Ashi points, Ashi method and pressing reaction / 中国针灸

ABSTRACT

The nomination of Ashi points was reviewed, and the meaning of Ashi method was discussed in this article. On the base of further study on Huangdi Neijing (The Yellow Emperor's Canon of Internal Medicine), the general meaning of palpation at acupoints, meridians and collaterals to the process of acupoint locating were expounded. The concept of pressing reaction was proposed as well. It is held that Ashi points are a category of acupoints without specific names and definite locations. They are a kind of manifestation of reactions of acupoints, meridians and collaterals, which embody their dynamic features. Pressing reaction mainly manifested by sensations of comfort, pain, and moreover, relieving of the primary symptoms. It is the most basic evidence for us to estimate Ashi points.