To conclude our discussion on the basic theories in Chinese Medicine,
I will make brief mentions about the Meridian and Zang-Fu theories.
Qi tranvels in energetic pathways called Meridians.
The network of Meridians not only serves as a means for delivering Qi to
all tissues and organs, but also act as a communication network between them.
When a disorder of one organ's Qi develops,
it influences the functioning of
the other organs by disrupting the Meridian network as a whole.
This form the underlying basis of "holisticity" in
Chinese Medicine, as depicted by the Five Element Theory.
Under physiological conditions, Meridians link up
various organs and thereby enable the communication between various parts of the body,
facilitate the flow of Qi and blood and defend the body against invading microorganisms.
With the connection through the Meridians,
disorders can be transmitted from one organ to another.
Under pathological condition, invading microorganisms can move from
the external surface to the interior portions of
the body via the Meridians, favoring the progress of the disease.
"Zang and Fu" refers to all the internal organs in the body.
The Zang Fu Theory describes how the functional status of
various organs can be manifested as external signs and symptoms.
Zang and Fu organs and the essential elements - which are Vital essence,
Qi, Spirit, Blood, and Body fluid constitute the body and vitality.
The structural and functional relationships between external organs such as skin, muscle,
tendon, bone, blood vessel, mouth,
ear, nose, and tongue,
and the internal organs are illustrated.
Now, let's conclude the basic theories in Chinese Medicine theories.
The Yin-Yang and Five Element Theories represent fundamental methods
of reasoning that have given rise to the principles of
Chinese Medicine in theory and practice.
Put simply, Yin-Yang refers to the dynamic aspect of an event,
whereas the Five Element Theory refers to
the immutable inherent property of an object or a substance.
The two theories can relate to one another through the participation of Qi,
the energy that makes things move.
In Chinese Medicine, Qi is closely associated with Blood
which is also indispensable for the expression of activity.
According to Chinese Medicine theory,
following the differentiation of the universe in the Yin and Yang,
the reunion of them generates Qi that flows along Meridians to all Zang Fu organs.
The ensemble of Yin,
Yang and Qi give rise to myriad facets of life.
In practical terms, optimal health involves balance between Yin and Yang elements.
And consequently, a sub-healthy status or disease is seen
as the dominance of Yin over Yang or the contrary, to varying extents.
The restoration of Yin-Yang balance, thus
a normal Qi flow is therefore essential to regaining a healthy status.