NCCAOM Meridian and Collateral Theory 3

Question 1

How many divergent meridians (Jing Bie) are there in the meridian system?

Accepted Answer

12

Answer

There are 12 divergent meridians, one for each of the 12 main meridians, organized into 6 paired groupings called 'confluences.'

Question 2

What is the primary clinical function of the divergent meridians (Jing Bie)?

Accepted Answer

Strengthen the interior-exterior (biao-li) relationship between paired meridians

Answer

Divergent meridians reinforce the biao-li (exterior-interior) coupling of paired yin-yang meridians and allow yin channel Qi to reach the head and face.

Question 3

How many luo (connecting) collaterals are recognized in classical theory, including the great luo of the Spleen, the luo of Ren Mai, and the luo of Du Mai?

Accepted Answer

15

Answer

There are 15 luo collaterals: 12 from the main meridians plus the luo of Ren Mai, Du Mai, and the great luo of the Spleen (Xu Li).

Question 4

The sinew channels (Jing Jin) primarily spread which type of Qi throughout the musculoskeletal system?

Accepted Answer

Defensive Qi (Wei Qi)

Answer

Sinew channels are closely associated with Wei Qi, which circulates in the exterior and nourishes the tendons, muscles, and joints.

Question 5

At which two anatomical regions do the sinew channels (Jing Jin) converge or terminate?

Accepted Answer

The eyes and genitals

Answer

Yin sinew channels converge at the genitals while yang sinew channels converge around the eyes, explaining why these regions are sensitive to sinew channel pathology.

(NCCAOM) National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine Practice Test

(NCCAOM) National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine Practice Test

NCCAOM Meridian and Collateral Theory 3