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Understanding qi running in the meridians as interstitial fluid flowing via interstitial space of low hydraulic resistance.

Author
Abstract
:

Qi, blood and the meridians are fundamental concepts in Chinese medicine (CM), which are components of the human body and maintain physiological function. Pathological changes of qi, blood and meridians may lead to discomfort and disease. Treatment with acupuncture or herbal medicine aims to regulate qi and blood so as to recover normal function of the meridians. This paper explores the nature of qi as well as compares and correlates them with the structures of the human body. We propose a conceptualization of qi as being similar to the interstitial flfl uid, and the meridians as being similar to interstitial space of low hydraulic resistance in the body. Hence, qi running in the meridians can be understood as interstitial fluid flowing via interstitial space of low hydraulic resistance.

Year of Publication
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2018
Journal
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Chinese journal of integrative medicine
Date Published
:
2018
ISSN Number
:
1672-0415
DOI
:
10.1007/s11655-017-2791-3
Short Title
:
Chin J Integr Med
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