[On the deqi in moxibustion]

Area of Science:

• Traditional Chinese Medicine
• Acupuncture and Moxibustion Research
• Medical History

Background:

• The concept of deqi is central to acupuncture's efficacy.
• Understanding its original meaning in the Neijing (Internal Classic) is crucial for modern clinical applications.
• Previous research has focused on heat-sensitive phenomena related to deqi.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the original connotation of deqi as described in the Neijing (Internal Classic).
• To analyze the characteristics and induction methods of deqi in moxibustion.
• To propose a new perspective on deqi in the context of moxibustion therapy.

Main Methods:

• Historical tracing of deqi's definition within the Neijing (Internal Classic).
• Alignment with current clinical research on heat-sensitive phenomena.
• Analysis of deqi characteristics and induction approaches in moxibustion.
• Discussion of moxibustion techniques for stimulating deqi.

Main Results:

• Deqi is presented not just as a somatic response but as a comfortable mental-physical reaction associated with therapeutic effects.
• Moxibustion applied to heat-sensitive acupoints can effectively induce deqi, consistent with the Neijing's original definition.
• A method for stimulating deqi via moxibustion, including screening criteria and preliminary evaluation, was introduced.

Conclusions:

• Deqi in moxibustion represents a comprehensive interplay of mental, physical, and curative effects.
• The findings offer a new viewpoint on deqi, enhancing its clinical application in moxibustion.
• Revisiting the classical definition of deqi provides a foundation for evidence-based moxibustion practice.