the treatment of the yin and yang qiao mai, yin and yang …

THE TREATMENT OF THE YIN AND YANG QIAO MAI,

YIN AND YANG WEI MAI AND DAI MAI

Copyright Giovanni Maciocia

YIN AND YANG QIAO MAI

阴阳跷脉

YIN QIAO MAI PATHWAY FROM CLASSICS

Nan Jing, Chapter 28

“The Yin Qiao Mai starts from inside the heel, goes around the internal malleolus

and rises up to the throat going past the Chong Mai.”

Ling Shu, Chapter 17

“The [Yin] Qiao Mai separates from the Kidney channel and originates

from behind KI-2 Rangu and flows up to the internal malleolus. It rises on

the inner thigh to the genitals. Then it rises inside the chest and joins with

ST-12 Quepen coming to the area in front of ST-9 Renying entering the

cheekbone and reaching BL-1 Jingming.”

“The Bladder channel passes through the occiput and enters the brain: it

belongs to the root of the eyes and it is called Eye System...In the brain, it

divides into two vessels that become the Yin and Yang Qiao Mai. The Yin

and Yang Qiao Mai cross over each other, the Yang entering the Yin and

the Yin coming out into the Yang, crossing at the inner corner of the eye.”


Li Shi Zhen

“The Yin Qiao Mai starts inside the heel behind KI-2 Rangu, goes to KI-6

Zhaohai, up to the internal malleolus and then 2 cun up to KI-8 Jiaoxin

which is its Accumulation point [Xi-Cleft point]. It then ascends along

the inside of the leg and enters the genitals. It proceeds upwards and

enters inside the chest, it connects with ST-12 Quepen it emerges in front

of ST-9 Renying, reaches the throat where it crosses with the Chong Mai,

it then reaches the inner corner of the eye.”

Citing Zhang Zi Yang (Song dynasty), Li Shi Zhen:

“The Yin Qiao Mai reaches the area in front of the coccyx and below the

scrotum [i.e. perineum].”

YIN QIAO MAI

Originates inside the heel on the

medial side, goes to KI-2 Rangu,

ascends to the internal malleolous

and then to KI-8 Jiaoxin

•It rises on the inner leg and

thigh to reach the genitals

It ascends the abdomen and chest and

connects with ST-12 Quepen

It goes up to the throat connecting

with ST-9 Renying

and then to the eye at BL-1 Jingming

where it meets the Yang Qiao Mai.

CLINICAL APPLICATIONS

1. THE YIN QIAO MAI AND THE EYES

Because of its relation with the eyes, the Yin Qiao Mai can be used in

disturbances of sleep, whether insomnia or somnolence. Its classical

indication is a tendency for the eyes to want to close and therefore

somnolence.

Ling Shu , Chapter 21

“If the Yin Qiao Mai is in Excess, the eyes want to close.”

The tendency for the eyes to close is due to an Excess of Yin in the

eyes. In this context, it is often used in conjunction with the Yang

Qiao Mai.

In cases of somnolence, the Yin Qiao Mai is drained (by reducing KI-

6 Zhaohai) and the Yang Qiao Mai is tonified (by reinforcing BL-62

Shenmai), together with BL-1 Jingming.

However, the Yin Qiao Mai is used also for insomnia in combination with

the Yang Qiao Mai. In cases of insomnia, the Yin Qiao Mai is tonified (by

reinforcing KI-6 Zhaohai) and the Yang Qiao Mai drained (by reducing

BL-62 Shenmai), together with BL-1 Jingming.

In both somnolence and insomnia, the point BL-1 Jingming can be

added to establish a connection between the Yin and Yang Qiao Mai, so

that Yin and Yang energy in the eyes can be balanced.

Finally, although somnolence (the symptom of the Yin Qiao Mai) is

caused by an Excess of Yin in the eyes, the Yin Qiao Mai carries Yin Qi

to the eyes and this may also be deficient.


“Redness and pain of the eye starting from inner corner is due to the

Yin Qiao Mai.”

The Yin Qiao Mai can be used in certain cases of Atrophy Syndrome

(Wei Syndrome), when the muscles of the inner aspect of the legs are

tight and the foot turns inwards, partly because the outer leg muscles are

slack.

Neurological problems like sequelae of polio. This makes walking very

difficult and a person prone to tripping. The Yin Qiao Mai's opening and

coupled points can be used to balance the tension of the inner and outer

leg muscles.

2. THE YIN QIAO MAI AND WEI SYNDROME

To relax the muscles of the medial side of the leg, we need to reduce the

Yin Qiao Mai by reducing KI-6 Zhaohai and KI-8 Jiaoxin bilaterally.

3. ABDOMINAL PAIN

The Yin Qiao Mai extends its range of action to the abdomen, and can

be used in Full patterns of the Lower Burner in women, for such

symptoms as abdominal distension, abdominal masses, difficult

delivery or retention of placenta, all from stagnation.

However, the Yin Qiao Mai is chosen only when the abdominal

symptoms are unilateral. In my experience, the Yin Qiao Mai can be

used to treat adhesions following surgery.

When I use the Yin Qiao Mai to treat unilateral abdominal pain, I

deviate from my rule of using the opening point according to sex, i.e.

left in men and right in women. When I treat unilateral abdominal

pain, I use the opening point of the vessel on the side of the pain and

its coupled point on the opposite side.

For example, in case of left-side unilateral abdominal pain in a

woman, I would use KI-6 Zhaohai on the left (normally, when used

according to sex, I would have used this point on the right side), and

LU-7 Lieque on the right.

KI-6

LU-7

Left

Right

The Yin Qiao Mai can be used also for abdominal masses but, again,

when these are unilateral. In the treatment of abdominal masses there

is an overlap between the Ren, Chong and Yin Qiao Mai.

The classical indications for the Ren Mai include abdominal masses in

women but of the Ju type (of Ji Ju) or Jia type (of Zheng Jia). Therefore

this vessel can be used for abdominal masses from Qi stagnation especially

in women and especially if they are central.

The Chong Mai is the Sea of Blood and is particularly indicated for

abdominal masses from Blood stasis; in terms of location, it is especially

indicated when the masses are not central (as for the Ren Mai) but lateral

(whether unilateral or bilateral).

The Yin Qiao Mai is used for abdominal masses that may be from Qi

stagnation, Blood stasis or Phlegm: in terms of location, it is especially

used when the mass is in the lateral abdomen and is unilateral.

Abdominal masses are called Ji Ju [积聚]. Ji indicates actual

abdominal masses which are immovable; if there is an associated

pain, its location is fixed. These masses are due to stasis of Blood.

I call them "Blood masses".

Ju indicates abdominal masses which come and go, do not have a

fixed location and are movable; if there is an associated pain, it too

comes and goes and changes location. Such masses are due to

stagnation of Qi. I call them "Qi masses".

Actual abdominal lumps therefore pertain to the category of

abdominal masses and specifically Ji masses, and are due to Blood

stasis. I call them “Blood masses”.

Another name for abdominal masses was Zheng Jia [癥瘕], Zheng

being equivalent to Ji, i.e. actual, fixed masses and Jia to Ju, i.e.

non-substantial masses from stagnation of Qi.

Zheng Jia is normally used in referring to abdominal masses that

generally occur only in women; but they do occur in men as well,

though rarely.

The “Su Wen” in chapter 60 says: “Diseases of the Ren Mai...in

women are masses below the waist.”

In this context, the “Su Wen” uses the term Jia-Ju, i.e. non-

substantial masses from Qi stagnation.

症瘕 ZHENG JIA

积聚 JI JU

积 Ji

聚 Ju

症 Zheng

瘕 Jia

ABDOMINAL MASSES

Masses from Blood stasis

Masses from Qi stagnation

4. THE YIN QIAO MAI IN URINARY PROBLEMS

The Yin Qiao Mai can be used to treat urinary problems. Again, I would

use it for urinary problems from Full conditions such as Qi stagnation,

Dampness or Blood stasis in the urinary passages.

The main symptoms that this vessel treats are therefore hypogastric

distension and pain, urinary difficulty, urinary retention, blood in the

urine.

When using the Yin Qiao Mai for urinary problems I would use its

opening and coupled points (KI-6 Zhaohai and LU-7 Lieque) together

with KI-8 Jiaoxin, SP-9 Yinlingquan, LIV-5 Ligou and SP-6 Sanyinjiao.

5. THE YIN QIAO MAI IN OBSTETRICS AND GYNAECOLOGY

The Yin Qiao Mai is used in obstetrics especially for problems after

birth, such as abdominal pain, retention of lochiae, retention of placenta.

When using the Yin Qiao Mai for these problems I would use its opening

and coupled points (KI-6 and LU-7) together with KI-8 Jiaoxin, Ren-3

Zhongji, SP-6 Sanyinjiao and LIV-3 Taichong.

It can also be used during labour for difficult labour. Again, I would

use the Yin Qiao Mai for these problems only in Full conditions and

particularly from Blood stasis. Also, it is particularly indicated if the

abdominal pain after childbirth is unilateral.

6. THE YIN QIAO MAI AND THE EXTERNAL GENITALIA

The Yin Qiao Mai is not usually mentioned in connection with the

external genitalia: in my experience it does affect this area and can be

treated for such problems in men and women. As we have seen above, Li

Shi Zhen mentions that the Yin Qiao Mai flows to the external genitalia.

As the Du, Ren and Chong Mai all flow to the genitalia, when would we

use the Yin Qiao Mai?

The answer to this question is twofold: firstly, we use the Yin Qiao Mai

when there is an Excess of Yin, i.e. Blood stasis, Phlegm or Dampness and

the condition is primarily Full. Secondly, we use the Yin Qiao Mai when

the pulse indicates it, i.e. it is Wiry on both Rear positions.

Examples of genitalia problems that can be treated by the Yin Qiao Mai

are vulvodynia, vaginismus, vaginitis, iching, swollen scrotum,

Peyronie’s disease, undescended testis, etc.

When using the Yin Qiao Mai for the genitalia, I would use its opening

and coupled points (KI-6 Zhaohai and LU-7 Lieque) together with KI-8

Jiaoxin, KI-11 Henggu, LIV-1 Dadun and Ren-1 Huiyin

7. THE PULSE OF THE YIN QIAO MAI

The pulse of the Yin Qiao Mai is Wiry on both Rear positions.

Apart from this specific pulse quality reported by Li Shi Zhen, I

personally am drawn to use the Yin Qiao Mai when the pulse is of the

Full type reflecting an accumulation of Yin in the abdomen.

Therefore, I tend to use the Yin Qiao Mai when the pulse is Full at the

Middle or Deep level (reflecting accumulation or stagnation at the Yin

level).

Pulse Classic (Mai Jing, AD 280)

“If the Rear positions of both left and right are Wiry, it indicates [a

pathology of] the Yin Qiao Mai.”

The pulse of the Yin Qiao Mai is Wiry on both Rear positions.


“If the Rear positions of both left and right are Wiry, it indicates [a

pathology of] the Yin Qiao Mai.”

. . . . . . Wiry-Full

Yin is tense, Yang is

relaxed

Wei Syndrome, legs arched outwards

Unilateral abdominal

pain

Absorbs Excess Yin in

the abdomen

SUMMARY OF YIN QIAO MAI PATHOLOGY

Beng Lou

Urinary retention

Epilepsy with night-time attacks

Eyes cannot stay open, redness and

pain of inner canthus

CLASSICAL INDICATIONS FOR THE YIN QIAO MAI

- Nan Jing: Yang is slack and the Yin tense.

- Mai Jing: lower abdominal pain, internal urgency, lumbar pain

radiating to thighs and genitals, Yin hernia-like disorders in men,

menorrhagia (Lou), epilepsy.

-Yi Zong Jin Jian: obstruction of the throat, difficult urination, chest

distension, painful urination, pain, vomiting, diarrhoea, regurgitation

of food, breast abscess, dry stools, difficult labour causing fainting,

wind and blood from anus, discomfort in the diaphragm, feeling of

lump in the throat.

- Ling Shu: eyes want to close, red eyes, pain in inner canthus, urinary

retention

- Jia Yi Jing: convulsions.

- Nan Jing: eyes unable to close

CLASSICAL INDICATIONS FOR THE YIN QIAO MAI

Zhen Jiu Ju Ying:

Feeling of obstruction of the throat (Stomach)

Cold pain on urination (Kidneys, Liver)

Difficulty and dribbling in urination (Bladder)

Dizziness in women from Blood [deficiency] (Liver, Kidneys)

Bladder pain from Qi [stagnation] (Bladder)

Retention of lochiae (Liver)

Umbilical and abdominal pain (Spleen)

Hypogastric distension and fullness (Small Intestine)

Blood in stools (Large Intestine)

Food and drink do not go down, regurgitation of food, vomiting of food (Stomach)

Zhen Jiu Ju Ying:

Hypochondrial pain and masses in men from alcoholism (Lungs, Liver)

Borborygmi, diarrhoea, constipation (Large Intestine)

Feeling of fullness of the epigastrium, depression (Stomach)

Indigestion (Stomach)

Masses in women from Blood [stasis] (Kidneys, Heart)

Difficult labour (Kidneys, Liver)

Watery diarrhoea (Spleen)

Vomiting (Stomach)

Masses from alcoholism (Spleen)

Chord-like swelling beside the umbilicus (Stomach)

Masses from Qi [stagnation] (Spleen, Liver, Kidneys)

Painful Obstruction (Bi) Syndrome from alcoholism (Stomach, Liver)

Qi stagnation in the diaphragm (Pericardium)

Constipation (Large Intestine)

Hot feet [contradicting other symptoms] (Pericardium)

POINTS OF THE YIN QIAO MAI

KI-2 RANGU Blazing Valley

i. Nature

Spring (Ying) point

Fire point

Beginning point of Yin Qiao Mai.

ii. Actions

Clears Empty-Heat and cools Blood

Invigorates the Yin Qiao Mai.

iii. Indications

Dry throat, night-sweating, feeling of heat in the evening, 5-palm heat,

malar flush, itching of genitals, infertility, irregular menstruation, difficult

urination, unilateral abdominal pain, abdominal masses.

KI-6 ZHAOHAI Shining Sea

i. Nature

Opening point of Yin Qiao Mai.

ii. Actions

Nourishes Kidney-Yin

Benefits the eyes

Calms the Mind

Invigorates the Yin Qiao Mai

Benefits the throat

Regulates the uterus and menstruation (through

the Yin Qiao Mai).

iii. Indications

Dizziness, tinnitus, night-sweating, backache, dry eyes, blurred vision, red

eyes, floaters, insomnia, somnolence, epilepsy (night-time attacks), sadness,

fright, nightmares, itching of genitals, involuntary erection, hypogastric pain,

abdominal pain, tightness and contraction of the muscles of the inner aspect

of the legs, cramps of feet, hemiplegia, dry throat, dry cough, irregular

periods, amenorrhoea, painful periods, infertility from Cold in the Uterus,

difficult labour, post-partum umbilical pain.

KI-8 JIAOXIN Meeting the Spleen channel

i. Nature

Accumulation (Xi) point of the Yin Qiao Mai.

ii. Actions

Benefits the Uterus and regulates menstruation

Resolves Dampness

Removes obstructions from the channel.

iii. Indications

Painful periods, heavy periods, irregular periods, amenorrhoea

Abdominal fullness, diarrhoea, retention of urine, painful urination, turbid urine,

difficult urination, swelling and pain of testicles, itching of genitals, unilateral

abdominal pain, abdominal masses.

ST-12 QUEPEN Empty Basin

i. Nature

- Meeting point of Stomach, Large Intestine, Small

Intestine, Triple Burner and Gall-Bladder

channels.

- Point of the Yin Qiao Mai.

ii. Actions

Subdues rebellious Qi


iii. Indications

Cough, breathlessness, fullness of the chest

Pain of the supraclavicular fossa, pain in the shoulder radiating to the neck,

pain in the upper limbs, inability to raise the arm.

ST-9 RENYING Person’s Welcome

i. Nature

- Point of the Sea of Qi.

- Meeting point of the Stomach and Gall-Bladder

channels.

- Window of Heaven point.

- Point of the Yin Qiao Mai.

ii. Actions

Regulates the ascending and descending of Qi to and from head

Subdues rebellious Qi

Dissipates nodules.

iii. Indications

Headache, dizziness, blurred vision, red face, fullness of chest, shortness of

breath, wheezing

Goitre, scrofula

.

BL-1 JINGMING Eye Brightness

i. Nature

- Point of Yin and Yang Qiao Mai.

