Was acupuncture developed by Han Dynasty Chinese anatomists?

Allbwn ymchwil: Cyfraniad at gyfnodolynErthygladolygiad gan gymheiriaid

Fersiynau electronig

Dangosydd eitem ddigidol (DOI)

  • Vivien Shaw
    Acupuncture-Ecohouse Clinic, Oxford, United Kingdom.University of Oxford
  • Amy K Mclennan
    University of Oxford

Anatomical dissection has begun to reveal striking similarities between gross anatomical structures and the system of nomenclature used in traditional Chinese acupuncture. This paper argues that acupuncture point nomenclature is rooted in systematic anatomical investigation of cadaveric specimens, and that acupuncture points and meridians are purposefully named to reflect observable physical form. Two types of evidence are compared: observations of physical structures based on anatomical dissection, and translation and analysis of original Chinese texts. Evidence is contextualized through in-depth practical understanding of acupuncture. Points designated as [Chinese character] tian (heavenly/superior), [Chinese character] xia (below/inferior), [Chinese character] liao (bone-hole), [Chinese character] fei (flying), [Chinese character] wei (bend), and [Chinese character] xi (mountain stream/ravine) are investigated. These acupuncture point names: (a) specify position; (b) reflect function and/or form; (c) indicate homologous structures; (d) mark unusual structures; and/or (e) describe the physical appearance of a deep (dissected) structure by likening it to a homologous everyday object. Results raise intriguing possibilities for developing an understanding of acupuncture points and meridians firmly based in the material and functional anatomy of the human body. Such an understanding has the potential to open new fields of thought about functional anatomy. It also has implications for future investigations into the mechanisms of acupuncture, and gives some insights into the possible origins of this iconic area of Chinese medicine.

Allweddeiriau

Iaith wreiddiolSaesneg
Tudalennau (o-i)643-59
Nifer y tudalennau17
CyfnodolynAnatomical record: Advances in Integrative Anatomy and Evolutionary Biology
Cyfrol299
Rhif y cyfnodolyn5
Dyddiad ar-lein cynnar9 Chwef 2016
Dynodwyr Gwrthrych Digidol (DOIs)
StatwsCyhoeddwyd - Mai 2016
Cyhoeddwyd yn allanolIe
Gweld graff cysylltiadau