Meridian system

The **Meridian system** is a central concept in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), describing an extensive network of invisible pathways through which "Qi" (vital life energy) flows throughout the body. There are twelve main meridians corresponding to major organs such as the heart, liver, spleen, lungs, kidneys, stomach, bladder, gallbladder, small intestine, large intestine, pericardium and triple warmer. These pathways are believed to connect internal organs with limbs and tissues and maintain health by ensuring balanced energy distribution. Blockages or imbalances within these channels are thought to cause disease or dysfunction. Meridian theory underpins practices like acupuncture and acupressure; stimulation at specific points along these pathways is believed to restore proper Qi flow and promote healing. Despite centuries of use in Eastern medicine—and some evidence suggesting associations with neurovascular bundles or connective tissue—there is no recognized molecular entity or anatomical structure for the Meridian system according to modern biomedical science. The concept remains controversial due to lack of rigorous scientific validation. **Note:** The "Meridian system" does not refer to a molecule/receptor/therapeutic target as understood in pharmacology or molecular biology. It is instead a theoretical framework from TCM without direct correspondence to any known protein/gene/receptor/enzyme/transporter/etc., making it an incorrect entry for structured drug target databases.

Other names

MeridiansJing-Luo systemEnergy channelsAcupuncture meridians

Not applicable; meridian-based therapies include acupuncture, acupressure, massage, cupping—these are not drugs but physical interventions intended to restore energy flow