- Meeting point of Bladder, Small Intestine,

Stomach, Gall-Bladder and Triple Burner.

ii. Actions

Expels Wind

Clears Heat

Stops itching

Brightens the eyes.

iii. Indications

Lachrymation on exposure to wind, aversion to cold fever, headache,

redness, swelling and pain of the eyes, redness and itching of the inner

corner of the eyes, blurred vision, diminished night vision, myopia,

Childhood Nutritional Impairment eye diseases.

HERBAL THERAPY FOR YIN QIAO MAI

i. Herbs

The herbs that affect the Yin Qiao Mai are:

Yan Hu Suo

Rhizoma

Corydalis

Yanhusuo

Gua Lou Fructus

Trichosanthis

Ban Xia Rhizoma

Pinelliae ternatae

Dan Nan Xing Pulvis

Arisaemae cum felle

bovis

Zhi Mu

Huang Bo

http://images.google.co.uk/imgres?imgurl=http://www.tcmtreatment.com/herbs-pictures/huang bo.jpg&imgrefurl=http://www.tcmtreatment.com/herbs/0-huangbo.htm&h=277&w=350&sz=38&tbnid=HatS7JaWABMJ:&tbnh=91&tbnw=116&hl=en&start=1&prev=/images?q=huang+bo&svnum=10&hl=en&lr=

Yuan Zhi Radix

Polygalae tenuifoliae

Shi Chang Pu

Rhizoma Acori

graminei.

Suan Zao Ren

Semen Ziziphi

spinosae

ii. Formulae

Formulae that affect the Yin Qiao Mai include:

Si Wu Tang Four Substances Decoction

Ban Xia Tang Pinellia Decoction (Ban Xia Rhizoma Pinelliae ternatae

and Shu Mi, husked sorghum).

YANG QIAO MAI

Nan Jing, Chapter 28

“The Yang Qiao Mai originates inside the heel, it goes up to the external

malleolus and rises up to join with G.B.-20 Fengchi.”

Li Shi Zhen

“The Yang Qiao Mai is an offshoot of the Bladder channel. It starts inside

the heel, it goes up to the external malleolus to BL-62 Shenmai and then to

BL-61 Pushe. It then rises 3 cun to BL-59 Fuyang which is its Accumulation

point. It then rises along the external surface of the leg, behind the

hypochondrium, then up to the scapula where it connects with the Small

Intestine channel and the Yang Wei Mai at S.I.-10 Naoshu.

PATHWAY FROM THE CLASSICS

It rises outside the shoulder and connects with the Large Intestine

channel at L.I.-16 Jugu and with the Large Intestine and Triple Burner

channels at L.I.-15 Jianyu. It rises to ST-9 Renying and it connects

with the Large Intestine and Stomach channels and the Ren Mai at ST-4

Dicang.

It goes up to the Stomach channel to ST-3 Juliao and then rejoins the

Ren Mai at ST-1 Chengqi. It then goes to the inner corner of the eye

where it connects with the Small Intestine, Bladder and Stomach

channels and with the Yin Qiao Mai at BL-1 Jingming. From here, it

continues over the skull, passes behind the ear and enters G.B.-20

Fengchi where it ends. In total 23 points.”

PATHWAY

Originates inside the heel on the lateral side, goes

to the external malleolus and BL-62 Shenmai

It ascends on the lateral side of the lef and

connects with BL-61 Pushe and BL-59 Fuyang

It ascends on the lateral side of the upper thigh and

hip and connects with G.B.-29 Juliao

It goes to S.I.-10 Naoshu where it connects with the with

the Small Intestine channel and the Yang Wei Mai. It rises

outside the shoulder and connects with the Large Intestine

channel at L.I.-16 Jugu and with the Large Intestine and

Triple Burner channels at L.I.-15 Jianyu

It rises to ST-9 Renying and it connects with the Large

Intestine and Stomach channels and the Ren Mai at ST-4

Dicang. It goes up to the Stomach channel to ST-3 Juliao and

then rejoins the Ren Mai at ST-1 Chengqi.

It then goes to the inner corner of the eye where it connects

with the Small Intestine, Bladder and Stomach channels and

with the Yin Qiao Mai at BL-1 Jingming. From here, it

continues over the skull, passes behind the ear and enters

G.B.-20 Fengchi where it ends.


1. ABSORBS EXCESS YANG FROM THE HEAD

The Yang Qiao Mai is the first line of reservoirs to absorb excesses of

Yang, but it does so primarily in the head. “Excess of Yang in the

head” can manifest in a variety of ways, e.g. Liver-Fire or Liver-Yang

rising affecting the head, Liver-Wind, etc. Absorbing Excess Yang

from the head has also a mental implication as the Yang Qiao Mai is

used for mental symptoms such as mania, insomnia, agitation, etc.

Absorbing Excess Yang from the head also implies extinguishing internal

Wind and the Yang Qiao Mai is used to extinguish internal Wind for such

conditions as Wind-stroke, facial paralysis, aphasia, numbness or

epilepsy.

It may also be used to expel exterior Wind from the head for symptoms of

aversion to cold, fever, sneezing, headache, stiff neck, runny nose and

Floating pulse. It is particularly indicated if the exterior attack is

accompanied by severe headache and stiff neck.

a) Mental-emotional problems

Excess Yang in the head can cause mental problems, particularly

when combined with Phlegm clouding the Mind.

Excess of Yang in the Yang Qiao Mai can cause manic behaviour,

agitation, anxiety, insomnia.

Points: BL-62 Shenmai and S.I.-3 Houxi, Du-19 Houding.

b) Headaches

Excess of Yang in the Yang Qiao Mai in the head is a frequent

cause of headaches: usually with Liver-Yang rising or Liver-Fire.

An important sign is a pulse that is equally Wiry on both Front

positions.

For these headaches use the opening and coupled points of the vessel

(BL-62 Shenmai and S.I.-3 Houxi), LIV-3 Taichong, L.I.-4 Hegu and

G.B.-20 Fengchi.

c) Epilepsy

Absorbing Excess Yang from the head also implies extinguishing

internal Wind and the Yang Qiao Mai is used to extinguish internal

Wind for such conditions as Wind-stroke, facial paralysis, aphasia,

numbness or epilepsy. In particular, the Yang Qiao Mai can be

used when the epileptic attacks occur in daytime.

Points: BL-62 Shenmai and S.I.-3 Houxi, G.B.-20 Fengchi, Du-16

Fengfu, Du-19 Houding.

2. The YANG QIAO MAI AND THE EYES

The Yang Qiao Mai brings Yang Qi to the eyes

(the Yin Qiao Mai brings Yin Qi to the eyes).

When the Yang Qiao is Full, there is too much

Yang Qi in the eyes and these cannot close so

that the person suffers from insomnia.

To correct this, one can drain the Yang Qiao Mai by

reducing BL-62 Shenmai, tonify the Yin Qiao Mai

by reinforcing KI-6 Zhaohai and insert BL-1

Jingming to establish a communication between

these two vessels at the level of the eyes so that

Excess Yang is drained away and Yin is transported

to them.

BL-62 KI-6

BL-1

3. THE YANG QIAO MAI IN MENTAL PROBLEMS

“Excess of Yang in the head” has also an implication on a mental level

and the Yang Qiao Mai can be used for symptoms such as mania,

agitation, insomnia.

A particular indication for the use of the Yang Qiao Mai in these mental

conditions is a pulse that is Full and Wiry on both Front positions of left

and right.

In ancient texts, it is indicated in cases of "attraction to ghosts and

demons" and "missing a dead relative excessively".

The “Qian Jin Yao Fang" indicates the Yang Qiao Mai for "fright",

"seeing ghosts" and manic-depression [dian-kuang].

Points: BL-62 Shenmai and S.I.-3 Houxi together with Du-19 Houding, P-

7 Daling, Ren-15 Jiuwei.

Both cun positions Full and Wiry

4. THE YANG QIAO MAI IN BACKACHE AND SCIATICA

The Yang Qiao Mai is very useful to treat unilateral backache and

sciatica. In channel problems, the extraordinary vessels are particularly

indicated when the symptoms overlap several channels. For example,

the Yang Qiao Mai is particularly indicated in sciatica when the pain

affects the Bladder, Gall-Bladder and Stomach channels (or also just

the first two).

In such cases, I needle BL-62 Shenmai on the affected and S.I.-3 on

the opposite side. If there is a pronounced stiffness, I add the

Accumulation point of the Yang Qiao Mai, i.e. BL-59 Fuyang. After

retaining these needles in for approximately 20 minutes, I then ask

the patient to turn over and I treat the local points on the back.

The Yang Qiao Mai is particularly indicated in back problems

occurring against a background of a Full condition and the pulse is

Full and Wiry. I do not use the Yang Qiao Mai when the backache is

bilateral.

5. THE YANG QIAO MAI AND THE HIP

As the Yang Qiao Mai flows through the point G.B.-29 Juliao,

this vessel affects both the Bladder and Gall-Bladder channels

in the hip area: for this reason, I often use the Yang Qiao Mai to

treat hip pain.

In such cases, I use BL-62 Shenmai on the affected side and

S.I.-3 on the opposite side. After retaining these points for

approximately 20 minutes, I ask the patient to lie on the

opposite side so that I can needle G.B.-30 Huantiao and G.B.-

29 Juliao.

6. THE YANG QIAO MAI IN URINARY PROBLEMS

The “Golden Mirror of Medicine” (Yi Zong Jin Jian) indicates dribbling

of urination as a symptom of the Yang Qiao Mai (see below under

Classical Indications).

I would use this vessel for urinary problems only in Full conditions

characterized by urinary difficulty and pain from Dampness obstructing

the urinary passages.

In such cases, I use the opening and coupled points of the Yang Qiao Mai

(BL-62 Shenmai and S.I.-3 Houxi) together with BL-63 Jinmen, BL-59

Fuyang, Ren-3 Zhongji and SP-9 Yinlingquan.

7. THE YANG QIAO MAI AND THE LIMBS

The Yang Qiao Mai controls the state of the muscles of the lateral aspect of

the legs. When this vessel is diseased, the lateral muscles of the leg are tight

and stiff while those of the medial muscles are too relaxed.

a) Bi Syndrome

The Yang Qiao Mai can be used in Bi Syndrome especially from Wind

causing a spasm of the muscles and sinews of the lateral aspects of the body,

of the body itself and of the limbs.

The Yang Qiao Mai should be used for Bi Syndrome only in relatively Full

conditions with a Full and Wiry pulse. In this case, the “Excess of Yang” in

the Yang Qiao Mai is characterized by external Wind in the limbs.

Use BL-62 Shenmai and S.I.-3 Houxi with G.B.-20 Fengchi, ST-43 Xiangu

and L.I.-11 Quchi plus local points of the affected limbs.

b) Hemiplegia

Hemiplegia is usually the consequence of an attack of Wind-stroke which

itself is due to internal Wind. Wind contracts the muscles and sinews and

causes paralysis. As this is unilateral, the Yang Qiao Mai is particularly

indicated to treat it.

However, in my opinion, the use of the Yang Qiao Mai is particularly

indicated in the early stages of hemiplegia following Wind-stroke when

the influence of internal Wind in the limbs is still predominant. As the

Yang Qiao Mai can extinguish internal Wind, it is indicated in the early

stages of the sequelae of Wind-stroke.

When using the Yang Qiao Mai for hemiplegia from Wind-stroke, I

use the opening and coupled points (BL-62 Shenmai and S.I.-3 Houxi)

using BL-62 on the affected side and S.I.-3 on the other side together

with G.B.-20 Fengchi, Du-16 Fengfu, L.I.-11 Quchi and LIV-3

Taichong, plus local points on the affected limb

8. THE YANG QIAO MAI IN EXTERIOR INVASIONS OF WIND

The Yang Qiao Mai may also be used to expel exterior Wind from the head

for symptoms such as aversion to cold, fever, sneezing, headache, stiff

neck, runny nose and Floating pulse. It is particularly indicated if the

exterior attack is accompanied by severe headache and stiff neck.

Again, the use of the Yang Qiao Mai to expel Wind is indicated particularly

if the pulse is Full on both Cun positions.

To expel exterior Wind, I would use the opening and coupled points (BL-62

Shenmai and S.I.-3 Houxi) together with G.B.-20 Fengchi, Du-16 Fengfu

and BL-12 Fengmen.

9. PULSE OF THE YANG QIAO MAI

The pulse of the Yang Qiao Mai is Full and Wiry on both Cun positions,

reflecting the Excess of Yang in the head. Please note that the pulse

reflects areas of the body as well as channels and organs.

Therefore, when the pulse is Full and Wiry on both Front positions, it is

more likely to reflect an Excess of Yang in the top of the body and head

rather than a pathology of Heart and Lungs.

. . . . . . Wiry-Full

Pain inner canthus, eyes stay open

Sciatica when more than one channel involved

Hip pain

Mental problems from Excess of Yang, agitation, insomnia, mental illness

Aversion to wind, sweating, headache

Dribbling urination

Yang is tense, Yin is relaxed

Absorbs Excess Yang in the head SUMMARY OF YANG QIAO MAI

PATHOLOGY

Hemiplegia

Bi Syndrome

Headache

Epilepsy with day-time attacks

BL

HE

LIV

ST

P

SP

GB

LU

KI

外中内

前

后

中

FRONT

MIDDLE

REAR

Lateral Central Medial

Yin Wei Mai Yang Wei Mai

Yang Qiao Mai

Dai Mai

Yin Qiao Mai

Flo

ati

ng a

ll t

hre

e p

osi

tion

s: D

u M

ai

Fir

m a

ll t

hre

e p

osi

tion

s: C

hon

g M

ai

CLASSICAL INDICATIONS FOR THE YANG QIAO MAI

- Nan Jing: Yin is slack and the Yang tense. (thought to refer to the leg

muscles)

- Su Wen-23: eye pain in the inner corner (contralateral needling)

- Ling Shu: eyes stay open.

- Mai Jing: lumbar pain, epilepsy, hemiplegia, Bi syndrome with

stiffness

- Li Shi Zhen: backache, epilepsy, apoplexy, crying like a sheep,

aversion to wind, hemiplegia and tightness of the body.

- Li Shi Zhen: mad walking [mania] and the eyes cannot close.

- Yi Zong Jin Jian: stiff back and spine, Wind in ankles and feet,

aversion to wind, sweating, headache, numbness of hands and feet,

upper arm cold, thunder headache, red eyes, breast abscess, deafness,

epistaxis, epilepsy, limb pain, unilateral fullness, swelling and

sweating of the body, dribbling of urination.

Zhen Jiu Ju Ying (1529):

Stiffness and pain in the back (Bladder)

Pain in sinews of limbs (Kidneys, Liver)

Difficulty in use of hands and feet (Stomach, Lungs)

Headache from invasion of Wind-Cold (Bladder)

Oedema and feeling of fullness of body (Stomach)

Spontaneous sweating of face and head (Stomach)

Epilepsy (Liver)

Red and swollen eyes (Bladder)

Spontaneous sweating from invasion of Wind (Stomach)

Headache and itching of head from Wind (Gall-Bladder)

Pain in eyebrow (Bladder)

Thunder head Wind (Gall-Bladder)

Pain in arm and hand (Large Intestine)

Cold arms (Triple Burner)

Post-partum spontaneous sweating (Kidneys)

Epistaxis (Lungs)

Swelling and pain of the sinews of limbs (Kidneys, Liver)

Swelling and pain of thighs and knees (Stomach)

Deafness (Kidneys)

Numbness of arms and legs (Gall-Bladder)

Mastitis (from baby blowing on breast while breast-feeding) (Stomach)

Head Wind after washing [hair] (Bladder)

Spasms of arms and legs (Liver, Kidneys)

Post-partum aversion to wind (Kidneys)

iii. Indications

• Stiff neck, occipital headache, stiff back, Cold Painful Obstruction

• Syndrome (Bi Syndrome) of the back, pain in the legs

• Insomnia, somnolence, red eyes, eye pain

• Imbalances between left and right, excess of Yang in the head

• Epilepsy (attacks in daytime), opisthotonos, lockjaw, tremors, Wind-

stroke, deviation of eye and mouth, headache, dizziness, Aversion to

cold, fever, occipital headache and stiffness, manic behaviour,

insomnia.

POINTS OF THE YANG QIAO MAI

BL-62 SHENMAI Ninth Channel

ii. Actions

• Removes obstructions from the channel

• Benefits the eyes, opens the Yang Qiao Mai and harmonizes

left and right in the Yang Qiao Mai, extinguishes interior

Wind

• Subdues rebellious Qi from the head

• Expels exterior Wind, Calms the Spirit.

i. Nature

Opening and beginning point of the Yang Qiao Mai.

