu (UB 18).

UB 17 & UB 19 are classically known as the "Four Flowers," useful for tonifying the Blood.

Pain along the GB meridian (sides of the body) from any etiology, intercostal neuralgia, rib pain, trauma, herpes zoster.

Gall Bladder related emotional issues: indecision, timidity.

223

UB 20

Spleen Shu

•

UB 20

•

English Name: Spleen Shu

•

Pinyin Name: Pi Shu

•

Chinese Character: 脾俞 o

Main point for all Spleen problems: low energy, fatigue, prolapses, damp related conditions a/or bleeding disorders.

Commonly used for SP Qi Deficiency: fatigue, lack of appetite, abdominal bloating a/or distention, undigested food in the stools, chronic diarrhoea and/or belching.

UB 21

Stomach Shu

•

UB 21

•

English Name: Stomach Shu

•

Pinyin Name: Wei Shu

•

Chinese Character: 胃俞 o

Main point for all Stomach related issues: food stagnation, abdominal distention, borborygmus, mouth ulcers, vomiting, belching, nausea, etc.

Dissolve accumulations/lumps in the abdomen, combine with Pigen (point for lumps, tumours), 3.5 cun lateral to the lower border of L1.

Functions: 224

Harmonizes the Stomach and strengthens the Spleen

UB 22

Triple Burner Shu

•

UB 22

•

English Name: Triple Burner Shu

•

Pinyin Name: San Jiao Shu

•

Chinese Character: 三焦俞 o

As Triple Heater Shu this point effects conditions related to imbalances between the upper and lower parts of the body especially those related to water: edema, bloating, ascites, borborygmus, difficult or painful urination, urinary retention.

UB 23

Kidney Shu

•

UB 23

•

English Name: Kidney Shu

•

Pinyin Name: Shen Shu

•

Chinese Character: 腎俞 o

For all Kidney related issues which effect the brain, bone, hair, teeth a/or hearing.

Male deficiency related sexual problems: impotence, premature ejaculation, spermatorrhea, sterility, exhaustion following ejaculation.

225

Female sexual and reproductive disorders: dysmenorrhea, amenorrhea, cold uterus, frigidity, infertility, leucorrhoea.

Tonification point in deficiency conditions: exhaustion, weakness, chronic fatigue, good point for the elderly as Kidney Jing is naturally depleted.

Main point for acute or chronic low back pain, sprains a/or strains.

Useful for KD related ear issues: tinnitus, deafness, and chronic ear infections.

UB 24

Sea of Qi Shu

•

UB 24

•

English Name: Sea of Qi Shu

•

Pinyin Name: Qi Hai Shu

•

Chinese Character: 氣海俞 o

Back pain.

UB 25

Large Intestine Shu

•

UB 25

•

English Name: Large Intestine Shu

•

Pinyin Name: Da Chang Shu

•

Chinese Character: 大腸俞

226

Main point for low back pain especially when related to constipation a/or menstruation. Combine with local points such as GV 3, UB 26, Shiqizhui (between L5 and S1), UB 31, UB 32, GB 30 & distal points such as GB 34, GB 39, GB 41, UB 40, UB 57, UB 58, UB 60 & UB 62.

Main point for all intestine related issues: constipation, diarrhoea, dysentery, colitis, IBS, etc.

UB 26

Origin Pass Shu

•

UB 26

•

English Name: Origin Pass Shu

•

Pinyin Name: Guan Yuan Shu

•

Chinese Character: 關元俞 o

Low back pain.

UB 27

Small Intestine Shu

•

UB 27

•

English Name: Small Intestine Shu

•

Pinyin Name: Xiao Chang Shu

•

Chinese Character: 小腸俞 o

Main point for all Small Intestine related issues: damp heat effecting the bladder (difficult or painful urination, haematuria, dark urine), damp heat effecting the intestines (diarrhoea, dysentery). 227

UB 28

Bladder Shu

•

UB 28

•

English Name: Bladder Shu

•

Pinyin Name: Pang Guang Shu

•

Chinese Character: 膀胱俞 o

Main point for all Bladder issues: from damp heat (painful a/or dark urination), from cold (frequent urination, incontinence).

For dampness anywhere in the body, combine with SP 9 to expel dampness through urination.

UB 29

Central Backbone Shu

•

UB 29

•

English Name: Central Backbone Shu

•

Pinyin Name: Zhong Lu Shu

•

Chinese Character: 中膂俞 o

Local Point.

228

UB 30

White Ring Shu

•

UB 30

•

English Name: White Ring Shu

•

Pinyin Name: Bai Huan Shu

•

Chinese Character: 白環俞 o

Secondary point for KD related gynaecological disorders: menstrual problems, leucorrhoea, pelvic inflammatory disease, and endometriosis.

UB 31

Upper Bone Hole

•

UB 31

•

English Name: Upper Bone Hole

•

Pinyin Name: Shang Liao

•

Chinese Character: 上髎 o

UB 31, UB 32, UB 33 & UB 34 together form the "Eight Liao" points and are all useful for local low back a/or sacrum problems and most genital and urinary related disorders. Of these UB 32 is most often clinically used.

229

UB 32

Second Bone Hole

•

UB 32

•

English Name: Second Bone Hole

•

Pinyin Name: Ci Liao

•

Chinese Character: 次髎 o

OB/GYN issues: leucorrhoea, painful menstruation, blood stagnation.

Important point for easing labour pain and/or inducing labour.

UB 33

Central Bone Hole

•

UB 33

•

English Name: Central Bone Hole

•

Pinyin Name: Zhong Liao

•

Chinese Character: 中髎 o

230

UB 34

Lower Bone Hole

•

UB 34

•

English Name: Lower Bone Hole

•

Pinyin Name: Xia Liao

•

Chinese Character: 下髎 o

UB 35

Meeting of Yang

•

UB 35

•

English Name: Meeting of Yang

•

Pinyin Name: Hui Yang

•

Chinese Character: 會陽 o

Main point for haemorrhoids.

Trauma /or pain of the coccyx, deviation.

231

UB 36

Support

•

UB 36

•

English Name: Support

•

Pinyin Name: Cheng Fu

•

Chinese Character: 承扶 o

Low back pain/sciatica where pain runs down the posterior aspect of the leg.

Weakness of the lower limb.

UB 37

Gate of Abundance

•

UB 37

•

English Name: Gate of Abundance

•

Pinyin Name: Yin Men

•

Chinese Character: 殷門 o

Local Point.

232

UB 38

Superficial Cleft

•

UB 38

•

English Name: Superficial Cleft

•

Pinyin Name: Fu Xi

•

Chinese Character: 浮郄 o

Local Point.

UB 39

Bend Yang

•

UB 39

•

English Name: Bend Yang

•

Pinyin Name: Wei Yang

•

Chinese Character: 委陽 233

Damp heat conditions effecting the lower warmer: disperse for difficult urination.

Tonify for urinary incontinency.

UB 40

Bend Middle

•

UB 40

•

English Name: Bend Middle

•

Pinyin Name: Wei Zhong

•

Chinese Character: 委中 o

As the Lumbar Command Point, useful for all lumbar related issues: acute low back pain, sprain, muscle spasms, etc.

Main point for heat conditions such as summer heat, heatstroke and heat exhaustion.

Main point for all skin related issues: itching, oozing, inflammation, etc.

Good local point for leg and/or knee pain.

234

UB 41

Attached Branch

•

UB 41

•

English Name: Attached Branch

•

Pinyin Name: Fu Fen

•

Chinese Character: 附分 o

Local Point.

UB 42

Po Door

•

UB 42

•

English Name: Po Door

•

Pinyin Name: Po Hu

•

Chinese Character: 魄戶 o

Reinforce the Lung Shu (UB 13) for Lung related disorders: cough, asthma, etc.

Effect the psycho-emotional aspects of the Lung meridian.

Drain heat from the Lung.

235

UB 43

Gao Huang Shu

•

UB 43

•

English Name: Gao Huang Shu

•

Pinyin Name: Gao Huang Shu

•

Chinese Character: 膏肓俞 o

Main point for all disorders of the Lung and Upper Warmer: asthma, dyspnoea, cough, tuberculosis, etc.

Tonification point for cases of weakness and deficiency especially from chronic illness.

UB 44

Spirit Hall

•

UB 44

•

English Name: Spirit Hall

•

Pinyin Name: Shen Tang

•

Chinese Character: 神堂 o

Reinforce the HT Shu (UB 15) and treat Heart related psycho-emotional issues: anxiety, insomnia, et.

236

UB 45

Yi Xi

•

UB 45

•

English Name: Yi Xi

•

Pinyin Name: Yi Xi

•

Chinese Character: 譩譆 o

Local Point.

UB 46

Diaphragm Pass

•

UB 46

•

English Name: Diaphragm Pass

•

Pinyin Name: Ge Guan

•

Chinese Character: 膈關 o

Local Point.

237

UB 47

Hun Gate

•

UB 47

•

English Name: Hun Gate

•

Pinyin Name: Hun Men

•

Chinese Character: 魂門 o

Reinforce the LV Back Shu (UB 18) and help treat the psycho-emotional aspects of the LV: depression, frustration, etc.

Local poin.

UB 48

Yang Headrope

•

UB 48

•

English Name: Yang Headrope

•

Pinyin Name: Yang Gang

•

Chinese Character: 陽綱 o

Local Point.

238

UB 49

Reflection Abode

•

UB 49

•

English Name: Reflection Abode

•

Pinyin Name: Yi She

•

Chinese Character: 意舍 o

Reinforce the SP Shu (UB 20) especially with damp heat conditions: hepatitis, cholecystitis, wasting and thirsting (diabetes), et.

UB 50

Stomach Granary

•

UB 50

•

English Name: Stomach Granary

•

Pinyin Name: Wei Cang

•

Chinese Character: 胃倉 o

Local Point. 239

UB 51

Huang Gate

•

UB 51

•

English Name: Huang Gate

•

Pinyin Name: Huang Men

•

Chinese Character: 肓門 o

Local Point.

UB 52

Will Chamber

•

UB 52

•

English Name: Will Chamber

•

Pinyin Name: Zhi Shi

•

Chinese Character: 志室

240

Reinforce the KD Back Shu (UB 23) for fertility issues (impotence, infertility) a/or urinary issues especially from damp heat or KD Qi or Yang deficiency (incontinence, dribbling urine).

Local Point.

UB 53

Bladder Huang

•

UB 53

•

English Name: Bladder Huang

•

Pinyin Name: Bao Huang

•

Chinese Character: 胞肓 o

Local Point.

UB 54

Sequential Limit

•

UB 54

•

English Name: Sequential Limit

241

•

Pinyin Name: Zhi Bian

•

Chinese Character: 秩邊 o

Sciatica especially if pain radiates along the posterior aspect of the leg.

Five Lin (Painful Urination) disorder.

UB 55

Yang Union

•

UB 55

•

English Name: Yang Union

•

Pinyin Name: He Yang

•

Chinese Character: 合陽 o

Local Point.

242

UB 56

Sinew Support

•

UB 56

•

English Name: Sinew Support

•

Pinyin Name: Cheng Jin

•

Chinese Character: 承筋 o

Local Point.

UB 57

Mountain Support

•

UB 57

•

English Name: Mountain Support

•

Pinyin Name: Cheng Shan

•

Chinese Character: 承山 o

Main point for haemorrhoids from any etiology.

243

Main point for pain, swelling a/or cramping of the calf.

Heel a/or foot pain from trauma but also from paralysis a/or neurological disorder.

