Traditional Chinese medicine glossary

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has its own rich vocabulary that can seem unfamiliar at first. This glossary explains the most important terms you are likely to encounter during a consultation or in your own reading. Understanding these concepts will help you get the most from your treatment. For a broader overview, visit the Traditional Chinese Medicine page.

On this page

A — Acupuncture, Acupoint, Aetiology, Ahshi Points
B — Bi Syndrome, Blood (Xue), Blood Stagnation
C — Cold, Cupping Therapy, Cun, Chinese Herbal Medicine
D — Dampness, De Qi, Dryness
E — Electroacupuncture
F — Five Elements, Food Therapy
G — Gall Bladder, Gall Bladder Damp-Heat, Gua Sha
H — Heart, Heart Blood Deficiency, Heart Fire, Heart Yin Deficiency, Heat (Fire), Heat Therapy
J — Jiao (Three Burners), Jing (Essence), Jin Ye (Body Fluids)
K — Kidney, Kidney Essence Deficiency, Kidney Qi Deficiency, Kidney Yang Deficiency, Kidney Yin Deficiency
L — Liver, Liver Blood Deficiency, Liver Fire, Liver Invading the Spleen, Liver Invading the Stomach, Liver Qi Stagnation, Liver Yang Rising, Liver Yin Deficiency, Lung, Lung Qi Deficiency, Lung Yin Deficiency
M — Meridians (Channels), Moxibustion
N — Nutritive Qi (Ying Qi)
P — Pattern Differentiation, Phlegm, Pulse Diagnosis
Q — Qi (Vital Energy), Qi Gong
S — San Jiao, Shen, Six Pathogenic Factors, Six Stages, Spleen, Spleen Damp Accumulation, Spleen Qi Deficiency, Spleen Yang Deficiency, Stagnation, Stomach, Stomach Heat, Stomach Yin Deficiency, Summer Heat
T — Tongue Diagnosis, Treatment Principle, Tui Na
W — Wei Qi (Defensive Qi), Wind
X — Xue (Blood)
Y — Yin and Yang, Ying Qi, Yuan Qi (Original Qi)
Z — Zang Fu (Organs), Zheng Qi (Righteous Qi)

A

Acupuncture — 針涯 (Zhēn jiǔ)

The insertion of very fine, sterile needles into specific points on the body called acupoints to regulate the flow of Qi and restore health. One of the oldest and most researched of the TCM therapies, acupuncture is recommended by NICE for the treatment of chronic primary pain.

Acupoint — 稱位 (Xuéwèi)

A specific anatomical location on the body where Qi can be accessed and influenced. There are 361 classical acupoints distributed along the 12 primary meridians, each with defined therapeutic functions. During an acupuncture treatment, needles are placed at a selection of these points chosen to address your individual pattern of disharmony.

Aetiology — 病因 (Bìngyīn)

In TCM, the causes of disease are grouped into three categories: external (the Six Pathogenic Factors such as wind, cold and heat), internal (the Seven Emotions, including excessive grief, fear or anger), and miscellaneous (poor diet, overwork, trauma). Understanding aetiology allows your practitioner to address the root cause of your condition as well as your presenting symptoms.

Ahshi Points — 阿是离 (Ā shì xué)

Literally “Oh yes, that’s it!” — tender or reactive points on the body that do not correspond to classical acupoints but are needled because they are locally painful or tight. When a practitioner presses a point and the patient spontaneously recognises the sensation, that location becomes an Ahshi point. They are particularly important in the treatment of musculoskeletal conditions such as back pain, neck pain and headaches, and are often used alongside classical points to address local areas of Qi and Blood stagnation.

B

Bi Syndrome — 症證 (Bì zhèng)

A TCM diagnostic category describing obstruction of Qi and Blood in the channels and joints, causing pain, stiffness, soreness and limited movement. Different types of Bi Syndrome correspond to the predominant pathogenic factor: Wind-Bi (moving pain), Cold-Bi (fixed, severe pain), Damp-Bi (heavy, fixed pain) and Heat-Bi (hot, swollen joints). Conditions such as back pain, rheumatoid arthritis and sciatica are often diagnosed within this category.

Blood (Xue) — 血 (Xuè)

In TCM, Blood is a dense, fluid substance that nourishes and moistens the body’s organs, tissues and sense organs. It is intimately connected with Qi — Qi moves Blood and Blood carries Qi. The Heart governs Blood and circulates it; the Liver stores it; the Spleen produces it. Blood deficiency can manifest as pale complexion, dry skin, poor memory, insomnia and menstrual irregularities — conditions for which acupuncture and Chinese herbs are commonly used.

Blood Stagnation — 血碰 (Xuè yū)

A pathological state in which Blood ceases to move freely through the channels and organs. It is distinct from simple Qi Stagnation — while Qi stagnation tends to be functional and intermittent, Blood Stagnation is more fixed and stubborn, producing sharp, stabbing or boring pain at a fixed location. Other signs include a purple or dark tongue, dark menstrual blood with clots, and areas of skin discolouration. Common causes include trauma, prolonged Qi stagnation, Cold in the channels or chronic deficiency. Conditions associated with Blood Stagnation include endometriosis, dysmenorrhoea and chronic fixed headaches. Treatment focuses on invigorating Blood and dissolving stasis using acupuncture and Chinese herbs.

