名解：中，为天地人三部的中部也。庭，庭院也。中庭名意指任脉气血在此位于天之中部。本穴物质为鸠尾穴传来的湿热水气，散热冷降至本穴后为聚集之状，如气血聚集于庭院之中，故名中庭。
气血特征：气血物质为天部的湿热水气。
运行规律：散热后循任脉传于膻中穴。
功能作用：聚集任脉气血。
治法：寒则补之灸之，热则泻针出气。
17膻中气会，心包募。
别名：元儿，胸堂，上气海，元见。
穴义：任脉之气在此吸热胀散。
名解：1）膻中。膻，羊臊气或羊腹内的膏脂也，此指穴内气血为吸热后的热燥之气。中，与外相对，指穴内。膻中名意指任脉之气在此吸热胀散。本穴物质为中庭穴传来的天部水湿之气，至本穴后进一步吸热胀散而变化热燥之气，如羊肉带有辛臊气味一般，故名膻中。
2)元儿。元，首也，气也。儿，气之子也，水也。元儿名意指穴内的天部之气中含有一定水湿，非为干燥之气。
3)胸堂。胸堂名意指本穴位于胸部也，无它意。
4)上气海。上气海，此与任脉下部气海穴相对而言，指本穴为任脉的生气之海。
5)元见。元，首也，气也。见，明显也。元见名意指穴内的吸热胀散之气显而易见。
6)气会。本穴物质为胸堂上部的气态物汇集而成，故为人之气会。
7)心包募。募，募集也。本穴物质为胸部之气聚集而成，在本穴吸热后外行于心包经所在的天部层次，为心包经气血的重要输送之地，故为心包募穴。
气血特征：气血物质为天部的热燥之气。
运行规律：凉湿水气由天之下部汇入本穴并吸热上行天之上部。
功能作用：募集心包经气血。
治法：寒则补之灸之，热则泻针出气。
18玉堂
别名：玉英。
穴义：任脉气血在此化为天部的凉性水气。
名解：1）玉堂。玉，金之属也，指穴内气血为肺金之性的天部之气。堂，厅堂也。玉堂名意指本穴聚集的为任脉天部的凉性水气。本穴物质为膻中穴热胀上行的热燥之气，至本穴后此气散热冷缩而为凉性水气，且为聚集穴内，故名玉堂。
2)玉英。玉，金之属也，指穴内气血为肺金之性的天部之气。英，精华也。玉英名意指穴内之气为水湿较少的辛燥之气。本穴物质为膻中穴传来的热燥之气，至本穴后所处为天之上部，热燥之气扩散后水湿较少，其性辛燥，故名玉英。
气血特征：气血物质为天部之气。
运行规律：散热后循任脉上传紫宫穴。
功能作用：散热化气。
治法：寒则补之灸之，热则泻针出气。
19紫宫
穴义：任脉气血在此化为温湿水气。
名解：紫，色也，由红和蓝二种颜色合成，此指穴内的天部之气既有一定的温度又有一定的水湿。宫，宫殿也，指穴内气血物质覆盖的范围较大。紫宫名意指任脉气血在此化为温湿水气。本穴物质为玉堂穴传来的阳性之气，至本穴后散热冷缩降而为天之中部的温湿水气，其水湿云气所覆盖的范围较大，故名紫宫。
气血特征：气血物质为天之中部的水湿云气。
运行规律：散热后循任脉传于华盖穴。
功能作用：散热益气。
治法：寒则补之灸之，热则泻针出气。
20华盖
穴义：任脉气血在此变为水湿浓度更大的水湿之气。
名解：华，华丽也。盖，护盖也。华盖名意指任脉气血在此变为水湿浓度更大的水湿之气。本穴物质为紫宫穴传来的天部水气，至本穴后，此气进一步散热吸湿而变为水湿浓度更大的水湿之气，此气如同人体的卫外护盖一般，故名华盖。
气血特征：气血物质为天之下部的水湿之气。
运行规律：散热后循任脉下行璇玑穴。
功能作用：收引水湿。
治法：寒则补之灸之，热则泻针出气。
21璇玑
穴义：任脉气血在此小部分吸热蒸升。。
名解：璇玑，魁星名，为北斗七星的北斗二，此指任脉的水湿在此吸热后仅有小部分循任脉蒸升，蒸升之气如天空星点般细小。
气血特征：气血物质为天部的水湿之气，量极少。
运行规律：吸热后循任脉上传天突穴。
功能作用：生发清气。
治法：寒则补之灸之，热则泻针出气。
22天突阴维任脉之会。
别名：玉户，天瞿。
穴义：任脉气血在此吸热后突行上天。
名解：1）天突。天，头面天部也。突，强行冲撞也。天突名意指任脉气血在此吸热后突行上天。本穴物质为璇玑穴传来的弱小水气，至本穴后，因吸收体内外传之热而向上部的头面天部突行，故名天突。
2)玉户。玉，金之属也，肺性之气也。户，出入的通道也。玉户名意指本穴气血为肺金之性的温性水气。本穴物质为璇玑穴传来的弱小水气，至本穴后因吸热而化为温性之气，表现出肺金之气的固有特性，故名玉户。