BL-61 PUCAN Servant’s Respect

i. Nature

Meeting point of the Bladder channel with Yang Qiao Mai.

ii. Action

Removes obstructions from the channel (head), calms the

Spirit, opens the Mind’s orifices, extinguishes internal

Wind, resolves Dampness from the Lower Burner, removes

obstructions from the channel (back and legs)

iii. Indications

• Headache, feeling of heaviness of the head

• Manic behaviour, raving (Dian Kuang), seeing ghosts

• Loss of consciousness, childhood epilepsy

• Turbid Painful Urination Syndrome (Lin from Dampness)

• Lower backache, Atrophy (Wei) Syndrome of legs, leg pain

BL-59 FUYANG Instep Yang

i. Nature

Point of the Yang Qiao Mai.

Accumulation (Xi) point of the Yang Qiao Mai.

ii. Actions


• Invigorates the Yang Qiao Mai

• Benefits the back.

iii. Indications

Thigh pain, Wind Painful Obstruction Syndrome (Bi Syndrome) of legs,

atrophy of legs, inability to raise leg, feeling of heaviness of the legs,

sciatica, ulcers on legs, redness and swelling of lateral malleolus,

Lower backache with pronounced stiffness.

G.B.-29 JULIAO Squatting Crevice

i. Nature


ii. Actions


iii. Indications

Hip pain, pain in the back/side of the leg, pain in the lateral side of the

buttocks, pain radiating to the groin, sciatica.

S.I.-10 NAOSHU Humerus Transporting Point

i. Nature

Meeting point of Small Intestine and Bladder channel

Point of Yang Qiao Mai

Point of Yang Wei Mai

ii. Actions


iii. Indications

Pain of the shoulder and scapula, pain in the arm, inability to raise the

shoulder.

L.I.-15 JIANYU Shoulder Bone

i. Nature


ii. Actions


• Expels Wind and Dampness

• Resolves Phlegm and dissipates nodules.

iii. Indications

• Shoulder pain, weakness of shoulder, Painful Obstruction Syndrome (Bi

Syndrome) of the shoulder from Wind and Dampness, inability to raise

(abduct) arm, contraction and numbness of the arm, hemiplegia, paralysis,

sequelae of Wind-stroke, atrophy of arm

• Urticaria from Wind

• Scrofula, goitre.

.

L.I.-16 JUGU Great Bone

i. Nature


ii. Actions


• Dissipates nodules.

iii. Indications

• Pain of the shoulder and upper back, difficulty in raising the arm,

pain of upper arm

• Scrofula, goitre.

ST-9 RENYING Person’s Welcome

i. Nature

Point of the Sea of Qi.

Meeting point of the Stomach and Gall-Bladder

channels.

Window of Heaven point


ii. Actions

• Regulates the ascending and descending of Qi to

and from head

• Subdues rebellious Qi

• Dissipates nodules.

iii. Indications

• Headache, dizziness, blurred vision, red face, fullness of chest,

shortness of breath, wheezing

• Goitre, scrofula

ST-4 DICANG Earth Granary

i. Nature

Meeting point of Stomach and Large Intestine channels.

Point of Yang Qiao Mai

Point of the Ren Mai

ii. Actions

• Expels Wind

• Removes obstructions from the channel.

iii. Indications

• Deviation of eye and mouth, trigeminal neuralgia, drooling,

numbness of the lips and face, contraction of facial muscles,

movement of eyeball, twitching of eyelids, itchy eyes, blurred

vision, inability to close the eye

• Cheek pain, toothache.

ST-3 JULIAO Great Crevice

i. Nature

Point of Yang Qiao Mai.

ii. Actions

• Expels Wind


• Relieves swellings.

iii. Indications

• Aversion to cold, excessive lachrymation

• Toothache, epistaxis

• Pain and swelling of the nose and cheek, swelling and pain of lips,

swelling of knee

ST-1 CHENGQI Containing Tears

i. Nature

Point of the Yang Qiao Mai

Point of the Ren Mai

ii. Actions

• Expels Wind

• Brightens the eyes

• Clears Heat

iii. Indications

• Deviation of eye and mouth, inability to speak, tinnitus, deafness

• Redness, swelling and pain of the eye, lachrymation on exposure to wind,

blurred vision, myopia, diminished night vision, itchy eyes, twitching of

eyelids

BL-1 JINGMING Eye Brightness

i. Nature

Point of Yin and Yang Qiao Mai

Meeting point of Bladder, Small Intestine,

Stomach, Gall-Bladder and Triple Burner.

ii. Actions

• Expels Wind, clears Heat

• Stops itching, brightens the eyes.

iii. Indications • Lachrymation on exposure to wind, aversion to cold fever, headache • Redness, swelling and pain of the eyes, redness and itching of the inner corner of the eyes • Blurred vision, diminished night vision, myopia, Childhood Nutritional Impairment eye diseases.

G.B.-20 FENGCHI Wind Pool

i. Nature

Point of Yin and Yang Qiao Mai

Point of the Yang Wei Mai

Meeting point of the Gall-Bladder and Triple Burner channels.

ii. Actions

• Expels exterior Wind, extinguishes interior Wind, subdues

Liver-Yang, brightens the eyes, benefits the ears

• Clears Heat, nourishes Marrow and clears the Brain.

iii. Indications

• Aversion cold, fever, body aches, occipital stiffness and ache

• Vertigo, Wind-stroke, hemiplegia, lockjaw, deviation of eye and

mouth, epilepsy, headache, dizziness, blurred vision

.

HERBAL THERAPY FOR YANG QIAO MAI

i. Herbs

Herbs that enter the Yang Qiao Mai include:

Ma Huang Herba Ephedrae

Cang Zhu Rhizoma Atractylodis

lanceae

Fang Feng Radix Saposhnikoviae

Zhi Gan Cao Radix

Glycyrrhizae uralensis

preparata

Fang Ji Radix

Stephaniae tetrandae

YIN AND YANG QIAO MAI PATHWAYS

There is a remarkable symmetry and complementarity between the pathways of the

Yin and Yang Qiao Mai. The two pathways are totally separate in the body but come

together in the neck, eyes and brain.

Let us compare and contrast the pathways of these two vessels in the body:

Yang Qiao Mai Yin Qiao Mai

Starts from internal

malleolus

Starts from external

malleolus

Flows up the medial side

of leg

Flows up the lateral aspect of

leg

Flows over abdomen and

chest

Flows over lumbar area and

back

Flows over clavicle Flows to lateral side of

shoulder

YIN AND YANG QIAO MAI PATHWAYS

Let us now explore the sections of the pathways where the two vessels come

together:

Both vessels flow over the neck

Both vessels flow to ST-9 Renying

Both vessels flow to BL-1 Jingming

Both vessels enter the brain


“The Bladder channel passes through the occiput and enters the brain: the

main branch reaches the root of the eyes and it is called Eye System [Mu Xi].

In fact, in case of headache and eye ache, one can needle this channel on the

occiput between the two tendons. In the brain, it divides into two vessels that

become the Yin and Yang Qiao Mai. The Yin and Yang Qiao Mai cross over

each other, the Yang entering the Yin and the Yin coming out into the Yang,

crossing over again at the inner corner of the eye. If Yang Qi is excessive, the

eyes cannot close; if Yin Qi is excessive, the eyes cannot open.”

This statement refers to two different types of “crossing”.

In the brain, the Yin and Yang Qiao Mai cross over vertically, i.e. the

Yang Qiao Mai goes inwards to cross the Yin Qiao Mai and the latter

emerges outwards to cross the former. This “crossing” is a crossing

between the superficial and the deep parts of the brain.

The second type of “crossing” is horizontal between left and right

sides, i.e. in the brain, each of the two vessels crosses over and

reaches the inner corner of the eye of the opposite side. In other

words, this “crossing” is a crossing between sides while the former

crossing is between two different levels.

The left-right cross-over of the Yin and Yang Qiao Mai bears a

remarkable similarity with the cross-over of the optic nerve branches in

the brain: in fact, at the optic chiasma, the left side of the optic nerve

crosses over and goes to the right eye and vice versa.

Yang Qiao Mai

Yin Qiao Mai

VERTICAL CROSSING OF YIN AND YANG QIAO MAI IN BRAIN

HORIZONTAL CROSSING OF YIN AND YANG QIAO MAI IN BRAIN

The Yin Qiao Mai is an offshoot of

the Kidney channel which flows

from the feet up to the head

The Yang Qiao Mai is an offshoot of

the Bladder channel which flows

from the head down to the feet.

All the extraordinary vessels flow from the lower part of

the body towards the top: therefore the Yin Qiao Mai flows

upwards in the same direction as the Kidney channel while

the Yang Qiao Mai flows upwards against the direction of

the Bladder channel.

Therefore, although the Yang Qiao Mai ascends towards

the head to BL-1 Jingming, the Bladder channel from

which it derives descends from the head and the eyes: this

allows the Yang Qiao Mai to bring Yang Qi away from the

eyes when appropriate, i.e. coordinate with the Yin Qiao

Mai to regulate and balance Yin and Yang Qi in the head

and eyes.

This is an important way in which the channel system keeps the balance of Yin

and Yang in the head. This anomaly also explains how the Yang Qiao Mai can

both carry Yang Qi to the eyes (to keep them open in daytime) and carry Yang Qi

away from the eyes so that they may close at night.

EYE

Yang Qiao

Yin Qiao

Bladder channel

TRAJECTORY OF BLADDER, YIN QIAO AND YANG QIAO IN HEAD

Kidney channel

COMBINED YIN AND YANG QIAO MAI PATHOLOGY

There is a symmetry between the Yang and Yin Qiao Mai from various points of

view as follows:

• The Yin Qiao absorbs excesses of Yin Qi; the Yang Qiao absorbs excesses of

Yang Qi

• The Yin Qiao brings Yin Qi to the eyes; the Yang Qiao brings Yang Qi to the eyes

• The Yin and Yang Qiao control the left and right side of the body, the former for

the Yin and the latter for the Yang channels

• Wei Qi flows in the Yin Qiao at night and in the Yang Qiao in the daytime

• The Yin and Yang Qiao control the tension of the leg muscles, the former in the

medial and the latter in the lateral side

• The Yin Qiao branches out of the Kidney channel, the Yang Qiao out of the

Bladder channel

• The Yin and Yang Qiao cross over each other, the Yang entering the Yin and the

Yin coming out into the Yang, crossing at the inner corner of the eye.

YIN AND YANG QIAO MAI AND THE EYES

The Yin and Yang Qiao Mai perform an important role in

regulating the ascending and descending of Wei Qi in the head

and eyes and, in so doing, in balancing Yin and Yang in the

head and eyes. The Yin Qiao Mai brings Yin Qi up to the eyes;

it meets the Yang Qiao Mai at BL-1 Jingming from where

Yang Qi descends away from the eyes (in the Bladder

channel): this ensures the balance of Yin and Yang in the head

and eyes.

The Yin and Yang Qiao Mai play an important role in the ascending and

descending of the Wei Qi to and from the eyes. Citing the above statement

from chapter 21 of the “Ling Shu ”, “The Yin and Yang Qiao Mai cross

over each other, the Yang entering the Yin and the Yin coming out into the

Yang, crossing at the inner corner of the eye”: this ensures the proper

ascending and descending of Yang and Yin to and from the eyes.

When Yang and Yin Qi in the Yang and Yin Qiao Mai are properly balanced

and their movement regulated, Yang Qi reaches the eyes in daytime so that

the eyes stay open and Yin Qi reaches the eyes at night-time so they can

close.

Wei Qi circulates 50 times in 24 hours: 25 times during the day and 25

times during the night. By day it circulates in the Exterior of the body,

and at night it circulates in the Yin organs.


“Wei Qi circulates 50 times during one day and one night, 25 times in the

Yang during the day and 25 times in the Yin during the night, including in

the 5 Zang.”

In the daytime, it circulates on the Exterior in the Yang superficial

channels from the Tai Yang to Shao Yang to Yang Ming channels.

This flow of Wei Qi from the Interior towards the Exterior opens the

eyes and wakes us up in the morning.

At night, Wei Qi flows into the Yin organs, first to the Kidneys,

then to Heart, Lung, Liver, Spleen (in the order of the Controlling

sequence of the Five Elements).


“When Wei Qi flows into the Yin at night, it enters the Kidneys, then

the Heart, then the Lungs, then the Liver, then the Spleen and back

into the Kidneys”.

As stated above, each twelve-hour period is divided into 25 circuits. In

the daytime, the Wei Qi circulates first through Tai Yang, then Shao

Yang, then Yang Ming, and then Yin; it repeats this circuit 25 times. At

night it circulates in the same order and again completes 25 circuits

LU

CIRCULATION IN YIN AND YANG QIAO MAI

NIGHT DAY

Ling Shu ch 80: “When

the person cannot sleep

it is due to Wei Qi

staying in the Yang and

not entering the Yin:

Yang Qiao is full, the

Yin Qiao is empty and

the eyes cannot close.”

Yang Qiao Mai

LIV

KI HE

Yin Qiao Mai

Bladder

Ling Shu ch 80: “When

the person’s eyes cannot

open it is due to Wei Qi

staying in the Yin and not

entering the Yang: Yin

Qiao is full, the Yang Qiao

is empty and the eyes

cannot open.”

SP


(describing the pathology of Excess of Yang or of Yin in the eyes)

“If someone cannot sleep, what is that due to? It is due to Wei Qi not

being able to enter the Yin so that is stays in the Yang; as it stays in the

Yang, Yang Qi in in Excess and the Yang Qiao Mai is Full. As this cannot

enter into the Yin, Yin is Empty and the eyes cannot close. If someone

cannot see [because eyes tend to close] what is that due to? It is due to

Wei Qi remaining in the Yin and being unable to flow into the Yang. As it

stays in the Yin, Yin Qi is in Excess and the Yin Qiao Mai Full. As this

cannot enter in the Yang, Yang is Empty and the eyes remain closed.”

Li Shi Zhen (citing the “ABC of Acupuncture”):

“When the eyes want to close and cannot stay open, it is due to the Wei Qi

staying in the Yin and not moving into the Yang: as it stays in the Yin, Yin Qi

is in Excess and when this is in excess the Yin Qiao Mai is full. Its Qi cannot

enter the Yang which becomes empty and this causes the eyes to want to

close. When the eyes cannot close and stay open, it is due to the Wei Qi

staying in the Yang and not moving into the Yin: as it stays in the Yang, Yang

Qi is in Excess and when this is in excess the Yang Qiao Mai is full. Its Qi

cannot enter the Yin which becomes empty and this causes the eyes to want

to stay open.”

Ling Shu, Chapter 2

“The Bladder channel passes through the occiput and enters the brain: it

belongs to the root of the eyes and it is called Eye System...In the brain, it

divides into two vessels that become the Yin and Yang Qiao Mai. The Yin and

Yang Qiao Mai cross over each other, the Yang entering the Yin and the Yin

coming out into the Yang, crossing at the inner corner of the eye.”

The Eye System (Mu Xi) is described in chapter 80 of the “Ling Shu”:

“The Jing and Qi of the 5 Zang and 6 Fu ascend to the eyes to give

vision…They communicate with many channels constituting an Eye

System [Mu Xi] which ascends to the vertex, enters the brain and then

surfaces at the occiput.” The Eye System intersects with the extraordinary

vessels.

THE EYE SYSTEM MU XI

Du Mai: Yintang.

Ren Mai: ST-1 Chengqi.

Yang Qiao Mai: ST-1 Chengqi, BL-1 Jingming, G.B.-20 Fengchi.

Yin Qiao Mai: BL-1 Jingming.

Yang Wei Mai: G.B.-14 Yangbai, G.B.-20 Fengchi, Du-16 Fengfu.

Yintang

BL-1

GB-14

Du-16

ST-1

GB-20


In particular, the Du Mai has four areas of convergence with the Eye System as

follows:

1. Du-16 Fengfu: including BL-10 Tianzhu, G.B.-20

Fengfu and TB-17 Yifeng. The Du Mai enters the

brain from here. The Yang Qiao Mai connects with

G.B.-20 from where it enters the brain and connects

with Eye System.

2. Du-20 Baihui: including Sishencong,

Du-21 Qianding and BL-7 Tongtian. Du-

20 Baihui is a point of the Sea of Marrow.

3. Bijiao: including Yintang and Du-24

Shenting. Bijiao is an extra point situated on

the Du Mai, on the bridge of the nose level

with the centre of the pupils.