C

Cold — 害 (Hán)

One of the Six Pathogenic Factors, Cold is a Yin pathogenic influence characterised by contraction, constriction and obstruction. External Cold typically causes chills, a strong aversion to cold, fixed and severe pain (often cramping or stabbing in quality), stiffness of the muscles and joints, and clear or watery discharges. The pulse is tight or slow and the tongue coating white. Cold can also arise internally — usually from Yang deficiency, especially of Kidney Yang — producing chronic coldness of the limbs, lower back pain, frequent pale urination and loose stools. Treatment involves warming the channels and dispersing Cold using moxibustion, warming Chinese herbal formulas and acupuncture.

Cupping Therapy — 拉线 (Bá guàn)

A therapy in which cups are placed on the skin and a vacuum is created to draw the tissue upward. The suction increases blood flow, releases muscle tension and draws out pathogenic factors such as cold and damp. It is particularly effective for back pain, muscle pain and respiratory conditions. Learn more about cupping therapy.

Cun — 寸 (Cùn)

A unit of proportional body measurement used in TCM to locate acupoints accurately. One cun equals the width of the patient’s own thumb at the interphalangeal joint. Because the measurement is relative to the individual’s body, it scales appropriately regardless of a person’s size.

Chinese Herbal Medicine — 中蛋 (Zhōng yào)

The use of plant, mineral and occasionally animal-derived substances to restore health and prevent disease. Herbs are rarely prescribed singly; instead, they are combined into precise formulas tailored to the individual’s TCM pattern of disharmony. Chinese herbal medicine is one of the most sophisticated and researched herbal traditions in the world. Learn more about Chinese herbal medicine, including how Dr D’Alberto offers online herbal consultations.

D

Dampness — 湿 (Shī)

One of the Six Pathogenic Factors and also an internal pathological product. Dampness is characterised by heaviness, stickiness, turbidity and a tendency to impair the free flow of Qi. Symptoms associated with Dampness include a feeling of heaviness, bloating, loose stools, cloudy urine, skin conditions and a heavy, muzzy head. Diet — particularly excessive consumption of cold, raw, greasy or sweet foods — is a common cause. Treatment with acupuncture and Chinese herbs aims to resolve and transform Dampness.

De Qi — 得气 (Dé qì)

Literally “obtaining Qi” — the sensation felt by the patient when an acupuncture needle connects with the flow of Qi at an acupoint. Patients often describe it as a dull ache, heaviness, distension, tingling or warmth radiating from the needle site. De Qi is considered an indicator that the treatment is engaging with the body’s energy. Many patients find the sensation brief and are surprised by how relaxing acupuncture feels once needles are in place.

Dryness — 琿 (Zào)

One of the Six Pathogenic Factors, Dryness is a Yang pathogenic influence most prevalent in autumn. It tends to injure the Lungs and consume the body’s fluids (Jin Ye). Symptoms of external Dryness include a dry cough with little or no sputum, dry mouth and throat, dry skin, blocked or dry nasal passages, thirst and a hoarse voice. Internal Dryness — arising from Yin or fluid deficiency — produces similar symptoms but with deeper constitutional signs such as dry stools, constipation and emaciation. Treatment aims to moisten the Lungs, nourish fluids and restore Yin using gentle nourishing herbal formulas and acupuncture.

E

Electroacupuncture — 电針 (Diàn zhēn)

A modern development in which a small electrical current is passed between pairs of inserted acupuncture needles to enhance stimulation of the acupoints. It is particularly useful for pain relief, nerve conditions and muscular rehabilitation. Learn more about electroacupuncture.

F

Five Elements — 五行 (Wǔ xíng)

A foundational theory in TCM that classifies all phenomena — including the internal organs, emotions, seasons, flavours and colours — into five phases: Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal and Water. Each element generates the next in a Generating Cycle and controls another in a Controlling Cycle. Imbalances between the elements are used to explain the relationship between different organs and the development of disease. For example, excess Liver Wood may overact on Spleen Earth, causing digestive problems alongside emotional frustration. Learn more about the Five Elements.

Food Therapy — 馉申 (Shí liáo)

The use of food as medicine, one of the eight branches of TCM. Each food has a thermal nature (warming, cooling or neutral), a flavour (sweet, sour, bitter, pungent or salty) and an organ affinity. Dietary advice is tailored to an individual’s TCM pattern — for example, someone with a Cold constitution would benefit from warming foods such as ginger, while someone with Yin deficiency would be advised to avoid excessive spicy food. Learn more about Chinese food therapy.

G

Gall Bladder — 脴 (Dǎn)

One of the six Fu (hollow Yang) organs in TCM, paired with the Liver. The Gall Bladder stores and excretes bile, but more distinctively in TCM it governs decisiveness, judgement and courage. People with strong Gall Bladder Qi tend to make decisions easily; those with deficient Gall Bladder Qi may be timid, indecisive, fearful, prone to disturbed sleep with vivid dreams. The Gall Bladder channel runs along the lateral side of the body and the side of the head, making it a key meridian in the treatment of lateral headaches, hip pain, sciatica and shingles in this distribution.