3)天瞿。天，头面天部也。瞿，古代的戟属兵器，既能横打又能直刺，此指穴内气血为向外的冲突之状。天矍名意指任脉气血由此上冲头面的天部。理同天突名解。
4)阴维任脉之会。本穴物质为璇玑穴传来的弱小水气，因其势单力弱，穴外天部的阴维脉水湿因而汇入穴内，故本穴为阴维任脉之会。
气血特征：气血物质为温热水气。
运行规律：循任脉上传廉泉穴。
功能作用：吸热生气。
治法：寒则补之灸之，热则泻针出气。
23廉泉阴维任脉之会。
别名：本池，舌本，结本。
穴义：任脉气血在此冷缩而降。
名解：1）廉泉。廉，廉洁、收廉之意。泉，水也。廉泉名意指任脉气血在此冷缩而降。本穴物质为天突穴传来的湿热水气，至本穴后散热冷缩由天之上部降至天之下部，本穴如同天部水湿的收廉之处，故名廉泉。
2)本池。本，根本也。池，储液之器也。本池名意指本穴为任脉水湿的收聚之地。理同廉泉名解。
3)舌本。舌，至柔之物也。本根本也。知本名意指本穴聚集的天部水湿为任脉气血的来源根本。本穴位处头面的天部，而任脉气血为至柔之性，其所能上行头面的天部，是在外界之热的作用下方能至此，如无外界之热助则任脉气血就无法构成内外无端的循环，因此，任脉气血能上至头面任脉就有接续之源，故本穴名为舌本。结本名意与舌本同。
4)阴维任脉之会。任脉气血在此位处天之下部，天之上部的气血为空虚之状，阴维脉的气血随之而入，故本穴为阴维任脉之会。
气血特征：气血物质为天之下部的水湿之气。
运行规律：进一步冷降后下行承浆穴。
功能作用：收引阴液。
治法：寒则先泻后补或补之灸之，热则泻针出气。
24承浆足阳明任脉之会。
别名：天池，鬼市，悬浆，羕浆。
穴义：任脉的冷降水湿及胃经的地部经水在此聚集。
名解：1）承浆。承，承受也。浆，水与土的混和物也。承浆名意指任脉的冷降水湿及胃经的地部经水在此聚集。本穴物质为胃经地仓穴传来的地部经水以及任脉廉泉穴冷降的地部水液，至本穴后为聚集之状，本穴如同地部经水的承托之地，故名承浆。
2)天池。天，本穴们于天部也。池，储水之器也。天池名意指本穴物质为地部水液。理同承浆名解。悬浆名意与天池同，悬指本穴经水位于天部，处于不稳定状态。
3)鬼市。鬼，与天相对，指地部经水也。市，集市也。鬼市名意指本穴为地部经水的集散之地。理同承浆名解。
4)羕浆。羕，通漾，指穴内物质为地部的荡漾之水。浆，水与土的混和物也。羕浆名意指穴内物质为地部经水。理同天池名解。
5)足阳明任脉之会。本穴物质既有任脉的冷降水液又有胃的下行经水，故为足阳明任脉之会。
气血特征：气血物质为地部经水及经水中夹带的脾土微粒。
运行规律：由本穴循任脉回流体内。
功能作用：连通体表体内。
治法：寒则通之或补之灸之，热则泻针出气。
十四，督脉
十四，督脉
1长强督脉别络。
别名：橛骨，穷骨，气之阴郄，龟尾，尾翠，骨骶，尾骶。
穴义：胞宫中的高温高压水湿之气由此外输体表。
名解：1）长强。长，长久也。强，强盛也。长强名意指胞宫中的高温高压水湿之气由此外输体表。本穴为督脉之穴，其气血物质来自胞宫，温压较高，向外输出时既强劲又饱满且源源不断也，故名长强。
2)橛骨。橛，船尾底骨也，亦称龙骨，特点是强度大，此指穴内气血为强劲之状。骨，水也，此指穴内气血为水湿之气。橛骨名意指穴内气血为强劲饱满之状。理同长强名解。
3)穷骨。穷，尽也。骨，水也。穷骨名意指本穴的外输气血全部是天部之气，无地部经水。本穴物质来自胞宫，其性高温高压，外出体表后全部化为天部的水湿之气，地部经水如穷尽之状，故名穷骨。
4)气之阴郄。气之阴，气化之气的水湿也。郄，孔隙也。穴名之意指本穴外输的气血物质为由孔隙中输出的细小水液。本穴位于尾骨端下，督脉的外输气血在体内为液态之水，出体表后才化为天部之气，督脉的外输之液细小，如从孔隙中输出一般，故名气之阴郄。
5)龟尾。龟尾，乌龟的尾巴也，既短又粗，不同于其它动物的尾巴既细又长，此指穴内气血为强盛之状。理同长强名解。
6)尾翠。尾，尾巴也。翠，青绿色，肝之色也，此指穴内气血的生发特性。尾翠名意指督脉的外输气血具有肝木的生发特性，不能上行更高的天部层次。
7)骨骶。骨，水也。骶，骶骨也。骨骶名意指本穴物质为水湿之气，位处骶骨之端。尾骶名意与骨骶同。
8)督脉别络。督脉，本穴位处督脉也。别，离别也。络，联络也。督脉别络之意指本穴外输的阳热之气循络脉传向督脉其它各穴。
