Evolution of acupoint nomenclature: on the basis of the analysis of Tianhui medical bamboo slips

Abstract

Many theories of acupuncture and moxibustion and treatment experience are described in the Tianhui medical bamboo slips. In this paper, based on the records of Ci Shu (Needling Methods) of medical bamboo slips, focusing on the questions on the nomenclature of acupoints and meridians, by the comparison of the descriptions in Huangdi Neijing (Yellow Emperor 's Internal Classic) with other unearthed medical literature, the evolution on the nomenclature was sorted out and the rules and significance of such evolution were explored. In comparison between the evolution of the acupoint names on the head and face and that on the four limbs, the changing modes were presented and analyzed. Finally, the nomenclature of meridians and that of acupoints were compared to infer the potential factors of their own features. This preliminary exploration reflects the important significance of the comparative study of Tianhui medical bamboo slips in the literature interpretation, concept understanding and theory evolution rules of meridians and acupoints.