Abstract
Objectives : Huangyuanyu's interpretation of the six channel diseases of the Shanghanlun were examined based on contents on the six channel qi metabolism theory in his works, Shanghanxuanjie, Shanghanshuoyi, and Sishengxinyuan. Methods : Contents related to the six channel qi metabolism theory in the Shanghanxuanjie, Shanghanshuoyi, and Sishengxinyuan were extracted and examined to identify a fundamental principle from the perspective of the six channel qi metabolism theory. Characteristics of each of the six channel diseases were organized. Results : Huang's understanding of the six channel diseases in the Shanghanlun could be summarized by the six channel. Its features could be explained as following. First, in examining the principles of the controlling qi[司氣] and constitutionally influenced transformation[從化], the rise and fall of the body's yang qi was emphasized. Second, center qi[中氣] was considered important, the taiyin Spleen being the key to life and death. Third, the pathology of 'earth dampness/water cold/wood stagnation' due to weakness of the center qi was suggested. Fourth, the principle of boosting-yang-suppressing-yin was emphasized in treatment, with criticism of the nurturing-yin-extinguishing-fire method. Conclusions : In understanding the six channel diseases in the Shanghanlun, Huangyuanyu focused on the body's yang qi and center qi based on key theories such as the 'five circuits and six qi' and 'six channel qi metabolism' theories. His perspective could be helpful in understanding Zhangzhongjing's work more comprehensively.