4. Du-26 Renzhong and Du-25 Suliao: connect

with the brain indirectly through Eye System.

Du-24

Du-25

Du-26

Bijiao


THE YIN AND YANG QIAO MAI AND THE BRAIN

As we have seen, both the Yin and Yang Qiao Mai enter the brain. Indeed,

they branch out from the Bladder channel in the brain.

The connection of the Yin and Yang Qiao Mai with the brain has two main

implications, one mental, the other neurological.

The regulation and balancing of Yin and Yang carried out by the Yin and

Yang Qiao Mai has an influence on the mental state: in particular, and

Excess of Yang in the Yang Qiao Mai causes agitation, manic behaviour

and insomnia.

In neurological conditions, both the Yin and Yang Qiao Mai play a role.

In particular, they are both used to extinguish internal Wind in the

treatment of epilepsy: the former when the attacks occur at night, and the

latter when they occur in daytime.

Besides that, the Yang Qiao Mai is used to extinguish internal Wind in

Wind-stroke while the Yin Qiao Mai is used for Atrophy Syndrome which

may correspond to neurological conditions such as multiple sclerosis.

PULSE OF THE YIN AND YANG QIAO MAI

Mai Jing (AD 280)

“When the Yang pulse [i.e. Front position] of both hands is Floating,

Fine and barely palpable and the Yin pulse [i.e. Rear position] of both

hands is Fine and barely palpable, it is the pulse of the Yin and Yang

Qiao Mai [pathology].

[This pulse indicates that] In this family there has been a death from a

ghost enticement or from Wind. The person suffers from mental

confusion [huang hu] and this misfortune is brought on by the dead

person.”

. . . . . . Floating-Fine

Fine

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YIN AND YANG WEI MAI

阴阳维脉

YIN WEI MAI

Nan Jing, chapter 28

“The Yin Wei Mai starts from a point where all the Yin [channels] intersect.”

The area where the Yin Wei Mai starts is considered now to be KI-9

Zhubin. However, the “Elucidation of the Yellow Emperor's Classic of

Internal Medicine” thinks that this point is SP-6 Sanyinjiao (which

means “meeting of the three Yin”).

This statement is preceded by a description of the function of both Yin

and Yang Wei Mai: “The Yang and Yin Wei Mai link like a network

around the body to absorb the overflowing Qi that cannot flow into the

Main channels.”

PATHWAY

“The Yin Wei Mai starts at the point where all the Yin [channels] intersect, it

originates from KI-9 Zhubin which is its Accumulation point 5 cun above the

internal malleolus and it goes to the centre of the muscle. It then rises along

the inner side of the leg to the lower-central abdomen [Xiao Fu] where it

connects with the Spleen, Liver, Kidney and Stomach channels at SP-13 Fushe.

It then rises and connects with the Spleen channel at SP-15 Daheng and SP-16

Fuai. It goes up to the hypochondrium where it connects with the Liver

channel at LIV-14 Qimen. It goes up to the chest, diaphragm and throat where

it connects with the Ren Mai at the point Ren-22 Tiantu and Ren-23 Lianquan

then rising to the forehead where it ends. In total 14 points.”

Li Shi Zhen describes the pathway of the Yin Wei Mai as follows:

PATHWAY

Starts from KI-9 Zhubin, it goes to the centre of the muscle

It rises along the inner side of the leg to the lower-central

abdomen [Xiao Fu] where it connects with the Spleen,

Liver, Kidney and Stomach channels at SP-13 Fushe

It then rises and connects with the Spleen channel at SP-15

Daheng and SP-16 Fuai

It goes up to the chest, diaphragm and throat where it

connects with the Ren Mai at the point Ren-22 Tiantu and

Ren-23 Lianquan then rising to the forehead where it ends.

It goes up to the hypochondrium where it connects with the

Liver channel at LIV-14 Qimen

1. NOURISH THE HEART

All the ancient classics mention “heart pain” as a prominent symptom

of the Yin Wei Mai.



“When the Yin Wei Mai is diseased, there is heart pain and depression”

Mai Jing

“When the Yin Wei Mai is diseased, there is heart pain”

“Golden Mirror of Medicine” lists the following symptom amongst others

for the Yin Wei Mai :

“Heart pain in women.”

The Yin Wei Mai treats a heart pain specifically deriving from an Xu

condition with a Choppy or Fine pulse (for a heart pain from a Full

condition I would use the Chong Mai ). Therefore, the symptom in

question would not be a sharp pain but a dull ache in the heart region.

It is interesting to note that the Yin Wei Mai treats such ache in the

heart region not simply for the obvious reason that its opening

point is P-6 Neiguan, but also by virtue of its influencing all the

Yin channels of the leg, i.e. Liver, Spleen and Kidneys.

In fact, the Heart is in the Upper Burner and it relies on the

nourishment of Blood and Yin from the channels and organs

in the Middle and Lower Burner, i.e. Stomach, Spleen, Liver

and Kidneys.

In particular, when I use the Yin Wei Mai for heart-region

ache I always add the starting point KI-9 Zhubin to the

opening and coupled points (P-6 Neiguan and SP-4

Gongsun).

I personally think that the name of this point Guest House refers to the

Kidney channel (the “host”) receiving the Heart (the “guest”): this

point’s many mental-emotional indications would support this.

Therefore this point and the Yin Wei Mai play an important role in

establishing the communication between Heart and Kidneys.

When I use the Yin Wei Mai to nourish the Heart, I always use its

starting point KI-9 Zhubin in addition to its opening and coupled

points (P-6 Neiguan and SP-4 Gongsun).

2. OPEN THE CHEST AND HYPOCHONDRIUM

The Yin Wei Mai has an important action on the chest: it relaxes and “opens”

the chest when there is Qi or Blood stagnation.

The “Golden Mirror of Medicine” lists the following symptoms for the Yin Wei

Mai :

“Feeling of fullness, stuffiness and distension of the chest...hard lumps to the

side of the hypochondrium, hypochondrial and heart pain in women.”

The “Mai Jing ” says:

“When the pulse of the Yin Wei Mai is Deep, Big and Full there is pain

in the middle of the chest, hypochondrial fullness and pain in the heart

region. If the pulse of the Yin Wei Mai feels like a string of pearls, there

is bilateral hypochondral fullness in men, pain in the middle of the back

and genital pain in women as if there were sores.”

I generally use the Yin Wei Mai for chest ache when it occurs against a

background of Blood deficiency when the pulse is generally Choppy or Fine.

In such a case, I would use the opening and coupled points of the vessel (P-6

Neiguan and SP-4 Gongsun) together with Ren-15 Jiuwei, LU-7 Lieque (on

the side opposite to P-6) and ST-40 Fenglong (on the side opposite to SP-4).

(For chest symptoms occurring against a background of a Full condition and

associated with some abdominal symptoms, I would use the Chong Mai ,

especially if they derive from Blood stasis).

3. NOURISH BLOOD AND YIN

Since it connects all the Yin channels, the Yin Wei Mai can be used for

deficiency of Blood and/or Yin, especially if accompanied by psychological

symptoms such as insomnia, anxiety, mental restlessness, thinking too much,

obsession, loss of will power and lack of self-control.

In this context, it has a remarkable effect in calming the mind, especially in

women and is especially effective combined with its starting and

Accumulation point, KI-9 Zhubin.

i. Nourish Yin in general

As it nourishes all the Yin, it is indicated for loss of voice which

occurs against a background of Yin deficiency.

“Mai Jing ”:

“When the Yin Wei Mai is affected there is sudden collapse, loss of voice”

A disharmony of the Yin Wei Mai causes loss of voice also due to its

intersection with the Ren Mai in the throat.

When I use the Yin Wei Mai to nourish Yin, I would use its opening and

coupled points (P-6 Neiguan and SP-4 Gongsun) together with KI-9 Zhubin and

SP-6 Sanyinjiao.

As the Ren Mai governs all the Yin channels while the Yin Wei Mai

“links” all the Yin channels, it is important to compare and contrast the

function and use of these vessels in the context of Yin deficiency.

The Ren Mai influences and governs all Yin channels in every part of

the body (Upper, Middle and Lower Burner).

The Yin Wei Mai influences all Yin channels except the Lungs (by

contrast, the Ren Mai has a special influence on the Lungs). Also, the

Yin Wei Mai influences primarily the Upper Burner and the chest and it

has a particularly strong influence on the Heart.

ii. Painful Obstruction (Bi) Syndrome

The “Mai Jing ” mentions Painful Obstruction (Bi) Syndrome in connection

with the Yin Wei Mai :

“When the Yin Wei Mai is affected there is sudden collapse, loss of

voice and Painful Obstruction Syndrome with itching”.

Some modern Chinese doctors translate the word yang (itching) as tingling

which would make more sense in the context of Painful Obstruction (Bi)

Syndrome.

The Yin Wei Mai can be used to treat Painful Obstruction (Bi) Syndrome. I

personally use the Yin Wei Mai to treat this condition especially when it

occurs against a background of Blood deficiency in women.

The main symptoms of such type of Painful Obstruction Syndrome are a

generalized ache in the joints with numbness and tingling and without any

swelling or heat of the joints.

When using the Yin Wei Mai for Painful Obstruction Syndrome, I use its

opening and coupled points (P-6 Neiguan and SP-4 Gongsun) together with

L.I.-11 Quchi (on the opposite side to that of P-6), ST-43 Xiangu (on the

opposite to that of SP-4), Ren-4 Guanyuan, ST-36 Zusanli and SP-6

Sanyinjiao.

4. MENTAL-EMOTIONAL PROBLEMS

Since the Yin Wei Mai nourishes Blood, it has a tonifying action on

the Heart and can be used for such symptoms as chest pain or a

feeling of stuffiness, oppression or tightness of the chest, anxiety,

apprehension, depression or nightmares.


“When the Yin Wei Mai is diseased, there is heart pain and depression.”

“The Yang Wei Mai links all the Yang, the Yin Wei Mai links all the Yin.

When Yin and Yang cannot link with each other, there will be pensiveness,

obsession, loss of will power and lack of self-control.”

The “Zhen Jiu Da Cheng” lists the following symptoms and signs for the

Yin Wei Mai :

- Knot in the chest which feels tight and full on palpation (P-6 Neiguan, P-

7 Daling, Ren-12 Zhongwan, SP-6 Sanyinjiao)

- Stagnant Qi, easily losing control, too much thinking, melancholy,

sadness, pain in the heart and abdomen (P-6 Neiguan, BL-12 Fengmen,

Ren-17 Shanzhong, P-8 Laogong, ST-36 Zusanli);

- Anxiety (P-6 Neiguan, ST-18 Rugen, HE-5 Tongli, BL-15 Xinshu, BL-19

Danshu);

- Heart and Gall-Bladder deficient, shock, palpitations (P-6 Neiguan, BL-

19 Danshu, HE-5 Tongli, G.B.-41 Zulinqi).

- Sadness and crying (P-6 Neiguan, HE-5 Tongli, S.I.-3 Houxi, HE-7

Shenmen, KI-4 Dazhong)

- Forgetfulness, mental cloudiness (P-6 Neiguan, BL-15 Xinshu, HE-5

Tongli, HE-9 Shaochong);

The Yin Wei Mai is excellent to treat depression and sadness in

women occurring against a background of Blood deficiency. Needle

P-6 on the right, SP-4 on the left, Ren-15 Jiuwei and KI-9 bilaterally.

I personally use the Yin Wei Mai very frequently to treat anxiety,

insomnia, sadness and depression occurring against a background of

Blood deficiency and especially in women.

I am particularly drawn to the use of the Yin Wei Mai for these

problems when they are somatized in the chest and heart region areas

with a feeling of oppression or tightness of the chest or heart region.

Therefore, we can see that the three important functions of this vessel in

nourishing Blood, nourishing the Heart and relaxing the chest all come

together in mental-emotional problems.

When using the Yin Wei Mai for emotional problems such anxiety,

insomnia, sadness, worry and depression, I use its opening and coupled

points (P-6 Neiguan and SP-4 Gongsun) together with Ren-15 Jiuwei, Du-

24 Shenting, Ren-4 Guanyuan, KI-9 Zhubin and SP-6 Sanyinjiao

I personally find the Yin Wei Mai excellent to treat post-natal depression

from Liver- and Heart-Blood deficiency. When I use this vessel for this

condition, I would use its opening and coupled points (P-6 Neiguan on the

right and SP-4 Gongsun on the left) together with Ren-4 Guanyuan, Ren-

15 Jiuwei, Du-20 Baihui, ST-36 Zusanli, KI-9 Zhubin and SP-6 Sanyinjiao

(all the leg points bilaterally, use moxa on the needle on ST-36 and SP-6).

5. THE YIN WEI MAI AND THE FEMALE GENITALIA

Mai Jing

“If the pulse of the Yin Wei Mai feels like a string of pearls, there is... genital

pain in women as if there were sores.”

As the Yin Wei Mai influences and links the three Yin channels of the leg, it

naturally has an influence on the genitalia (as the Liver channel, especially,

flows over them).

As the Yin Wei Mai nourishes Yin, it is particularly indicated for problems of

the genitalia occurring against a background of Yin deficiency which may

manifest with soreness, redness and dryness.

That is why the “Mai Jing ” says that there is genital pain “as if” there

were sores: this is because the soreness is due to Yin deficiency rather

than Damp-Heat (which would cause actual sores).

When using the Yin Wei Mai for problems of the genitalia in women I

would use its opening and coupled points (P-6 Neiguan on the right

and SP-4 Gongsun on the left) together with Ren-2 Qugu, SP-6

Sanyinjiao and LIV-5 Ligou.

6. HEADACHES

The Yin Wei Mai is effective in treating headaches from deficiency of

Blood, especially if they are at the back of the neck. This is due to the fact

that it nourishes Blood and its opening point P-6 Neiguan, being also the

Luo point of the Pericardium channel, affects the Triple Burner channel area

on the neck.

I find this vessel particularly effective to treat headaches in women in

whom the headaches are due to Liver-Yang rising occurring against a

background of Liver-Blood deficiency.

7. THE YIN WEI MAI AND EPILEPSY

Mai Jing

“When the Yin Wei Mai is affected there epilepsy with a cry like a goat.”

As the Yin Wei Mai links all the Yin, it was used in the treatment of

epilepsy from internal Wind occurring against a background of Yin

deficiency.

I personally do not use the Yin Wei Mai for epilepsy, for which

problem I would tend to use more either the Yin or Yang Qiao Mai .

8. COMPARISON AND DIFFERENTIATION OF YIN WEI MAI, REN MAI

AND YIN QIAO MAI

As the Yin Wei Mai , the Ren Mai and the Yin Qiao Mai are all related to

the Yin channels, it is useful to compare and contrast them. We have already

discussed the differences between the Yin Wei Mai and the Ren Mai in

relation to nourishing Yin.

In terms of areas influenced, the Yin Wei Mai influences primarily the chest

and Upper Burner; the Ren Mai all Burners; the Yin Qiao Mai primarily the

Lower Burner.

In terms of organs, the Yin Wei Mai affects all Yin organs except the Lungs

and especially the Heart; the Ren Mai all Yin organs and especially the

Lungs; the Yin Qiao Mai primarily the leg Yin channels (Liver, Spleen,

Kidney).

In terms of effect on Yin, the Yin Wei Mai “links” the Yin channels but it

also nourishes Blood especially of the Heart; the Ren Mai is the best to

nourish Yin; the Yin Qiao Mai does not nourish Yin, on the contrary, it

absorbs Excess of Yin (although it can “direct” Yin to the eyes).

In terms of Full-Empty, the Yin Wei Mai is better for Empty conditions; the

Ren Mai for both Full and Empty conditions; the Yin Qiao Mai for Full

conditions.

In terms of pulse, the pulse of the Yin Wei Mai is Choppy or Fine; that of

the Ren Mai is Weak on the Kidney positions; that of the Yin Qiao Mai is

Full and Wiry on both Rear positions.

COMPARISON AND DIFFERENTIATION OF YIN WEI MAI, REN MAI

AND YIN QIAO MAI

YIN WEI MAI REN MAI YIN QIAO MAI

AREA Chest All three Burners Lower Burner

ORGAN All except LU All, especially LU LIV, SP, KI

EFFECT ON YIN Links Yin

channels

Nourishes Yin Absorbs Excess

of Yin

XU/SHI Empty conditions Full or Empty

conditions

Full conditions

PULSE Choppy, Fine Weak KI

positions

Full and Wiry on

chi positions

9. PULSE OF THE YIN WEI MAI

The pulse reflecting a pathology of the Yin Wei Mai pulsates like a chord

from the Rear-lateral to the Front-medial side of the pulse .

