Vital Substances in Chinese Medicine

Flashcards summarizing key concepts related to vital substances in Chinese Medicine, including definitions and functions.

Qi

Translated as energy, life force, matter, or vital force in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).

Xue

Blood in TCM, considered a dense form of Qi that infuses life into the body.

Jing

Essence in TCM; the original source of life, derived from parents and food.

Jin Ye

Body fluids in TCM, consisting of clear and heavier substances that nourish and support bodily functions.

Shen

The mind or spirit in TCM that governs consciousness, thinking, memory, and governs the internal organs.

Prenatal Qi

Qi derived from parents, associated with the genetic endowment of an individual.

Postnatal Qi

Qi that is derived from food and drink, essential for ongoing vitality.

Original Qi

The fundamental Qi that governs all bodily functions, originating from the Kidneys.

Zong Qi

Gathering Qi, primarily derived from the air we breathe and the food we consume, vital for life.

Ying Qi

Nutritive Qi that nourishes the body, produced from the digestion of food.

Wei Qi

Defensive Qi that protects the body from external pathogens.

Yuan Qi

Source Qi that provides original energy for all bodily functions.

Liver Qi

Qi that regulates movement and distribution of blood throughout the body.

Heart Qi

The Qi that governs blood circulation and mental functions.

Spleen Qi

Qi related to digestion and the generation of fluids and blood.

Kidney Qi

Qi that governs growth, development, and reproduction.

Functions of Qi

Transforming, transporting, holding, raising, protecting, and warming the body.

Blood Functions

Nourishing and moistening the body, regulating internal organs and fluids.

Jin Functions

Moisturizing the skin and muscles, filling and nourishing blood vessels.

Ye Functions

Nourishing internal organs, lubrication of joints, and filling marrow.