气血特征：气血物质为胞宫外输的高温高压水湿之气。
运行规律：扩散于督脉之外及循督脉上行。
功能作用：向体表输送阳热之气。
治法：寒则补之灸之，热则泻针出气。
2腰俞
别名：髓空，背解，腰户，腰柱，髓俞。
穴义：督脉气血由此输向腰之各部。
名解：1)腰俞。腰，腰部也。俞，输也。腰俞名意指督脉的气血由此输向腰之各部。本穴物质为长强穴传来的水湿之气，至本穴后，因其散热冷缩水湿滞重，上不能传于腰阳关穴，下不得入于长强穴，因此输向腰之各部，故名腰俞。腰户名意与腰俞同。
2)髓空。髓，肾之精也，气也。空，空虚也。髓空名意指督脉的上行强劲之气至此后即变空虚。本穴物质为长强穴传来的强劲之气，至本穴后散热冷缩而成天之下部的湿冷水气，天之上部气血为空虚之状，故名髓空。髓俞名意与髓空同。
3)背解。背，背部也。解，散也。背解名意指督脉的上行阳气至此为散解之状。理同髓空名解。
4)腰柱。腰，腰部也。柱，支柱也。腰柱名意指本穴外输腰部的气血为腰部阳气的栋梁支柱。本穴外输腰部的气血为温性的水湿之气，此气对于寒湿之地的腰部来说则为阳热之气，它为充实腰部阳气的栋梁支柱，故名腰柱。
气血特征：气血物质为温性水气。
运行规律：大部分外传腰之各部，小部分上行腰阳关穴。
功能作用：补益肾气。
治法：寒则补之灸之，热则泻针出气。
3腰阳关
别名：阳关，脊阳关。
穴义：督脉的上行气血中滞重的水湿在此沉降。
名解：腰阳关。腰，穴在腰部也。阳，阳气也。关，关卡也。腰阳关名意指督脉的上行气血中滞重的水湿在此沉降于下。本穴物质为腰俞穴传来的水湿之气，在上行至本穴的过程中是散热吸湿，至本穴后滞重的水湿之气不能继续上行，本穴如同督脉水湿上行的关卡一般，故名腰阳关。阳关、脊阳关名意与腰阳关同。
气血特征：气血物质为滞重的水湿之气。
运行规律：冷降缩合后输向腰之下部。
功能作用：除湿降浊。
治法：寒则先泻后补或补之灸之，热则泻针出气。
4命门
别名：属累，精宫。
穴义：脊骨中的高温高压阴液由此督脉。
名解：1）命门。命，人之根本也，以便也。门，出入的门户也。命门名意指脊骨中的高温高压阴性水液由此外输督脉。本穴因其位处腰背的正中部位，内连脊骨，在人体重力场中为位置低下之处，脊骨内的高温高压阴性水液由此外输体表督脉，本穴外输的阴性水液有维系督脉气血流行不息的作用，为人体的生命之本，故名命门。
2)属累。属，类别之意。累，堆迭也。属累名意指本穴气血由督脉之气堆迭而成，亦即为地部经水。理同命门名解。
3)精宫。精，髓也，指穴内气血来自脊骨。宫，宫殿也。精宫名意指穴内物质来源于脊骨。理同命门名解。
气血特征：气血物质为地部的水液。
运行规律：气化后循督脉上传悬枢穴。
功能作用：接续督脉气血。
治法：寒则补之灸之，热则泻之。
5悬枢
别名：悬柱。
穴义：督脉气血由此外输腰脊各部。
名解：1）悬枢。悬，吊挂也。枢，枢纽也。悬枢名意指督脉气血由此外输腰脊各部。本穴物质为命门穴和脊中穴传来的水湿之气，至本穴后由本穴横向外传腰脊各部，穴内气血如同天部中吊挂的水湿之气，故名悬枢。
[Name Explanation] Zhong (Middle) refers to the middle part of Heaven, Earth, and Man. Ting (Courtyard) means courtyard. The name Zhongting implies that the Qi and Blood of the Ren Mai (Conception Vessel) are located in the middle of Heaven at this point. The material substance of this point is the damp-hot Qi ascending from Jiutui (CV15). After dissipating heat and cooling down, it gathers at this point, resembling Qi and Blood gathering in a courtyard; hence the name Zhongting.