Gall Bladder Damp-Heat (Gall Bladder Fire) — 脴腹湿湯 (Dǎn fǔ shī rè)

A common pattern in which Damp-Heat accumulates in the Gall Bladder and Liver, generating Fire. Symptoms include a bitter taste in the mouth, yellow tongue coating, jaundice, right-sided rib pain, irritability, nausea, dark concentrated urine and red itchy ears. It underlies many cases of gallstones, biliary inflammation and certain forms of hepatitis. Emotionally, sustained anger, frustration and a rich diet of greasy, spicy or alcoholic food are major contributors. Treatment clears Damp-Heat from the Gall Bladder and soothes the Liver using acupuncture and Chinese herbal formulas such as Long Dan Xie Gan Tang.

Gua Sha — 划痏 (Guā shā)

A therapy involving firm but gentle scraping of the skin with a smooth-edged tool to improve microcirculation and release stagnant Qi and Blood. The scraping produces a temporary reddening called sha. Gua Sha is commonly used for neck pain, back pain, fever and respiratory conditions.

H

Heart — 心 (Xīn)

One of the five Zang (solid Yin) organs in TCM. The Heart governs Blood circulation and houses the Shen (mind/spirit), making it the “emperor” of all organs. The Heart opens to the tongue, manifests in the complexion and is paired with the Small Intestine. It is most active 11am–1pm. Disharmony of the Heart manifests as palpitations, chest discomfort, insomnia, vivid dreams, anxiety, mental restlessness, mouth ulcers and impaired memory.

Heart Blood Deficiency — 心血虚 (Xīn xuè xū)

A pattern of insufficient Blood to nourish the Heart and anchor the Shen. Common signs include palpitations, difficulty falling asleep, vivid dreams, poor memory, pale complexion and lips, dizziness when standing, anxiety and a thin pulse. It is frequently seen in women after heavy menstrual bleeding, post-childbirth and in chronic worry-driven insomnia. Treatment nourishes Heart Blood with formulas such as Gui Pi Tang and acupuncture points like HE-7 (Shen Men), BL-15 and SP-6.

Heart Fire — 心火 (Xīn huǒ)

A pattern of pathological Heat in the Heart, producing agitation of the Shen. Signs include difficulty falling asleep (often with anxious thoughts), red tip of the tongue, mouth ulcers, bitter taste, scanty dark urine, palpitations, restlessness and a rapid pulse. Heart Fire often arises from prolonged emotional stress, excess alcohol, very spicy food or unresolved anger transforming into Heat. Treatment clears Heart Fire and calms the Shen using points such as HE-8 (Shao Fu) and PC-7, with herbal formulas such as Dao Chi San.

Heart Yin Deficiency — 心陰虚 (Xīn yīn xū)

Insufficient Heart Yin produces empty Heat that disturbs the Shen. Symptoms include night sweats, hot palms and soles, restless agitated insomnia, palpitations worse at night, dry mouth, low-grade afternoon flushing and a red tongue with little coating. It often emerges after prolonged anxiety, chronic illness or in menopausal women. Treatment nourishes Heart Yin and calms the Shen with formulas such as Tian Wang Bu Xin Dan.

Heat (Fire) — 湯 / 火 (Rè / Huǒ)

Heat is a Yang pathogenic factor that consumes Yin and body fluids. Signs of Heat include a red face, thirst, fever, irritability, rapid pulse and a red tongue with a yellow coating. Internally generated Heat — often called Fire — can arise from emotional constraint or the transformation of other pathogenic factors. Conditions like acne, anxiety and menopausal hot flushes are often associated with Heat in TCM.

Heat Therapy — 温申 (Rè liáo)

The therapeutic application of infrared or TDP lamp heat to acupoints and body regions to warm channels, dispel cold and damp, and promote the free flow of Qi. It is commonly used alongside acupuncture to enhance pain relief and relaxation. Learn more about heat therapy.

J

Jiao (Three Burners) — 三澌 (Sān jiāo)

The body is divided in TCM into three functional zones called Jiao (burners or warmers): the Upper Jiao (above the diaphragm, encompassing the Heart and Lungs), the Middle Jiao (between the diaphragm and navel, encompassing the Spleen and Stomach) and the Lower Jiao (below the navel, encompassing the Kidneys, Liver, Bladder and Intestines). This framework is particularly used in the Warm Disease (Wen Bing) system, where pathogens are understood to progress through the three Jiao in a predictable sequence. The three Jiao are functionally coordinated by the San Jiao organ. See also San Jiao.

Jing (Essence) — 精 (Jīng)

Jing is one of the Three Treasures (San Bao) of TCM alongside Qi and Shen. It is the fundamental substance that underlies all organic life, governing growth, reproduction, development and constitutional strength. Jing is stored in the Kidneys. Pre-natal Jing is inherited from your parents and is finite; Post-natal Jing is replenished through food, rest and a healthy lifestyle. Depletion of Jing — through overwork, stress, excessive sexual activity or poor diet — is associated with infertility, premature ageing and chronic fatigue.

Jin Ye (Body Fluids) — 津液 (Jīn yè)

The collective term for all normal fluids in the body other than Blood, including saliva, gastric juices, synovial fluid, tears and sweat. Jin (thin fluids) moisten the skin, muscles and orifices; Ye (thick fluids) lubricate the joints and nourish the brain and bone marrow. Deficiency of body fluids can cause dry skin, constipation, dry eyes and thirst — often treated with nourishing Chinese herbal formulas.