UB 58

Taking Flight

•

UB 58

•

English Name: Taking Flight

•

Pinyin Name: Fei Yang

•

Chinese Character: 飛陽 o

Releases the exterior for wind/wind-cold conditions, especially useful when accompanied with neck stiffness a/or occipital headache.

As Luo Connecting Point, which connects to the KD, useful for chronic low back pain, especially with weak lower limbs and KD deficiency.

"Excess above with deficiency below," weak low back w/tight stiff neck a/or low back pain with weak lower limb.

244

UB 59

Instep Yang

•

UB 59

•

English Name: Instep Yang

•

Pinyin Name: Fu Yang

•

Chinese Character: 跗陽

• o

Acute pain a/or spasm of the Bladder a/or Yang Qiao meridians.

Lateral ankle sprai.

UB 60

Kunlun Mountains

•

UB 60

•

English Name: Kunlun Mountains

•

Pinyin Name: Kun Lun 245

•

Chinese Character: 昆侖 o

Main point for pain anywhere along the spine (UB 40 may be used more for pain in the middle of the spine).

Main point for chronic low back pain a/or problems of pain a/or numbness in the lower limbs.

Main point for headache and other excesses effecting the head.

Induce labour or promote discharge of a retained Placenta.

UB 61

Subservient Visitor

•

UB 61

•

English Name: Subservient Visitor

•

Pinyin Name: Pu Can

•

Chinese Character: 僕參 o

Local Point.

246

UB 62

Extending Vessel

•

UB 62

•

English Name: Extending Vessel

•

Pinyin Name: Shen Mai

•

Chinese Character: 申脈 o

With SI 3 for low back pain, difficulty walking, spinal problems as well as wind-cold effecting the taiyang channels: stiff neck a/or shoulders, occipital headache, etc.

Insomnia, nervousness (especially late at night), combine with KD 6.

UB 63

Metal Gate

•

UB 63

•

English Name: Metal Gate

•

Pinyin Name: Jin Men

•

Chinese Character: 金門 o

Local Point. 247

UB 64

Capital Bone

•

UB 64

•

English Name: Capital Bone

•

Pinyin Name: Jing Gu

•

Chinese Character: 京骨 o

Has a relationship to the Heart and Spirit, good distal point for palpitations, chest pain, irritability, and mental confusion.

Local Point.

UB 65

Bundle Bone

•

UB 65

•

English Name: Bundle Bone

•

Pinyin Name: Shu Gu

•

Chinese Character: 束骨 o

Local Point. 248

UB 66

Valley Passage

•

UB 66

•

English Name: Valley Passage

•

Pinyin Name: Tong Gu

•

Chinese Character: 足通谷 o

Local Point.

UB 67

Reaching Yin

•

UB 67

•

English Name: Reaching Yin

•

Pinyin Name: Zhi Yin

•

Chinese Character: 至陰 o

Clears pain a/or stagnation from the opposite end of the channel: headache, eye pain, sinus pain, etc.

Use with moxabustion to adjust breech fetal position (generally indirect moxa for 10-20 minutes 1x/day). 249

(CV) Conception Vessel Meridian Conception Vessel Flow

This meridian has a major role in Qi circulation, monitoring and directing all of the Yin channels. It forms a circular entity with the Governing Vessel. In Qigong society, the Conception Vessel and the Governing Vessel are considered the most important among the Qi channels and vessels, and must be trained first. Whereas the Governing meridian runs from the tailbone upwards along the midline of the back through the vertebrae to the head, this Meridian runs up the anterior (front) of the body, from the pubic area to the mouth.

â&#x20AC;?The Conception vessel and the Governing vessel are like midnight and midday, they are the polar axis of the body ... there is one source and two branches, one goes to the front and the other to the back of the body ... When we try to divide these, we see that yin and yang are inseparable. When we try to see them as one, we see that it is an indivisible whole.â&#x20AC;? Li Shi-zhen

250

251

The CV Meridian •

Internal/External Pathways Originates inside of the lower abdomen and emerges from the perineum Runs anteriorly to the pubic region and ascends along the interior of the abdomen Passes through CV 4 and the other points to the throat Ascending further it curves around the lips Passes through the cheek and enters the infraorbital region (ST 1)

•

Measurements Needed Sternal Costal Angle -to- Umbilicus (CV 8) = 8 cun Umbilicus (CV 8 -to- Upper Border of the Symphysis Pubis = 5 cun CV 22 -to- CV 16 = 9 cun Suprasternal Fossa -to- Intercostal Angle (level with 5th ICS) = 9 cun

•

Precautions - [all] CV 2 thru CV 7 - No Deep Needle in Pregnancy and No Perpendicular Needling in Advanced Pregnancy CV 8 - No Needling CV 9 thru CV 15 - No Perpendicular Needling in Advanced Pregnancy The Conception Vessel Meridian has 24 points

CV 1

Meeting of Yin

•

CV 1

•

English Name: Meeting of Yin

•

Pinyin Name: Huiyin

•

Chinese Character: 會陰 o

Regulates lower yin orifices (genitalia, urethra, anus) - Good for all genitourinary issues, genital pain/itching, retention of urine, uterine prolapse.

Amenorrhea, irregular menstruation.

Haemorrhoids, anal prolapse.

Main point for drowning, coma, manic depression.

252

CV 2

Curved Bone

•

CV 2

•

English Name: Curved Bone

•

Pinyin Name: Qugu

•

Chinese Character: 曲骨 o

Generally useful for Deficiency and Cold-Type Genito-urinary issues retention of urine, dribbling urine, frequent urination.

Main point for feminine discharges, "red and white" discharges (leucorrhoea) along with other sexual/menstrual issues - dysmenorrhea, irregular cycles.

Male sexual issues such as impotence a/or seminal emission as well as any problems with the genitals (dryness, itching, dampness, pain).

CV 3

Central Pole

•

CV 3

•

English Name: Central Pole

•

Pinyin Name: Zhong ji

•

Chinese Character: 中極 o

Generally useful for Excess-Type Genito-urinary disorders.

Urinary disorders from excess heat, stagnation a/or dampness - cystitis, dark/burning/urgent/frequent urination, retention of urine. 253

Main point for damp-heat in the genital area - genital itching w/sensation of heat, rashes, genital herpes, impotence, seminal emission.

Yin excess accumulations - masses below the umbilicus, cold lower abdomen.

Moving and cooling point for Gynaecological disorders - dysmenorrhea, amenorrhea, fibroids, leucorrhoea, uterine bleeding, and uterine prolapse.

Running Piglet Disorder.

CV 4

Origin Pass

•

CV 4

•

English Name: Origin Pass

•

Pinyin Name: Guan Yuan

•

Chinese Character: 關元 o

Generally, useful for deficiencies of Yin, Yang, Qi & Blood.

Main point for tonifying Prenatal Qi - exhaustion, weakness, chronic fatigue/diseases.

Main point for Kidney deficiencies of Qi, Jing a/or Yang - low back pain, bone disorders, early morning (5 a.m., "cock-crow") diarrhoea. Rectal prolapse.

Genito-urinary issues with Deficient a/or Cold Patterns - incontinence, clear copious urine, nocturia (condition where one has to get up in night for urination).

Main point for all menstrual disorders with Deficient, Cold a/or Stagnation Patterns - scanty menstruation, pale blood.

Sexual / Fertility Issues - infertility, impotence, seminal emission, amenorrhea, bleeding during pregnancy.

Yang collapse - chills, profuse sweating, SOB, unconsciousness.

Tong Ren/Tam Healing System: An important point for the storage and development of Qi (energy), useful for deficiency conditions - weakness, shortness of breath, sexual issues. May also be used in Tong Ren (no needling) to ease delivery.

254

CV 5

Stone Gate

•

CV 5

•

English Name: Stone Gate

•

Pinyin Name: Shi Men

•

Chinese Character: 石門 o

Generally, useful for patterns of excess involving the lower abdomen and/or urinary tracts. Not used as often as other CV points.

Mentioned classically to both cause and treat infertility, although the cause may merely be incorrect needling which is specifically mentioned. Modern texts have largely ignored these cautions.

Useful for lower abdominal pain of an excess nature, genital pain/itching, Shan disorders, hernia.

Diarrhoea, undigested food in stools, poor appetite, abdominal pain, edema.

CV 6

Sea of Qi

•

CV 6

•

English Name: Sea of Qi

•

Pinyin Name: Qi Hai

•

Chinese Character: 氣海

255

Generally, useful for Qi Tonification.

Women's health - hernia, uterine bleeding, irregular menstruation, dysmenorrhea (painful menstruation / cramps), amenorrhea, leucorrhoea.

Men's health - impotence, seminal emission, night-time urination, hernia.

Deficiencies of the lower and middle warmers - abdominal distention, bloating, edema, poor digestion, loose stools, diarrhoea, fatigue.

Tonify ST/SP Qi Deficiencies.

Main point for prolapse of any type - rectum, uterus, etc. Lower abdominal and/or genital pain / swelling.

Stroke, loss of consciousness, weakness of the muscles and body generally.

Tong Ren/Tam Healing System: Main point for building and storing Qi (energy), useful for deficiency conditions - asthma, shortness of breath, general fatigue, etc.

CV 7

Yin Intersection

•

CV 7

•

English Name: Yin Intersection

•

Pinyin Name: Yin Jiao

•

Chinese Character: 陰交 o

This point is not used very often clinically, although its connections with the Chong, CV & KD meridians make it useful for Uterine and menstrual issues and running piglet disorder (similar to panic attacks).

Abdominal pain, bloating, edema, hernia, genital pain.

Irregular menstruation, uterine bleeding, leucorrhoea.

256

CV 8

Spirit Gate

•

CV 8

•

English Name: Spirit Gate

•

Pinyin Name: Shen Que

•

Chinese Character: 神闕 o

Main point for extreme collapse of Yang especially leading to cold in the intestines - warms the stomach and helps digestive disorders.

Diarrhoea, particularly from internal deficiency, but generally if other methods do not work.

Tonify body weakened from chronic illness/exhaustion.

Revival point from shock (esp. involving cold - hypothermia, frostbite), stroke, epilepsy.

CV 9

Water Divide

•

CV 9

•

English Name: Water Divide 257

•

Pinyin Name: Shui Fen

•

Chinese Character: 水分 o

Main point to move stagnation of water, especially in the middle warmer edema, urinary issues, poor digestion, borborygmus, GERD, vomiting after eating.

Useful for tonifying the SP or KD.

Weight loss prescriptions.

Good point for Moxa.

CV 10

Lower Venter

•

CV 10

•

English Name: Lower Venter

•

Pinyin Name: Xia Wan

•

Chinese Character: 下脘 o

CV 10 is indicated for issues with the lower stomach (stagnation, bloating, distention, weak digestion, diarrhoea, undigested food in the stool, vomiting, borborygmus).

CV 12 is indicated for issues with the middle stomach and CV 13 is indicated for the upper stomach.

258

CV 11

Interior Strengthening

•

CV 11

•

English Name: Interior Strengthening

•

Pinyin Name: Jian Li

•

Chinese Character: 建里 o

Digestive issues - bloating, poor appetite, vomiting after eating, borborygmus, anorexia.

Edema of the whole body.

CV 12

Central Venter

•

CV 12

•

English Name: Central Venter

•

Pinyin Name: Zhong Wan

•

Chinese Character: 中脘 o

CV 12 is useful for middle warmer issues, whereas CV 10 is useful for lower warmer issues and CV 13 is useful for upper warmer issues.

