Regularities of application of acupoints to relieving clinical indications of Sanguan (cun, guan and chi, three places at the wrist where the pulse is usually taken) in classical book Mai Jing (Pulse Classic)

Abstract

According to indications of Sanguan (cun, guan and chi, three places at the wrist where the pulse is usually taken) described in book Mai Jing (Pulse Classic), the selection of acupoints is based on the location of problems and pulse conditions. WANG Shu-he (201-280, a well-known physician of the Wei and Jin dynasties) chose the operation method and stimulating intensity according to the nature of clinical disorders, that is, performing acupuncture or moxibusion in accordance with pulse conditions, or performing reinforcing or reducing needling manipulations based on pulse conditions. Clinical indications of Sanguan described in Mai Jing originate from Suwen: Sanbu Jiuhou Lun (Plain Questions: Discussion on Three Portions and Nine Pulse-takings) and are also influenced by Shanghan Lun (Treatise on Cold Damage Diseases) and Jingui Yao Lue (Synopsis of Prescriptions of the Golden Chamber). It inherits ZHANG Zhong-jing's clinical thinking of "pulse-syndrome-treatment" and supplements the content of acupuncture and moxibustion treatment, and also influenced the contents of indications of acupoints in book Zhenjiu Jiayi Jing (A-B Classic of Acupuncture and Moxibustion) and Qian Jin Yao Fang (Essential Prescriptions Worth a Thousand Gold). For this reason, it is necessary to unscramble the Mai Jing from clinical perspective of acupuncture and moxibustion, and to explore the thinking and practice mode of clinical diagnosis and treatment of clinical conditions by acupuncture and moxibustion.