The Notion of Qi and Disease States-An Outline Drawn Mainly from Modern Medical Texts-
10.3937/kampomed.61.821
- VernacularTitle:気の概念と病態―主に近世医書よりみた概説―
- Author:
Oto MIURA
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- Keywords:
Qi ketsu;
medical history
- From:Kampo Medicine
2010;61(6):821-827
- CountryJapan
- Language:Japanese
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Abstract:
We re-examined Qi, a concept unique to oriental medicine, mainly from late century Chinese medical texts. Qi forms the basis of everything, and the phenomena of life arises from Qi. The integrated / holistic views characteristic of oriental medicine have their basis in this concept of Qi. Biological function is called Qi, and that which gives the body form, Ketsu (Xue). Ketsu is said to be sustenance, formed by Qi, and thus Ketsu and Qi can be regarded as two sides of the same coin. Through the concepts of Qi and Ketsu, is born an awareness that a whole body grasp of malady, the importance of synergistic relationships between organs as well as function and (bodily) substance cannot be separated. Qi is formed from the digestive tract and lungs (acquired Qi), and that which one is born with (innate Qi). It is theorized that “the heart” is expressed by Qi, and through the concept of Qi comes the association, and integration of “the heart” and body. Qi disorders can be classified into (1) those in which Qi function is lowered (Qi deficiency and Yang deficiency), or (2) those in which Qi circulation is impaired (Qi stagnation / Qi regurgitation). These conditions together, bring an overall feeling of fatigue and weakened physical condition. Qi is both a practical and useful view of physiological disease unique to oriental medicine.
