Zang-Fu Theory

The internal organs of the human
body can be summarized into five systems according to
Zang-fu theory, Zang-fu, Yin-yang, and the exterior-interior
relationship between them, is formed by the connection of
their channels and collaterals. The five Zang organs have their own
expression and their own relationship with other parts of the body, with mental
activities, and the external environment. There is a corresponding link
between the outward expressions and inner functions of the five Zang organs. Zang-fu organs theory puts stress on
evaluating the physiological functions and pathological changes of the whole
body by observing the external manifestations of the organs. An example of this manifestations could
be assessed from the following signs and symptoms. For example, Ruddy complexion, mental clarity,
a strong spirit, a rosy tongue, and a powerful and harmonious pulse
demonstrate the Heart function is normal. If the signs and
symptoms are the opposite, there may be Heart-Qi deficiency. It must be pointed out that the names
used to describe internal organs in Chinese medicine are similar, or
the same as the terms used in biomedicine. But all the concepts are not the same. For example, the functions of
one organ in Chinese medicine may contain the functions of
many organs in biomedicine. Meanwhile, the functions of one organ
in biomedicine may be contained in the functions of several Zang
organs in Chinese medicine. This is because the Chinese medical
concepts of Zang-fu organs is not only an anatomical unit, but also a concept
of physiology and pathology. The latter of the two is more important. For instance, the heart in Chinese
medicine refers to the same anatomical entity as in biomedicine. In addition, however,
it also refers to some of the functions of the nervous system and
is connected to the spirit. The differences in the concepts
between Chinese medicine and biomedicine are mainly due to the
difference in the way of seeing things. Chinese medicine gathers its
knowledge of the internal organs mainly from repeated practice and
observation. Whereas in biomedicine it is based on the
knowledge mainly on repeated autopsies, experiments, and summarizations. Hence, in learning the theory of Chinese
medicine, concerning Zang-fu organs, one should have a clear
idea of what it is about. And then make further inquiries and
studies of it through the step by step adoption on
biotechnical know-how and method so as to bring to
light to its essence.