ST patterns arising from an excess or a deficiency, tonify deficient SP patterns (moxa useful) - nearly all digestive issues - pain, bloating, reflux, vomiting, diarrhoea, jaundice.

Hui Meeting Point - broad effect on the Fu (hollow) organs in the body.

Stress related digestive disorders (nervous Stomach, heartburn, diarrhoea) along with various symptoms such as insomnia, anxiety, etc. particularly from worry and/or overthinking. 259

Tong Ren/Tam Healing System: Used for all digestive issues and oesophagus issues, also useful for weight loss.

CV 13

Upper Venter

•

CV 13

•

English Name: Upper Venter

•

Pinyin Name: Shang Wan

•

Chinese Character: 上脘 o

CV 13 is useful for upper warmer issues (vomiting, hiatal hernia, hiccups, epigastric pain), whereas CV 12 is useful for middle warmer issues and CV 10 is useful for lower warmer issues.

Abdominal pain a/or distention, epigastic pain, nausea, vomiting.

Spleen deficiency related heart and emotional issues - insomnia, anxiety, palpitations, heart pain, running piglet, and sensations of heat in the chest and/or body (possibly without sweating).

CV 14

Great Tower Gate

•

CV 14

•

English Name: Great Tower Gate

•

Pinyin Name: Ju Que

•

Chinese Character: 巨闕 o

Any Shen or Heart issue arising from an Excess or a Deficiency.

Front Mu Point of the HT - angina, pain/tightness in the Heart area.

Nausea, reflux, acid regurgitation, vomiting, abdominal a/or epigastric pain.

260

Shen disturbances arising from Phlegm "misting the mind" - manic depression, muddled thinking, anger outbursts, poor memory, anxiety, palpitations, panic attacks, epilepsy.

Descends lung qi - cough, asthma.

CV 15

Turtledove Tail

•

CV 15

•

English Name: Turtledove Tail

•

Pinyin Name: Jiu Wei

•

Chinese Character: 鳩尾 o

Luo Connecting Point - upper abdomen issues, chest tightness/oppression, cardiac area pain.

Heart / Shen related psychological issues - epilepsy, palpitations, mania.

Digestive issues such as nausea, reflux, and upper chest issues such as sore throat, wheezing.

CV 16

Centre Palace

•

CV 16

•

English Name: Centre Palace

•

Pinyin Name: Zhong Ting

•

Chinese Character: 中庭 o

Local point for chest and intercostal distention and pain.

Hiccups, nausea, anorexia, difficulty ingesting.

261

CV 17

Chest Centre

•

CV 17

•

English Name: Chest Centre

•

Pinyin Name: Dan Zhong

•

Chinese Character: 膻中 o

Main point for Tonification of the upper warmer.

Hui Meeting Point of the Qi - tonify and move the Qi of the body.

Chronic lung issues - cough, asthma, SOB, diaphragmatic pain.

Breast issues - insufficient lactation, mastitis.

Chest/Throat issues (rattling in throat w/asthma, difficulty swallowing, palpitations), counter flow Qi problems - guides the Qi downwards.

Tong Ren/Tam Healing System: Important point for overall Qi (energy) in the body, useful for asthma.

CV 18

Jade Hall

•

CV 18

•

English Name: Jade Hall

•

Pinyin Name: Yu Tang

•

Chinese Character: 玉堂 o

Local point for chest issues - pain, cough, asthma, sore throat.

Counter flow - vomiting, difficulty ingesting.

262

CV 19

Purple Palace

•

CV 19

•

English Name: Purple Palace

•

Pinyin Name: Zi Gong

•

Chinese Character: 紫宮 o

Local point for chest issues - pain, cough, asthma.

Counter flow qi - vomiting, difficulty ingesting.

CV 20

Florid Canopy

•

CV 20

•

English Name: Florid Canopy

•

Pinyin Name: Hui Gai

•

Chinese Character: 華蓋 o

Local point for chest issues - pain, asthma, wheezing, cough.

Counter flow qi - difficulty ingesting.

CV 21

•

CV 21

Jade Pivot 263

•

English Name: Jade Pivot

•

Pinyin Name: Xuan Ji

•

Chinese Character: 璇璣 o

Local point for chest issues - pain, cough, asthma, wheezing.

Resolve food stagnation in the stomach (often with ST 36), difficulty ingesting.

CV 22

Celestial Chimney

•

CV 22

•

English Name: Celestial Chimney

•

Pinyin Name: Tian Tu

•

Chinese Character: 天突 o

All throat/vocal cord disorders - sore/dry throat, hoarseness, swallowing issues, speech issues such as loss of voice, cracked voice.

Window of the Sky Point - useful for aphasia.

Upper chest Qi/Stagnation issues - asthma, wheezing, pain in the upper chest, tightness, oppression.

CV 23

Ridge Spring

•

CV 23

•

English Name: Ridge Spring

•

Pinyin Name: Lian Quan

•

Chinese Character: 廉泉

264

Main point for speech/mouth disorders, often used in victims of stroke swelling and pain in the throat/tongue area, stiff tongue, inability to speak, difficulty swallowing.

Salivation issues - excessive drooling or dry mouth/thirst.

CV 24

Sauce Receptacle

•

CV 24

•

English Name: Sauce Receptacle

•

Pinyin Name: Cheng Jiang

•

Chinese Character: 承漿 o

Facial pain/paralysis - Bell's palsy, stroke affecting the face, mouth and/or tongue.

Dental pain - teeth and/or gums.

Speech issues - loss of voice, hoarseness, difficulty swallowing.

Dry mouth as seen in wasting and thirsting disorders (i.e. diabetes).

265

(GV) Governing Vessel Meridian The Governing Vessel Meridian... 'Sea of Yang Meridians'

The Governing and Conception Vessels are two branches of the same source, and inseparable Yin-and-Yang, front-and-back duality. These vessels connect the uterus with the kidneys, heart, and brain. Regulating the Governing and Conception Vessels is a priority in Medical Qigong practice. Along these vessels, the Yang Fire and Yin Essence flow up and down the body, fusing the Water and Fire energies together (Five Elements Healing). This fusion facilitates a Yin and Yang balance throughout the body. The Governing Vessel Meridian is Yang in nature and starts from the uterus, runs down to the central region of the pelvis around the genitals and into the external orifice of the urethra in women and around the penis in men. It passes by the anus, moves upward from inside the coccyx and sacrum and enters the brain. The external portion runs to the lower end of the nose bridge and ends at the gum. Governing Vessel Meridian Branches: * The first branch runs side by side with the kidney meridian, enters the spine from the coccyx and sacrum region and links with the kidney. * The second branch runs side by side with the Urinary bladder meridian, ascends from the corner of the eye, reaches the vertex (upper most part of the head) and links with the brain. Then it runs downward the neck beside the spine. * The third branch arises directly from the uterus and through the umbilicus, then passes through the heart, enters the throat, comes to the mandible, runs around the lips and ends below the eyes.

266

The GV Meridian â&#x20AC;˘

Internal/External Pathways Arises from the lower abdomen and emerges from the perineum At GV 16 a branch enters the brain and another continues around the head

267

•

Measurements Needed Posterior Hairline -to- C7 (GV 14) = 3 cun Posterior Hairline -to- Anterior Hairline = 12 cun Anterior Hairline -to- Glabella = 3 cun Anterior Hairline -to- GV 20 = 5 cun Posterior Hairline -to- GV 20 = 7 cun Vertebral Landmarks Superior Angle of the Scapula = approx T2 Spine of the Scapula = approx T3 Inferior Angle of the Scapula = approx T7 Posterior Iliac Crest = approx L4

•

Precautions - [all] GV 4 - No Moxa in males under 20 years old (Dr. So) GV 6 - No Moxa GV 15 - No Moxa, No Deep Needle GV 16 - No Moxa, No Deep Needle GV 25 thru GV 28 - No Moxa

•

Additional Helpful Information

•

The Governing Vessel Meridian has no points under the following vertebrae: Cervical: 2,3,4,5,6 Thoracic: 2,4,8,12 Lumbar: 3,5

•

Finding GV points on the head: First find GV 20 For Posterior points find GV 16 (6 cun below) Split in half and you have GV 18 Split each remaining half for GV 17 and GV 19 respectively For Anterior points GV 24 is .5 cun posterior to the hairline GV 23 is .5 cun posterior to GV 24 GV 22 is 1 cun posterior to GV 23 Midway between GV 22 and GV 20 is GV 21

268

GV 1

Long Strong

•

GV 1

•

English Name: Long Strong

•

Pinyin Name: Chang Qiang

•

Chinese Character: 長強 o

Main point for haemorrhoids from excess or deficiency, anal prolapse, anal fissure; other haemorrhoid points: UB 25, UB 30, UB 32, UB 35, UB 57, Erbai.

Diarrhoea with or without blood in the stools, constipation.

Important point for genitourinary disorders, for the five types of painful urinary disorder (Five Lin), urinary retention, sexual exhaustion, impotence, seminal emission.

Main point for disorders of the coccyx. Injuries to the coccyx will generally cause the tip of the coccyx to point more ventrally, to deviate to one side, or both, affecting the energetics of the spine and the whole body.

A strong descending action on spirit disorders - epilepsy, manic depression.

GV 2

Lumbar Shu

•

GV 2

•

English Name: Lumbar Shu

•

Pinyin Name: Yao Shu

•

Chinese Character: 腰俞 269

May be used instead of GV 1 for anal issues - prolapse, haemorrhoids.

Warming point, for cold in the lower warmer, irregular menstruation, amenorrhea or uterine bleeding from deficiency, leucorrhoea, weakness or atrophy of the lower limbs, seminal emission, impotence, diarrhoea.

Coccyx pain with difficulty sitting or pain at the opposite end of the channel, posterior neck pain, occipital or frontal headache.

GV 3

Lumbar Yang Pass

•

GV 3

•

English Name: Lumbar Yang Pass

•

Pinyin Name: Yao Yang Guan

•

Chinese Character: 腰陽關 o

Warming point for cold or cold damp in the lower warmer, often treated with moxa for low back pain from deficiency, women's discharges (leucorrhoea) due to cold, dysmenorrhea, irregular menstruation, impotence, seminal emission, infertility, incontinence, colitis, edema, pain or weakness of the lower limb or knee.

Name is "lumbar gate" or "lumbar hinge," at this point the low back bends in flexion, treat for pain when bending forward.

Differentiation: GV 3 is a more local point whereas GV 4 is for back pain resulting from yang deficiency

GV 4

Life Gate

•

GV 4

•

English Name: Life Gate

•

Pinyin Name: Ming Men 270

•

Chinese Character: 命門 o

from the whole body, for heat disorders of the five zang (The term zàng (脏) Clears heat refers to the organs considered to be yin in nature - Heart, Liver, Spleen, Lung, Kidney), malarial disorders, steaming bone disease (can be associated with Tuberculosis among other conditions, a feeling of heat very deep in the body - Kidney Yin Deficiency from a TCM perspective).

Main point for tonifying Kidney qi and yang, for low back pain, weak knees, copious nocturnal urination, impotence, seminal emissions, deficient cold menstrual disorders, dysmenorrhea, cold-type vaginal discharge, daybreak diarrhoea (5 a.m.) - possibly diarrhoea with blood in the stools. Works well with ginger moxa.

Adrenal exhaustion from stress or overwork, fatigue, lack of sexual vitality or sexual exhaustion.