Mai Jing (AD 280):

“When the pulse of the Yin Wei Mai is Deep, Big and full there is chest

pain, hypochondrial fullness and pain in the heart region.”

“When the pulse of the Yin Wei Mai feels like a string of pearls, in men,

there is hypochondrial fullness and backache; in women, pain in the

genitals as if there were sores.”

CLASSICAL INDICATIONS FOR THE YIN WEI MAI

- Su Wen: backache with pain travelling upwards gradually with a feeling of

sadness; if the pain becomes severe the patient has a feeling of fear. Needle

BL-58 Feiyang.

- Nan Jing: heart pain and depression, pensiveness, obsession, loss of will

power and lack of self-control.

- Mai Jing: pain centre of thorax, hypochondrial fullness and oppression,

heart pain. In men, congestion on lateral ribs and lumbar pain. In women,

genital pain

- Yi Zong Jin Jian: feeling of fullness, stuffiness and distension of the

chest, borborygmi, diarrhoea, anal prolapse, difficulty in swallowing,

diaphragm stagnation from excessive consumption of alcohol, hard lumps

to the side of the hypochondrium, hypochondrial and heart pain in women,

internal urgency, abdominal pain, unresolved attack of Wind-Cold that

leaves a tightness in the chest, malaria.

YIN WEI MAI - HERBAL THERAPY

i. Herbs

The herbs that affect this vessel are:

Dang Gui Radix Angelicae sinensis

Chuan Xiong Radix Ligustici Chuanxiong.


Some herbs affect both the Yang and Yin Wei Mai . These include:

Lu Jiao Shuang Cornu Cervi degelatinatum

Xiao Hui Xiang Fructus Foeniculi vulgaris


Gui Zhi Ramulus Cinnamomi cassiae

Bai Shao Radix Paeoniae lactiflorae

Huang Qi Radix Astragali membranacei.


ii. Formulae

Dang Gui Si Ni Tang Angelica Four Rebellious Decoction (for the Liver)

Wu Zhu Yu Tang Evodia Decoction (For the Liver)

Si Ni Tang Four Rebellious Decoction (for the Kidneys)

Li Zhong Tang Regulating the Centre Decoction (for the Spleen).

The points and the areas corresponding to the Yang

Wei Mai are as follows:

Opening point: T.B.-5 Waiguan

Coupled point: G.B.-41 Zulinqi

Starting point: BL-63 Jinmen

Accumulation point: G.B.-35 Yangjiao

YANG WEI MAI

PATHWAY

The Yang Wei Mai connects all the Yang channels.

Compared to the Yin Wei Mai which governs the Interior

and Ying Qi, the Yang Wei Mai governs the Exterior of

the body and Wei Qi.

For this reason, one of the major pathologies of the Yang

Wei Mai is invasion of external Wind resulting in

aversion to cold and fever.

YIN WEI MAI = INTERIOR, YING QI

YANG WEI MAI = EXTERIOR, WEI QI

Area of body influenced: lateral aspect of leg, sides of body, lateral

aspect of neck and head, ears.

Channels influenced: Triple Burner, Large Intestine, Small Intestine,

Stomach, Bladder, Gall-Bladder, Yang Qiao Mai .


“The Yang Wei Mai starts at the point where the Yang channels

intersect.”

The “Elucidation of the Yellow Emperor's Classic of Internal

Medicine” says that this point is G.B.-35 Yangjiao (which means

“meeting of the Yang” or “Yang crossing”).

Starts at BL-63 Jinmen

It travels up the thigh to G.B.-29 Juliao

goes up to G.B.-35 Yangjiao which is its

Accumulation point

Li Shi Zhen gives a detailed pathway for the Yang Wei Mai :

rises up the hypochondrium and to the shoulder at

L.I.-14 Binao where it connects with the Large

Intestine, Small Intestine and Bladder channels

then ascends to T.B.-13 Naohui and T.B.-15

Tianliao

It then goes to G.B.-21 Jianjing where it connects

with the Triple Burner, Gall-Bladder and Stomach

channels, goes to the back of the shoulder to S.I.-10

Naoshu where it connects with the Small Intestine

channel and the Yang Qiao Mai

Goes to G.B.-19 Naokong, G.B.-18 Chengling, G.B.-17

Zhengying, G.B.-16 Muchuang, G.B.-15 Linqi and to the

forehead to G.B.-14 Yangbai where it connects with the

Gall-Bladder, Triple Burner, Large Intestine and Stomach

channels

It then proceeds to the forehead, enters the eye and

ascends to G.B.-13 Benshen.

It rises up behind the ear to reach G.B.-20 Fengchi where it

intersects with the Triple Burner and Gall-Bladder channels


a) Shivering, invasion of Wind

One of the main pathologies of the Yang Wei Mai is that of

invasion of external Wind manifesting with shivering and aversion

to cold; therefore, the Yang Wei Mai is very much used to expel

exterior Wind in the beginning stages especially when the patient

shivers.

Please note that the symptom of shivering should not be used to

differentiate an invasion of Wind-Cold from one of Wind-Heat as

shivering occurs in both. Shivering is caused by the obstruction of

the space between the skin and muscles (where the Wei Qi circulates

and warms the body) by external Wind (whether it is Wind-Cold or

Wind-Heat). As this space is obstructed, Wei Qi cannot warm the

muscles and the person feels cold and shivers.

1. INVASION OF PATHOGENIC FACTORS

Therefore, the Yang Wei Mai may be used both for invasions of Wind-Cold

and Wind-Heat. I am particularly drawn to the use of the Yang Wei Mai in

invasions of exterior Wind by three factors:

1. When the pulse is particularly Floating

2. When shivering is prominent

3. When there are some ear symptoms such as ear ache

When I use the Yang Wei Mai to expel exterior Wind I use its opening and

coupled points (T.B.-5 Waiguan and G.B.-41 Zulinqi) together with L.I.-4

Hegu, G.B.-20 Fengchi and BL-12 Fengmen.

Li Shi Zhen:

“When there is sweating, aversion to cold, fever and the pulse is Floating on

the Front and Weak on the Rear position, it indicates a disease of the Yang

Wei Mai .”

Some doctors say that all the Yang channels are linked by the Yang Wei

Mai at G.B.-20 Fengchi. They say that this point's action of expelling

external Wind is due to its relation with the Yang Wei Mai, not the Gall-

Bladder. On the other hand, its action of extinguishing internal Wind is,

on the contrary, due to its relation with the Gall-Bladder.

b) Shao Yang pattern

The Yang Wei Mai is used for intermittent fevers and alternation of chills

and fever.


“When the Yang Wei Mai is diseased there is [alternation of feeling of] heat

and [feeling of] cold and irritability.”

Alternation of feeling cold and feeling hot are symptoms of affection of

the Shao Yang stage in the 6-Stage patterns of penetration of exterior

pathogenic factor.

The chief symptom at this stage is alternation of chills and feeling of

heat because the pathogenic factor is lodged half in the Interior and half

in the Exterior so that it “bounces” between the Exterior and the Interior:

when it is on the Exterior, the patient feels cold and shivers; when it is in

the Interior, the patient feels hot.

Please note that in such a pattern there may or may not be an actual fever:

the significant thing is that the patient has a subjective feeling of heat.

When I use the Yang Wei Mai for the Shao Yang Pattern, I use its

opening and coupled points (T.B.-5 Waiguan and G.B.-41 Zulinqi)

together with L.I.-11 Quchi and Du-13 Taodao.

Tai Yang

Yang Ming

Shao Yang

Feeling cold

Feeling hot

2. HEADACHE

The “Golden Mirror of Medicine” lists the following symptoms for the Yang

Wei Mai : “Wind headache, ache in the head, neck and around eyebrows.” I

frequently used the Yang Wei Mai for chronic headaches but only when

they occur along the Gall-Bladder channel.

I use the Yang Wei Mai for chronic headaches in this area irrespective of

the pattern involved which may be, for example, Liver-Yang rising or Liver-

Fire.

As the Yang Wei Mai links all the Yang channels (especially in the neck and

head area), it is particularly useful for headaches which involve not only the

Gall-Bladder channel but also other Yang channels on the neck and head.

For example, the headache may start on the neck along the Small Intestine

channel and then radiate to the Gall-Bladder channel on the side of the skull

and on the temple, to then radiate to the Stomach channel on the forehead.

When I use the Yang Wei Mai for such headaches I use its

opening and coupled points (T.B.-5 Waiguan and G.B.-41

Zulinqi) together with L.I.-4 Hegu, G.B.-20 Fengchi and LIV-3

Taichong.

In addition to these points, I would use one or two local points on

the Gall-Bladder channel in the head according to the location of

the headache.

3. SIDES OF THE BODY

The Yang Wei Mai exerts its influence on the sides of the

body and is used for such symptoms as hypochondrial pain,

pain in the lateral aspect of the leg (such as sciatica along the

Gall-Bladder channel) and pain in the lateral side of the neck.

Poionts: T.B.-5 Waiguan and G.B.-41 Zulinqi, T.B.-13

Naohui, T.B.-15 Tianliao, G.B.-21 Jianjing.

4. BACKACHE

The Yang Wei Mai is used in the treatment of backache especially when

the pain involves more than one channel: this is because the Yang Wei Mai

links all the Yang channels and it affects many of the channels that run over

the back (especially Gall-Bladder and Bladder). In particular, the Yang Wei

Mai is effective when the lumbar pain is unilateral and affecting the lateral

side of the body.

Su Wen, chapter 41

“The Yang Wei Mai causes backache with sudden swelling. Needle the

point on the dividing muscle of the calf on the Bladder channel 1 foot above

the ground.”

This point is probably BL-57 Chengshan.

As can be observed, these are the same criteria given for the use of the

Yang Qiao Mai in backache so we should explore the differences

between these two vessels in the treatment of backache.

They basically affect the same area, i.e. the lateral side of the body and

they are both used when the pain is unilateral. However, the Yang Wei

Mai is used when the Gall-Bladder channel is primarily affected, while

the Yang Qiao Mai is used when the Bladder channel is primarily

affected.

Another important difference is in the pulse: I use the Yang Qiao Mai

when the pulse is Full and Wiry while the Yang Wei Mai when the pulse

is Floating.

5. PAINFUL OBSTRUCTION (BI) SYNDROME

The “Mai Jing ”:

“When the pulse runs obliquely from the Shao Yin to the Greater Yang, it

indicates a pathology of the Yang Wei Mai [consisting in] Painful

Obstruction [Bi] Syndrome of the muscles.”

Some modern Chinese doctors translate the word yang (itching) as

“tingling” which would make more sense in the context of Painful

Obstruction (Bi) Syndrome.

The Yang Wei Mai can therefore be used to treat Painful Obstruction

Syndrome especially when it affects the lateral side of the limbs.

6. EAR PROBLEMS

It can also be used in any ear diseases caused by a Gall-Bladder disharmony

such as ear discharge from Damp-Heat in the Gall-Bladder.

The Yang Wei Mai affects the ears and can be used for ear problems due to

the rising of Liver-Fire, such as tinnitus and deafness.

7. EPILEPSY

The Mai Jing :

“When the Yang Wei Mai is affected there is epilepsy with a cry like a

goat.”

As the Yang Wei Mai links all the Yang channels, it was used for

epilepsy from internal Wind deriving from Excess of Yang, i.e. Fire. I

personally do not use the Yang Wei Mai for epilepsy, for which

condition I would tend to use more the Yang Qiao Mai .

8. COMPARISON OF YANG WEI MAI, YANG QIAO MAI AND

DU MAI

“Linking” the channels should be distinguished from “governing” the

channels (as the Du Mai does for the Yang) and from “absorbing” Qi

from the Yang channels (as the Yang Qiao Mai does).

Therefore, the Yang Wei Mai does not tonify Yang in the way that the

Du Mai can do, nor does it absorb Excesses of Yang as the Yang Qiao

Mai does.

“Linking” of Yang implies, amongst others, facilitating the

communication among Yang channels to remove obstructions. For

example, one of the main pathologies of the Yang Wei Mai is expelling

Wind from the Yang channels in the neck and head area.

COMPARISON OF YANG WEI MAI, YANG QIAO MAI AND

DU MAI

YANG WEI MAI DU MAI YANG QIAO

MAI

ACTION ON

YANG

Link Yang Govern Yang Absorb Excess

Yang

XU/SHI Remove

obstructions by

linking Yang

Tonify Yang Absorb Excess

Yang

PULSE Floating Floating-Fine Full-Wiry

AREA Side of body and

head

Back, midline Head

9. PULSE OF THE YANG WEI MAI

The pulse of the Yang Wei Mai pulsates like a chord from the Rear-medial to

the Front-lateral side of the pulse.

Mai Jing (AD 280):

“When the pulse of the Yang Wei Mai is Floating, there is dizziness on getting

up: this is due to Excess of Yang. There is also breathlessness with raised

shoulders and shivering as if exposed to cold.”

BL

HE

LIV

ST

P

SP

GB

LU

KI

外中内

前

后

中

FRONT

MIDDLE

REAR

Lateral Central Medial

Yin Wei Mai Yang Wei Mai

Yang Qiao Mai

Dai Mai

Yin Qiao Mai

YANG WEI MAI - CLASSICAL INDICATIONS

“When the Yang Wei Mai is diseased there is [alternation of feeling of] heat and

[feeling of] cold and irritability.”

Su Wen, chapter 41

“The Yang Wei Mai causes backache with sudden swelling. Needle the point

on the dividing muscle of the calf on the Bladder channel 1 foot above the

ground.”

This point is probably BL-57 Chengshan.


Mai Jing

Sudden blurred vision, laboured breathing lifting the shoulders, shivers.

Paresthesia, epilepsy, sudden collapse, spasms of limbs, loss of voice.

Li Shi Zhen:

Yi Zong Jin Jian:

“When there is sweating, aversion to cold, fever and the pulse is Floating

on the Front and Weak on the Rear position, it indicates a disease of the

Yang Wei Mai.”

“Swelling and pain of the limbs, cold knees, paralysis or limbs, Wind

headache, bone and muscles problems of the back and loins, ache in the

head, neck and around eyebrows, hot limbs, numbness of limbs, night-

sweating, red and swollen eyes, spontaneous sweating during and invasion

of Wind-Cold, feeling of heat superficially.”

Mai Jing:

“When the pulse of Yang Wei Mai is Floating, there is epilepsy with a cry

like a goat, sudden blurred vision on getting up suddenly, a condition of

Fullness of Yang, breathing by lifting the shoulders and shivering as if

exposed to cold.”

“When the pulse runs obliquely from the Shao Yin to the Tai Yang, it

indicates a pathology of the Yang Wei Mai [consisting in] Painful

Obstruction [Bi] Syndrome of the muscles.”

Mai Jing:

The “Gatherings from Eminent Acupuncturists” (Zhen Jiu Ju Ying, 1529) lists

the following symptoms and signs for the Yang Wei Mai (using T.B.-5

Waiguan and G.B.-41 Zulinqi):

Some modern Chinese doctors translate the word yang (itching) as tingling

which would make more sense in the context of Painful Obstruction (Bi)

Syndrome.

Swelling and pain of four limbs (Kidneys)

Cold pain of arms and shoulders (Triple Burner)

Epistaxis (Lungs)

Heat in hands and feet (Triple Burner)

Inability to stretch fingers with pain (Triple Burner)

Pain around eyebrows (Bladder)

Pain of hands and feet (Stomach)

Aversion to wind after labour (Kidneys, Stomach)

Spontaneous sweating from invasion of Wind-Cold (Lungs)

Head Wind (Bladder)

Difficulty in using arms and legs (Gall-Bladder, Stomach)

Pain in sinews and bones (Liver, Kidneys)

Eyes tears when exposed to wind (Liver)

Red and painful eyes (Liver, Heart)

Swelling and pain of back (Kidneys)

Numbness, pain and weakness of arms and legs (Stomach)

Swollen eyes (Heart)

Tremor and pain of head from Wind (Bladder)

Superficial fever from invasion of Wind-Cold (Bladder)

Pain of hand and arm (Large Intestine, Triple Burner)

Pain of head and occiput (Small Intestine)

Night-sweating (Pericardium)

Nebula in eyes (Liver)

Post-partum body aches (Stomach, Kidneys)

Pain in lower back and hip (Kidneys)


SUMMARY OF YANG WEI MAI PATHOLOGY

YANG WEI MAI - HERBAL THERAPY

i. Herbs

Herbs that affect this vessel are those that harmonize Ying and Wei Qi, i.e.:

Bai Shao Radix Paeoniae

lactiflorae

Gui Zhi Ramulus Cinnamomi

cassiae

Some herbs affect both the Yang and Yin Wei Mai . These include:

Lu Jiao Shuang Cornu Cervi degelatinatum

Xiao Hui Xiang Fructus Foeniculi vulgaris


Gui Zhi Ramulus Cinnamomi cassiae

ii. Formulae

Gui Zhi Tang Ramulus Cinnamomi Decoction.



