Chinese Medicine Classics

This class will explore Zhāng Zhòngjǐng’s approach to fluid physiology and pathology as recorded in the Shānghán zábìng lùn. We will study the distinctions between Phlegm-rheum (痰饮), Dampness disease (湿病), and Water Qi (水气) through primary passages, with attention to the interplay of physiology, pathology, and clinical treatment.

Participants will learn how Zhāng Zhòngjǐng conceptualized fluid disorders, how the Nèijīng and Nánjīng inform this view, and how jīngfāng formulas can be directly applied in modern clinical settings for patients suffering from fluid-related conditions such as edema, dizziness, phlegm-rheum, damp impediment, water swelling and several more.

Learning Objectives:

By the conclusion of the seminar, participants will be able to:

• Explain the physiology of fluids and water metabolism according to classical texts.
• Differentiate Phlegm-Rheum, Dampness, and Water Qi both theoretically and clinically.
• Identify relevant Shānghán lùn and Jīnguì yàolüè lines describing fluid disorders.
• Apply representative formulas such as Líng Guì Zhú Gān Tāng, Wǔ Líng Sǎn, Zhēn Wǔ Tāng, Xiǎo Qīnglóng Tāng, and others with confidence.
• Recognize modern clinical parallels (e.g., vertigo, heart failure, rheumatic conditions, chronic bronchitis, edema) and integrate jingfāng treatment principles accordingly.