Epilepsy, tinnitus, dizziness, fear, panic attacks a/or fright.

Haemorrhoids, rectal prolapse.

GV 5

Suspended Pivot

•

GV 5

•

English Name: Suspended Pivot

•

Pinyin Name: Xuan Shu

•

Chinese Character: 懸樞 o

Local point for low back pain.

Diarrhoea, indigestion, poor assimilation (undigested food in stools, running piglet (similar in ways to a panic attack), Shan (abdominal pain, indigestion, swelling of the genitalia, hernias).

271

GV 6

Spinal Centre

•

GV 6

•

English Name: Spinal Centre

•

Pinyin Name: Ji Zhong

•

Chinese Character: 脊中 o

General and Local spine problems.

Adjusts the Spleen, reinforces UB 20, for loss of appetite, abdominal pain and fullness, diarrhoea, jaundice, haemorrhoids.

Epilepsy, rectal prolapse in children (dead man).

GV 7

Central Pivot

•

GV 7

•

English Name: Central Pivot

•

Pinyin Name: Zhong Shu

•

Chinese Character: 中樞 o

Local point for back pain.

Epigastria pain, abdominal pain a/or bloating, poor appetite, amenorrhea.

Reinforce UB 19 Gallbladder Shu.

272

GV 8

Sinew Contraction

•

GV 8

•

English Name: Sinew Contraction

•

Pinyin Name: Jin Suo

•

Chinese Character: 筋縮 o

Reinforces Liver Back-shu (UB 18), special point for spasms in the sinews, general muscles tightness and contraction, spine stiffness, combine with GB 34, Huatuo of T9-T10, UB 18, LV 3, LV 8, LV 14.

Stress, irritability, physical heart pain, repressed anger, overly expressed anger.

Manic depression, epilepsy.

Mentioned for epigastria and cardiac pain.

GV 9

Extremity of Yang

•

GV 9

•

English Name: Extremity of Yang

•

Pinyin Name: Zhi Yang

•

Chinese Character: 至陽 o

Important point for mid-thoracic pain, chest and flank pain radiating from the back.

Asthma, cough, difficulty speaking due to shortness of breath, opens the chest and relaxes the diaphragm, combine with UB 17and Huatuo of T7.

Important point for LV/GB disharmony, especially involving damp heat, for hepatitis, jaundice, cholecystitis

273

GV 10

Spirit Tower

•

GV 10

•

English Name: Spirit Tower

•

Pinyin Name: Ling Tai

•

Chinese Character: 霊台 o

Clears Blood heat and infectious toxicity, for carbuncles, furuncles, boils, abscesses anywhere on the body but especially on the upper back, neck and face. Good point for acne.

Neck a/or back pain.

Cough, asthma.

GV 11

Spirit Path

•

GV 11

•

English Name: Spirit Path

•

Pinyin Name: Shen Dao

•

Chinese Character: 神道 o

Important point for spirit problems, palpitations, anxiety, poor memory, muddled thinking, absent-mindedness, insomnia, has strong effect on mind and mood, combine with Huatuo of T5 and UB 15 for stress.

Pain and stiffness of the upper back, cardiac region pain a/or discomfort, cough, asthma.

Differentiation: GV 11 is mostly for deficiency of HT & LU whereas GV 12 is more for excess of HT & LU. 274

GV 12

Body Pillar

•

GV 12

•

English Name: Body Pillar

•

Pinyin Name: Shen Zhu

•

Chinese Character: 身柱 o

Heat in the lungs and chest, cough, asthma, chest pain, mentioned classically for whooping cough (use cupping).

Supporting point for chronic conditions affecting the lungs, for deficiency asthma, exhaustion from deficient Lung qi.

Used for strengthening deficiencies and promoting strong development in children, epilepsy.

Classically noted for "seeing ghosts" and "rage with desire to kill" (dead man text) - which can indicate a range of stronger modern psychological issues such as schizophrenia, manic depression, bipolar depression. It does this by clearing excess heat from heart and lungs (i.e. chest), which can lead to an unsettled spirit.

GV 13

Kiln Path

•

GV 13

•

English Name: Kiln Path

•

Pinyin Name: Tao Dao

•

Chinese Character: 陶道

275

Special for steaming bone disorder or inflammatory diseases affecting the bones, chills and fever.

Important point for malaria.

Stiffness of the neck a/or spine, heavy head, headaches.

GV 14

Great Hammer

•

GV 14

•

English Name: Great Hammer

•

Pinyin Name: Da Zhui

•

Chinese Character: 大椎 o

Meeting point of all yang meridians, GV 14 is indicated for exterior conditions as it expels pathogens and firms the yang; clearing heat and fevers whether mild or severe; and for tonifying the yang and strengthening the neck and spine.

Main point for acute wind cold or wind heat, colds and flu, especially with fever and chills, opens the pores to cause sweating. If a patient with underlying deficiency presents with chills and no fever use moxa.

Main point for reducing high fevers, combine with LU 11, UB 40 (can bleed these points). Main point for summer heat.

Cough, asthma.

Main point for spontaneous sweating from qi deficiency or night sweats from yin deficiency.

Main point for neck and upper back pain and stiffness, combine with GB 20, UB 10, UB 11,UB 12, Bailao, SI 12, SI 13, etc. As the tissue is often thick here, insert slowly and use mild manipulation, then redirect needle towards each shoulder using oblique insertion.

Strengthens the Wei qi, wind cold can enter the body through the triangle formed by GV 14 and UB 12. Keep this area warm, supple and flexible with needle, moxa, massage to promote longevity.

Epilepsy, hypertension, insomnia, nosebleed. 276

Tong Ren/Tam Healing System: Used for bone issues (arthritis, spurs, and scoliosis), calcium issues, and hand issues.

GV 15

Mute's Gate

•

GV 15

•

English Name: Mute's Gate

•

Pinyin Name: Ya Men

•

Chinese Character: 啞門 o

Opens the orifices refers to the mouth, throat and tongue, for throat swelling, hoarseness, post-stroke speech disorders, important point for muteness due to tongue stiffness or vocal cord disorders.

Epilepsy, stroke, manic depression, loss of consciousness.

Occipital headaches, especially with neck stiffness, upper cervical pain and restricted neck rotation, heaviness of head - GV 15 lies over the space between C1 and C2, and can help release the sub occipital musculature which compresses the Atlanto-occipital joint.

Tong Ren/Tam Healing System: Used to stimulate the medulla and limbic system, useful for emotional issues.

277

GV 16

Wind Mansion

•

GV 16

•

English Name: Wind Mansion

•

Pinyin Name: Feng Fu

•

Chinese Character: 風府 o

Main point for wind, whether exterior or interior, particularly affecting the head and neck. For wind cold headache, stiff neck, aversion to wind; as well as dizziness, visual dizziness, numbness, twitching, tremors.

Window of the Sky point, promotes communication between the head and body, many indications are consistent with other points of this group, such as headache, dizziness, throat swelling, earache, eye pain, nosebleeds, aphasia.

Psychological issues such as mania, palpitations from fear a/or fright, suicidal thoughts.

Tong Ren/Tam Healing System: Used to effect the medulla function (breathing issues, asthma, tight chest, etc.), but GV 17 is used more frequently, useful in spinal cord issues.

278

GV 17

Brain's Door

•

GV 17

•

English Name: Brain's Door

•

Pinyin Name: Nao Hu

•

Chinese Character: 腦戶 o

Neck/Cervical issues, pain a/or stiffness of the neck, heaviness of the head, headache, dizziness.

Epilepsy, mania, lockjaw, loss of voice.

Eye pain, excessive lacrimation.

Tong Ren/Tam Healing System: Used to effect the medulla functions (heart, lung, blood vessel issues), useful for palpitations, asthma/shortness of breath, multiple sclerosis, Lou Gehrig's, muscular dystrophy (ALS).

GV 18

Unyielding Space

•

GV 18

•

English Name: Unyielding Space

•

Pinyin Name: Qiang Jian

•

Chinese Character: 強間 o

Regulates the liver and calms wind. 279

Stiff neck, headache.

Visual dizziness, blurring of vision.

Epilepsy, Insomnia, Manic Depression.

Tong Ren/Tam Healing System: Used to effect the autonomic nerves, balances internal organs qi, useful for fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, hormone imbalance.

GV 19

Behind the Vertex

•

GV 19

•

English Name: Behind the Vertex

•

Pinyin Name: Hou Ding

•

Chinese Character: 後頂 o

Headaches, vertigo, dizziness, neck pain, aversion to wind.

Insomnia, psychological issues primarily with manic symptoms, epilepsy.

Tong Ren/Tam Healing System: Used to stimulate the sensory cortex (sensations from skin, muscles, and sensory organs), useful for any sensory issue, stimulation also useful for improving qi sensations within treatments, qi gong, etc.

280

GV 20

Hundred Convergences

•

GV 20

•

English Name: Hundred Convergences

•

Pinyin Name: Bai Hui

•

Chinese Character: 百會 o

Main point for headache, dizziness, eye pain and redness, irritability, hypertension from excess yang in the upper body, often occurring with patterns of excess Liver yang or Liver fire. Combine with lower body points such as LV 2, LV 3, KD 1, GB 34, and GB 41.

Main point for internal wind which has some overlapping indications with the above entry, for headaches, dizziness, visual dizziness, tinnitus, vertex pain, wind stroke, seizures.

Main point for prolapse, anal, uterine, vaginal; main point for haemorrhoids.

Tong Ren/Tam Healing System: Used to effect the association area (related to emotions, memory, behaviour), useful for low energy, yang energy imbalances, Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, motor control issues.

281

GV 21

Before the Vertex

•

GV 21

•

English Name: Before the Vertex

•

Pinyin Name: Qian Ding

•

Chinese Character: 前頂 o

Epilepsy - acute and chronic (for children avoid needling before the fontanel has closed).

Headaches, migraines, blurry vision, pain a/or swelling along the vertex a/or face.

Tong Ren/Tam Healing System: Used to effect the motor cortex, useful for all movement issues, stroke recovery.

GV 22

Fontanel Meeting

•

GV 22

•

English Name: Fontanel Meeting

•

Pinyin Name: Xin Hui

•

Chinese Character: 囟會 o

Nasal issues - congestion, olfactory problems (i.e. distinguishing smells), nosebleed, polyps.

Headaches, primarily from wind in the Chinese Medicine sense of the term, dizziness, vertigo.

Psychological issues, particularly related to fear a/or fright, panic attacks, palpitations. 282

Tong Ren/Tam Healing System: Used to effect brain and scalp issues, useful for brain tumours, multiple sclerosis, muscular dystrophy, Lou Gehrig's (ALS). Also helpful for improving focus in children (ADD/ADHD).

GV 23

Upper Star

•

GV 23

•

English Name: Upper Star

•

Pinyin Name: Shang Xing

•

Chinese Character: 上星 o

Main point for nose problems, nasal congestion, rhinitis, nasal polyps, sinus headache.

Eye/Vision issues - short-sightedness, visual dizziness, painful/red eyes.

Facial swelling.

Psychological issues, primarily with wind derived mania symptoms from a TCM perspective.

Tong Ren/Tam Healing System: Used for face and cervical issues, useful for sinus congestion, eye issues, and neck pain/cervical disc issues.

GV 24

Spirit Court

•

GV 24

•

English Name: Spirit Court

•

Pinyin Name: Shen Ting

•

Chinese Character: 神庭

283

Local point for frontal headache, chronic sinusitis, nosebleeds, nasal discharge, excessive tearing.

