Classical Points Combinations and Clusters of Points in Acupuncture Therapy

CHAPTER D

SURVEY OF POPULAR AND EFFECTIVE POINTS-COMBINATIONS

 

 

 

Foreword to this chapter

 

Most of the combinations in this chapter have been taken from the book: ACUPUNCTURE - A COMPREHENSIVE TEXT, by the SHANGHAI COLLEGE OF TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE.

 

The majority of the combinations form the back-bone of the clinical knowledge of every practicing acupuncturist, and as such, they should certainly not be expected to be innovations, or rare information. Moreover, the eighteen points-combinations analyzedhere, are only a drop in the ocean when compared with the myriad combinations which have evolved throughout the history of T.C.M.

 

However, the aim of this analysis, is to understand the principles by which a points-combination has been formed, as well as its clinical value and application.

 

The functions of the various points, in the following combinations, as well as their classical indications and qualities, were taken from two main sources:

1. The same COMPREHENSIVE TEXT (see above).

2. THE ACTIONS OF ACUPUNCTURE POINTS by Peter Deadman which was published in several parts in the JOURNAL OF CHINESE MEDICINE.

 

The rest of the material, including the analysis of each point, the theoretical background of the combination, the practical application and the comparison with an herbal prescription, were all taken from my clinical experience and personal observation, unless otherwise stated.

 

Needless to say, all the case histories in this chapter are of persons treated by me in my practice.

 

The source for all information presented here regarding herbs, including herbal prescriptions, is the book: CHINESE HERBAL MEDICINE -MATERIA MEDICA of Eastland Press, by Dan Bensky et al. However, comparison of the points-combinations with the herbal prescriptions in this chapter, is mine alone.

 

 

1. SANYINJIAO (SP-6), GUANYUAN (CV-4), QIHAI (CV-6).

 

Main effect and clinical purpose

 

This points-combination is commonly used as a general tonic for Qi and Blood. It is therefore frequently used in cases of severe lassitude, anemia, impotence, spermatorrhea and the like. Because of this points-combination's main effect, it is used with a tonifying manipulation and/or moxa.

 

Points discussion

 

Sanyinjiao (SP-6) is the point of intersection of the Liver, Spleen and Kidney meridians, and functions to regulate and tonify the Oi in these channels. It also has a strong effect on the reproductive, as well as on the urinary system, and is therefore used to regulate Yin Qi - either to tonify, or drain. Sanhyinjiao belongs to the Spleen meridian, and has a great influence on all the functions of the Spleen organ. That includes: regulating the digestive system, improving appetite, creation of blood, and elimination of Dampness (40). Guanyuan (CV-4) - The meaning of Guanyuan is "the passage for the Source Qi". This is the point of intersection of the three Yin channels of the leg on the Conception Vessel (41).

 

Needling this point tonifies the Yuan Qi, which is the prenatal Qi. It therefore strengthens the kidneys, and actually the whole body. Due to its location it is primarily used to tonify Yin Qi, but it can be used to tonify Yang Qi, as well. It Is hardly ever used to sedate. Qihai (CV-6) is also located on the Conception Vessel, Jen Mai. Its name Impliesthat it controls the sea of Qi, which lies exactly on this spot, known as the "Lower Dan tien". Qihai is therefore used to regulate Qi, especially post-natal Qi (42), and strengthen kidney-Qi, Yin and Yang in general.

 

Combining Guanyuan and Qihai has a strong strengthening effect on the Qi of the whole body. These points together stimulate pre and post-natal Qi, and the kidneys. Adding Sanyinjiao to these two, gives a further impetus to creation of Yin and blood, improved liver and spleen functioning, thus making the best tonifying points-combination.

 

There is another similar points-combination, that uses Zusanli (ST-36) instead of Sanyinjiao (SP-6). The difference between these two is that the latter is used mainly for general strengthening purposes, with an emphasis on digestive irregularities, blood, and general stamina. The previous combination has a more uro-genital influence.

 

Needling sequence, manipulation and stimulation

 

For strengthening purposes of general Qi, one generally punctures In this order: Guanyuan, Qihai and then Sanyinjiao. But, if our aim is to strengthen Yin Qi, or treat the urogenital system, Sanyinjiao precedes the other two points.

 

As we have stated before,, the goal of this combination is primarily to tonify. In order to do so we must use a tonifying manipulation, i.e. penetrate to the point gently in three stages and while manipulating, push into the point more strongly than when withdrawing the needle.

 

Often we may utilize the "Burning the Mountain" technique. In this technique the needle is first inserted to a superficial level, and is then advanced to a middle, and finally to a deep level. At each level the needle is forcefully thrust, and gently raised, nine times. Then, the needle is left in the superficial level. This manipulation is repeated until the patient experiences a warm or burning sensation.

 

It is also very common to use moxa on these points, either direct moxa, or "warm needle". Moxa is used mainly in cold/deficient diseases.

 

Herbal equivalent

 

It is appropriate to compare the use of Guanyuan and Qihai to radix Panax Ginseng.This herb is mainly used in severe Qi deficiencies, or even collapse. It is also known to tonify the Yuan Qi and both Yin and Yang Qi.

We can also find similarities between Angelica Sinensis, Dan Gui and the actions of Sanyinjiao. This herb, too, is used to tonify the blood and treat urogenital disorders. Along with this, Dang Gui is also used for abdominal pain, constipation, Damp Bi etc., for all of which Sanyinjiao is also useful.

 

Case history

 

Mr. A.M. of Arab origin, age 27, occupation: building worker, married for two years.

 

Complaint - infertility, spermatorrhea, especially at night, and premature ejaculation.

 

Diagnostic features

1. Red face, cold feet.

2. Feels generally fine, except sometimes dribbling urine.

3. Pulse slippery, big.

4. Tongue pale, soft

5. Abdomen tenderness under umbilicus and right hypochondriac region.

 

Diagnosis

 

1.Weakness and looseness of the "gate of sperm", and of "Ming Men", due to excessive sexual intercourse and hard labour.

2. Excitementof Heart-Fire.

 

Treatment

 

1. Sanyinjiao (SP-6), Gyanyuan (CV-4), Qihai (CV-6) and Taling (P-7).

2. Refrain from sexual intercourse until spermatorrhea subsides.

 

Explanation

 

Sanyinjiao, Guanyuan and Qihai together tonify the Yuan Qi, thus enlivening the sperm, and strengthening the Ming Men. Taling is used to decrease Heart-Fire, and thereby helps the patient control his sexual enthusiasm. Taling was punctured against the flow of Qi, i.e. point proximally, in order to cause sedation.

 

Results

 

After two sessions the spermatorrhea ceased.

After three months the patient’s wife became pregnant.