[Artery theory of channels].
OBJECTIVE
To probe into the reflection of "artery" phenomenon in human channels.


METHODS
Find out the discussion about "artery" from ancient medical books and compare with Chinese ancient philosophy thoughts.


RESULTS
In TCM, "artery" has been used as reference in differentiating channels. The circulation system of channels is possibly established on the expectation of "to and fro circulation" in the Chinese philosophy, and the power of channels originates from the qi stored between the kidney, and the pricking blood therapy was used for treatment of many kinds of diseases in ancient times.


CONCLUSIONS
Study on channels should pay attention to this link of "artery".
Zhuo
Lian-shi
LS
TCM College of Chongqing University of Medical Sciences, Chongqing 400050, China. zhuo1828@sina.com
D001158:Arteries / Q000033:anatomy & histology / Q000502:physiology*; D006801:Humans; D008516:Medicine, Chinese Traditional; D016740:Meridians