Psychological issues with anxiety/mania as a main symptom - anxiety, panic attacks, fear, add, manic depression.

Epilepsy, dizziness.

Tong Ren/Tam Healing System: Effects the cranial, useful for all issues related to the cranial nerves, TMJ, vertigo.

Differentiation: GV 23 is more for nose problems whereas GV 24 is more for headaches.

GV 25

White Bone-Hole

•

GV 25

•

English Name: White Bone-Hole

•

Pinyin Name: Su Liao

•

Chinese Character: 素髎 o

Important point to restore or help maintain consciousness, for shock, loss of consciousness, to revive from drowning.

Rosacea, circulation issues in nose.

Nasal issues - rhinitis, polyps, discharge, inability or changes in olfactory sensations (smell).

May reduce alcohol intoxication (dead man).

284

GV 26

Water Trough

•

GV 26

•

English Name: Water Trough

•

Pinyin Name: Shui Gou

•

Chinese Character: 人中 o

One of two Command Points (with PC 6) added to the original four, for fainting, collapse. Main point for restoring consciousness, for shock, revival from fainting, weakness, helps patient to awaken, use fingernail in an emergency.

Main point for acute low back sprain, helps relieve pain and restore motion, moves stagnation at the opposite end of the channel. After obtaining the Qi, have patient bend then rotate the waist.

Nosebleed, nasal discharge issues, problems with olfactory sensations (smell).

Manic-depression and other strong shen disturbances, epilepsy (seizures).

GV 27

Extremity of the Mouth

•

GV 27

•

English Name: Extremity of the Mouth

•

Pinyin Name: Dui Duan

•

Chinese Character: 兌端

285

Problems of the mouth and sinuses - tongue ulcers, bad breath (halitosis), pain a/or swelling of the gums, nosebleed, nasal congestion.

Psychological/Shen issues - manic depression, epilepsy, etc.

GV 28

Gum Intersection

•

GV 28

•

English Name: Gum Intersection

•

Pinyin Name: Yin Jiao

•

Chinese Character: 齦交 o

Pain a/or swelling of the gums, stiffness in the lips.

Nasal issues - polyps, congestion, pain.

Neck pain a/or stiffness with difficulty turning head.

Stronger psychological issues, particularly with symptoms of mania.

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Extra Points Head & Neck Ex6 •

Sishencong (EX) Sischencong God's Cleverness A group of 4 points, at the vertex,1 cun posterior, anterior and lateral to GV 20.

•

Pacifies wind and calms the spirit - useful for wind stroke, epilepsy, headache, dizziness, generally relaxation.

•

Non-needle methods w/children for poor development, mental retardation, ADHD.

•

Issues w/memory or thinking, combine with GV 20 a/or GB 20.

Ex 1 •

Yintang (EX) Yintang Hall of Seal Midway between the medial ends of the eyebrows

•

Calms the spirit - insomnia, anxiety, stress.

•

Frontal headache.

•

Sinus issues - congestion, sinusitis.

•

Tong Ren/Tam Healing System: Eye and sinus issues, useful point for building the energy in the head during qi gong.

Ex 3 •

Yuyao (EX) Yuyao Fish Loin At the midpoint of the eyebrow in a depression directly above the pupil.

287

•

Frontal headache a/or pain in the supraorbital region.

•

Disorders of the eyelids, pterygium.

Ex 2 •

Taiyang (EX) Taiyang Great Sun At temple, in a depression about 1 cun posterior to the midpoint between the lateral end of the eyebrow and the outer canthus of the eye.

•

Temporal, one-sided a/or migraine headaches.

•

Eye issues - pain, swelling, redness, photophobia, visual acuity.

•

Local point for toothache, facial paralysis, pain, etc.

•

Classically mentioned in the Ode of the Jade Dragon for swelling of the breast (bleed bilaterally).

•

Tong Ren/Tam Healing System:

Headaches, dizziness, eye and/or sinus issues.

For migraines use with GB 20 and LI 4.

•

Qianzheng (EX) Qianzheng One Hole 0.5 - 1.0 cun anterior to the auricular lobe Indication: Deviation of the eyes and mouth, ulceration on tongue and mouth. Oblique 0.5 - 1.0.

•

Facial issues - paralysis, bell's palsy, deviations of the eyes, mouth, etc..

•

Ulceration of the tongue and/or mouth.

•

Erjian (EX) Erjian Ear Apex With the posterior half of the ear folded forward, the point is located at the highest point of the superior crease.

288

•

This point is usually bled to reduce strong heat in the body - high fever, red/swollen throat, mumps, etc.

•

Hypertension.

•

Bitong (EX) Bitong Nose Opening At the highest point of the nasolabial folds (grooves, smile line).

•

Local point for nasal issues - obstruction, congestion, sinusitis, rhinitis.

•

Biyan (EX) Biyan Eyes of Nose Lateral to the midline and midpoint of the nose, between the hard and soft bones of the nose.

•

Local point for nasal issues - obstruction, congestion, sinusitis, rhinitis.

EX 10 •

Jinjin (L) & Yuye (R) (EX) Jinjin (L) and Yuye (R) Golden Fluid / Jade Fluid •

On the veins on either side of the frenulum of the tongue - Jinjin is on the (L)eft side and Yuye is on the (R)ight side.

•

Issues of the tongue - swollen tongue esp. w/difficult speaking, salivary gland issues, post-stroke asphasia.

•

Sun Si Mao indicated bleeding the point for sudden swelling of the tongue which obstructs breathing.

289

•

Bailao (EX) Bailao Hundred Labors 2 cun above GV 14 (C7) and 1 cun lateral.

•

Lung issues - cough, dyspnoea, asthma.

•

Local point for stiff neck, shoulder a/or back pain.

Ex 8 •

Anmian (EX) Anmian Peaceful Sleep Midpoint between TH 17 and GB 20

•

Sleep issues - insomnia, dream-disturbed sleep

Ex 7 •

Yiming (EX) Yi Ming Names Eye Brightening •

1 cun posterior to TH 17.

•

Sleep issues - insomnia, dream-disturbed sleep.

•

Eye Disorders.

•

Tinnitus.

•

Tian Dong (EX) Tian Dong Sky Movement

•

Center point between GV 14 and CV 22, below SI 16, behind LI 17 at the corner of the neck and shoulder, angling 45 degrees downward towards C7. •

Note: This point is not a standard acupuncture point; it was developed by Master Tam for use within the Tam Healing System.

•

Tong Ren/Tam Healing System: Used to effect the circulation within the vertebral artery. Useful for Alzheimer’s, brain tumours, dyslexia, MS, and many brain issues related to circulation.

290

•

Falls into the category of Window of the Sky points within the Tam Healing system.

Chest & Abdomen •

Qipang (EX) Qipang Navel Triangle Points Using the width of the mouth as the measure, construct a equilateral triangle with the navel at the apex, the two lower angles are Qipang.

•

Cold disorders of the lower abdomen - hernia, amenorrhea, cramping.

•

Moxa for infertility due to cold in the uterus

•

Zigongxue (EX) Zigongxue Uterus Point •

4 cun below the umbilicus, 3 cun lateral to the anterior midline.

•

Uterine Issues - dysmenorrhea, infertility, prolapse

Back & Waist Ex 21

Huatuojiaji (EX) Huatuojiaji Hair Clip •

A group of 34 points, .5 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous processes of T1-L5. note: "C#" refers to the cervical vertebrae, "T#" to the

thoracic vertebrae, and "L#" to the lumbar vertebrae. Used extensively within the Tam Healing System and Tong Ren Therapy. See Tam Healing System - Huatuo Jiaji Points for details. 291

•

Regulate the 5 Zang & the 6 Fu.

•

T1-T3 Huatuo Points: disorders of the upper limbs and lungs.

•

T4-T6 Huatuo Points: disorders of the HT.

•

T7-T9 Huatuo Points: LV/GB issues.

•

T10-T12 Huatuo Points: ST/SP issues.

•

L1-L2 Huatuo Points: KD issues.

•

L3-L5 Huatuo Points: UB, LI, SI, Uterine & Lower Limb issues.

•

Herpes Zoster (shingles) - needle level of effected nerve segments

Ex 17

Dingchuan (EX) Dingchuan Stop Asthma •

.5 cun lateral to GV 14 (C7). •

Lung issues - asthma, wheezing.

•

Local point for neck, shoulder a/or upper back pain

Yaoyan (EX) Yaoyan Eye of Lumbar •

3.5 cun lateral to the lower border of L4 (GV 3). •

Low back pain, especially from deficient KD

Shiqizhui (Josen) 17th Vertebrae •

Below the spinous process of L5 on the posterior midline

•

Lower back/body issues - back pain, sciatica, pain of the lower limbs.

•

Reactive in many gynaecological conditions - useful local point 292

Upper Limbs Jianqian (EX) Jianqian Front of shoulder •

Midway between LI 15 and the anterior axillary crease. •

Local point for shoulder a/or chest pain

Ex 24

Erbai (EX) Erbai Two Whites •

4 cun above the wrist crease, proximal to PC 7 on both sides of the flexor carpi radialis tendon.

•

Issues of the anus - haemorrhoids (esp. w/bleeding), anal itching, rectal prolapse

•

Ex 30

Shixuan (EX) Shixuan Ten Dispersing •

4 cun above the wrist crease, proximal to PC 7 on both sides of the flexor carpi radialis tendon.

•

Issues of the anus - haemorrhoids (esp. w/bleeding), anal itching, rectal prolapse

Ex 29

Sifeng (EX) Sifeng Four Cracks •

Midpoint of the crease of each proximal interphalangeal joint.

•

Serious digestive conditions - severe malnutrition, malabsorbtion of food, poor digestion

293

Ex 28

Baxie (EX) Baxie Eight Ghosts •

On the dorsum of the hand, at the webs between each finger, at the junction of the red & white skin.

•

Issues of the hand - pain, spasm, numbness.

•

Mentioned in the Ling Shu for malaria

Ex 26

Luozhen (EX) Luozhen Falling Down from Pillow •

On the dorsum of the hand between the 2nd and 3rd metacarpal bones, about .5 cun posterior to the metacapalphalangeal joint.

•

Acute issues of the neck - strain, sprain, whiplash (needle on effected side)

Ex 27

Yaotongxue (EX) Yaotongxue Low Back Pain Point •

On the dorsum of the hand, midway between the transverse wrist crease and the metacarpalphalangeal joint, between both the 2nd and 3rd and the 4th and 5th metacarpals (2 points on each hand).

•

Acute issues of the low back - pain, sprain, strain (needle the same side)

Lower Extremities Ex 31 Heding (EX) Heding Top Crane •

In a depression at the midpoint of and superior to the patella.

294

•

Knee issues - pain, stiffness, tension

Ex 32

Xiyan (EX) Xiyan Eye of Knee •

Lateral (ST 35) and medial knee depressions.

•

All knee disorders - pain, inflammation, etc.

Ex 35 Dannang Xue (EX) Dannang Xue GB Point •

1-2 cun below GB 34 (palpate for most tender point).

•

Found on the (R)ight leg, useful for GB issues - acute cholecystitis, gall stones, post-surgical pain

Ex 33

Lanweixue (EX) Lanweixue Appendix Point •

2 cun below ST 36.

•

Found on the (R)ight leg, acute or chronic appendicitis or enteritis

Neimadian (EX) Neimadian Neimadian •

Found on the inside of the lower leg, 7 cun above the internal malleolus and 0.5 cun from posterior edge of the tibia.

