Acupuncture points
Acupuncture Points
Acupuncture points or acupoints are specific locations on the body that are the focus of acupuncture treatments. The term is also used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) to denote the points on the body where the energy of an organ or system can be manipulated.
Pronunciation
Acupuncture: /ˈækjʊˌpʌŋktʃər/ Points: /pɔɪnts/
Etymology
The term "acupuncture" comes from the Latin acus (needle) and punctura (to puncture). The term "points" in this context refers to specific locations on the body.
Description
In traditional Chinese medicine, acupuncture points are located along meridians through which qi (life energy) flows. There are 365 traditional acupuncture points, corresponding to the days of the year. These points are divided into 14 main channels, each of which corresponds to a specific organ or system in the body.
Acupuncture points are used in a variety of therapeutic techniques, including acupuncture, acupressure, and moxibustion. The selection of points for treatment is based on the principles of TCM, including the theory of yin and yang, the five elements, and the zang-fu organ theory.
Related Terms
- Meridian: A pathway through which the life-energy known as "qi" flows.
- Qi: The vital energy in the body, according to traditional Chinese medicine.
- Acupressure: A form of therapy that involves applying pressure to acupuncture points.
- Moxibustion: A traditional Chinese medicine therapy using moxa made from dried mugwort.
- Yin and yang: The concept of dualism in ancient Chinese philosophy.
- Five Elements: The five fundamental elements of the universe according to traditional Chinese culture.
- Zang-fu: The organs of the body as understood in traditional Chinese medicine.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Acupuncture points
- Wikipedia's article - Acupuncture points
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