Defining Meridians: A Modern Basis of Understanding

Diagram of meridians and acupuncture points (or acupoints) that have been studied with respect to the cardiovascular influence of electroacupuncture. The acupoints listed in this figure are shown on the right side in relation to the principal somatic nerve they overlie. The acupoints lying over deep nerves, e.g., P5 and P6, have a strong cardiovascular effect whereas those overlying more superficial (cutaneous) nerves have a weak or no cardiovascular influence. The close correspondence between acupoints and nerves supports the neural hypothesis to explain meridians. P=pericardial; L=lung; LI=large intestine; S=stomach; G=gallbladder meridian. This figure was adapted from Li and Longhurst [45].