•

Post-operative pain, often used with electro-acupuncture.

•

Nao Qing (EX) Nao Qing Clear the Brain •

2 cun proximal to ST 41 on the ST 36 - ST 41 line.

•

Issues related to thinking - memory improvement, mental clarity

•

295

Shimian (EX) Shimian Lost Sleep •

In the center of the heel on the bottom of the foot.

•

Needle or moxa to help with insomnia

Ex36

Bafeng (EX) Bafeng Eight Winds •

On the dorsum of the foot between the web and metatarsophalangeal joint (4 points on each foot).

•

Foot issues - pain, swelling, numbness.

•

Mentioned in the Ling Shu for malaria

•

296

Acupressure Point Selection Before selecting acupressure points for treatment you should already have established a diagnosis based on Chinese Medicine principles. The diagnosis is drawn from utilizing TCM diagnostic examinations such as the tongue and pulse among others. Some general TCM diagnoses and their meanings are found here or read our more detailed TCM Diagnostic Patterns section. One of the benefits of Chinese Medicine is the inherent flexibility of the system. With this, however, comes the need to reduce many treatment options into the most effective set of points. Many of the point selection guidelines below will overlap when you choose points in an effective manner. In other words, if the condition you are treating can be treated with points where the local and distal points you are using are paired in some way and indicated clinically for the condition you are treating you can treat with a very small number of points.

Local Area Point Selection: Local area points are generally used to reduce inflammation, ease pain, and to improve the circulation of Qi and Blood in a specific area. For example, in the case of low back pain you may use the huatuo points to treat inflammation and pain near a herniation. One may choose local points by area as described above or by the clinical usage of the point. In the example of low back pain this would include points such as UB 23 which is useful locally and as it is the Back Shu point of the Kidney it is useful for all chronic/acute low back issues. Treatment area point selection may also include the addition of adjacent and/or distal points.

Adjacent Point Selection Adjacent points are chosen due to their proximity to the area of injury or for the clinical significance. For example, CV 17 for disorders of the breast, lung, or throat areas. Another example would be using TH 5 for issues of the wrist, hand and/or fingers.

Distal Point Selection Distal points are chosen by either clinical usage, by their relationship to points you are using locally, or in relation to one of many synergistic point groupings such as vessel

master/couple pairings. For example, in the case of asthma you may use Dingchuan as a local point, and LU 7 and KD 6 which both have valid clinical usages as distal points individually. Additionally, LU 7 and KD 6 are the yin qiao and ren mai extraordinary vessel pair which may further strengthen the clinical effect of using these points.

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Acupuncture Point Selection Based on Symptomology Acupuncture points are often selected simply by their clinical indications. Within this category are the empirical points that are often used within treatments regardless of the system you are using to choose points. Examples are ST 36 for Qi Deficiency, SP 1 for uterine bleeding, or ST 40 for dampness in the body. Additionally, points are used from empirical pairings such as SI 3 and HT 6 for night sweats.

Acupuncture Point Selection Based on TCM Diagnosis Within this group you select points based on your TCM diagnosis. For example, someone experiencing Chronic Fatigue Syndrome may have a TCM diagnosis of Yang Deficiency with Qi Stagnation. You would then choose points to build the Yang energy of the body (KD 3, KD 7, UB 23) and to resolve Qi stagnation (LI 4 and LV 3 as the “four gates” pairing used empirically to move qi within the body).

Acupuncture Point Selection Based on Meridian/Body Pairings Within this group you can choose points as Yin/Yang pairs. For example, SP 6 and ST 36 for Blood Deficiency. Each point individually is clinically valid, but they are related as

the Stomach Meridian is the yang pair of the Spleen which is yin. You may also choose points based on hand/foot meridian relationships. These pairings such as Tai Yang are illustrated on our meridian chart, found here. An example would be using SI 3 and UB 62 for low back pain. The Small Intestine and Urinary Bladder meridians are the Tai Yang meridian as well as the yang qiao mai and du mai extraordinary vessel pair. Related to the hand/foot meridian relationships is the symmetry or cross-needling method. Here you may choose points on the opposite side of the body such as LI 4 on the (R) side to treat a problem with the (L) index finger. You may also choose points on the opposite part (i.e. top and bottom) of the body in addition to it being on one side or the other. For example, if a trauma is in the area of PC 4 on the (R) side you could needle LV 5 on either the (R) or (L) side of the body depending on the theories you are using. In addition to the basic pairings and point selection guidelines, point choices are often driven by the many point categories which are covered in detail here. A common question among patients of acupuncture and Chinese Medicine is “How many treatments will I need?”. The answer depends greatly on the condition being treated, the relative skill level of practitioner and the overall health of the patient. In general, a precise prognosis is only possible after a practitioner has seen the patient at least 2-3 times and has followed the response from initial treatments closely. In general, most conditions should respond at least with symptomatic improvement within 3-10 treatments. Listed below are some general guidelines related to forming a prognosis.

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Organ vs. Meridian Pathology In general meridian imbalances take less time to treat than deeper organ imbalances. Interior vs. Exterior Patterns In general exterior patterns take less time to treat than interior ones. For example, a cough (external wind-cold) takes less time to treat than the heat in the lung variation of sinusitis.

Qi vs. Blood It is generally easier to build and/or move Qi than it is to build and/or move Blood. For example, Qi Stagnation will resolve faster than Blood Stagnation. Deficiency vs. Excess It is generally easier to drain an excess pathology than to build up a deficiency. Additionally, there are variations within these broad categorizations. For example, a Yang Deficiency may take longer to build than Qi Deficiency. On the deficiency side, Yin Deficiency may take longer to build than Blood Deficiency. Dampness and Phlegm

Dampness is generally considered easier to treat than Phlegm. They are both, however, slow to move and resolve by their nature and will generally complicate other imbalances. Lifestyle/Psycho-Emotional Factors Conditions that have fostered certain states of imbalance (living in a damp environment for example), left unresolved will generally hinder the treatments. On a psycho-emotional level, the continued repression, over expression or over experience of certain emotional states will also make imbalances more difficult to resolve.

Factors related to the Four Stages The prognosis is worsened depending on the stage of disease ranging from the Wei level, to the Qi level, to the Ying, to the Blood. Factors related to the Six Stages The prognosis is worsened depending on the stage of disease ranging from Tai Yang, to Yang Ming, to Shao Yang, to Tai Yin, to Shao Yin, to Jue Yin. â&#x20AC;˘

Organ Patterns:

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Yin Meridians:

299

YIN MERIDIANS Heart Excess Patterns

Signs

Tongue

HT Fire

Palpitations, thirst, tongue/mouth ulcers, restlessness, red complexion, bitter taste in morning

Full, rapid, Red w/yellow coat, overflowing red point on tip (esp. in HT)

Phlegm Fire

Mental confusion, lack of mental clarity, palpitations, restlessness, incoherent speech, rash behaviour, tendency towards hitting a/or scolding people, uncontrollable laughter a/or crying, mani depression

Red w/yellow greasy coat, possibly red points Full, slippery on tip and/or deep midline crack running to the tip

Phlegm Phlegm signs w/o heat, mental Misting the confusion, unconsciousness, rattling Mind (Heart) sound in the throat, aphasia, vomiting

Thick greasy coat

Pulse

Slippery

HT Blood Stagnation

Angina, chest oppression, HT pain which may radiate down to the left arm or shoulder (emotionally or Purplish physiologically related), palpitations, cyanosis of the lips (in more severe cases)

Knotted

Deficiency Patterns

Signs

Tongue

Pulse

HT Blood Deficiency

Palpitations, dizziness, insomnia, dream disturbed sleep, anxiety, easily startled, poor memory, poor concentration, dull pale complexion, lips are likely to be pale

Thin or choppy Pale, possibly thin, (many times felt maybe dry in the HT position)

HT Qi Deficiency

Palpitations on exertion, spontaneous sweating, fatigue

Pale, possibly a midline crack down to the tip

HT Yin Deficiency

Similar to Blood Deficiency but with more anxiety and restlessness, palpitations, insomnia, dream disturbed Red or peeled sleep, easily startled, poor memory, w/no coat fidgeting, mallor flush, night sweats, heat in the 5 palms, dry mouth

HT Yang

Similar to HT Qi Deficiency (palpitations Pale, wet & swollen Deep, weak, on exertion, fatigue, spontaneous possibly 300

Empty

Floating, empty or Thin, fast

Deficiency

HT Yang Collapse

sweating) but with cold limbs, feeling of cold, bright pale face Serious, patient should go to hospital, severe palpitations, weak and shallow breathing, cyanosis of the lips

knotted

Pale or purple

Hidden, minute or very knotted

Kidney Deficiency Patterns

Signs

Tongue

Pulse

KD Qi Deficiency

SOB, asthma, cold limbs, weak back a/or knees, copious clear urination, incontinence, night-time urination

Pale

Deep, weak possibly tight

KD Yin Deficiency

Dizziness, tinnitus, vertigo, sore back, constipation, may also have empty heat signs, mallor flush, night sweats, heat in the 5 palms, insomnia, dry throat

Red w/no coat, may have horizontal cracks, red tip w/empty fire

Floating, empty, rapid

KD Yang Deficiency

Sore a/or weak back/knees, sensation of cold, aversion to cold, weak lower limbs, lassitude, clear copious urine, poor appetite, loose stools, edema (which can be severe)

Pale, swollen, wet possibly a white coat w/strong water signs

Deep, weak possibly slow w/strong water signs

KD Jing Deficiency

In children poor physical a/or mental development - In adults weakening of the Red, peeled bones, teeth, back a/or knees, memory problems, lessening of sexual libido/ability

Floating, empty

Liver Excess Patterns

Signs

Tongue

Pulse

LV Qi Stagnation

Chest distention, hypochondriac pain a/or distention, sighing, nausea, vomiting, poor appetite, diarrhoea, depression, moodiness, plum pit qi, PMS, breast tenderness, painful and/or irregular menstruation

Normal

Wiry

LV Blood Stagnation

Abdominal pain, palpable masses in the Purple, possibly abdomen, irregular a/or painful menstruation w/purple spots possible with dark clots, purple nails, purple

301

Wiry

lips LV Cold Stagnation

Pain in the genital area, general cold signs

Pale, wet w/white coat

LV Fire

Headache, irritability, explosive anger, dizziness, tinnitus, bitter taste in the mouth, red face, red eyes, dream-disturbed sleep, constipation

Red, dry w/yellow coat, Wiry, full, possibly redder rapid along the LV/GB area

LV Wind

Can come from LV Blood Deficiency, LV Yang Rising or from Internal heat generating wind (discussed here), muscle spasms, convulsions, high fever, fairly serious condition

Red, stiff w/thick Wiry, rapid, yellow coat full

Stroke, aphasia, dizziness, twitching

Floating, Red, peeled empty or possibly deviated Wiry, fine, rapid

LV Yang

Wiry, deep, slow

Chest a/or hypochondriac pain/distention, LV/GB jaundice, fever, bitter taste in the mouth, Damp Heat poor appetite, nausea, vomiting, swelling and/or itching of the genitals

Red w/yellow sticky coat

Slippery, wiry, rapid

Deficiency Patterns

Signs

Tongue

Pulse

LV Blood Deficiency

Numbness in the extremities, tics, tremors, dizziness, blurred vision, floaters, insomnia, dry skin/hair, scanty or lack of menstruation

