Table of Contents
Traditional Theory
Acupuncture was developed on the understanding that there are twelve main channels, or “regular meridians” running vertically across and throughout the human body connecting the internal organs. It is a tenet of acupuncture that Qi flows along these meridian lines. Qi is somewhat equivalent to the western idea of vitality or life-force.
The operating philosophy of traditional acupuncture is that disease is caused by interrupted energy flow at specific points on the body’s surface. Acupuncture thus involves the insertion of a needle(s) at the affected point(s) in order to stimulate Qi flow and harmonize energy flow in the body.
Acupuncture Meridians
The operating philosophy of traditional acupuncture is that disease is caused by interrupted energy flow at specific points on the body’s surface.
Acupuncture Meridians
WHO Standard International Acupuncture Nomenclature
he 14 Main Meridians:
lung meridian (LU)
large intestine meridian (LI)
stomach meridian (ST)
spleen meridian (SP)
heart meridian (HT)
small intestine meridian (SI)
bladder meridian (BL)
kidney meridian (KI)
pericardium meridian (PC)
triple energizer meridian (TE)
gallbladder meridian (GB)
liver meridian (LR)
governor vessel (GV)
conception vessel (CV)



Standard Acupuncture Point Locations?
Quest for the Acupuncture Point – WHO Standardized Locations
Tim H. Tanaka, Ph.D.
Director, The Pacific Wellness Institute
Visiting Research Fellow, Acupuncture and Moxibustion Division, Tsukuba University of Technology
August 28 2008
Physiological Effects of Acupuncture
Effect of Acupuncture on Local Blood Flow
Our circulatory system maintains efficient delivery of oxygen and nutrients to our organs and tissues, as well as the removal of metabolic waste. Disturbance of blood flow to our major arteries and vital organs can result in serious health consequences.


Autonomic Nervous System
Findings from Recent Research
May 2010
A new study entitled “Is There Any Difference in Human Pupillary Reaction When Different Acupuncture Points Are Stimulated?” examined the effect of different acupuncture points by measuring the size of research participants’ pupils (the black central part of the eye) using infrared pupillography (Mori, Tanaka, et al.).