Thoughts on the deconstruction and reconstruction of jingluo system

This paper analyzes the historical development and value orientation of jingluo (meridians and collaterals) theory, proposing that the superficial arteries of body are the initial choice for constructing jingluo system by ancient practitioners. When (blood) vessels no longer met the clinical and theoretical requirements for constructing jingluo system, the concept of jing (meridian) emerged subsequently. The value of jingluo theory orients towards the empirical laws that establish the connections between the upper and the lower, as well as the internal and the external of the body, serving as a theoretical framework to guide and explain the therapeutic effect of acupuncture and moxibustion. The construction of jingluo system marks the fundamental maturity of this theory and lays the core theoretical foundation for acupuncture and moxibustion as an independent discipline. The authors propose to deconstruct the jingluo system into three subsystems, namely, mai (vessel) system regulates the flow of qi and blood to nourish the entire body; jing (meridian) system balances yin and yang to coordinate systemic functions; and jin (tendon) system stabilizes bones and facilitates joint movement. Finally, the conceptual framework for each subsystem is presented, including construction principles, theoretical models, classical text references for meridian running path, clinical knowledge domains, and diagnostic and therapeutic dimensions. After deconstructing the jingluo system into three subsystems, this study reconstructs it based on classical literature and relevant theories of traditional Chinese medicine, aiming to establish a new theoretical framework for jingluo theory, thereby providing novel insights for further clinical applications of acupuncture and moxibustion as well as scientific research.