[Qi and Blood Characteristics] The substance is damp-hot Qi in the Heaven portion.
[Movement Pattern] After dissipating heat, it transmits along the Ren Mai to Danzhong (CV17).
[Functions and Actions] Gathers the Qi and Blood of the Ren Mai.
[Therapeutic Methods] For Cold patterns, use tonification and moxibustion; for Heat patterns, use sedation to release Qi.
17. Danzhong (CV17): Meeting point of Qi, Mu-Point of the Pericardium.
[Aliases] Yuan'er, Xiong tang, Shang Qihai, Yuanjian.
[Acupoint Meaning] The Qi of the Ren Mai absorbs heat and expands here.
[Name Explanation]
1) Danzhong. Shan refers to the smell of mutton or the fat inside a sheep's abdomen, indicating that the Qi and Blood within the acupoint are hot and dry after absorbing heat. Zhong means inside, opposite to outside. The name Danzhong implies that the Qi of the Ren Mai absorbs heat and expands here. The substance of this point is the water-damp Qi from the Heaven portion transmitted from Zhongting (CV16). Upon reaching this point, it further absorbs heat and expands, transforming into hot and dry Qi, similar to the pungent odor of mutton; hence named Danzhong.
2) Yuan'er. Yuan refers to head or Qi. Er refers to the child of Qi, i.e., Water. The name Yuan'er implies that the Heaven portion Qi within the acupoint contains a certain amount of water-dampness, rather than being completely dry.
3) Xiong tang. The name Xiong tang indicates that this point is located in the chest, with no other special meaning.
4) Shang Qihai. Shang Qihai (Upper Sea of Qi) is relative to the lower Qihai (CV6) on the Ren Mai, indicating that this point serves as the sea of generating Qi for the Ren Mai.
5) Yuanjian. Yuan refers to head or Qi. Jian means obvious. The name Yuanjian implies that the Qi expanding after absorbing heat within the acupoint is clearly visible.
6) Hui Qi (Meeting Point of Qi). The substance of this point is formed by the convergence of gaseous matter from the upper part of the chest; thus, it is the meeting point of Human Qi.
7) Mu of Pericardium. Mu means collection. The substance of this point is formed by the aggregation of Chest Qi. After absorbing heat at this point, it moves outward to the Heaven portion level where the Pericardium Meridian resides, serving as an important transport site for the Qi and Blood of the Pericardium Meridian; hence it is the Mu-Point of the Pericardium.
[Qi and Blood Characteristics] The substance is hot and dry Qi in the Heaven portion.
[Movement Pattern] Cool and damp water-damp Qi converges into this point from the lower Heaven portion and ascends to the upper Heaven portion after absorbing heat.
[Functions and Actions] Collects the Qi and Blood of the Pericardium Meridian.
[Therapeutic Methods] For Cold patterns, use tonification and moxibustion; for Heat patterns, use sedation to release Qi.
18. Yutang (CV19)
[Alias] Yuying.
[Acupoint Meaning] The Qi and Blood of the Ren Mai transform into cool water-damp Qi in the Heaven portion here.
[Name Explanation]
1) Yutang. Yu (Jade) belongs to Metal, referring to the Heaven portion Qi of Lung Metal nature within the acupoint. Tang means hall. The name Yutang implies that this point gathers cool water-damp Qi of the Ren Mai in the Heaven portion. The substance of this point is the hot and dry Qi expanding upward from Danzhong (CV17). Upon reaching this point, this Qi dissipates heat and contracts due to cooling, becoming cool water-damp Qi, which gathers within the acupoint; hence named Yutang.
2) Yuying. Yu belongs to Metal, referring to the Heaven portion Qi of Lung Metal nature. Ying means essence. The name Yuying implies that the Qi within the acupoint is pungent and dry with less water-dampness. The substance of this point is the hot and dry Qi transmitted from Danzhong (CV17). Upon reaching this point, it is located in the upper Heaven portion. After the hot and dry Qi diffuses, there is less water-dampness, and its nature is pungent and dry; hence named Yuying.
[Qi and Blood Characteristics] The substance is Qi in the Heaven portion.
[Movement Pattern] After dissipating heat, it transmits upward along the Ren Mai to Zigong (CV20).
[Functions and Actions] Dissipates heat and transforms Qi.
[Therapeutic Methods] For Cold patterns, use tonification and moxibustion; for Heat patterns, use sedation to release Qi.
19. Zigong (CV20)
[Acupoint Meaning] The Qi and Blood of the Ren Mai transform into warm and damp water-damp Qi here.
