Abstract
Objectives : This research is aimed to compare the visceral figures published during the Song Dynasty, and to reveal the differences between anatomical and physiological knowledge in the presence of Taoist theoretical background and in its absence. It is also aimed to discuss the theoretical differences among existing medicines. Methods : First, we will find the commonalities and the differences in the drawings describing the internal organs of a human body in the two publications, and study what made such commonalities and differences and how they affected medical theories. Secondly, we will analyze and update the internal organ data specified in the two publications as it relates to the five viscera and six bowls. Finally, we will analyze the commonalities and the differences, and study the background and the significance of medical theories. Results & Conclusions : 1. The positions of the liver and the spleen in the drawing of the Yanluozi's and Huatuo's visceral figures are inverted in the drawing of the Huatuo's visceral figures. The positions of other internal organs are similar. 2. The section of the five viscera in the Yanluozi's and Huatuo's visceral figures describes the Taoist gods necessary to build up discipline by the means of meditation. 3. In the Zhutidian's visceral theory, a belly button is recognized as a very important organ for the activity of life. 4. In the Huatuo's visceral figures, the 'Zangzhen' generated from foods is described as the energy source for the vitality of the five viscera. 5. The Huatuo's visceral figures mentioned the functionality of a gall bladder and an Tripple Energizer, which was not mentioned in the Yanluozi's and Huatuo's visceral figures. 6. Both the "Yanluozi's and Huatuo's visceral figures" and the "Huatuo's visceral figures" specify that the moisture filtered through small intestines turns into urine.