K

Kidney — 绪 (Shèn)

In TCM, the Kidneys are considered the “root of life” — the organ system most responsible for constitutional vitality, reproductive health and longevity. They store Jing, govern growth and development, produce marrow (which includes brain tissue and bone marrow), and house willpower (Zhi). Kidney deficiency is implicated in many conditions including infertility, menopausal symptoms, lower back pain and tinnitus.

Kidney Essence Deficiency — 绪精不足 (Shèn jīng bù zú)

Depletion of Jing (essence), the deepest constitutional reserve stored in the Kidneys. It manifests as developmental delay in children; in adults as infertility, premature ageing, weak teeth and bones, hair loss or premature greying, poor memory, soft brittle nails and reduced libido. Causes include heredity, chronic overwork, late nights, excess sexual activity and chronic illness. Treatment is long, slow and involves nourishing Jing with formulas such as Zuo Gui Wan and Liu Wei Di Huang Wan, alongside lifestyle reform.

Kidney Qi Deficiency — 绪气虚 (Shèn qì xū)

The mildest form of Kidney depletion. Signs include lower back ache, tiredness, frequent pale urination, urinary incontinence, weak knees, reduced libido and poor concentration. Without intervention it can progress into Kidney Yang or Kidney Yin Deficiency depending on constitution. Treatment supports Kidney Qi with formulas such as Jin Suo Gu Jing Wan and points BL-23, KD-3, REN-4.

Kidney Yang Deficiency — 绪铠虚 (Shèn yáng xū)

Depletion of the warming, activating Yang of the Kidneys, producing internal cold. Signs include marked aversion to cold, cold extremities and lower back, low libido, erectile difficulties, urinary incontinence, frequent pale copious urination, watery diarrhoea (especially at dawn), oedema in the lower body, infertility and a pale, wet, swollen tongue with a deep, slow, weak pulse. It is the deeper-seated counterpart to Liver Qi Stagnation in cold-pattern presentations. Treatment warms and tonifies Kidney Yang with moxibustion on Ren-4 (Guan Yuan) and Du-4 (Ming Men), alongside formulas such as You Gui Wan and Jin Gui Shen Qi Wan.

Kidney Yin Deficiency — 绪陰虚 (Shèn yīn xū)

Depletion of the cooling, moistening, anchoring Yin of the Kidneys, producing “empty Heat”. Signs include hot flushes, night sweats, hot palms and soles (“five centre heat”), dry mouth and throat (especially at night), low-grade afternoon flushing, restless sleep waking around 3am, lower back and knee weakness, tinnitus, dizziness, dry skin and a red tongue with little or no coating. It is the central pattern underlying many cases of menopausal symptoms, recurrent urinary infections and chronic anxiety. Treatment nourishes Kidney Yin with formulas such as Liu Wei Di Huang Wan and Zhi Bai Di Huang Wan, alongside acupuncture points KD-3, KD-6, REN-4 and SP-6.

L

Liver — 肻 (Gān)

One of the five Zang (solid Yin) organs and one of the busiest in TCM clinical practice. The Liver stores Blood, ensures the smooth flow of Qi throughout the body, and is most affected by emotional life, particularly anger and frustration. It opens to the eyes, manifests in the nails and governs the sinews. The Liver channel runs through the genital region, making it important in fertility and gynaecological treatment. Liver disharmony underlies a vast range of common conditions including depression, tension headaches, premenstrual tension, irritability and digestive complaints driven by stress.

Liver Blood Deficiency — 肻血虚 (Gān xuè xū)

A pattern of insufficient Blood stored in the Liver, leading to undernourishment of the eyes, sinews and nails. Signs include blurred vision, floaters, dry or itchy eyes, brittle nails with vertical ridges, muscle cramps and twitching, scanty or absent menstruation, pallor of the lips and complexion, dizziness when standing and a thin pale tongue. It is common in women with heavy or frequent menstrual bleeding, postpartum, vegetarians without adequate iron intake, and in chronic exhaustion. Treatment nourishes Liver Blood with formulas such as Si Wu Tang and Bu Gan Tang and points BL-18, LIV-8, SP-6.

Liver Fire — 肻火 (Gān huǒ)

A pattern of intense pathological Heat rising in the Liver. Distinct from Liver Yang Rising in that it is hotter and more violent. Signs include sudden bursting headaches, very red eyes, pronounced irritability and outbursts of anger, bitter taste in the mouth, tinnitus of sudden onset, nightmares, scanty dark urine, constipation and a red tongue with a yellow coating. It often arises from prolonged Liver Qi stagnation, anger, alcohol or rich, spicy food. Treatment clears Liver Fire with formulas such as Long Dan Xie Gan Tang and points LIV-2, GB-20, GB-43.

Liver Invading the Spleen — 肻野脟 (Gān chéng pí)

Also called “Wood Overacting on Earth” in five-element terms. When Liver Qi stagnates strongly, it disrupts the Spleen’s function of transformation and transportation. Symptoms typically alternate between bloating and loose stools, often triggered by stress, with belching, irritability and abdominal pain that improves with passing wind or stool. It underlies many cases of stress-driven irritable bowel syndrome. Treatment soothes the Liver and strengthens the Spleen with formulas such as Tong Xie Yao Fang and Xiao Yao San.

