I often talk about the benefits of acupuncture, from everything from to aches and pains to emotional well being to, you guessed it, allergies. When people ask me how it works, I realize it’s not all that easy to explain. I know the very, very basics, what is most important to me is that I wholly believe it works and has a very important place in the world of health. When it comes to explaining it, that’s where I am not so adept. The best analogy I have heard is the one that compares the body to a garden hose. When a hose gets a kink in it, the water can’t flow to its best potential. When the body has a “kink” in it, the chi can’t flow smoothly and something will not act as it should, whether it is a headache or a reaction to pollen. That’s when people look at me, when I mention the word “chi.” If you are interested in acupuncture, here is a quick primer in terminology to help you understand it all better, including “chi.”

Chi or Qi (pronounced chee) - This is the energy that gives life to all living matter. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chi typically refers to the functions of the internal organs as well as life force or energy.

Meridians or channels - Chi flows through a system of ducts. These ducts form a network of main channels, minor capillaries and collaterals. There are 14 main interconnected channels called “meridians” through which Chi flows. Each meridian is named for the organ it is related to e.g. Heart channel or meridian.

Heat and cold –This principle is used to determine the overall energy of the patient. A cold condition would be one marked by a slow metabolism, chills, pale skin, and a low-grade fever, while a hot condition would be characterized by a heightened metabolism, sensations of heat in the body, high fevers, and a flushed complexion.

Points (also known as acupuncture points) – More than 400 locations on the skin connect to the 14 main meridians or channels. The stimulation of different acupuncture points can influence the activity of the corresponding meridian in a specific manner.

Diagnosis – similar in regard to determining the ailment, but very different to western diagnosis, the Eastern practitioner is determining taking into consideration three aspects: an extensive interview where physical and mental state are noted, pulse diagnosis, and a tongue examination. So don’t be surprised when your practitioner tells you to stick out your tongue.

Zang-Fu Theory – This explains the physiological function, pathological changes, and inter-relationships of internal organs. The five Zang organs are the Lungs, Heart, Spleen, Liver, and Kidney. The six Fu organs are the Gall Bladder, Stomach, Large Intestine, Small Intestine, Urinary Bladder and “Triple Warmer” (three areas of the body cavity). You may hear your practitioner often mention certain organs.

There are more terms you will come across in Chinese medicine/acupuncture. I think it is fascinating, especially because it seems to work so well. It may be difficult to do (it was for me at first, but not anymore), but ask when you are unsure or curious. You don’t have to know these terms, but it makes the understanding of the whole procedure easier to comprehend. Then when you are to tell to your friends how your allergies are so much better because your chi flows more freely, you may actually get them to understand, too.

For more information:
Alternative Medicine Foundation www.amfoundation.org
Yin Yang House www.yinyanghouse.com