Pale, thin, dry

Thin, choppy

Lung Excess Patterns

Signs

Wind-Cold Invasion

Fever & chills w/chills predominating, body ache, stuffy nose w/clear runny Thin white coat mucus, sneezing, scratchy throat, lack of sweat, possibly a headache

Wind-Heat Invasion

Fever & chills w/fever predominating, sore throat, stuffy a/or runny nose w/yellow discharge, headache, slight sweating, no thirst

Tongue

Damp-Phlegm Chronic cough which comes in bouts,

302

Pulse Floating, possibly a little tight

Thin yellow coat or Thin white coat Floating, w/slightly red tip rapid and edges Thick sticky white

Slippery or

Obstructing

profuse white sputum that is easy to coat expectorate, fullness of the chest, asthma is possible, can be either a chronic or acute condition

Weak, floating & fine

Phlegm-Heat Obstructing

Barking cough, SOB, asthma, chest oppression, yellow/green mucus (main difference from damp-phlegm above)

Red, thick sticky yellow coat

Slippery, rapid, full

Deficiency Patterns

Signs

Tongue

Pulse

LU Qi Deficiency

Fatigue, SOB, weak voice, spontaneous daytime sweating, catch colds easily/frequently, pale complexion

Pale, slightly swollen

Empty

LU Yin Deficiency

Dry cough possibly w/blood tinged sputum, dry throat a/or mouth, hoarseness, night sweats, mallor flush

Red, no coat, probably peeled, Thin, rapid horizontal cracks in or Floating, the LU area empty possible

LU Dryness

Not as severe as LU Yin Deficiency, dry cough, dry throat, hoarseness, dry skin

Empty, possibly Floating, empty

Dry

Spleen Excess Patterns

Signs

Damp-cold

Poor appetite, chest a/or epigastria distention, sensation of cold in the abdomen which feels better Thick sticky Slippery, with the application of heat, heavy head a/or body, white coat slow lack of thirst, loose stools

Damp-heat

Epigastria and/or abdominal oppression, lack of appetite, heavy body, thirst with little/no desire to drink, abdominal pain, loose stools with strong odour possibly w/burning anus, nausea, vomiting, fever, headache

Yellow sticky coat

Slippery, rapid

Deficiency Patterns

Signs

Tongue

Pulse

Poor appetite, distention after eating, weakness of the four limbs, fatigue, loose stools

Pale, swollen w/teeth marks

Empty

SP Qi Deficiency

Tongue

303

Pulse

SP Qi Deficiency (above) plus prolapses of the SP Qi Sinking stomach, uterus, anus a/or vagina along with frequency a/or urgency of urination

Pale

Empty or weak

SP Qi not controlling Blood

SP Qi Deficiency (above) plus haemorrhages, vaginal Pale bleeding, bleeding under the skin

Fine

SP Yang Deficiency

Pale, wet, Further progression of SP Qi Deficiency (above) with swollen more cold signs, cold limbs, chilliness, edema (more w/teeth in the middle warmer) marks

Deep

YANG MERIDIANS Stomach Excess Patterns

Signs

Tongue

Pulse

ST Fire

Constant hunger, painful, swollen a/or bleeding gums, regurgitation a/or vomiting likely after eating, burning sensation in the epigastrium, nausea, constipation

Red, dry w/thick yellow coat

Full, deep, rapid

ST Excess Cold

Usually an acute situation, acute pain in the epigastrium which feels better with warm foods/drinks a/or the application of heat and worse with cold

Thick white coat

Deep, slow, tight

ST Rebellious Qi

Pattern usually appears with ST a/or other organ patterns and is related to the ST not descending the Qi, regurgitation, belching, hiccups, vomiting

Normal

Tight

ST Food Retention

Vomiting, regurgitation, belching, epigastria pain a/or distention, lack of appetite, insomnia

Thick yellow Full, or white coat slippery

Deficiency Patterns

Signs

Tongue

Pulse

ST Qi Deficiency

Poor appetite, lack of taste, dull sensation in the epigastrium, weak limbs, loose stools

Pale

Empty

ST Yin Deficiency

Epigastria pain, poor appetite, heat in the 5 palms, Red or Floating, constipation, dry mouth a/or throat, thirst w/no peeled in the empty desire to drink ST/SP area

304

Five Element Pathology and Clinical Applications As described in the introduction there are a variety of ways in which the theory is used clinically. Our Japanese section describes the five phase treatments in detail and our classical five element (Worsley style) page describes the ways in which a pure five element practitioner would utilize the theory. This section describes the basic ways in which a practitioner of traditional Chinese medicine applies the theory in a clinical setting. The Five Shu (transporting) Points, listed below, represent the relationship of the theory to individual acupuncture points. Our understanding of these points is based largely on the information within the Nan-Ching: The Classic of Difficult Issues.

Five Shu Points Yin Meridians

Jing-well Ying-spring Shu-stream Jing-river (Wood) (Fire) (Earth) (Metal)

He-Sea (Water)

LU 11

LU 10

LU 9

LU 8

LU 5

PC 9

PC 8

PC 7

PC 5

PC 3

HT 9

HT 8

HT 7

HT 4

HT 3

SP 1

SP 2

SP 3

SP 5

SP 9

LV 1

LV 2

LV 3

LV 4

LV 8

KD 1

KD 2

KD 3

KD 7

KD 10

Yang Meridians

Jing-well Ying-spring Shu-stream Jing-river (Metal) (Water) (Wood) (Fire)

He-Sea (Earth)

LI 1

LI 11

LI 2

LI 3

305

LI 5

TH 1

TH 2

TH 3

TH 6

TH 10

SI 1

SI 2

SI 3

SI 5

SI 8

ST 45

ST 44

ST 43

ST 41

ST 36

GB 44

GB 43

GB 41

GB 38

GB 34

UB 67

UB 66

UB 65

UB 60

UB 40

The major point categories (i.e. jing well, etc.) described above are discussed in more detail here. For the purposes of this discussion an extract from the chart above showing only the Mother and Child points provides a good starting point to understand the application of the theory to acupuncture. The Mother and Child points for each meridian are derived from the chart above using the following logic. According to the generating cycle the mother of Earth is Fire and the child of Earth is Metal. Using this information for the Yin Earth Meridian (Spleen) the mother point is the Fire point on the Spleen meridian SP 2 and the child point is the Metal point on the Spleen meridian SP 5.

Mother & Child Five Element Points Mother

Child

Lung (Metal)

LU 9

LU 5

Large Intestine (Metal)

LI 11

LI 2

Stomach (Earth)

ST 41

ST 45

Spleen (Earth)

SP 2

SP 5

Heart (Fire)

HT 9

HT 7

Small Intestine (Fire)

SI 3

SI 8

Urinary Bladder (Water)

UB 67

UB 65

Kidney (Water)

KD 7

KD 1

Pericardium (Fire)

PC 9

PC 7

Triple Heater (Fire)

TH 3

TH 10

Gall Bladder (Wood)

GB 43

GB 38

LV 8

LV 2

Liver (Wood)

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A clinical example of this theory would be dispersing the child point of the Wood meridian (Liver) - LV 2 - in the case of LV Fire Rising where a patient is experiencing LV signs such as anger and irritability along with HT related signs such as disturbed sleep and agitation. Another example would be tonifying the mother point of the Earth meridian (Spleen) - SP 2 - in the case of SP Qi Deficiency where a patient is experiencing poor appetite and low energy. The example above brings up an interesting point from the perspective of a TCM practitioner. While the five element theory is a useful tool in many cases, there are times where the theory indicates a point which clinical experience has proven to be less effective than another point. In the case above, SP 2 is indicated by the theory whereas SP 3 is more commonly used for this condition. Some of the points which have varying degrees of correspondence with the theory are: •

HT 9 & PC 9 - are most often used to clear heat.

•

SI 3 & SI 8 - reduce heat, pain and stagnation but provide no tonifying effect.

•

LI 11 - is typically dispersed to clear heat.

•

TH 3 - has no tonification effects.

•

ST 41 - is typically used to disperse fever a/or reduce abdominal distension, although it can be as a local point in a tonifying manner to increase energy flow to the foot.

•

SP 2 - is not the most tonifying point on the SP meridian - SP 3 is a better choice.

•

UB 67 - dispersive point for acute conditions.

•

GB 43 & GB 38 - are both used to clear heat.

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Some Important Acupressure Points Acupressure points for emotional well-being. Their location, photograph, use and warnings are listed. Each point is on the left, as well as on the right, on the body.

▪

GB-44

▪

LIV-1

▪

LU-9

▪

TW-17

▪

KI-3

▪

LIV-2

▪

P-7

▪

TW-5

▪

KI-4

▪

LIV-3

▪

SI-19

▪

KI-6

▪

LU-1

▪

SI-5

▪

LI-11

▪

LU-3

▪

SP-6

▪

LI-4

▪

LU-7

▪

ST-36

GB-44 Name: Yin Portals of the Foot (Gall Bladder 44) Location: On the fourth toe, in the outer corner of the nail (so near the smallest toe). Use: Press. Effects: Enhances decisiveness and focus, while resolving anger. For timidity.

KI-3 Name: Supreme Stream (Kidney 3) Location: On the inside of the foot, halfway between the Achillestendon and the side of the ankle-bone. Use: Press. Effects: Heals effects on the body of too much fear. (Also for lower back pain.) KI-4 Name: Great Bell (Kidney 4) Location: On the inside of the foot, near the Achilles-tendon, level with the lower part of the ankle-bone. Use: Press. Warning: Using this point to go against your heart or beyond your limits will damage your health even further. This will be the case when there are dark circles around your eyes. Effects: Strengthens the will and dispels fear. For timidity. 308

KI-6 Name: Shining Sea (Kidney 6) Location: On the inside of the foot, directly below the middle of the ankle bone. Use: Press. Effects: Heals effects on the body of too much fear. Enhances vision. LI-11 Name: Crooked Pond (Large Intestine 11) Location: On the side of the elbow, on the outer side of the arm. Bend your forearm with your hand towards your neck, the point is located at the end of the crease at the elbow. This is halfway up the side of the arm. Use: Reduce, so move your finger in counter clockwise direction over this point. move counter Warning: Use this point only when there is Heat, as when you're clockwise red in the face or your skin feels hot to the touch and you're feeling warm from prolonged anger (not from exertion). Don't use when weak or low on energy. Effects: Heals effects on the body of too much anger.

LI-4 Name: Joining of the Valleys (Large Intestine 4) Location: On the top side of the hand, on the web between thumb and index finger. To locate, squeeze the thumb against the base of the index finger. The point is located on the highest point of the bulge of the muscle, level with the end of the crease. Use: Press. Warning: Don't use this point during pregnancy. Effects: Letting go of grief. Calms.

309

LIV-1 Name: Great Esteem (Liver 1) Location: On the big toe, at the bottom corner of the nail at the side of the other toes. Use: Press. Effects: Assertiveness, discerning when to go along with others and when to assert oneself. Self-esteem. LIV-2 Name: Moving Between (Liver 2) Location: On the foot, between the big toe and the second toe, a half thumb width from the margin of the web. Use: Reduce, so move your finger in counter clockwise direction over this point. Warning: Use this point only when there is Heat, as when you're red in the face or your skin feels hot to the touch and you're feeling warm from prolonged anger (not from exertion). Don't use when weak or low on energy. Effects: Heals effects on the body of too much anger.

move counter clock wise

LIV-3 Name: Great Surge (Liver 3) Location: On the foot, on the line between the big toe and the second toe. The point is located about 3 finger widths from the edge, in the depression the size of a fingertip you can feel there. Use: Reduce, so move your finger in counter clockwise direction over this point. Warning: Don't use when weak or low on energy (in that case use SP-6 instead). Effects: Relaxes and unblocks emotions (especially repressed anger). Depression.