POINTS OF THE YANG WEI MAI

BL-63 JINMEN Golden Door

i. Nature: Accumulation (Xi) point

Beginning point of the Yang Wei Mai .

ii. Actions: Removes obstructions from the channel

iii. Indications: Lower backache, knee pain, Painful

Obstruction Syndrome (Bi Syndrome) of the legs, pain in the

legs, pain on the external malleolus.

iv. Comments: Like all Accumulation points, BL-63 is used in acute cases to

stop pain. Judging from the indications, this effect of this Accumulation point is

limited to channel problems and, surprisingly, this point does not have any

urinary indications.

However, in my experience, it can be used in acute Bladder patterns to clear

Heat and stop pain, for such symptoms as frequent and burning urination.

In the context of the pathology of the Yang Wei Mai , being its starting point,

BL-63 is effective as a distal point to treat unilateral backache occurring on the

lateral side of the body.

G.B.-35 YANGJIAO Yang Crossing

i. Nature:

Meeting point of the three Yang channels of the leg.

Accumulation (Xi) point of the Yang Wei Mai .

ii. Actions: Removes obstructions from the channel.

iii. Indications: Swelling and pain of the knee, Painful Obstruction

Syndrome (Bi Syndrome) and Atrophy (Wei) Syndrome of the lower

leg, Cold Painful Obstruction Syndrome, fullness and distension of

the hypochondrium and lateral costal region.

iv. Comments

G.B.-35 is mostly used in acute pain along the Gall-Bladder channel with

stiffness and cramp of the leg muscles. As the Accumulation (Xi) point of

the Yang Wei Mai , it affects the Yang channels of the leg and can be used

as a distal point in pathologies of this vessel.

G.B.-29 JULIAO Squatting Crevice

i. Nature: Point of the Yang Wei Mai.



iii. Indication: Hip pain, pain in the back/side of the leg, pain in

the lateral side of the buttocks, pain radiating to the groin,

sciatica.

iv. Comments: G.B.-29 is mostly used as a local point for Painful

Obstruction Syndrome of the hip. It is often tender on pressure and is very

effective in combination with G.B.-30 Huantiao.

G.B.-29 is an important dynamic point by virtue of its being a point of the

both the Yang Wei Mai and of the Yang Qiao Mai. Both these vessels treat

problems of the lateral side of the body and both these channel can eliminate

obstructions from the Yang channels (hence their use in Painful Obstruction

Syndrome). Therefore this is an important point to treat unilateral backache

and hip pain.

L.I.-14 BINAO Upper Arm

i. Nature: Meeting point of the Large Intestine, Small

Intestine and Bladder channels.

Point of the Yang Wei Mai .

ii. Actions: Removes obstructions from the channel

brightens the eyes, resolves Phlegm and dissipate nodules.

iii. Indications: Pain and numbness of the upper, Bi Syndrome of the

upper arm and shoulder, atrophy of upper arm, inability to raise the arm,

contraction and stiffness of the neck. Redness, swelling and pain of the

eye. Scrofula, goitre.

iv. Comments: This is not a major point, but still rather important and

frequently used. Firstly, it is very much used in Bi Syndrome of the arm

and shoulder to remove obstructions from the channel.

It also has an action on the eyes in so far as it clears and enhances

vision. In this case the needle should be slanted upwards.

L.I.-14 also resolves Phlegm and dissipates Phlegm masses, and is

therefore used for goitre and nodules.

T.B.-13 NAOHUI Shoulder Convergence

i. Nature: Point of the Yang Wei Mai .

ii. Actions: Dissipates nodules, removes obstructions from

the channel.

iii. Indications: Goitre, scrofula, pain in the arm and shoulder, inability

to raise the arm.

iv. Comments:

T.B.-13 is not an important point energetically but it is important as a local

point for pain in the upper arm and shoulder, and one that should always be

tested for tenderness.

T.B.-15 TIANLIAO Heavenly Crevice


Meeting point of Triple Burner and Gall-Bladder channels.

ii. Actions: Removes obstructions from the channel, opens the

chest and regulates Qi, clears Heat

iii. Indications: Pain of the shoulder and arm, stiffness and pain of the

neck, pain in the clavicle. Feeling of oppression of the chest, feeling of

heat of the chest, feeling of heat, febrile disease.

iv. Comments: T.B.-15 is an important local point for pain in the shoulder

and should always be tested for tenderness. It is nearly always tender in

cases of pain and stiffness of the shoulders and it gives very good results

when needled with moxa.

This point is very frequently tender and I always check this point for tenderness

when I treat problems of the scapula, shoulder and neck. Its tenderness is partially

due to its being a point of the Yang Wei Mai and therefore a concentration point

of the Qi of many Yang channels.

G.B.-21 JIANJING Shoulder Well

i. Nature: Meeting point of Gall-Bladder and Triple Burner

channels. Point of the Yang Wei Mai .

ii. Actions: Relaxes sinews, Benefits the breasts and promotes

lactation, Stimulates the descending of Qi and promotes delivery,

Stimulates the descending of Lung-Qi.

iii. Indications: Stiffness and pain of the neck and top of shoulders, Breast

pain, breast abscess, breast milk not flowing, Difficult or prolonged labour,

retention of placenta, Cough, breathlessness, red face.

iv. Comments: G.B.-21 has three main functions. Firstly, it is used as a local

point for the treatment of Painful Obstruction Syndrome (Bi Syndrome) of the

shoulders and neck. It relaxes the sinews and relieves stiffness, and is nearly

always tender on pressure.

Secondly, it is an empirical point to promote lactation in nursing mothers. Thirdly,

it is an empirical point to use for many problems of childbirth such as retention of

placenta, post-partum haemorrhage or threatened miscarriage. It does so because

it promotes the descending of Qi and for this reason, it is forbidden in pregnancy.

S.I.-10 NAOSHU Humerus Transporting Point

i. Nature: Meeting point of Small Intestine and Bladder

channel, Point of Yang Qiao Mai , Point of the Yang Wei

Mai.


iii. Indications: Pain of the shoulder and scapula, pain in

the arm, inability to raise the shoulder.

iv. Comments: S.I.-10 is another important point for Painful Obstruction

Syndrome of the shoulder, and one always to be checked for tenderness when

selecting local points. In particular, this point is situated both on the Yang

Stepping and Yang Wei Mai trajectory and it especially increases the mobility of

the shoulder whenever its joint movement is limited (as in “frozen shoulder”).

This point is very frequently tender and I always check this point for tenderness

when I treat problems of the scapula, shoulder and neck. Its tenderness is partially

due to its being a point of the Yang Wei Mai and of the Yang Qiao Mai and it is

therefore a concentration point of the Qi of many Yang channels.

G.B.-20 FENGCHI Wind Pool


Meeting point of the Gall-Bladder and Triple

Burner channels.

ii. Actions: Expels exterior Wind, Extinguishes interior Wind, Subdues

Liver-Yang, Brightens the eyes, Benefits the ears, Clears Heat, Nourishes

Marrow and clears the Brain.

iii. Indications: Aversion cold, fever, body aches, occipital stiffness and

ache, Vertigo, Wind-stroke, hemiplegia, lockjaw, deviation of eye and

mouth, epilepsy, Headache, dizziness, blurred vision, Blurred vision,

diminished night vision, redness and pain of the eyes, redness and pain of

the outer canthus, excessive lachrymation, Tinnitus, deafness, blocked ears.

Extinguishes interior Wind and is used for such symptoms as dizziness and

vertigo. It is the point of choice to use for dizziness and vertigo from

internal Wind or from rising of Liver-Yang or Liver-Fire. In these cases, it

is needled with reducing method.

Some doctors say it expels exterior Wind because it is a point of the Yang

Wei Mai, while it extinguishes interior Wind because it is a Gall-Bladder

channel point.

iv. Comments: it eliminates both interior and exterior Wind. It is very much

used to eliminate exterior Wind-Cold or Wind-Heat, particularly if the

headache and stiff neck that are normally caused by exterior Wind are very

pronounced. With LU-7 Lieque expels Wind-Cold, and with L.I.-4 Hegu

and T.B.-5 Waiguan expels Wind-Heat.

It subdues Liver-Yang or Liver-Fire and is therefore used for headaches

deriving from rising of Liver-Yang.

A major point for eye problems, particularly with Liver disharmony. This

action is also partly due to its being a point of the Eye System (occipital

group): in fact, the Eye System emerges from the brain at the occiput. Can be

used for blurred vision, cataract, iritis and optic nerve atrophy.

It is particularly indicated for eye problems deriving from Liver-Fire, in

which case it is needled with reducing method. However, it can also be used

with reinforcing method to improve vision and clear the eyes when these are

not nourished by deficient Liver-Blood.

It also has an effect on the ears, and can be used for tinnitus and deafness

deriving from the rising of Liver-Yang.

Used with reinforcing method, it tonifies Marrow and nourishes the brain, so

that it can be used for deficiency of the Sea of Marrow, with such symptoms

as poor memory, dizziness and vertigo. Its action on the Brain and Marrow is

also due to its being a point of the Eye System.

When used to affect the eyes, G.B.-20 should be needled obliquely

towards the eye of the same side; when used to eliminate Wind, it should

be needled angled towards the opposite eye.

G.B.-19 NAOKONG Brain Cavity


ii. Actions: Subdues Liver-Yang, Clear Gall-Bladder

channel Heat, Brightens the eyes and benefits ears and

nose, Calms the Mind.

iii. Indications: Headache, dizziness, Blurred vision, redness, swelling and pain

of the eyes, tinnitus deafness, nose ache, nasal congestion, nosebleed, Manic-

depression, fright, palpitations.

iv. Comments: G.B.-19 is another local point for headaches from Liver-Yang

rising. Compared to other Gall-Bladder points on the skull, G.B.-19 has a

stronger Heat-clearing action.

Benefits the sense orifices (like other Gall-Bladder points on the skull). Its

name implies that at this point, the Gall-Bladder channel is in communication

with the brain.

In the context of the Yang Wei Mai , this is a useful local point for headaches

caused by a pathology of this vessel.

G.B.-18 CHENGLING Spirit Receiver


ii. Actions: Subdues Liver-Yang, Calms the Mind and

opens the Mind's orifices, Benefits the nose and stimulates

the diffusing and descending of Lung-Qi.

iii. Indications: Headache, dizziness, Obsessive thoughts, pensiveness,

Sneezing, nosebleed, nasal congestion, breathlessness, aversion to cold.

iv. Comments: deep effect on mental problems such as obsessive thoughts and

dementia. Like nearly all Gall-Bladder points on the head, it subdues Liver-

Yang and is used as a local point for headaches from Liver-Yang rising.

According to the “An Enquiry into Chinese Acupuncture”, G.B.-18 can be

used for diseases of the blood vessels of the brain and traumas to the skull.



G.B.-17 ZHENGYING Top Convergence

i. Nature: Point of the Yang Wei Mai (Yang Wei Mai).

ii. Actions: Subdues Liver-Yang, Resolves Phlegm and

opens the Mind's orifices.

iii. Indications: Headache, dizziness, blurred vision, Blurred vision from

Phlegm, nausea, vomiting, obsessive thoughts, pensiveness, manic

behaviour.

iv. Comments: strong mental-emotional effect in opening the Mind's orifices

and resolving Phlegm. In my experience, it is effective to eliminate Phlegm

from the head when this obstructs the Mind causing obsessive thoughts,

pensiveness and mild manic behaviour.

According to the “An Enquiry into Chinese Acupuncture”, G.B.-17 can be used for

schizophrenia and hysteria.



G.B.-16 MUCHUANG Window of the Eye

i. Nature: Points of the Yang Wei Mai .

ii. Actions: Benefits the eyes, Expels exterior Wind, Subdues

Liver-Yang, Extinguishes interior Wind.

iii. Indications: Blurred vision, redness, swelling and pain of the eyes,

Aversion to cold, fever, no sweating, Headache, Epilepsy

iv. Comments: This point is used mostly as a local point for headaches from

Liver-Yang rising. In the context of the Yang Wei Mai , its can be used as a

local point in conjunction with T.B.-5 and G.B.-41.



G.B.-15 TOULINQI Falling Tears

i. Nature: Point of the Yang Wei Mai , Meeting point of Gall-

Bladder and Bladder channels.

ii. Actions: Subdues Liver-Yang, Extinguishes interior Wind,

Brightens the eyes, Calms the Mind.

iii. Indications: Headache, dizziness, Wind-stroke, epilepsy, loss of

consciousness, redness and pain of the eyes, blurred vision, lachrymation on

exposure to wind, pain in the outer canthus, pain above eyebrows, obsessive

thoughts, pensiveness, oscillation of moods.

iv. Comments: G.B.-15 has a deep effect on the emotional life and is

particularly indicated to balance the moods when the person oscillates between

periods of low spirits and periods of elation. In my experience, this point is

effective to stop obsessive thoughts and pensiveness.

G.B.-15 is used as a local point for headaches from Liver-Yang rising and it has

a special effect on the eyes.



G.B.-14 YANGBAI Yang White

i. Nature: Point of the Yang Wei Mai , Meeting point of the Gall-

Bladder, Triple Burner, Stomach and Large Intestine channels.

ii. Actions: Subdues Liver-Yang, extinguishes interior Wind,

brightens the eyes.

iii. Indications: Headache, dizziness, opisthotonos, deviation of eye and mouth,

drooping of eyelid, twitching of eyelid, itching of eyelid, eye pain, lachrymation

on exposure to wind, diminished night vision, myopia.

iv. Comments: eliminates Wind from the face, especially in facial paralysis. The

choice of local points is made according to the area of paralysis, and this is

determined by asking the patient to move certain facial muscles.

An important local point for unilateral frontal headaches on the Gall-Bladder channel

deriving from Liver-Yang rising.

Used as a local point for eye problems related to the Gall-Bladder and Liver channels.

In the context of the Yang Wei Mai , this is a useful local point for headaches caused

by a pathology of this vessel.

G.B.-13 BENSHEN Mind Root

i. Nature: Point of the Yang Wei Mai (Yang Wei Mai).

Meeting point of the 3 Yang Muscle channels of the arm.

ii. Actions: Calms the Mind (Shen), Subdues Liver-Yang,

Extinguishes Wind, Resolves Phlegm, Gathers Jing to the

head, Clears the brain.

iii. Indications: Manic behaviour, fright, Headache, dizziness, Epilepsy,

hemiplegia, convulsions, Vomiting of foamy saliva, epilepsy with foaming at

the mouth.

iv. Comments: G.B.-13 is an important point for mental and emotional problems.

It is very much used for schizophrenia combined with HE-5 Tongli and G.B.-38

Yangfu. It is also used for persistent and unreasonable feelings of jealousy and

suspicion.

Has a powerful effect in calming the Mind and relieving anxiety deriving from

constant worry and fixed thoughts. Best when combined with Du-24 Shenting.

Its deep mental and emotional effect is also due to its action of “gathering” Jing

to the head. Kidney-Jing is the root of our Pre-Heaven Qi and is the foundation

for our mental and emotional life. A strong Jing is the fundamental prerequisite

for a clear Mind (Shen) and a balanced emotional life.

This is the meaning of this point's name “Root of the Mind”, i.e. this point

gathers Jing which is the root of the Mind (Shen). The Kidney-Jing is the

source of Marrow which fills up the Brain (called Sea of Marrow): G.B.-13 is a

point where Jing and Marrow “gather”.

Nourishes Jing (with other points), attracts Jing towards the head with the

effect of calming the Mind and strengthening clarity of mind, memory and will

power.

Subdues Liver-Yang and can therefore be used as a local point in chronic

headaches from Liver-Yang rising.

Extinguishes internal Wind and treats Wind-stroke and epilepsy.

Resolves Phlegm in the context of mental-emotional disorders or epilepsy, i.e.

it opens the Mind's orifices when these are clouded by Phlegm.

