Disharmonies of the meridians of the body

Nature

In Chinese medicine the Meridians are the pathways for the movement of Qi and Blood, ensuring nourishment of the body. They also link up every part of the body and so create an organic integrity.

Disharmonies in an Organ may manifest themselves in the corresponding Meridians. A disorder in the Stomach Meridian, for example, may cause upper toothache because the Meridian passes through the upper gums; toothache in the lower jaw may be the result of a disorder of the Large Intestine Meridian. Acupuncture is the main method of rebalancing Qi and blood flow through the Meridians: reducing what is excessive, increasing what is deficient, warming what is Cold, cooling what is hot, circulating what is stagnant, moving what is congealed, stabilizing what is reckless, raising what is falling and lowering what is rising.

Background

There are twelve regular Meridians which correspond to each of the twelve Organs. These are sometimes called the Jing Meridians (the Chinese character for Meridian is Jing meaning "river, path, track or trail" and also "blood vessel"). The Organ Meridian is the main energy channel that connect the particular Organ with other Organs and the surface of the body. In addition to the Organ Meridians are eight extra Meridians and many small, finer networks. The luo Vessels and the dai mai (which runs around the waist) act as connecting channels, keeping the Qi flowing along the Organ Meridians in balance. Together they circle the body like the longitudinal and latitudinal Meridians do the Earth. They may be viewed as a network connecting the polarities of the body: the interior with the exterior; the internal Organs with the surface; the Yin with the Yang, the material with the spirit, etc.

Incidence

Disharmonies of the meridians of the body are reported globally, particularly in regions where traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is widely practiced, such as China, Korea, and Japan. Millions of individuals seek treatment for symptoms attributed to meridian imbalances, including fatigue, pain, and digestive issues. The World Health Organization recognizes the prevalence of such conditions, noting their impact on public health systems and the growing integration of TCM diagnostics in both Eastern and Western healthcare settings.
In 2022, a study conducted in Beijing, China, documented a significant increase in patients presenting with meridian disharmonies following prolonged COVID-19 lockdowns, highlighting the problem’s contemporary relevance.

Claim

Disharmonies of the meridians of the body represent a profoundly serious problem that is too often dismissed or overlooked. These imbalances disrupt the body’s vital energy flow, leading to a cascade of physical and emotional ailments. Ignoring meridian disharmonies means neglecting the root causes of many chronic conditions. Addressing this issue is not just important—it is essential for achieving true health and well-being. We must prioritize meridian harmony in modern healthcare.

Counter-claim

The so-called "disharmonies of the meridians of the body" are not an important problem at all. This concept lacks credible scientific evidence and is rooted in outdated, unproven theories. Focusing on meridian disharmonies distracts from real, evidence-based healthcare issues that genuinely impact people's lives. We should prioritize medical concerns that are supported by rigorous research, not vague ideas with no measurable impact on health or well-being.