[Name Explanation] Zi (Purple) refers to color, synthesized from red and blue, indicating that the Heaven portion Qi within the acupoint has both a certain temperature and water-dampness. Gong (Palace) refers to the large area covered by the Qi and Blood substances within the acupoint. The name Zigong implies that the Qi and Blood of the Ren Mai transform into warm and damp water-damp Qi here. The substance of this point is the Yang Qi transmitted from Yutang (CV19). Upon reaching this point, it dissipates heat and contracts, descending to become warm and damp water-damp Qi in the middle Heaven portion. The range covered by its water-damp cloud Qi is relatively large; hence named Zigong.
[Qi and Blood Characteristics] The substance is water-damp cloud Qi in the middle Heaven portion.
[Movement Pattern] After dissipating heat, it transmits to Huagai (CV21) along the Ren Mai.
[Functions and Actions] Dissipates heat and benefits Qi.
[Therapeutic Methods] For Cold patterns, use tonification and moxibustion; for Heat patterns, use sedation to release Qi.
20. Huagai (CV21)
[Acupoint Meaning] The Qi and Blood of the Ren Mai transform into water-damp Qi with higher concentration here.
[Name Explanation] Hua (Magnificent) means beautiful. Gai (Cover) means protection. The name Huagai implies that the Qi and Blood of the Ren Mai transform into water-damp Qi with higher concentration here. The substance of this point is the Heaven portion water Qi transmitted from Zigong (CV20). Upon reaching this point, this Qi further dissipates heat and absorbs moisture, transforming into water-damp Qi with higher concentration. This Qi acts like the protective cover of the human body; hence named Huagai.
[Qi and Blood Characteristics] The substance is water-damp Qi in the lower Heaven portion.
[Movement Pattern] After dissipating heat, it descends along the Ren Mai to Xuanji (CV22).
[Functions and Actions) Draws in and guides water-dampness.
[Therapeutic Methods] For Cold patterns, use tonification and moxibustion; for Heat patterns, use sedation to release Qi.
21. Xuanji (CV22)
[Acupoint Meaning] A small portion of the Qi and Blood of the Ren Mai absorbs heat and steams upward here.
[Name Explanation] Xuanji is the name of the second star of the Big Dipper (Dubhe). Here, it indicates that only a small portion of the water-dampness of the Ren Mai steams upward along the Ren Mai after absorbing heat. The steaming Qi is as tiny as stars in the sky.
[Qi and Blood Characteristics] The substance is water-damp Qi in the Heaven portion, in very small quantities.
[Movement Pattern] After absorbing heat, it transmits upward along the Ren Mai to Tiantu (CV23).
[Functions and Actions] Generates and raises clear Qi.
[Therapeutic Methods] For Cold patterns, use tonification and moxibustion; for Heat patterns, use sedation to release Qi.
22. Tiantu (CV23): Meeting point of Yin Wei Mai and Ren Mai.
[Aliases] Yuhu, Tianju.
[Acupoint Meaning] The Qi and Blood of the Ren Mai absorb heat and suddenly rush upward to Heaven here.
[Name Explanation]
1) Tiantu. Tian refers to the Heaven portion of the head and face. Tu means forced collision. The name Tiantu implies that the Qi and Blood of the Ren Mai absorb heat and suddenly rush upward to Heaven here. The substance of this point is the weak water Qi transmitted from Xuanji (CV22). Upon reaching this point, due to absorbing heat transmitted from inside and outside the body, it rushes upward to the Heaven portion of the head and face; hence named Tiantu.
2) Yuhu. Yu belongs to Metal, referring to Qi of Lung nature. Hu means passage for entry and exit. The name Yuhu implies that the Qi and Blood of this point are warm water-damp Qi of Lung Metal nature. The substance of this point is the weak water Qi transmitted from Xuanji (CV22). Upon reaching this point, it transforms into warm Qi due to heat absorption, exhibiting the inherent characteristics of Lung Metal Qi; hence named Yuhu.
3) Tianju. Tian refers to the Heaven portion of the head and face. Ju refers to an ancient halberd-like weapon capable of horizontal striking and vertical thrusting, indicating that the Qi and Blood within the acupoint are in a state of outward conflict. The name Tianju implies that the Qi and Blood of the Ren Mai rush upward to the Heaven portion of the head and face from here. The principle is the same as the explanation for Tiantu.
4) Meeting point of Yin Wei Mai and Ren Mai. The substance of this point is the weak water Qi transmitted from Xuanji (CV22). Due to its weak momentum, the water-dampness of the Yin Wei Mai in the external Heaven portion converges into the acupoint; thus, this point is the meeting point of the Yin Wei Mai and Ren Mai.
[Qi and Blood Characteristics] The substance is warm water-damp Qi.
[Movement Pattern] It transmits upward along the Ren Mai to Lianquan (CV24).
