Meridians

Meridians are central to Traditional Chinese Medicine theory and are viewed as an interconnected network of invisible lines or channels through which Qi (vital energy) flows, influencing physical, emotional, and spiritual health. There are traditionally 12 major meridians mapped to organ systems (e.g., Lung, Heart, Kidney, Stomach), plus additional "extra" channels[1][3][5][7]. Stimulation of points along these meridians (by acupuncture, acupressure, or other TCM modalities) is thought to restore or balance Qi flow and promote healing[1][3][5][7]. From a scientific and biomedical standpoint, meridians do not correspond to anatomical or molecular entities such as receptors, enzymes, or channels. Some research attempts have explored tissue or proteomic correlates (e.g., extracellular matrix or connective tissue overlays in certain locations), but these have not yielded consensus in biochemical or anatomical terms[2][7][9]. Meridians are thus a theoretical framework specific to TCM that does not match the definitions of molecular targets for drug discovery or pharmacological intervention.

Other names

Meridian pathwaysAcupuncture meridiansMai