Written by: Khor Sea Moon (President of APAM)
Translated by: Kathryn Wong (EXCO Member of APAM)
TCM Meridians (Jing-luo) System is one of the Chinese medicine branches that is now recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO), and has also been applied in various clinical treatments worldwide. There are 14 primary meridians covering the human body, and there is a total of 365 bilaterally symmetrical acupoints. The vigorous circulation time of each meridian is different, and it is a powerful diagnostic basis if the onset time of the illness is observed during clinical consultation.
Each meridian has its acupoint’s original point Yuan-source acupoint, Mu acupoint, Jing-well acupoint, Gong acupoint, Sunluo minute meridians, skin meridians, skin regions, tendon regions, etc., which are complex and intensively distributed. The functions of each acupoint is different but they interact with the Zang Fu organs. For example, the representative acupoint of the stomach meridian—Zusanli point—can help in digestion, antioxidant and it passes through the knees. People with knee issues are often due to insufficient nutrient absorption of spleen and stomach, resulting in knee pain, deformation, heaviness, etc. On the other hand, the representative acupoint of the pericardium meridian—Neiguan point—which is located in inner arm near the wrist, is also a powerful first-aid acupoint. It can boost the heart and drive the Qi and Blood. If “black sha” appears when scraping at this acupoint region, it’s a sign that the Qi and Blood are obstructed in the heart meridian. Other symptoms include stiff cardiothoracic muscles, breathing difficulties, and palpitations often occur. Generally, traditional treatments like moxibustion, acupuncture and massage are used to alleviate the discomforts.
The objective substantiality of the TCM meridians is an undoubted fact. It covers the human body comprehensively, just like the Web, having the advantage of reaching out to every part of our body in its circulation. Such precious system allows the interaction between the deep region and the superficial region of our body. The efficacy of treatment or general health maintenance would be greatly enhanced when combined with the use of essential oils, which is the essence of nature. This can be achieved by applying and allowing the essential oil with targeted effect to penetrate the specific acupoints.
Clinically, cough is a manifestation of the respiratory system, which is related to the TCM lung meridian. Cough can be relieved by acupuncture, massage and scraping at the representative acupoints of the lung meridian, such as Yuji acupoint. Applying plant-based essential oils such as eucalyptus and peppermint at the same acupoint can alleviate the symptoms even faster. Often, parents find it tough to give their children TCM oral medication to relieve vomiting. Alternatively, we can massage with patchouli and ginger essential oils on the Zhongwan acupoint of Ren meridian, to relieve vomiting and expel body dampness. It is safe and efficient while parents’ concerns can be resolved.
The above two examples demonstrated the scientificity and effectiveness of TCM meridians and the application of essential oils, which is worth for clinical reference. The accurate and safe application of essential oils at the right acupoints and positions can definitely improve the efficiency in alleviating symptoms. The functions of the essential oils can also be properly optimised.