Liver Invading the Stomach — 肻氣犯胃 (Gān qì fàn wèi)

The counterpart of Liver Invading the Spleen, in which stagnant Liver Qi disrupts the Stomach’s descending function. Symptoms include acid reflux and heartburn, belching, hiccups, nausea, epigastric pain or distension that worsens with stress, bitter taste in the mouth and irritability. It is a leading TCM pattern behind GORD and stress-related dyspepsia. Treatment soothes the Liver and harmonises the Stomach with formulas such as Si Ni San and Chai Hu Shu Gan San, with points LIV-3, LIV-14, ST-21 and PC-6.

Liver Qi Stagnation — 肻气聯結 (Gān qì yùjié)

One of the most commonly diagnosed patterns in modern TCM practice, reflecting the impact of emotional stress and a sedentary lifestyle on health. The Liver is responsible for the smooth flow of Qi throughout the body; when it is impaired by frustration, suppressed anger or prolonged emotional stress, Qi stagnates. Symptoms include chest tightness, abdominal distension, irritability, depression, stress, headaches and irregular periods. Treatment involves moving and regulating Liver Qi using acupuncture and Chinese herbs.

Liver Yang Rising — 肻铠上保 (Gān yáng shàng kàng)

A pattern in which Liver Yang ascends excessively, no longer balanced by Liver Yin. Symptoms typically affect the upper body and head: bursting or throbbing headaches (often unilateral), dizziness, tinnitus, neck and shoulder tension, red eyes, flushed face, irritability, disturbed sleep, light-headedness on standing and mild blood pressure rise. The tongue is red-edged and the pulse wiry. It frequently underlies essential hypertension, perimenopausal headaches and stress-related migraines. The pattern usually arises from Liver Yin or Kidney Yin deficiency failing to anchor Liver Yang. Treatment subdues Liver Yang and nourishes the underlying Yin with formulas such as Tian Ma Gou Teng Yin and Zhen Gan Xi Feng Tang.

Liver Yin Deficiency — 肻陰虚 (Gān yīn xū)

Insufficient Liver Yin fails to nourish the eyes, sinews and the Liver itself, and may allow Liver Yang to rise (see above). Signs include dry, gritty eyes, blurred vision, floaters, dizziness, headaches behind the eyes, dry hair and skin, hot palms and soles, night sweats, scanty light periods and a red tongue with thin coating. Frequently a precursor to Liver Yang Rising, particularly in women approaching menopause. Treatment nourishes Liver and Kidney Yin with formulas such as Qi Ju Di Huang Wan and Yi Guan Jian.

Lung — 肺 (Fèi)

One of the five Zang (solid Yin) organs in TCM. The Lung governs Qi and respiration, controls the dispersing and descending of Qi and fluids, regulates the water passages and is the “most external” of the Yin organs — ruling the skin, body hair and the opening and closing of pores. It is paired with the Large Intestine, opens to the nose and is most active 3am–5am. Lung disharmony manifests as cough, asthma, shortness of breath, frequent colds, weak voice, pale complexion, skin conditions and grief. The Lungs are particularly vulnerable to Dryness in autumn.

Lung Qi Deficiency — 肺氣虚 (Fèi qì xū)

One of the most common chronic TCM patterns. Signs include shortness of breath on mild exertion, weak quiet voice, pale complexion, frequent colds with slow recovery, spontaneous daytime sweating, fatigue, mild dry cough and a pale tongue with thin white coating. It often coexists with Spleen Qi Deficiency (Lung-Spleen Qi Deficiency). It underlies recurrent respiratory infection, chronic asthma in remission and post-viral fatigue. Treatment tonifies Lung Qi with formulas such as Bu Fei Tang and Yu Ping Feng San (the classical immune-defensive formula).

Lung Yin Deficiency — 肺陰虚 (Fèi yīn xū)

Insufficient Lung Yin produces dryness and empty Heat in the chest. Signs include a dry hacking cough with little or no sputum (sometimes blood-streaked), dry mouth and throat, hoarseness, hot palms and soles, low-grade afternoon flushing, night sweats and a red tongue with little coating. It is common after acute respiratory infection, in chronic smokers and in older adults during dry autumn weather. Treatment nourishes Lung Yin and moistens dryness with formulas such as Sha Shen Mai Men Dong Tang and Bai He Gu Jin Tang.

M

Meridians (Channels) — 經絡 (Jīng luò)

An invisible network of pathways through which Qi and Blood circulate throughout the body. There are 12 primary meridians, each named after and connected to a specific organ system. They link the interior of the body to the surface — which is why inserting a needle into the foot can influence the function of the Liver or relieve a headache. In addition to the primary meridians there are eight Extraordinary Vessels, which act as reservoirs of Qi and Blood and have important roles in constitutional health and fertility.

Moxibustion — 涘法 (Jiǔ fǎ)

The burning of dried mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris) on or near acupoints to warm the channels, expel cold, tonify Yang and promote the free flow of Qi and Blood. Moxibustion is particularly well known for its use in turning a breech baby in late pregnancy, where studies show a success rate of up to 72.5%. Learn more about moxibustion therapy.

