Exploring the acupuncture and moxibustion diagnosis and treatment approach of bipolar disorder from the perspective of "wood element characterized by spreading harmony"

The phrase "wood element characterized by spreading harmony" from the Huangdi Neijing five-phase theory summarizes the fundamental nature and functions of the wood element, emphasizing the crucial significance of the harmonious virtue of wood in promoting the generation and transformation of all things. In human physiology, "wood element characterized by spreading harmony" corresponds to the harmonious spreading of liver-gallbladder qi, ensuring smooth liver qi regulation and proper functioning of the ascending-descending movement mechanisms. Bipolar disorder, categorized in traditional Chinese medicine as "depression" or "manic depressive psychosis," primarily arises from hepatic wood dysfunction. Insufficient wood qi dispersion typically manifests as a depressive phase, whereas excessive dispersion leads to a manic phase, with alternating manic-depressive phase indicating qi movement disorder. By integrating wood qi characteristics, disease pathogenesis of bipolar disorder, and our team′s clinical experience in treating emotional disorders, this study developed an integrated acupuncture and moxibustion diagnosis and treatment approach for bipolar disorder, focusing on soothing the liver and regulating spirit, structured as "acupuncture-moxibustion-consolidation." Based on the physiological characteristics of "wood element characterized by spreading harmony," from liver failing to controll conveyance and dispersion: depressive phase should apply warm-nourishing growth method, manic phase should suppress hyperactive liver for tranquillizing mind method, and alternating manic-depressive phase should apply harmonized rigidity-flexibility method. These methods aim to regulate the spirit of the heart and brain, harmonize the qi movement of the spleen and stomach, and replenish the essence and blood of the liver and kidney. Clinical application through syndrome differentiation has demonstrated satisfactory therapeutic outcomes.