Meridians and Collaterals (jing-luo)

physiology / channels

The Jing-Lo is a network of channels through which qi and blood circulate, connecting the organs, tissues, and the body’s surface into a single, integrated whole. The foundation consists of the twelve main meridians, which correspond to paired organs and are symmetrical on the body, as well as the eight extraordinary vessels (including the Ren Mai and Du Mai), which serve as “reservoirs.” Collaterals (luo) branch off from the main channels, connecting paired meridians. Through this network, pathogens can penetrate deeper into the body, and stimulation of acupoints can propagate to the organs. Acupuncture, moxibustion, and acupressure are based on the theory of the meridians.