YIN AND YANG WEI MAI COMBINED PATHOLOGY

EXTERNAL

MALLEOLUS

INTERNAL

MALLEOLUS

OCCIPUT THROAT GB-16

DU MAI

Ren-23

REN MAI

BLADDER

MUSCLE

CHANNEL

Tongue

KIDNEY

DIVERGENT

CHANNEL

YANG WEI MAI YIN WEI MAI

Du-16 .

YANG WEI MAI

. Ren-23

YIN WEI MAI

Root of tongue

BL MUSCLE CH KI DIVERGENT

Meets Du Mai

Meets Ren Mai

Yang Wei Mai meets Du Mai at Du-16

Yin Wei Mai meets Ren Mai at Ren-23

Hence both Yin and

Yang Wei have “loss of

voice”


There is a great deal of symmetry between the Yin and Yang Wei Mai as follows:

1. The Yang Wei Mai links all the Yang channels; the Yin Wei Mai all the Yin

channels

2. The Yang Wei Mai starts on the outer aspect of the lower leg “where the three

Yang channels meet”; the Yin Wei Mai starts on the inner aspect of the lower leg

“where the three Yin channels meet”

3. The Yang Wei Mai controls the Exterior of the body; the Yin Wei Mai controls

the Interior of the body

4. The Yang Wei Mai controls the Wei Qi; the Yin Wei Mai controls the Ying Qi.

The Yin and Yang Wei Mai link all the Yin and Yang channels respectively.

“Linking” implies a function of balancing, equalizing the flow of Qi among the

Yin and Yang channels respectively.

Mai Jing:

“The Yang and the Yin Wei Mai link and connect all parts of the body; they collect

the overflowing Qi which can no longer circulate in and irrigate the channels.”

Although there is considerable symmetry between the Yin and Yang Wei Mai ,

they do not come together in the top part of the body in the same way as the two

Yin and Yang Qiao Mai do. In fact, the Yin and Yang Wei Mai remain quite

separate throughout their pathways because one flows with the Yang channels and

controls the Exterior, while the other flows with the Yin channels and controls the

Interior.

According to the indications reported in the classics, the Yin and Yang Wei Mai

have three areas of common pathology, i.e.:

Epilepsy with goat sound

Bi Syndrome with tingling

Loss of voice

1. PATHWAYS

2. FUNCTIONS

The pathways of the Yin and Yang Wei Mai are separate and in many ways

opposite to one another but with a certain symmetry between them.

The Yang Wei Mai starts on the outer aspect of the lower leg “where the Yang

channels intersect”; the Yin Wei Mai starts on the inner aspect of the lower leg

“where the Yin channels intersect”.

The Yang Wei Mai flows up the lateral aspect of the body, neck and head mostly

along the Gall-Bladder channel. The Yin Wei Mai flows up the front of the body,

to the throat area.

The Yin and Yang Wei Mai link all the Yin and Yang channels respectively.

“Linking” the channels should be distinguished from “governing” the channels

(as the Governing and Ren Mai do for the Yang and Yin channels respectively)

and from “absorbing” Qi from the Yin and Yang channels (as the Yin and Yang

Qiao Mai do respectively).

Therefore, the Yin and Yang Wei Mai do not tonify Yin and Yang in the way

that the Governing and Ren Mai can do, nor do they absorb Excesses of Yin

and Yang as the Yin and Yang Qiao Mai do.

“Linking” of Yin and Yang implies, amongst others, facilitating the communication

among Yin and among Yang channels respectively to remove obstructions. For

example, one of the main pathologies of the Yin Wei Mai is chest pain from

stagnation in this area; one of the main pathologies of the Yang Wei Mai is expelling

Wind from the Yang channels in the neck and head and also treating headaches.

3. HARMONIZATION OF YING AND WEI QI

“Linking” of Yin and Yang implies, amongst others, facilitating the communication

among Yin and among Yang channels respectively to remove obstructions. For

example, one of the main pathologies of the Yin Wei Mai is chest pain from

stagnation in this area; one of the main pathologies of the Yang Wei Mai is expelling

Wind from the Yang channels in the neck and head and also treating headaches.

When the Yin and Yang Wei Mai are balanced and communicate with each other,

Wei Qi and Ying Qi are properly harmonized: in such a case, the space between the

skin and muscles is properly regulated and in the right state of consolidation, i.e. not

too “open” (Excess of Yin) or too “tight, closed” (Excess of Yang). This ensures

that the patient has a good resistance against invasion of exterior pathogenic factors.

When the Yang Wei Mai is in a weak state, the space between the skin and muscles

is too open and therefore vulnerable to invasions of exterior pathogenic factors.

When the Yang Wei Mai is in a Full state, the space between the skin and muscles

is too tight and, when there is an invasion of a pathogenic factor, the patient will

have a high fever.

Wei Qi circulates in the space between skin and muscles but it also relies on the

nourishment from Ying Qi: therefore, Ying Qi too, plays a role in the defence from

exterior pathogenic factors. When Wei and Ying Qi are not harmonized, or more

specifically, when Ying Qi is deficient in relation to Wei Qi, the space between the

skin and muscles is not properly regulated and there is spontaneous sweating.

If there is a slight sweating in the beginning stages of invasions of external Wind,

it indicates that the Ying Qi is weak in relation to the Wei Qi, i.e. the Yin and Yang

Wei Mai are not harmonized.

With acupuncture, when there is such sweating in invasions of external Wind

one can use Du-16 Fengfu and G.B.-20 Fengchi to stop sweating first. Needle

these two needles first to release the Exterior (sweating, headache, Floating

pulse). This approach can also be used for "chronic Wind" in the muscles of

Greater and Shao Yang areas causing muscle ache and stiffness.

Citing Zhang Jie Gu, Li Shi Zhen says:

“Wei Qi is Yang and is on the Exterior, when the Yang Wei Mai is invaded by

pathogenic factors the disease is on the Exterior and there is alternation of feeling

of cold and feeling of heat with irritability. Ying Qi is Yin and is in the Interior,

when the Yin Wei Mai is attacked by pathogenic factors the disease is in the Interior

and there is heart pain with depression when Yin and Yang are mutually linked, the

Ying and Wei Qi are harmonized.

When Ying and Wei Qi are not harmonized there is pensiveness, obsession, loss of

will power and lack of self-control. When there is spontaneous sweating it indicates

that the Ying and Wei Qi are not harmonized in which case use Gui Zhi Tang

Ramulus Cinnamomi Decoction.”

4. MENTAL-EMOTIONAL STATE


“The Yang Wei Mai links all the Yang, the Yin Wei Mai links all the Yin.

When Yin and Yang cannot link with each other, there will be

pensiveness, obsession, loss of will power and lack of self-control.”

Citing Zhang Jie Gu, Li Shi Zhen said:

“Wei Qi is Yang and is on the Exterior, when the Yang Wei Mai is

invaded by pathogenic factors the disease is on the Exterior and there

is...irritability. Ying Qi is Yin and is in the Interior, when the Yin Wei

Mai is attacked by pathogenic factors the disease is in the Interior and

there is heart pain with depression.

When Yin and Yang are mutually linked, the Ying and Wei Qi are

harmonized. When Ying and Wei Qi are not harmonized there is

pensiveness, obsession, loss of will power and lack of self-control.”

Therefore, when the Yin and Yang Wei Mai are not harmonized with each

other, the person feels sorry, thinks too much, is depressed, may have

obsessive thoughts, loss of will-power and lack of self-control.

In the context of the mental-emotional state, disharmony between Yin and

Yang Wei Mai means either a deficiency of Yin and Excess of Yang or vice

versa. I personally use the Yin Wei Mai for mental-emotional problems

occurring against a background of Blood and/or Yin deficiency.

In cases of depression, I use the opening and coupled points of the Yin Wei

Mai (P-6 Neiguan and SP-4 Gongsun) together with Ren-15 Jiuwei, Du-20

Baihui, ST-36 Zusanli and KI-9 Zhubin.

In cases of anxiety, I use P-6 Neiguan and SP-4 Gongsun together with Ren-

15 Jiuwei, Du-24 Shenting, L.I.-4 Hegu (on the side opposite to that of P-6),

LIV-3 Taichong (on the side opposite to that of SP-4) and KI-9 Zhubin.

5. YANG AND YIN WEI MAI INFLUENCE HEAD AND ABDOMEN

Wei Qi is Yang and controls the Exterior, the Yang Wei Mai unites the

three Yang channels at the level of the head, when pathogenic factors enter

this vessel there is alternation of hot and cold feeling and headache. This

explains the use of T.B.-5 Waiguan both for invasions of Wind and for

headache.

Ying Qi is Yin and controls the Interior, the Yin Wei Mai unites the three

Yin channels at the level of the chest; dysfunction or invasion of

pathogenic factors cause chest pain.


a) The Yin and Yang Wei Mai and the waist

The Yang and Yin Wei Mai link all the Yang and Yin channels and when they are

overfull one cannot turn the waist.

b) Yang and Yin Wei Mai influence head and abdomen respectively

Wei Qi is Yang and controls the Exterior, the Yang Wei Mai unites the three Yang

channels at the level of the head, when pathogenic factors enter this vessel there is

alternation of hot and cold feeling and headache. This explains the use of T.B.-5

Waiguan both for invasions of Wind and for headache.

Ying Qi is Yin and controls the Interior, the Yin Wei Mai unites the three Yin

channels at the level of the abdomen; dysfunction or invasion of pathogenic factors

cause abdominal and chest pain.

When Yin and Yang link up, Ying and Wei Qi are harmonized: when these are not

harmonized the person feels sorry, thinks too much, is depressed, may have obsessive

thoughts, loss of will-power and lack of self-control.

c) Harmonization of Ying and Wei Qi

Citing Zhang Jie Gu, Li Shi Zhen says:

“Wei Qi is Yang and is on the Exterior, when the Yang Wei Mai is invaded by

pathogenic factors the disease is on the Exterior and there is alternation of

feeling of cold and feeling of heat with irritability. Ying Qi is Yin and is in the

Interior, when the Yin Wei Mai is attacked by pathogenic factors the disease is

in the Interior and there is heart pain with depression.

When Yin and Yang are mutually linked, the Ying and Wei Qi are harmonized.

When Ying and Wei Qi are not harmonized there is pensiveness, obsession,

loss of will power and lack of self-control. When there is spontaneous

sweating it indicates that the Ying and Wei Qi are not harmonized in which

case use Gui Zhi Tang Ramulus Cinnamomi Decoction.”

In sweating from Wei Qi not being harmonized with the Ying Qi use Du-16

Fengfu and G.B.-20 Fengchi. Needle these two needles first to release the

Exterior (sweating, headache, Floating pulse). This approach can also be

used for "chronic Wind" in the muscles of Tai Yang and Shao Yang areas

causing muscle ache and stiffness.

d) Disharmony of Yin and Yang Wei affects the Shen and causes depression

e) Both Yin and Yang Wei may cause loss of voice

Li Shi Zhen:

“When the Yin and Yang Wei Vessels are out of harmony and not linking

with each other, the person becomes depressed and mentally disturbed (shi

zhi 失志 ) and loses control of his body”


“When a person is depressed he becomes anxious and the [Yin] Wei Mai

becomes slack and the person cannot control his body; the anxiety causes

him mental disturbance and bewilderment [huang hu 恍惚 )”.

Loss of voice may results from a pathology of the Yin or Yang Wei Mai

because the former goes to Ren-23 and the latter goes to Du-16 but they

communicate through the Du and Ren Mai.

DAI MAI

带脉

Copyright Giovanni Maciocia

The Dai Mai is the only horizontal vessel of the body. Because of this, it is

sometimes called "the extraordinary of the extraordinary vessels". It

divides the body into two halves and flows through LIV-13 Zhangmen,

GB-26 Daimai, GB-27 Wushu and GB-28 Weidao. Not all authors accept

that it connects with LIV-13.

It is closely related to the Liver and Gall Bladder and it connects with

the Kidney divergent channel at BL-23 Shenshu. Because of this, the

Dai Mai "guides and supports" the Qi of the uterus and the Jing.

Because the Dai Mai connects with LIV-13 (Spleen) and BL-23

(Kidneys), it connects the Post-Heaven with the Pre-Heaven Qi (in a

similar way as the Chong Mai).

Thus, the Dai Mai vessel interrelates with and restrains the Liver's smooth

flow of Qi (through LIV-13), and harmonizes the ascending and

descending of Spleen and Kidneys.

Hence it influences:

- Kidney's nourishment of Jing;

- Spleen's raising of Qi;

- Liver's smooth flow of Qi

All these functions rely on the Dai Mai being "relaxed and stretched".

PATHWAY

In the back, it connects with the Kidney

Divergent channel at the height of BL-23

Shenshu

Nan Jing

“The Dai Mai originates from the

hypochondrium and it encircles the body.”

“The Dai Mai originates in the hypochondrium at the

point LIV-13 Zhangmen and it then connects with

G.B.-26 Daimai, G.B.-27 Wushu and G.B.-28

Weidao.”

Ling Shu Chapter 11

“The Kidney Divergent channel goes behind the knee and it connects

with the Bladder channel. It then goes up to the kidneys area level with

the 14th vertebra where it exits into the Dai Mai.”

Li Shi Zhen

1) HARMONIZE THE LIVER AND GALL-BLADDER


For such conditions, I use the opening and coupled points of the

Dai Mai (G.B.-41 Zulinqi and T.B.-5 Waiguan).

a) It can be used to harmonise the Liver and Gall Bladder,

particularly in Full patterns of the Liver, for such symptoms

as temporal headaches.

Great Compendium of Acupuncture (Zhen Jiu Da Cheng)

“Headache, swelling from occiput to chin, red and swollen eyes with

dizziness.”

For such conditions, I use the opening and coupled points of the

Dai Mai (G.B.-41 Zulinqi and T.B.-5 Waiguan) together with

LIV-13 Zhangmen.

b) The Dai Mai treats pathological conditions of the lower abdomen,

characterized by a feeling of distension and/or fullness. Often chosen

when both Middle positions of the pulse are Full and Wiry. Moxa on

LIV-13 Zhangmen is often used.

2) RESOLVE DAMPNESS IN THE LOWER BURNER

The Dai Mai is like a belt encircling the leg channels in the abdomen and

back: the tension of this belt regulates the circulation of Qi to and from

the legs. Dampness may arise from a dysfunction of the Dai Mai.

This may happen in Full conditions (when the belt is too “tight”) and

there is stagnation in the leg channels leading to Dampness.

Or it may happen in Empty conditions (when the belt is too “loose”),

the leg channels are not “restrained”, Spleen- and Kidney-Qi sink

and Dampness infuses to the Lower Burner.

a) To treat an excessive vaginal discharge occurring with a Full condition,

I use the opening and coupled points of the Dai Mai (G.B.-41 Zulinqi and

T.B.-5 Waiguan) together with G.B.-26 Daimai, Ren-3 Zhongji, ST-28

Shuidao and SP-9 Yinlingquan.

To treat an excessive vaginal discharge occurring with an Empty

condition, I use the opening and coupled points of the Dai Mai (G.B.-41

Zulinqi and T.B.-5 Waiguan) together with G.B.-26 Daimai, Ren-6

Qihai, ST-28 Shuidao, SP-9 Yinlingquan, BL-20 Pishu and BL-23

Shenshu.

b) The Dai Mai can also be used to resolve Damp-Heat in the

genitals, causing such symptoms as burning and difficult urination,

hypogastric pain and vaginal discharge.

To treat the genitals with the Dai Mai I would use the opening and

coupled points of the Dai Mai (G.B.-41 Zulinqi and T.B.-5

Waiguan) together with G.B.-26 Daimai, Ren-3 Zhongji, ST-28

Shuidao, SP-9 Yinlingquan, Ren-5 Shimen, LIV-5 Ligou.

The Dai Mai encircles the leg channels and it affects their circulation.

Disorders of this channel can therefore impair the circulation of Qi in the

leg channels, resulting in such symptoms as:

tense outer leg muscles (due to Liver-Blood not moistening the

sinews).

purple feet

cold legs and feet ("like sitting in cold water")

3) REGULATE CIRCULATION OF QI IN THE LEGS

The Dai Mai affects the circulation of Qi in all leg channels, but the Stomach

channel is the most important one for Qi circulation in the legs and it is the

one that most needs to be treated in multiple sclerosis.

The Dai Mai regulates the circulation of Qi in the leg channels, and can

be used in the treatment of multiple sclerosis which, is a form of

Atrophy (Wei) Syndrome.