N

Nutritive Qi (Ying Qi) — 舛气 (Yíng qì)

One of the principal forms of Qi in the body, Nutritive Qi flows within the blood vessels and meridians, nourishing the internal organs and the whole body. It is produced from the finest essences of food and water processed by the Spleen and Stomach, and circulates continuously through the twelve primary meridians in a fixed 24-hour cycle. Nutritive Qi works in close partnership with Wei Qi (Defensive Qi): Wei Qi circulates on the exterior to guard against pathogens, while Ying Qi nourishes from within. In classical Warm Disease theory, the Ying (Nutritive) level represents a deep stage of pathogenic penetration — when a pathogen reaches this level it has moved into the interior, producing high fever, disturbed consciousness and possible skin rash.

P

Pattern Differentiation — 辖證 (Biàn zhèng)

The cornerstone of TCM diagnosis. Rather than naming a disease, a TCM practitioner identifies the patient’s unique pattern of disharmony — a coherent picture formed from symptoms, signs, tongue appearance, pulse quality, emotions and lifestyle. Two patients with the same western diagnosis (for example, insomnia) may have entirely different TCM patterns and therefore receive different treatments. This individualised approach is one of the defining features of TCM.

Phlegm — 癛 (Tán)

A pathological substance produced when body fluids are not properly transformed and transported, most often due to Spleen deficiency or the accumulation of Dampness. In TCM, Phlegm encompasses both the visible phlegm of respiratory conditions and a broader range of “invisible Phlegm” that can obstruct the meridians, cloud the mind and contribute to lumps, nodules and cysts anywhere in the body. Phlegm can combine with other pathogenic factors to form compound patterns: Phlegm-Damp (heavy, turbid, characterised by copious mucus and a greasy tongue coating), Phlegm-Heat (thick yellow phlegm, agitation, rapid pulse) and Phlegm-Cold (thin white phlegm, chilliness, slow pulse). Common presentations include headache with a sensation of heaviness, dizziness, nausea, palpitations and productive cough. Treatment involves drying Dampness, transforming Phlegm and strengthening the Spleen using acupuncture and Chinese herbs.

Pulse Diagnosis — 脸#CA8; (Mài zhěn)

The assessment of the radial pulse at the wrist as a diagnostic tool in TCM. Practitioners feel three positions on each wrist, each corresponding to specific organ systems. The quality of the pulse — its depth, rate, strength, width and overall character — provides detailed information about the state of Qi, Blood and the internal organs. Over 28 distinct pulse qualities are described in classical texts, making pulse diagnosis a nuanced and skilled art developed over years of practice. Learn more about pulse diagnosis.

Q

Qi (Vital Energy) — 气 (Qì)

The fundamental concept in all of TCM. Qi is the vital energy or life force that animates all living things and flows through the body via the meridians. It has multiple functions: transforming food into nutrients, warming the body, protecting against disease, holding the organs in place and enabling movement. Health is understood as the smooth and balanced flow of Qi; disease arises when Qi is deficient, stagnant, sinking or rebelling. Acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine both work primarily by regulating the flow of Qi.

Qi Gong — 气功 (Qì gōng)

A mind-body practice that combines slow, intentional movement, controlled breathing and meditative focus to cultivate and balance Qi. Qi Gong is one of the eight branches of TCM and is widely practised for health maintenance, stress reduction and rehabilitation. Regular practice supports the Lungs, strengthens Kidney Qi and calms the Shen (mind), making it beneficial for conditions such as anxiety, chronic fatigue and high blood pressure.

S

San Jiao (Triple Burner) — 三澌 (Sān jiāo)

One of the six Fu (hollow Yang) organs in TCM, the San Jiao does not have an anatomical equivalent in western medicine. It is best understood as the functional system that governs the transformation and distribution of Qi, water and heat throughout the three body cavities (the three Jiao). The San Jiao is the pathway through which Yuan Qi (Original Qi) is distributed to all the organs, and it plays a key role in water metabolism alongside the Lungs, Spleen and Kidneys. As a meridian, the San Jiao channel runs along the outer arm and the side of the head, making San Jiao points particularly useful in treating lateral headaches and ear conditions.

Shen (Mind / Spirit) — 神 (Shén)

One of the Three Treasures, Shen encompasses consciousness, mental activity, emotional well-being, memory and the capacity for clear thought. It is housed in the Heart, which in TCM governs blood circulation and mental functions. When Shen is settled, the mind is calm, sleep is restful and emotions are balanced. Disturbed Shen manifests as anxiety, insomnia, poor concentration, palpitations and depression — all conditions responsive to acupuncture.

Six Pathogenic Factors — 六瀖 (Liù yín)

The six external climatic forces that can invade the body and cause disease when the body’s defensive Qi (Wei Qi) is weakened: Wind, Cold, Summer Heat, Dampness, Dryness and Fire. Each has characteristic symptoms — for example, Wind causes moving symptoms such as itching rashes or wandering joint pain; Cold causes contraction and fixed pain; Dampness causes heaviness and swelling. These factors can also arise internally from organ dysfunction and diet. Understanding them helps your practitioner identify the precise nature of your condition.

