Nan Jing (Chinese medicine)

The Nan Jing (難經), also known as the Classic of Difficult Issues or Difficult Classic, is a foundational text in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Its authorship is traditionally attributed to Bian Que, a legendary physician from ancient China, though modern scholarship suggests it was likely compiled by multiple authors between the 1st and 3rd centuries CE.

The Nan Jing elaborates on concepts presented in the earlier Huangdi Neijing (Yellow Emperor's Inner Classic), posing 81 "difficult issues" (nan) and providing detailed answers. These questions and answers cover a wide range of topics, including:

• Pulse Diagnosis: Detailing the characteristics and clinical significance of different pulse qualities.
• Meridian Theory: Expanding on the pathways and functions of the twelve primary meridians.
• Acupuncture Points: Discussing the location, needling depth, and therapeutic actions of various acupuncture points.
• Physiology and Pathology: Exploring the functions of the zang-fu organs (organs) and their relationship to disease processes.
• Treatment Principles: Providing guidance on formulating treatment strategies based on pattern differentiation.

The Nan Jing is considered a crucial text for students and practitioners of TCM. Its concise and structured format, along with its detailed explanations of complex concepts, has made it a highly influential work throughout the history of Chinese medicine. The text continues to be studied and referenced today, providing valuable insights into the theoretical foundations and clinical applications of TCM.