The Lungs: A Bridge Between Ancient Wisdom and Modern Science
The scientific community is abuzz with a groundbreaking discovery: the lungs, long known for their role in breathing, also play a critical role in blood production. This revelation, published by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) (source: www.nhlbi.nih.gov/news/2017/lungs-are-not-just-breathing-they-make-blood-too), is reshaping our understanding of human physiology. However, for practitioners of classical Chinese medicine (CCM), this finding feels like a rediscovery of ancient truths.
Let us rewind a couple of millennia to the Huang Di Nei Jing (The Yellow Emperor’s Classic of Internal Medicine), a foundational text in Chinese medicine. In this classical work, the lungs are described as governing the circulation of Qi (vital energy) and playing a pivotal role in blood production. As part of the Metal element, the lungs are seen as intimately connected to the body’s interconnected systems, influencing the movement and transformation of fluids essential for blood generation.
In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), the lungs are said to command the “10 vessels,” a concept that highlights their influence on the body’s circulatory and fluid systems. This ancient understanding aligns remarkably with modern science’s discovery of the lungs’ role in producing platelets and other blood components. According to TCM, the lungs extract and distribute oxygen (heavenly Qi), which combines with the Qi derived from food (earthly Qi) to form blood. This holistic view of the body as an interconnected system underscores the brilliance of classical Chinese medicine.
For centuries, TCM practices like acupuncture and herbal medicine have targeted the lung system to address conditions such as anaemia, poor circulation, and immune deficiencies. Modern research into the lungs’ newfound role in blood production could pave the way for innovative therapies for blood disorders, complementing the wisdom of these classical techniques.
This overlap between ancient knowledge and modern science is a cause for celebration. As researchers continue to explore the lungs’ role in blood production, they are uncovering what the sages of Chinese medicine knew thousands of years ago: the body is a beautifully interconnected system where every organ plays a vital role in sustaining life.
This discovery is a testament to the enduring relevance of classical Chinese medicine. It reminds us that ancient wisdom and modern science are not at odds but are two sides of the same coin, each enriching our understanding of health and the human body.
Curious about how acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine can support your lung health, circulation, and overall well-being? Book an appointment today to explore these time-tested techniques. Visit the website www.resolve-acupuncture.co.uk to learn more.
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About the Author – Andrea Garratt
Andrea Garratt is the founder and practitioner behind the clinic Resolve Acupuncture, where she provides personalised acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine treatments to support patients’ long-term health and wellbeing.
With a BSc (Hons) and Licentiate in Acupuncture, Andrea trained at the College of Integrated Chinese Medicine, studying both Traditional Chinese Medicine and Five Element acupuncture approaches. She has a particular passion for women’s health, fertility, and chronic conditions, and has further strengthened this focus through a postgraduate diploma in gynaecology, fertility and obstetrics.
As a member of the Association of Acupuncture Clinicians, Andrea is committed to high standards of safe, ethical and evidence-informed practice while delivering compassionate, one-to-one care tailored to each individual’s needs.
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