Explore the foundational language of Traditional Chinese Medicine.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) contains a unique and sophisticated terminology rooted in thousands of years of clinical observation, philosophical thinking, and holistic worldview. This glossary introduces essential concepts, translated and explained in plain English, for beginners and advanced learners alike.
Core Terms Table
| Term (English) | Chinese (Pinyin) | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Qi | 气 (Qì) | Vital energy that powers all functions of the body and mind. It flows through meridians and maintains life. |
| Yin | 阴 (Yīn) | Represents rest, cold, substance, and nourishment. One half of the dynamic balance in nature. |
| Yang | 阳 (Yáng) | Represents activity, warmth, transformation, and energy. Complements Yin to maintain balance. |
| Yin-Yang | 阴阳 (Yīn-Yáng) | The foundational duality in TCM, representing opposing but complementary forces in all aspects of life and health. |
| Essence | 精 (Jīng) | The fundamental life substance stored in the Kidneys. Governs growth, development, and reproduction. |
| Blood | 血 (Xuè) | A nourishing substance that moistens the organs and supports mental and emotional stability. |
| Shen (Spirit) | 神 (Shén) | Represents consciousness, mental activity, and spirit. Housed in the Heart. |
| Qi Deficiency | 气虚 (Qì Xū) | A lack of Qi resulting in fatigue, shortness of breath, and weakened function. |
| Stagnation | 气滞 / 血瘀 (Qì Zhì / Xuè Yū) | Blockage of Qi or Blood that leads to pain, distension, or emotional symptoms. |
| Zang-Fu Organs | 脏腑 (Zàng Fǔ) | The internal organs grouped as Yin (Zang) and Yang (Fu), each with physical and energetic functions. |
| Heart | 心 (Xīn) | Governs Blood and houses Shen (spirit). Considered the “emperor” of all organs in TCM. |
| Liver | 肝 (Gān) | Regulates the smooth flow of Qi, stores Blood, and is associated with emotions, especially anger. |
| Spleen | 脾 (Pí) | Transforms food into Qi and Blood. Supports digestion and holds Blood in vessels. |
| Lung | 肺 (Fèi) | Governs respiration, disperses and descends Qi. Protects the body from external pathogens. |
| Kidney | 肾 (Shèn) | Stores Essence (Jing), governs growth, fertility, and water metabolism. Root of life. |
| Stomach | 胃 (Wèi) | Works with the Spleen to digest and transform food. Known as the “Sea of Nourishment.” |
| Meridians | 经络 (Jīng Luò) | Energy channels through which Qi and Blood circulate. Used in acupuncture and diagnosis. |
| Five Elements | 五行 (Wǔ Xíng) | Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water — a system to understand interrelations in the body and nature. |
| Tongue Diagnosis | 舌诊 (Shé Zhěn) | An observational diagnostic tool. Tongue color, shape, and coating reflect internal organ status. |
| Pulse Diagnosis | 脉诊 (Mài Zhěn) | Reading the pulse at different positions to assess organ function and overall vitality. |
| Dampness | 湿 (Shī) | A pathogenic factor that causes heaviness, sluggishness, swelling, and digestive issues. |
| Heat | 热 (Rè) | Can be internal or external. Signs include inflammation, thirst, restlessness, and red complexion. |
| Cold | 寒 (Hán) | Associated with contraction, pain, and slowness. Can invade the body or result from Yang deficiency. |
| Wind | 风 (Fēng) | A moving pathogenic factor that causes sudden changes — headaches, tremors, or spasms. |
| External Pathogens | 六淫 (Liù Yín) | The six climatic factors: Wind, Cold, Heat, Dampness, Dryness, and Summer Heat. Cause illness when in excess. |
Notes for Learners
- This glossary will be continuously updated as we publish more in-depth articles.
- Each entry connects to philosophical and clinical systems in Chinese medicine.
- For foundational learning, we recommend visiting Learn TCM Basics.