Zhuo Lian-Shi
College of TCM, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 401331, China.
Zhongguo Zhen Jiu. 2011 Jan;31(1):75-8.
Ancient literatures on traditional Chinese medicine were retrieved, and theory of Biao (Branch) and Ben (Root) of meridians was studied from the aspect of acupuncture based on tracing of Weiqi (defensive qi). It was found that Biao and Ben were related with the gathering and dispersing of Weiqi (defensive qi) in 12 regular meridians. Therefore, observation of Weiqi (defensive qi) and tracing its running course is required before the application of acupuncture. Disease may cause migration of Weiqi (defensive qi) between Biao and Ben of meridians. Thus, points selection from Biao of meridians, Ben of meridians or both Biao and Ben can be adopted. Primary disease and secondary disease are held as the primary consideration for point selection from Biao or Ben. The idea can also be applied in treatment of complicated syndromes to clarify and simplify the situation. And during the treating process, physicians should proceed from Biao to Ben so as to conduct the anti-pathogenic qi to play its role in disease cure and health maintenance.
检索中医古代文献，从基于卫气循行的针灸角度研究经络标本理论。发现标本与卫气在十二正经中的聚散有关。因此，针刺前需观察卫气并循其运行路径。疾病可导致卫气在经络标本之间游走。故而，可采用取经络标部、本部或标本兼取的选穴方法。选穴时，以原发病和继发病作为标本选穴的首要考量。该理念也可应用于复杂证候的治疗，以厘清并简化病情。且在治疗过程中，医者应遵循由标及本的原则，引导正气发挥其在治病和养生中的作用。
