Basic Concept of Yin-Yang

01 Introduction

Whether it is the water cycle or the movement of yuanqi, it can be divided into two parts: rising and falling. Ancient Chinese described these two opposites as “yin and yang.” The upward behavior is yang, and the downward behavior is yin.

It’s important to understand that yin and yang are two sides of the same thing, similar to two sides of a coin. The yin and yang of yuanqi in the human body refer to the fact that yuanqi is divided into two parts: the ascending part and the descending part. They are just one yuanqi, not two separate entities as some might mistakenly believe. This view is incorrect.

For example, the north side of a mountain is yin, and the south side is yang, but it is still the same mountain. Similarly, the south side of a river is yin, and the north side is yang, but it is still the same river. In the human body, the chest is yin, and the back is yang, but it is still the same person.

Application of the Concept

Huang Yuanyu’s principle for treating diseases is to support yang and suppress yin. When a herbal practitioner treats a disease, they must first determine whether the patient has a yin deficiency or a yang deficiency. With a yang deficiency, the yuanqi cannot rise and needs herbs to help elevate it. With a yin deficiency, the yuanqi cannot fall and needs herbs to help it descend.

Thus, the concepts of yin and yang are integral to traditional herbal medicine and Chinese culture. To learn traditional herbal medicine, one must deeply understand the long history of Chinese culture. It is essential.

Treat the Person, Not the Disease

Studying herbal medicine is about understanding human beings, not just diseases. The fundamental principle of human activities is the movement of yuanqi, and the laws of this movement are summarized in the fundamental concepts of yin-yang and wuxing, which we will explore in depth later. Mastering these concepts will help one better understand how to revitalize health.

With a solid grasp of these concepts, it becomes easier to understand various symptoms in life. Although the concepts of yin-yang and wuxing may seem difficult to understand at first, we will use simple language to make them accessible.

As mentioned in the Huangdi Neijing, a traditional herbal medicine classic from over a thousand years ago:

“Follow the yin and yang, be in harmony with the art of numbers, eat in moderation, have regular daily routines, and balance work and leisure.”

Following the principles of yin and yang is the first step to a healthy life. We shall explore further.

Looking ahead

For more herbal medical theories of Huang Yuanyu and his contributions to traditional herbal medicine, and how it helps in rejuvenating our health, stay tuned for the next episode.

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