The Jing Luo Network: An Overview of Channels and Collaterals and Their Clinical Applications

Abstract

The Jing Luo theory has evolved over centuries, since before 300 BC, but a commonly cited early reference is the Huang Di Nei Jing (Yellow Emperor’s Classic of Internal Medical) compiled between 200-100 BC. The Jing Luo system circulates Qi and Blood that nourishes and hydrates every cell of the body and balances Yin and Yang. Through a myriad of branches and connections, the Jing Luo joins the Exterior and Interior, internal organs and all regions of the body. The Jing Luo system can be divided into the Jing Mai (Major Channels) and Luo Mai (Collaterals and Connecting Channels). The Jing Mai consists of: 1) the 12 Regular Channels, 2) the 12 Skin Regions, 3) the 12 Muscle Regions, 4) the 12 Divergent Channels, 5) the 8 Extraordinary Channels and 6) the 4 Seas. The Luo Mai consists of 15 Collaterals and many small Connecting Channels that complete the dense Jing Luo network. Imbalances of Qi and Blood may occur in 1 or more areas of the Jing Luo and result in disease that cannot be completely resolved with standard acupuncture, moxibustion and Tui-na treatments. Special acupoints on the 12 Regular Channels and the Governing and Conception Vessel Channels can be useful to access and balance different parts of the Jing Luo network. With a deeper understanding of the Jing Luo system and knowledge of which acupoints access and balance specific Jing Luo components, the traditional Chinese veterinary medical practitioner may achieve better treatment results, especially in chronic unresponsive diseases.