tcm-theory

The concept of Body Fluids (Jin and Ye) as it is used in Traditional Chinese Medicine theory comprises a host of different meanings, actions and effects than the way the term is commonly understood in the west. The Body fluids within Chinese medicine are largely developed within the digestive process but are involved in the proper functioning of the skin, muscles, joints and even the brain. From a clinical perspective, the status of the Body fluids are considered in a broad range of conditions ranging from asthma to depression.

Below you will find detailed information surrounding the theory of Body Fluids in Traditional Chinese Medicine:

The concept of Blood (Xue) as it is used in Traditional Chinese Medicine theory comprises a host of different meanings, actions and effects than they way the term is commonly understood in western medicine. Chinese medicine states that the Blood is a dense form of body fluids that have been acted upon and enegized by Qi. The Blood of Chinese medicine flows both within the blood vessels as well as within the meridians, as it has a synergistic relationship with Qi. From a clinical perspective, these relationships indicate a broad spectrum of influences that must be considered when forming a TCM diagnosis. While conditions such as uterine bleeding have more obvious links to the Blood, an unsteady mind as it may arise in such conditions as depression and anxiety may also be strongly related.

Qi, pronounced "chee", means energy. You may see it spelled "Chi" or even "Ki" in Japanese, but they all carry the same meaning. Qi is the energy of the body, of the meridians, of food, of the universe. While it may seem a nebulous topic there are refined theories regarding the different types of Qi within the body, the creation and actions of Qi and, consequently, ways to determine where imbalances may arise.

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 breath. 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:

Five element 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 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.

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.