[Functions and Actions] Absorbs heat and generates Qi.
[Therapeutic Methods] For Cold patterns, use tonification and moxibustion; for Heat patterns, use sedation to release Qi.
23. Lianquan (CV24): Meeting point of Yin Wei Mai and Ren Mai.
[Aliases] Benchi, Sheben, Jieben.
[Acupoint Meaning] The Qi and Blood of the Ren Mai contract and descend due to cooling here.
[Name Explanation]
1) Lianquan. Lian means integrity or contraction. Quan means spring/water. The name Lianquan implies that the Qi and Blood of the Ren Mai contract and descend due to cooling here. The substance of this point is the damp-hot water-damp Qi transmitted from Tiantu (CV23). Upon reaching this point, it dissipates heat and contracts, descending from the upper Heaven portion to the lower Heaven portion. This point serves as the place where Heaven portion water-dampness contracts; hence named Lianquan.
2) Benchi. Ben means root/fundamental. Chi means vessel for storing liquid. The name Benchi implies that this point is the gathering place for water-dampness of the Ren Mai. The principle is the same as the explanation for Lianquan.
3) Sheben. She (Tongue) refers to the most yielding thing. Ben means root. The name Sheben implies that the Heaven portion water-dampness gathered at this point is the fundamental source of Qi and Blood for the Ren Mai. This point is located in the Heaven portion of the head and face. The Qi and Blood of the Ren Mai are of a yielding nature. Their ability to ascend to the Heaven portion of the head and face depends on the action of external heat. Without external heat assistance, the Qi and Blood of the Ren Mai cannot form a continuous cycle internally and externally. Therefore, since the Qi and Blood of the Ren Mai can reach the head and face, the Ren Mai has a source of continuation; hence this point is named Sheben. Jieben has the same meaning as Sheben.
4) Meeting point of Yin Wei Mai and Ren Mai. The Qi and Blood of the Ren Mai are located in the lower Heaven portion here, while the Qi and Blood in the upper Heaven portion are empty. The Qi and Blood of the Yin Wei Mai enter accordingly; thus, this point is the meeting point of the Yin Wei Mai and Ren Mai.
[Qi and Blood Characteristics] The substance is water-damp Qi in the lower Heaven portion.
[Movement Pattern] After further cooling and descent, it descends to Chengjiang (CV25).
[Functions and Actions) Draws in and guides Yin fluids.
[Therapeutic Methods] For Cold patterns, first sedate then tonify, or use tonification and moxibustion; for Heat patterns, use sedation to release Qi.
24. Chengjiang (CV26): Meeting point of Foot-Yangming Stomach Meridian and Ren Mai.
[Aliases] Tianchi, Guishi, Xuanjiang, Yangjiang.
[Acupoint Meaning] The cold-descending water-dampness of the Ren Mai and the Earth-level channel fluid of the Stomach Meridian gather here.
[Name Explanation]
1) Chengjiang. Cheng means to bear/receive. Jiang means mixture of water and soil. The name Chengjiang implies that the cold-descending water-dampness of the Ren Mai and the Earth-level channel fluid of the Stomach Meridian gather here. The substance of this point is the Earth-level channel fluid transmitted from Dicang (ST4) of the Stomach Meridian and the Earth-level fluid cooled and descended from Lianquan (CV24) of the Ren Mai. Upon reaching this point, it gathers in a state of accumulation. This point serves as the supporting ground for Earth-level channel fluid; hence named Chengjiang.
2) Tianchi. Tian refers to the Heaven portion where this point is located. Chi means vessel for storing water. The name Tianchi implies that the substance of this point is Earth-level fluid. The principle is the same as the explanation for Chengjiang. Xuanjiang has the same meaning as Tianchi; Xuan indicates that the channel fluid of this point is located in the Heaven portion, in an unstable state.
3) Guishi. Gui (Ghost) is opposite to Heaven, referring to Earth-level channel fluid. Shi means market. The name Guishi implies that this point is the distribution center for Earth-level channel fluid. The principle is the same as the explanation for Chengjiang.
4) Yangjiang. Yang is synonymous with "Yang" (rippling), referring to the rippling water of the Earth level within the acupoint. Jiang means mixture of water and soil. The name Yangjiang implies that the substance within the acupoint is Earth-level channel fluid. The principle is the same as the explanation for Tianchi.
5) Meeting point of Foot-Yangming Stomach Meridian and Ren Mai. The substance of this point includes both the cold-descending fluid of the Ren Mai and the downward channel fluid of the Stomach Meridian; thus, it is the meeting point of the Foot-Yangming Stomach Meridian and Ren Mai.
[Qi and Blood Characteristics] The substance is Earth-level channel fluid and spleen-earth particles carried within the channel fluid.
[Movement Pattern] It flows back into the body along the Ren Mai from this point.
[Functions and Actions) Connects the exterior and interior of the body.
