The meridian system is a network of pathways that distribute fundamental substances such as qi (vital energy) and blood throughout the body. This vast network links all body parts and forms a comprehensive yet complex body map responsible for internal communication, nourishment, and functional regulation.

The functions of the meridians are collectively referred to as “meridian qi.” Good health is seen as a balance of qi within the meridians, while blockages or imbalances in these pathways can lead to illness. Acupoints are like specific addresses on the meridian map, each with its own role in maintaining the body’s health and balance. By stimulating these points on the body surface, physicians can regulate meridian flow, adjust functional activities in the organs, and restore balance to achieve prevention and treatment purposes. 

In Chinese medicine, knowledge of the meridian system is as important as understanding anatomy and physiology in modern medicine. For example, TCM physicians can diagnose and treat their patients effectively by understanding and working with the meridian system. Pathogens can travel along the meridian pathways and invade various parts of the body, while internal diseases can reflect on the body surface in the same way. Physicians are therefore able to analyze and predict the affected regions and disease development based on the outer manifestations of patients, making a proper diagnosis and then treating it accordingly.

The meridian system consists of a series of large and small channels. The twelve regular meridians are the primary trunks, which branch out into twelve divergent meridians in the chest, abdomen, and head to connect with the internal organs. The fifteen collaterals are the external branches of the twelve regular meridians in the limbs and trunk, while the eight extra meridians play special roles in internal communications and functions.

There are also twelve sinew meridians that govern the muscles and tendons, and twelve cutaneous regions that correspond to the distribution of the twelve main meridians on the body surface, in addition to numerous minute and superficial collaterals. All of these channels work closely together, with dysfunction in one usually affecting another.


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Twelve Regular Meridians in Acupuncture

Eight Extra Meridians in Acupuncture

Meridian Branches or Collaterals in the Meridian System

The concept of meridians is the foundation of acupuncture prescriptions. Familiarity with the meridian pathways and their interconnections is crucial for clinical diagnosis, determining point selections, and applying stimulation techniques.