Six Stages (Liu Jing) — 六經 (Liù jīng)

A diagnostic and treatment framework from the classical text Shang Han Lun (Treatise on Cold Damage), written by Zhang Zhongjing in the second century AD. The Six Stages describe the progressive penetration of Cold pathogens through six layers of the body, each associated with a pair of meridians and characteristic symptoms. The stages are: Tai Yang (exterior, chills and stiff neck), Yang Ming (interior Heat, high fever and constipation), Shao Yang (half-exterior/half-interior, alternating chills and fever, flank pain), Tai Yin (interior Cold with Spleen deficiency), Shao Yin (deep deficiency of Heart and Kidney), and Jue Yin (terminal stage with mixed Heat and Cold). This system remains one of the most important frameworks in Chinese medicine for understanding the progression of acute and chronic disease and is the basis for many classical herbal formulas still widely used today.

Spleen — 脟 (Pí)

One of the five Zang (solid Yin) organs and the central organ of digestion in TCM. The Spleen transforms food and fluids into Qi and Blood, transports the resulting essences to other organs, governs the muscles, holds Blood within the vessels and houses thought (Yi). It is paired with the Stomach and is most active 9am–11am. Spleen disharmony is one of the most common patterns in modern practice and underlies digestive complaints, fatigue, oedema, easy bruising and over-thinking.

Spleen Damp Accumulation — 脟虚湿槺 (Pí xū shī kùn)

A pattern in which weakened Spleen function leads to the accumulation of Dampness. Signs include heaviness of the body and head, oedema, loose stools, bloating after meals, sluggish digestion, brain fog, sleepy after eating, weight gain (particularly central), oily skin and a pale swollen tongue with a thick greasy coating. It is the leading TCM pattern behind PCOS, metabolic syndrome and chronic IBS. Treatment strengthens the Spleen and resolves Dampness with formulas such as Liu Jun Zi Tang and Ping Wei San.

Spleen Qi Deficiency — 脟氣虚 (Pí qì xū)

The most fundamental of all Spleen disharmonies and one of the most commonly seen patterns in modern TCM practice. Signs include fatigue (especially after meals), poor appetite or sense of fullness after a few mouthfuls, loose stools or stools containing undigested food, abdominal bloating, pale complexion, weak limbs, easy bruising, prolapse of organs in severe cases (uterus, rectum, stomach) and a pale tongue with teeth-marks at the edges. Causes include irregular eating, excessive cold or raw foods, chronic worry and overwork. Treatment is the foundation of much TCM practice; it tonifies the Spleen with formulas such as Si Jun Zi Tang, Liu Jun Zi Tang and Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang, and points ST-36 (Zu San Li), SP-3, SP-6, REN-12.

Spleen Yang Deficiency — 脟铠虚 (Pí yáng xū)

A deeper, colder progression of Spleen Qi Deficiency. Signs include marked aversion to cold (especially abdomen and limbs), watery diarrhoea with undigested food, oedema, abdominal pain that improves with warmth and pressure, cold extremities, lassitude and a pale, wet, swollen tongue. Often co-occurs with Kidney Yang Deficiency. Treatment warms and tonifies Spleen Yang with formulas such as Li Zhong Wan and Fu Zi Li Zhong Wan, with extensive use of moxibustion on REN-12 and ST-36.

Stagnation — 粨淘 (Yù zhì)

A disruption to the smooth flow of Qi or Blood through the channels and organs. Stagnation is one of the most common pathological states in TCM and underlies a wide spectrum of conditions including pain, depression, premenstrual tension, endometriosis and digestive discomfort. Acupuncture is highly effective at moving stagnation and restoring the free flow of Qi and Blood.

Stomach — 胃 (Wèi)

One of the six Fu (hollow Yang) organs and the “sea of nourishment” in TCM. The Stomach receives food and drink, begins their breakdown (“rotting and ripening”) and sends the refined essences down to the Spleen for transformation. The Stomach’s natural Qi movement is downward; rebellious upward Stomach Qi produces nausea, vomiting, hiccups and reflux. The Stomach is most active 7am–9am, making breakfast the most important meal in TCM. The Stomach is paired with the Spleen and is sensitive to dietary irregularity and emotional stress.

Stomach Heat — 胃湯 (Wèi rè)

Pathological Heat in the Stomach generated by spicy or fatty food, alcohol, smoking, stress or stagnation transforming into Heat. Signs include constant hunger (sometimes ravenous), bad breath, mouth ulcers, gum inflammation or bleeding, burning epigastric pain, acid reflux, thirst for cold drinks, constipation with hard dry stools and a red tongue with thick yellow coating. It underlies many cases of GORD, peptic ulcer disease and gum problems. Treatment clears Stomach Heat with formulas such as Qing Wei San and points ST-44, ST-21 and LI-4.

Stomach Yin Deficiency — 胃陰虚 (Wèi yīn xū)

Depletion of Stomach Yin, often following a febrile illness, prolonged dry/spicy diet, smoking or chronic mild Stomach Heat. Signs include dry mouth and throat (especially in the afternoon), low-grade hunger without appetite, dry stools, mild epigastric burning, a slight retching reflex, ridge-textured tongue with little or no coating in the centre, and a thin rapid pulse. Treatment nourishes Stomach Yin with formulas such as Yi Wei Tang and Mai Men Dong Tang.

Summer Heat — 晴湯 (Shǔ rè)

One of the Six Pathogenic Factors, Summer Heat is unique in that it only arises externally — it does not develop internally from organ dysfunction. It is a Yang pathogenic factor encountered during the hottest months and is characterised by sudden, intense fever, profuse sweating, thirst, dark urine, a flushed face and exhaustion. Summer Heat readily injures the body’s fluids (Jin Ye) and Qi, and often combines with Dampness to produce a more complex presentation with nausea, a heavy sensation in the head and chest oppression. Severe cases can cause loss of consciousness (heatstroke). Treatment involves clearing Summer Heat, nourishing fluids and resolving any associated Dampness.