[Therapeutic Methods] For Cold patterns, unblock or use tonification and moxibustion; for Heat patterns, use sedation to release Qi.
Fourteen, Du Mai (Governing Vessel)
Fourteen, Du Mai (Governing Vessel)
1. Changqiang (GV1): Divergent Luo-Connecting Vessel of the Du Mai.
[Aliases] Juogu, Qionggu, Qi zhi Yinxi, Weitui, Weicui, Gudi, Weidi.
[Acupoint Meaning] High-temperature and high-pressure water-damp Qi from the Uterus (Bao Gong) is transported outward to the body surface here.
[Name Explanation]
1) Changqiang. Chang means long-lasting. Qiang means strong/vigorous. The name Changqiang implies that high-temperature and high-pressure water-damp Qi from the Uterus is transported outward to the body surface here. This point belongs to the Du Mai. Its Qi and Blood substance originates from the Uterus, with high temperature and pressure. When transported outward, it is vigorous, full, and continuous; hence named Changqiang.
2) Juogu. Jue refers to the keel of a boat, also called Longgu, characterized by great strength, indicating that the Qi and Blood within the acupoint are vigorous. Gu means water, indicating that the Qi and Blood within the acupoint are water-damp Qi. The name Juogu implies that the Qi and Blood within the acupoint are vigorous and full. The principle is the same as the explanation for Changqiang.
3) Qionggu. Qiong means exhausted/end. Gu means water. The name Qionggu implies that all the Qi and Blood transported out of this point are Heaven portion Qi, with no Earth-level channel fluid. The substance of this point originates from the Uterus, with high temperature and pressure. After emerging to the body surface, it all transforms into Heaven portion water-damp Qi. The Earth-level channel fluid is as if exhausted; hence named Qionggu.
4) Qi zhi Yinxi. Qi zhi Yin refers to the water-dampness of Qi transformed from gas. Xi means pore. The meaning of the name is that the Qi and Blood substance transported out of this point is fine liquid output through pores. This point is located below the tip of the coccyx. The Qi and Blood of the Du Mai transported outward are liquid water inside the body and transform into Heaven portion Qi only after exiting the body surface. The outward transport fluid of the Du Mai is fine, as if output through a pore; hence named Qi zhi Yinxi.
5) Weitui. Weitui refers to the tail of a turtle, which is short and thick, unlike the tails of other animals which are thin and long. This indicates that the Qi and Blood within the acupoint are vigorous. The principle is the same as the explanation for Changqiang.
6) Weicui. Wei means tail. Cui means cyan/green, the color of Liver Wood, indicating the generating characteristic of the Qi and Blood within the acupoint. The name Weicui implies that the outwardly transported Qi and Blood of the Du Mai have the generating characteristic of Liver Wood and cannot ascend to higher Heaven portion levels.
7) Gudi. Gu means water. Di means sacrum. The name Gudi implies that the substance of this point is water-damp Qi, located at the end of the sacrum. Weidi has the same meaning as Gudi.
8) Bie Luo of Du Mai. Du Mai indicates this point is located on the Du Mai. Bie means separation/divergence. Luo means connection. The meaning of Bie Luo of Du Mai is that the Yang-heat Qi transported outward from this point transmits via the Luo-Connecting vessels to other points on the Du Mai.
[Qi and Blood Characteristics] The substance is high-temperature and high-pressure water-damp Qi transported outward from the Uterus.
[Movement Pattern] It diffuses outside the Du Mai and ascends along the Du Mai.
[Functions and Actions) Transports Yang-heat Qi to the body surface.
[Therapeutic Methods] For Cold patterns, use tonification and moxibustion; for Heat patterns, use sedation to release Qi.
2. Yaoshu (GV2)
[Aliases] Suikong, Beijie, Yaohu, Yaozhu, Suiyu.
[Acupoint Meaning] The Qi and Blood of the Du Mai are transported to various parts of the waist here.
[Name Explanation]
1) Yaoshu. Yao means waist. Shu means transport. The name Yaoshu implies that the Qi and Blood of the Du Mai are transported to various parts of the waist here. The substance of this point is water-damp Qi transmitted from Changqiang (GV1). Upon reaching this point, due to dissipating heat and contracting, the water-dampness becomes heavy and stagnant. It cannot transmit upward to Yaoyangguan (GV3) nor enter downward into Changqiang (GV1); therefore, it is transported to various parts of the waist; hence named Yaoshu. Yaohu has the same meaning as Yaoshu.
2) Suikong. Sui (Marrow) refers to the essence and Qi of the Kidney. Kong means empty. The name Suikong implies that the vigorous ascending Qi of the Du Mai becomes empty after reaching this point. The substance of this point is the vigorous Qi transmitted from Changqiang (GV1). Upon reaching this point, it dissipates heat and contracts, becoming cool and wet water-damp Qi in the lower Heaven portion. The Qi and Blood in the upper Heaven portion are in an empty state; hence named Suikong. Suiyu has the same meaning as Suikong.