Atrophy Syndrome and the influence of the Dai Mai and Stomach channel

in this disease are discussed in chapter 44 of the “Su Wen”. This chapter

makes some important statements with regard to the relationship between

the Ancestral Muscle (Zong Jin), the Stomach channel, the Chong Mai, the

Du Mai and the Dai Mai.

Su Wen, chapter 44

"The Chong Mai is the Sea of the 12 channels and it moistens the

valleys. This vessel meets the Yang Ming [Stomach channel] at the Zong

Jin [Ancestral Muscle]. Yin and Yang meet at ST-30 Qichong which is

connected with the Zong Jin. The Stomach channel can control the

Chong Mai and the Zong Jin. All these belong to the Dai Mai: this

vessel goes horizontally around the Du Mai, so when Yang Ming is

empty, the Zong Jin become weak, the Dai Mai fails to tighten them, the

legs become weak and there may be paralysis. We have to treat the

Stomach channel."

Therefore, the Ancestral Muscle and the point ST-30 Qichong are strategic

intersections of the Chong Mai, the Du Mai and the Dai Mai.

“Yin and Yang” in this quote refer to Kidneys and Stomach.

1. The Chong Mai emerges from the point ST-30 and controls the Ancestral Muscle,

not only the rectus abdominis but also the erector spinae through its spinal branch.

2. The Du Mai flows in between the Ancestral Muscle of the back (erector spinae) and

is encircled by the Dai Mai.

3. The Dai Mai encircles the Du Mai in the back and the Chong Mai and Stomach

channel in the front.

Du Mai

Dai Mai

Chong Mai

Su Wen

"The Chong Mai is the Sea of the 12 channels, it irrigates the rivers and

valleys [i.e. channels and muscles] and it meets with the Yang Ming at

the Ancestral Muscle, Yin and Yang channels meet here and converge at

ST-30 Qichong which is on the Yang Ming. The Dai Mai and Du Mai

also converge at this point. Thus when the Yang Ming is deficient the

Ancestral Muscle is weakened, the Dai Mai does not fasten and Atrophy

Syndrome results."

This statement is interesting because it sounds like the Ancestral Muscle is

not only the rectus abdominis muscle but also the spinal muscles (erector

spinae).

"The Yang Ming is the Sea of the 5 Yin and 6 Yang organs, it irrigates the

Ancestral Muscle which runs to the pubic bone and up the spine in the

back."

To sum up, reinforcing the Dai Mai and the point ST-30 Qichong will

promote the circulation of Qi in the Stomach channel downwards to the

legs and upwards to the sinews and ligaments alongside the spine.

In order to strengthen the Dai Mai and the Stomach channel in

Atrophy Syndrome (and multiple sclerosis), I use the opening and

coupled points of the Dai Mai (G.B.-41 and T.B.-5 Waiguan) together

with G.B.-26 (to tonify the Dai Mai itself), ST-30 Qichong and ST-36

Zusanli (to strengthen the Stomach), KI-11 Henggu (to strengthen the

Chong Mai) and Du-4 Mingmen (to strengthen the Du Mai).

The most important channel to treat, therefore, is the Stomach because of its

connection with the Chong Mai at ST-30 Qichong and also because it controls

the Ancestral Muscle. When needling G.B.-26 Daimai, G.B.-27 Wushu and

G.B.-28 Weidao the needling sensation should radiate down towards ST-30

Qichong.

Another symptom of the Dai Mai is abdominal pain that radiates to

the lower back or vice versa, backache that radiates to the lower

abdomen.

4) THE DAI MAI AND ABDOMINAL PAIN

The pain may be bilateral or unilateral

In order to treat this type of abdominal pain, I use the opening and coupled

points of the Dai Mai (G.B.-41 and T.B.-5) together with G.B.-26 Daimai

and BL-23 Shenshu.

"Umbilical pain like a line with backache radiating to thighs".

To Ming Men

To thighs

"Pulse Classic"

"Lower abdominal pain [dong ku tong] radiating to the Ming Men,

amenorrhoea in women or periods which stop and start, feeling of cold in

the genital region, infertility, in men emissions".

Thus, to summarize:

-paralysis of legs

-Backache

-Abdominal pain and distension

-Cold scrotum

-Irregular periods

-Dysmenorrhoea

-Leukorrhoea

-Paralysis from accident

It is interesting to note that the Dai Mai is in the middle of the body

and its pathology is reflected in the top (headaches), middle

(abdominal pain and leukorrhoea) and lower (cold-purple feet) part of

the body.

Because of the gynaecological sphere of the Dai Mai, some authors say

that the Dai Mai, in Empty conditions, is energetically part of the Ren

Mai, and, in Full conditions, is energetically part of the Chong Mai.

The Dai Mai is important in the treatment of some gynaecological

complaints and particularly excessive vaginal discharge. The

pathology of excessive vaginal discharge in the context of the Dai

Mai is always due to Dampness which may be Full or Empty.

5) THE DAI MAI IN GYNAECOLOGY

In Full conditions, the excessive vaginal discharge is due to the

Dai Mai being too “tight” so that Dampness accumulates in the

Lower Burner with the characteristic feeling of heaviness.

To treat an excessive vaginal discharge occurring with a Full condition, I

use the opening and coupled points of the Dai Mai (G.B.-41 Zulinqi and

T.B.-5 Waiguan) together with G.B.-26 Daimai, Ren-3 Zhongji, ST-28

Shuidao and SP-9 Yinlingquan.

In Empty conditions, the Dai Mai is too slack so that Spleen- and

Kidney-Qi sink: this leads to the formation of Dampness and to very a

chronic excessive vaginal discharge that is very resistant to treatment.

In gynaecology, the Dai Mai is closely related to the Ren and Chong

Mai; indeed, some authors say that the Dai Mai Deficiency pathology

is secondary to a Deficiency of the Ren Mai, while its Excess

pathology is secondary to an Excess in the Chong Mai

To treat an excessive vaginal discharge occurring with an Empty

condition, I use the opening and coupled points of the Dai Mai (G.B.-41

Zulinqi and T.B.-5 Waiguan) together with G.B.-26 Daimai, Ren-6

Qihai, ST-28 Shuidao, SP-9 Yinlingquan, BL-20 Pishu and BL-23

Shenshu.

DAI MAI

Empty Full

REN MAI CHONG MAI

6) FULLNESS AND EMPTINESS OF THE DAI MAI

The Dai Mai's pathology can be classified as Full or Empty: the Dai Mai is

like a belt encircling the waist:

its Empty pathology occurs when the belt is too “slack”.

its Full pathology occurs when the belt is too “tight”

XU: Zong muscles slack, prolapse, hernia, Wei syndrome,

leukorrhoea, Ren Mai sinking, Du-Fire declining, miscarriage =

REN MAI.

SHI: abdominal fullness, feeling as if sitting in water, back ache

radiating to abdomen, feeling of heaviness as if carrying 8,000 coins =

CHONG MAI

The Full pathology of the Dai Mai consists in it “not being harmonized”, due to this vessel

being too "tight". The main symptoms are as follows:

i. Full

1. Feeling of fullness of the abdomen, back feels as if sitting in water. This is

due to invasion of Cold Dampness in the Spleen channel.

2. Backache radiating to lower abdomen or abdominal pain radiating to the

back.

3. Feeling of heaviness of the body, coldness of the back, feeling as if

sitting in water, feeling of heaviness of the abdomen as if carrying 5,000

coins. This is due to exposure to dampness and rain.

Full pathology of the Dai Mai is associated with Full pathology of

the Chong Mai.

To treat a Full pathology of the Dai Mai with Dampness use the opening and

coupled points of the Dai Mai (G.B.-41 and T.B.-5 Waiguan) together with

G.B.-26 Daimai, Ren-3 Zhongji, ST-28 Shuidao and SP-9 Yinlingquan.

a) Full

When the Dai Mai is slack, Qi cannot rise, the organs sag, hernias and prolapses

develop, Atrophy Syndrome (Wei Syndrome) develops and miscarriages and

prolapses may occur.

The foetus depends on the Kidneys and the Ren Mai, but also on the Dai Mai. If

the Dai Mai is slack, Qi cannot rise, the foetus is not stabilized, and the mother

may miscarry.

The Empty condition of the Dai Mai is due to long-term deficiency and sinking of Qi,

Post- and Pre-Natal Qi deficiency, clear Qi descending (rather than ascending), and the

Dai Mai being too slack. The treatment principle is to tonify Pre- and Post-Heaven Qi,

raise the clear Qi, consolidate the Dai Mai.

The Empty pathology of the Dai Mai is due to Qi deficiency and to this vessel being

too slack. It is related to Kidney and Liver deficiency, the Dai Mai not restraining the

Jing, Spleen-Qi sinking, and the Dai Mai not propping-up the Post-Heaven Qi, so that

Ren, Du and Chong Mai become deficient and sinking.

To treat an Empty condition of the Dai Mai, use the opening and coupled

points of the Dai Mai (G.B.-41 and T.B.-5 Waiguan) together with G.B.-

26 Daimai, Ren-6 Qihai, Du-20 Baihui, BL-20 Pishu and BL-23 Shenshu.

b) Empty

7) THE DAI MAI AND THE HIPS

The Dai Mai flows through the waist and influences the hip. It can

therefore be used for hip pain, particularly when there is a condition

of Dampness in the Lower Burner and the pulse is Wiry on both

Middle positions.

In order to treat the hip in the presence of pathology of the Dai

Mai, I use the opening and coupled points of the vessel (G.B.-41

and T.B.-5) together with G.B.-30 Huantiao.

8) THE PULSE OF THE DAI MAI

The pulse of the Dai Mai is shaped like a pellet (Wiry) on both Middle

positions.


“If the Middle positions of left and right are Wiry, it indicates [a pathology

of] the Dai Mai.”

Wiry SI

GB

BL

SP

LU

KI

CLASSICAL INDICATIONS

a) PATHOLOGY


“When the Dai Mai is diseased, there is abdominal fullness and

the back feels swollen as if sitting in water”

“The back and abdomen feel swollen like a balloon filled

with water. In women there is lateral-lower abdominal pain,

internal urgency, irregular periods and white-red vaginal

discharge.”

“When Yang Ming is empty, the Ancestral Muscle becomes slack as the

Dai Mai fails to tighten it, the legs [muscles] become weak and

atrophied and there may be paralysis.”

Chapter 44

Su Wen, chapter 63

“When pathogenic factors enter the Greater Yin Luo channels

there is backache radiating to the lower abdomen and difficulty

in breathing in.”


“When the Dai Mai is diseased there is a feeling of fullness in the

abdomen, a feeling of heaviness of the back and a feeling as if

sitting in water.”

“If the pulse is Wiry on both left and right side, it indicates a Dai Mai

pathology with backache and abdominal pain radiating to the leg.”

Golden Mirror of Medicine

“Difficulty in lifting and moving arms and legs after Wind-stroke, numbness

and contraction of limbs, head Wind pain, swelling from the back of the

neck to chin, red and painful eyes with dizziness, toothache, deafness,

swelling of throat, “floating Wind” itching, contraction of sinews, pain in

the thigh, hypochondrial distension, pain in the limbs.”

Great Compendium of Acupuncture (Zhen Jiu Da Cheng)

“Inability to lift hands and feet following Wind-stroke, contraction, pain,

numbness and heat of palms, headache, swelling from occiput to chin, red

and swollen eyes with dizziness, toothache, deafness, swollen throat,

itching with muscle tension, leg pain, unilateral hypochondrial

distension.”

Gatherings from Eminent Acupuncturists (Zhen Jiu Ju Ying, 1529) lists the following

symptoms and signs for the Dai Mai (using G.B.-41 Zulinqi and T.B.-5 Waiguan):

Swelling and pain of dorsum of foot (Stomach) Numbness of hands and feet (Small

Intestine, Triple Burner)

Tremor of fingers (Liver, Pericardium)

Toothache (Stomach, Large Intestine)

Heat of hands and feet (Stomach,

Pericardium)

Leg and knees swollen and painful (Stomach, Liver)

Swelling and pain of throat (Triple Burner)

Swelling and pain of eyes (Liver, Heart)

Oedema of body (Kidneys, Stomach)

Numbness of body (Liver, Spleen)

Muscle spasm and bone pain (Liver, Stomach)

Blurred vision, dizziness (Bladder)

Pain in cheeks and chin: (Large Intestine)


Inability to raise arms and legs from Wind-stroke

(Kidneys)

Deafness (Kidneys, Gall-Bladder)

Spasms of hands and feet (Liver, Kidneys)

Hypochondrial pain (Gall-Bladder)

Lack of control of four limbs (Gall-Bladder) Wind swelling of head (Bladder)

Swelling of vertex (Bladder)

Itchiness from Wind (Lungs)

Red eyes, tears (Bladder)

Diarrhoea from invasion of Wind-Cold (Shang

Han) (Bladder)

Groin pain (Gall-Bladder)

POINTS OF THE DAI MAI

G.B.-26 DAIMAI Dai Mai

Beginning point of the Dai Mai.

G.B.-27 WUSHU Five Pivots

Point of the Dai Mai.

G.B.-28 WEIDAO Linking Path


LIV-13 ZHANGMEN Completion Gate

Front Mu point of the Spleen.

Hui point for the 5 Zang.

Meeting point of the Liver and Gall-Bladder

channels.


5. HERBAL THERAPY

a) Herbs

Herbs that affect the Dai Mai include those that infuse to the Lower

Burner, consolidate and have an astringing property. Some of the herbs

(such as Sheng Ma Rhizoma Cimicifugae) have an ascending

movement and may be used to treat pathological conditions of the Dai

Mai characterized by the "belt" being too slack and Qi sinking. The

astringing quality of some of these herbs would treat persistent vaginal

discharges which are a major symptom of this vessel.

Herbs that enter the Dai Mai include:

Wu Wei Zi Fructus Schisandrae chinensis

http://www.tcmtreatment.com/images/herb-supply/herb-introduction/herbindex.htm

Shan Yao Radix Dioscoreae oppositae

Qian Shi Semen Euryales ferocis

Fu Pen Zi Fructus Rubi chingii

http://www.tcmtreatment.com/herbs-pictures/shan yao.jpg


Sang Piao Xiao Ootheca Mantidis


Ai Ye Folium Artemisiae argyi

Gan Cao Radix Glycyrrhizae uralensis.

Sheng Ma Rhizoma Cimicifugae

Long Gu Os Draconis

Xu Duan Radix Dipsaci asperi

b) FORMULAE

In case of a Dai Mai disharmony with a prolapsed uterus, one can use Liang

Shou Tang Two Receiving Decoction. This is because tonifying the Du and

Ren Mai to correct a prolapse is not enough, as one must also tonify the

"umbilical area" by tightening the Dai Mai.

For the same purpose one can also use Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang Tonifying the

Centre and Benefiting Qi Decoction plus Ba Ji Tian Radix Morindae

officinalis, Du Zhong Cortex Eucommiae ulmoidis, Gou Ji Rhizoma Cibotii

barometz, Xu Duan Radix Dipsaci asperi and Wu Wei Zi Fructus

Schisandrae chinensis to tonify the extraordinary vessels, consolidate the Dai

Mai and raise clear Qi.

The foetus depends on the Kidneys and the Ren Mai, but also on the Dai Mai.

If the Dai Mai is slack, Qi cannot rise, the foetus is not stabilized, and the

mother may miscarry. In such a case, one should tonify the Dai Mai with

Shou Tai Wan Foetus Longevity Pill.

If there is a Dai Mai disharmony with Dampness infusing down to the genital

system one can use Gan Jiang Ling Zhu Tang Glycyrrhiza-Zingiberis-Poria-

Atractylodes Decoction which warms the Spleen, resolves Dampness, opens

the Dai Mai and strengthens the back.

For backache radiating to the abdomen some doctors use pungent herbs to

scatter and sweet ones to moderate urgency such as Yan Hu Suo Rhizoma

Corydalis yanhusuo, Dang Gui Radix Angelicae sinensis, Sang Ji Sheng

Ramulus Sangjisheng, Gou Qi Zi Fructus Lycii chinensis and Xiao Hui

Xiang Fructus Foeniculi vulgaris. Dang Gui enters both the Chong and

Dai Mai.

Dang Gui Shao Yao San Angelica-Paeonia Powder treats the Dai Mai, for

such symptoms as abdominal pain, irregular periods, oedema and

leucorrhoea. It contains a high proportion of Bai Shao, which treats

abdominal pain from the Dai Mai disorder, and Chuan Xiong, which moves

Qi of the Chong Mai.

the treatment of the yin and yang qiao mai, yin and yang …

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