Contextualización de la energía antipatógena 正气 Zheng qi

Abstract

One of the most important terms of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is 正气 Zheng qi, its translation into Western languages takes on different nuances and throughout history, since its appearance in the Neijing, it has been explained in various ways. The most prominent TCM theorists have expressed their points of view that allow us to understand Zheng qi as a macro-functional complex that on the one hand, is the result of the power and interaction of the blood and energy of the organs and viscera and on the other, is the balancer of all functional activity. It is the key element to avoid diseases of both internal and external origin, which is why it is also translated as “antipathogenic energy”, its fundamental basis is the essential Jing energy, often used as a synonym. Studied in the current context, in addition to being key to maintaining homeostasis, it is also considered an essential part of allostasis. Points such as Zusanli (ST 36), Shenshu (BL 23), Sanyinjiao (SP 6), medicinal products such as astragalus, ginseng, formulas such as the Tonifying Centre and Replenishing Qi Formula (补中益气 汤 bu zhong yi qi tang), can strengthen this macro-function. Understanding this concept helps more complete practice, medical activity based on a root treatment and not just a symptomatic treatment.