3) Beijie. Bei means back. Jie means scatter. The name Beijie implies that the ascending Yang Qi of the Du Mai scatters here. The principle is the same as the explanation for Suikong.
4) Yaozhu. Yao means waist. Zhu means pillar/support. The name Yaozhu implies that the Qi and Blood transported outward to the waist by this point serve as the backbone support for the Yang Qi of the waist. The Qi and Blood transported outward to the waist by this point are warm water-damp Qi. For the waist, a region of cold-dampness, this Qi acts as Yang-heat Qi. It serves as the backbone support for enriching the Yang Qi of the waist; hence named Yaozhu.
[Qi and Blood Characteristics] The substance is warm water-damp Qi.
[Movement Pattern] Most of it is transported outward to various parts of the waist; a small portion ascends to Yaoyangguan (GV3).
[Functions and Actions) Tonifies and benefits Kidney Qi.
[Therapeutic Methods] For Cold patterns, use tonification and moxibustion; for Heat patterns, use sedation to release Qi.
3. Yaoyangguan (GV3)
[Aliases] Yangguan, Jiyangguan.
[Acupoint Meaning] The heavy and stagnant water-dampness in the ascending Qi and Blood of the Du Mai sinks and settles here.
[Name Explanation] Yaoyangguan. Yao indicates the point is in the waist. Yang refers to Yang Qi. Guan means checkpoint/pass. The name Yaoyangguan implies that the heavy and stagnant water-dampness in the ascending Qi and Blood of the Du Mai sinks and settles downward here. The substance of this point is water-damp Qi transmitted from Yaoshu (GV2). During its ascent to this point, it dissipates heat and absorbs moisture. Upon reaching this point, the heavy and stagnant water-damp Qi cannot continue to ascend. This point acts like a checkpoint for the upward movement of water-dampness in the Du Mai; hence named Yaoyangguan. Yangguan and Jiyangguan have the same meaning as Yaoyangguan.
[Qi and Blood Characteristics] The substance is heavy and stagnant water-damp Qi.
[Movement Pattern] After cooling, contracting, and condensing, it is transported to the lower part of the waist.
[Functions and Actions) Eliminates dampness and descends turbidity.
[Therapeutic Methods] For Cold patterns, first sedate then tonify, or use tonification and moxibustion; for Heat patterns, use sedation to release Qi.
4. Mingmen (GV4)
[Aliases] Shulei, Jinggong.
[Acupoint Meaning] High-temperature and high-pressure Yin fluid from the spinal bone is transported outward to the Du Mai here.
[Name Explanation]
1) Mingmen. Ming refers to the root of life. Men means gate/portal. The name Mingmen implies that high-temperature and high-pressure Yin fluid from the spinal bone is transported outward to the Du Mai here. This point is located in the center of the lower back, connected internally to the spinal bone, and is in a low position within the human gravitational field. High-temperature and high-pressure Yin fluid from the spinal bone is transported outward to the Du Mai on the body surface here. The Yin fluid transported outward by this point maintains the continuous circulation of Qi and Blood in the Du Mai and serves as the root of life for the human body; hence named Mingmen.
2) Shulei. Shu means category/type. Lei means pile/stack. The name Shulei implies that the Qi and Blood of this point are formed by the stacking of Du Mai Qi, which is essentially Earth-level channel fluid. The principle is the same as the explanation for Mingmen.
3) Jinggong. Jing (Essence) refers to Marrow, indicating that the Qi and Blood within the acupoint originate from the spinal bone. Gong means palace. The name Jinggong implies that the substance within the acupoint originates from the spinal bone. The principle is the same as the explanation for Mingmen.
[Qi and Blood Characteristics] The substance is Earth-level fluid.
[Movement Pattern] After vaporization, it transmits upward along the Du Mai to Xuanshu (GV5).
[Functions and Actions) Continues the Qi and Blood of the Du Mai.
[Therapeutic Methods] For Cold patterns, use tonification and moxibustion; for Heat patterns, use sedation.
5. Xuanshu (GV5)
[Alias] Xuanzhu.
[Acupoint Meaning] The Qi and Blood of the Du Mai are transported outward to various parts of the lumbar spine here.
[Name Explanation]
1) Xuanshu. Xuan means hang/suspend. Shu means pivot/hub. The name Xuanshu implies that the Qi and Blood of the Du Mai are transported outward to various parts of the lumbar spine here. The substance of this point is water-damp Qi transmitted from Mingmen (GV4) and Jizhong (GV6). Upon reaching this point, it is horizontally transported outward to various parts of the lumbar spine from this point. The Qi and Blood within the acupoint resemble water-damp Qi hanging in the Heaven portion; hence named Xuanshu.