LU-1 Name: Middle Palace (Lung 1) Location: On the top of the chest, under the shoulder. First locate the depression under the end of the clavicle, next to the muscle. LU-1 is one thumb width under this point, slightly to the side. Use: Press. Effects: For internal emptiness and making contact to one's inner worth. (Also, for cough and asthma.)

310

move counter clockwise

LU-3 Name: Heavenly Palace (Lung 3) Location: On the upper arm, one hand width under the armpit (axillary fold). The point is located in the depression between the muscles from the shoulder and the biceps (under the shoulder muscle). Use: Press. Effects: For grief, feelings of loss and longing, internal emptiness and making contact to one's inner worth. (Also for cough and asthma.) LU-7 Name: Broken Sequence (Lung 7) Location: Keep your hand with the nail of the thumb up. Move your thumb up and back (away from the palm of your hand), this reveals a depression at the bottom of the thumb, called the "anatomic snuffbox" (between two tendons). Move your finger from the anatomic snuffbox along the side of your lower arm, until you feel a bone sticking out (about a thumb's width from it). LU-7 is located on that bone, in between the two tendons you feel there. You can press it with the nail of your thumb or index finger. Use: Press. Effects: Heals effects on the body of too much grief. LU-9 Name: Very Great Abyss (Lung 9) Location: On the palm-side of the wrist, in the depression beneath the thumb, between the point where you can feel your pulse and the tendon that goes to your thumb. Use: Press. To increase the effectiveness of this point, combine it with SP-6 or ST-36. Effects: For grief, feelings of loss and longing, spiritual emptiness, many regrets. (Also moistens skin, and for cough and asthma.)

P-7 Name: Great Mount (Pericardium 7) Location: On the middle of the palm-side of the wrist, in the depression between the two tendons, on or just below the crease of the wrist. Use: Reduce, so move your finger in counter clockwise direction over this point. Warning: Don't use when weak or low on energy. Effects: Heals effects on the body of too much joy or emotion. Also diminishes nervousness.

311

move counter clock wise

SI-19 Name: Palace of Hearing (Small Intestine 19) Location: Near the ear, just before the small projection in front of the ear canal. The point is located in the depression that forms when the mouth is opened. Use: Press. Warning: Don't use on a regular basis; this point is meant for gaining insight only. Effects: To focus and listen to one's heart and the hearts of others. SI-5 Name: Yang Valley (Small Intestine 5) Location: Near the wrist, on the pinkie-side of the hand. It is a finger's width under the crease of the wrist, in the depression just above the bone that is sticking out. It's not straight above the bone, but straight under the pinky finger. Use: Press. Effects: Improves concentration, reduces distractibility. Clarity of mind to distinguish the right path to take among several.

SP-6 Name: Three Yin Intersection (Spleen 6) Location: On the inside of the lower leg, one hand width (four fingers) above the tip of the ankle bone, on the back of the shin bone. Use: Press. Warning: Don't use this point during pregnancy. Effects: Calms, relaxes and reduces irritability. Heals effects on the body of too much fear, worrying and thinking. (Also used for gynaecological conditions.)

ST-36 Name: Leg Three Miles (Stomach 36) Location: On the front of the leg, one hand width (four fingers) below the kneecap, on the outside, in the depression between the shinbone and the leg muscle. What can go wrong is that you may be locating it somewhat too low on the leg. The point is immediately one hand breadth below the kneecap, so if you'd use something thick, like a finger, you might get half a finger breadth to low. It's at the outside of the bone that's on the front of the lower leg, one finger breadth from the crest of that bone. 312

Use: Press. A fingernail or thumbnail is particularly suited for this point, as you will be able to press more closely to the bone and on a broad range. Warning: Using this point to go beyond your limits (e.g. overwork) will damage your health even further. Effects: Increases stamina and energy. Provides stability and grounding. Heals effects on the body of too much worrying and thinking. TW-17 Name: Wind Screen (Triple Warmer 17) Location: At the bottom part of the ear, behind the earlobe, in the depression the size of a fingertip. Use: Press. Effects: Makes less sensitive to what people think of you.

TW-5 Name: Outer Frontier Gate (Triple warmer 5) Location: On the lower arm, on the top side, two thumb widths below the crease of the wrist. In the middle, in the depression between the bones and tendons. Use: Press. Effects: Increases expressiveness and sensitivity to feelings.

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Traditional Chinese Medicine Acupuncture & Meridian Byol Charts In understanding the anatomy of the human body as a whole, the hands and feet themselves represent a smaller, but nevertheless true, mirror image of the whole body. Within this view, the thumbs and large toes represent the head. Also, in addition to serving their normal functions as appendages to the four limbs (legs and arms), the hands and feet are endowed with an exquisite "remote control" function which can cure diseases throughout the whole body. Knowledge of the principles through hand and foot acupuncture will provide an impressive vehicle for personal and family health care. THERE IS A PRINCIPLE IN HAND AND FOOT ACUPUNCTURE WHICH SAYS THAT WHEN BODIES ARE SIMILAR THEN THE WAY THEIR CORRESPONDENCE REACTIONS WORK MUST ALSO IS SIMILAR. One of the characteristics of the human body is existence of a certain correspondence system between the whole of the body and some of its parts. Through this system the whole of the body is represented in many places all over the body. Correspondence works in such way that the whole of the body and its representations are interactive. Thus if a part of the body is affected with a disease it is also reflected in the place which represents the affected part. And on the other hand a stimulation of a place which represents a particular part of the body raises a reaction in the represented part. A general idea of existence of this type of body correspondence has already been proved by anatomy and physiology. A new type of therapy which Prof Park Jae Woo, have generally named Hand and Foot Acupuncture (Su Jok Acupuncture) is a method of curing diseases by stimulation of the hands and the feet with a combined use of acupuncture, medical treatment aids like Moxibustion, finger pressure therapy and others like Seeds, Metal stars, Byol magnets etc. Research has already established correspondence between the body and the hand led to a discovery of a new system of correspondence, in which the thumb represents the head. In addition to that, He was also able to confirm the fact that the foot has the same type of correspondence as the hand. Presuming that an autonomous system of therapy will also be possible through the foot I approached it with acupuncture and Moxibustion. This way an application of the domain of Oriental Medicine - acupuncture - exclusively to the hands and the feet developed a new and unique method of treatment and the same established the birth of Su Jok Acupuncture/Acupressure. Hand and Foot Acupuncture may be classified as a pluralistic system of treatment which has several levels. The first level, which is based on physical science, utilises for treatment a simple stimulation of the following body correspondence reaction, body corresponding areas on the hands and the feet. Since a part of the body where sickness appears has its counterparts - corresponding areas- on the hands and the feet, stimulation there yields results in therapy. If only there is an understanding of the relation between the body and related to it correspondence structure on the hands and the feet, a practical application of this type of therapy is possible and easy for anyone. Treatment results obtained from stimulation of the corresponding areas of the hand and the foot is tremendous. This popular way of treatment can successfully relieve almost all the complaints. The other levels of treatment differ from the described above Correspondence Therapy as they utilise distinguished in the Classical Acupuncture and established by the pathways of metaphysical Energy, the Twelve Classical Meridians, the Eight Extra Meridians (Ki Kyong 314

P'al Mek) and belonging to them Points (Hyol). Moreover it also utilises a reduced form of those which exist as a result of body correspondence on the hand and the foot in organized flow and branches of Byol Meridians and Byol Points. Thus on this level we have for disposal a particular system of treatment in which it is possible to utilise experience accumulated from the Classical Acupuncture and to apply its theory just as it is also to link it with the art and the theory characteristic for the newly researched Hand and Foot Acupuncture. Since these two systems are differing from each other the treatments are independent no matter which one we will allows to use it will yield a positive result. However, they also manifest a flexibility which allows to adjust them to the conditions of the disease and also to use them jointly in order to obtain the best results when efficiency of treatment i.e. its duration is taken in to consideration. THE STRUCTURE IN WHICH THE THUMB CORRESPONDS TO THE HEAD CONSTITUTES A NATURAL RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN BODY AND HAND.

Since Prof Park Jae Woo had established that the whole body is represented on the hand he extended his theory by plotting the Meridians on the hand and feet, using Principle of Yin and Yang to plot Yin Meridians on Yin Side and Yang Meridians on the yang side of the body. All the twelve Meridians are on either side of body while the two vessels (meridians CV & GV) are only one each. Therefor using principle of Primary Correspondence twelve meridians on the left side were plotted on Left Hand/ foot, and Twelve Meridians on the Right side were plotted on the Right hand/foot, and CV & GV are plotted on both hands/feet. As explained above the twelve Meridians are 3 Yin Meridians on Hand, 3 Yang Meridians on hand, 3 Yin Meridians on foot and 3 Yang Meridians on Foot as follows:▪

Arm Tai Yin channel corresponds to the Lung (Lu) (Brown)

▪

Leg Tai Yin channel corresponds to the Spleen ( Sp) (Yellow)

▪

Arm Shao Yin channel corresponds to the Heart (H) (Red)

▪

Leg Shao Yin corresponds to the Kidney (K) (Black)

▪

Arm Jue Yin corresponds to the Pericardium (P) (Orange) 315

▪

Leg Jue Yin corresponds to the Liver (Liv) (Green)

▪

Arm Yang Ming corresponds to the Large Intestine (LI) ( Brown)

▪

Leg Yang Ming corresponds to the Stomach (St) (Yellow)

▪

Arm Tai Yang corresponds to the Small Intestine (SI)(Red)

▪

Leg Tai Yang corresponds to the Urinary Bladder (UB) (Black)

▪

Arm Shao Yang corresponds to the San Jiao ( Triple Warmer) (TW) (Orange)

▪

Leg Shao Yang Channel corresponds to the Gall Bladder (GB)(Green)

▪ ▪

Conception Vessel (CV)( Dark Grey) Governing Vessel (GV) (Light Grey)

Since certain Meridians Travel from Yin side to Yang or Vice versa we find more than four Meridians on each Side of the hand. To understand the Byol Points it is necessary that Principle of Original Acupoint on the Body (Original) Point, and hence its corresponding Byol Point is understood properly.

Starting/Ending points of Meridians

316

Some Yin Meridians: -

Heart

Lung

Pericardium

Liver

Let us study the Heart Meridian this is a Yin Meridian hence points will come on the Yin side of Palm the points are on the inner side of the arm hence the points will be on the inner side of index finger. It originates in the armpit hence point 1 will correspond to point which is on the joint of finger to palm and end at tip of index figure. Point 3 is on elbow corresponding point is on the first fold of the finger. Point 7 is on wrist hence this point will be on second joint. The other meridians on hand are Lung Meridian on the outer side of body on yin side hence it is on the outer side of index figure and Pericardium Meridian which is on the centre of hand therefor in the centre of index figure. Leg Yin Meridians are on Middle figure while the Convection Vessel is in the centre of the palm on Yin Side. The points which are on the upper side of torso and on Head are plotted on the Thumb and on the root of thumb. Similarly the yang side of the hand the Yang Meridians will be plotted on the Yang Side. Hand meridians on the index figure Leg Meridians on the Middle Finger, and Governing Vessel in the middle. Some Yang Meridians:-

Triple Warmer

Small Intestine

317

Large Intestine

318

319

320

321

322