T

Tongue Diagnosis — 蒲#CA8; (Shé zhěn)

A primary diagnostic tool in TCM. The tongue is observed for its body colour, shape, size, moisture and the nature of its coating. Different areas of the tongue reflect the condition of specific organ systems — the tip reflects the Heart, the sides the Liver, and the root the Kidneys. A pale tongue may indicate Blood deficiency, a red tongue Heat, and a purple tongue Blood stagnation. Tongue diagnosis provides a visible, objective reflection of the body’s internal state that changes gradually with treatment. Learn more about tongue diagnosis.

Treatment Principle — 治則 (Zhì zé)

The statement of therapeutic intent that guides every TCM treatment. Once a pattern of disharmony has been identified through diagnosis, the practitioner formulates a Treatment Principle that describes precisely what needs to be done — for example, “tonify Kidney Yang, expel Cold and warm the channels,” or “clear Liver Heat, subdue Wind and alleviate pain.” All subsequent choices — which acupoints to needle, which herbal formula to prescribe, whether to apply moxibustion — flow logically from this principle. It is the Treatment Principle that ensures the treatment addresses the root cause rather than merely suppressing symptoms, and it is the primary reason why two patients with the same western diagnosis may receive entirely different TCM treatments.

Tui Na — 推按 (Tuī ná)

A form of Chinese therapeutic massage and manual therapy that uses rhythmic pressing, kneading, rolling and stretching techniques along the meridians and acupoints. Tui Na is used to relieve muscle pain, improve circulation, correct structural misalignment and regulate Qi flow. Unlike relaxation massage, it is a clinical therapy directed at specific therapeutic goals, often combined with acupuncture.

W

Wei Qi (Defensive Qi) — 衅气 (Wèi qì)

The outermost layer of Qi in the body, circulating just beneath the skin and between the muscles. Wei Qi acts as the body’s first line of defence against external pathogenic factors and regulates the opening and closing of pores to control sweating and body temperature. A person with strong Wei Qi seldom falls ill; deficiency leads to susceptibility to colds, allergies and fatigue. Strengthening Wei Qi is a common treatment goal in acupuncture.

Wind — 风 (Fēng)

The leading pathogenic factor in TCM, described as the “spearhead of disease” because it frequently carries other pathogenic factors such as Cold or Heat into the body. Wind is characterised by rapid change, upward and outward movement, and symptoms that move or vary — such as itching skin, wandering joint pain, tremors, sudden onset of symptoms or dizziness. Internal Wind, generated by the Liver, is associated with migraines, vertigo and, in severe cases, stroke.

X

Xue (Blood) — 血 (Xuè)

See Blood (Xue) in the B section above. In TCM, Blood is produced from the food essences extracted by the Spleen, is governed and circulated by the Heart, and stored by the Liver. Blood deficiency is a common pattern underlying insomnia, irregular periods, amenorrhoea and anxiety.

Y

Yin and Yang — 陰陣 (Yīn yáng)

The most fundamental theory in TCM and Chinese philosophy. Yin and Yang represent two complementary and interdependent aspects of all phenomena: Yin is feminine, cool, dark, still, nourishing and descending; Yang is masculine, warm, bright, active, transforming and ascending. All health is understood as a dynamic balance between these two forces; all disease as a relative excess or deficiency of one or the other. For example, menopausal hot flushes in TCM are typically a sign of Kidney Yin deficiency with relative excess of Yang. Learn more about Yin and Yang.

Ying Qi — see Nutritive Qi (Ying Qi)

Yuan Qi (Original Qi) — 元气 (Yuán qì)

The root Qi of the body, derived from pre-natal Jing stored in the Kidneys. Yuan Qi acts as the source of all transformative activity in the body and fuels every organ system. It is activated and distributed throughout the body via the Triple Burner (San Jiao) meridian. Like Jing, Yuan Qi is finite — it can be conserved through healthy lifestyle, adequate rest and moderate exercise, or depleted through chronic illness, overwork and excess.

Z

Zang Fu (Organs) — 网舌 (Zàng fǔ)

The collective term for the organ systems in TCM. Zang organs are the five solid (Yin) organs — Heart, Liver, Spleen, Lung and Kidney — which store and transform vital substances. Fu organs are the six hollow (Yang) organs — Small Intestine, Gall Bladder, Stomach, Large Intestine, Bladder and Triple Burner — which receive, digest and excrete. Crucially, TCM organs are functional systems rather than purely anatomical structures; the TCM Liver, for instance, encompasses emotional regulation, vision, tendon health and menstrual function as well as its western anatomical role.

Zheng Qi (Righteous Qi) — 正气 (Zhèng qì)

The collective term for all the body’s beneficial Qi — encompassing Wei Qi, Yuan Qi, Nutritive Qi and Organ Qi — that maintains health, resists disease and enables recovery. In TCM, disease is understood as a struggle between Zheng Qi and pathogenic factors. Strengthening Zheng Qi through acupuncture, Chinese herbs and lifestyle is therefore a primary preventive goal of treatment.