The current framework of traditional Chinese medicine is regarded as a medical system that places the zang-fu viscera at its core, encompassing external pathways, physical aspects, orifices, manifestation(hua), and the seasonal influence. Treatment modalities, such as pharmaceuticals, acupuncture and stone-needle, and moxibustion, are considered specific clinical applications encapsulated within this theoretical system. However, a closer examination of the medical theories within Huangdi Neijing reveals that the early medical theories in the Huangdi Neijing were developed based on external treatments using acupuncture and moxibustion, as well as internal treatments with pharmaceuticals. These early theories differ from the emphasis on internal treatment of zang-fu organs advocated in subsequent periods. The primary body of medical theory in the Huangdi Neijing is rooted in somatological medicine, which was primarily formed through external treatments, including theories related to meridians, acupoints, acupuncture, and encompassing theories such as the theory of five body constituents, the theory of the transformation of exterior and interior diseases, the theory of nutrient qi and defensive qi, the theory of deficiency and excess pathogensis, and therapeutic method involving tonification and purgation. These theories exhibit certain differences from the later dominant zang-fu viscera medicine theories. The oversimplification of amalgamating these two systems′ theories has result mistakes in inherent conflicts within the theory itself and a detachment from clinical practice. Thus, there is a pressing need for differentiation and a return to the original sources to reestablish a more coherent theoretical foundation.

Huangdi Neijing;medical system;needing stone;five body constituents;external treatment;nutrient qi and defense qi