Chapter 1: The Basics of Chinese Medicine

The ancient Chinese referred to the animating life force as “Qi.” For obvious reasons the early Chinese physicians were unable to determine that oxygen is a key component of this so-called “Vital Air.” They understood that this air is absorbed into the body (through the Lungs) and is necessary to the metabolic functioning and immune response.

It’s no mystery that we cannot live without air (oxygen) and food. Most of the human body’s aerobic (oxygen-utilizing) activity takes place in the cell’s “powerhouse,” called the mitochondria. Vital Air Qi (oxygen) and Nutrient Qi (glucose derived from food) make energy (ATP). ATP-energy is distributed throughout the body’s vessels to the organs, glands, tissues, etc. Distribution of this energy allows for healthy function of your entire system.

Qi circulates through a series of networks called “meridians.” These meridians can become congested like a traffic jam, or drained of vital energy. In Chinese medicine, “Qi and Blood” are inseparable— the Qi feeds off the Blood, and the Blood is moved by the force of the Qi-energy. When the Qi and Blood congest in one area of the body, energy and information cannot flow smoothly to or from its appropriate location. The result is most often localized pain and dysfunction. When the Qi is drained or becomes deficient, Chinese medicine can be used to pinpoint the “tired organ.”

Acupuncture and adjunctive therapies attempt to restore the flow of Qi to these areas where there is Qi congestion or Qi depletion. The Qi brings the oxygen, nutrients, and water to the cells and eliminates wastes, allowing for cellular regeneration and restoration. Good health depends on the balanced distribution of Qi throughout the energy channels.

In Chinese medicine, Qi has five distinct functions:

1. Defense: Protecting the body from illness
2. Transformation: Metabolizing substances for the body’s use
3. Warming: Distributing heat throughout the body
4. Restraint: Holding all organs and structures in place
5. Movement: Carrying out all of the body’s physical processes

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