TCM Foundational Theories Flashcards

In TCM, which of the following is NOT one of the 'Six Excesses' (external pathogenic factors)?

Answer: Phlegm

Phlegm is an internal pathogenic factor derived from dampness, not one of the Six External Excesses (Wind, Cold, Summer Heat, Dampness, Dryness, Fire).

According to TCM, which organ system is responsible for 'governing the sinews and tendons'?

Answer: Liver

The Liver governs the sinews and tendons; Liver Blood nourishes them to maintain flexibility and movement.

The TCM concept of 'Qi Ji' (Qi mechanism) refers to:

Answer: The directional movement and functional activities of Qi in the body

Qi Ji describes the four movements of Qi: ascending, descending, entering, and exiting, which maintain normal physiological function.

In Five Element theory, the Water element corresponds to which taste?

Answer: Salty

Salty is the taste associated with the Water element, corresponding to the Kidney and Urinary Bladder organs.

Which statement about 'Zheng Qi' (Upright/Correct Qi) is most accurate in TCM?

Answer: It is the overall healthy Qi of the body that resists pathogenic factors

Zheng Qi is the collective term for the body's healthy, normal Qi that opposes and overcomes pathogenic factors.

The TCM concept of 'Xue' (Blood) differs from biomedical blood in that it:

Answer: Also encompasses the nourishing and moistening functions and has a close relationship with Shen

In TCM, Blood (Xue) has both nourishing functions and a deep relationship with Shen (spirit); it is a broader functional concept than biomedical blood.

In TCM, 'Tong Bing Yi Zhi' means:

Answer: Same disease, different treatments based on different patterns

'Tong Bing Yi Zhi' means the same disease can be treated differently because patients present with different underlying patterns.