The term triple-diao is a peculiar phrase in the visceral manifestation theory of traditional Chinese medicine(TCM). It collectively refers to the upper-jiao, middle-jiao, and lower-jiao, and is one of the six fu-viscera. Its meridian connects with the pericardium, with which it is externally-internally related. Physicians of successive dynasties have brought forward different opinions regarding its shape and nature, but presently, no unanimous conclusions may be drawn. However, there is agreement as to its physiological functions. Morphologically, it is generally recognized that the triple-jiao is a large fu-viscus and contains all internal organs, therefore it is called a "unique fu-viscus." For example, Zhang Jingyue, a medical doctor in the Ming Dynasty, said: "The triple-jiao is, in fact, a fu-viscus, which is outside all other viscera, but within the human body, and contains all internal organs, being the largest fu-viscus within the body cavity." The physiological function of the triple-jiao can be understood through its whole or local part. Its function is to dominate every kind of qi, if looked at in whole. It controls the transformative function of qi in the body, and circulates water-fluid as well.
traditional Chinese medicine -- Nutgrass Galinge Rhizome
1. In Charge of All Types of Qi
"All types of qi" refers to all the qi in the entire body, these being the qi of the viscera, the qi of the meridians, the qi of respiration, nutrient-qi, and defense-qi, etc. The triple-jiao is in charge of all qi and so represents its close relation to the physiological functions of the viscera, meridians, tissues, and organs.
The ability to take charge of all kinds of qi is attributed to the primordial qi,
which is rooted in the lower-jiao, originates from the kidney, and derives from the congenital essence. The triple-jiao functions thus, for the primordial qi circulates through the whole body aided by the triple-jiao pathway, so as to arouse and promote the physiological activities of the viscera, tissues, and organs. The Thirty-sixth Problem in the book Classic 0n Medical Problems states: "The triple-jiao is considered as the ambassador of primordial qi; it circulates the three kinds of qi and distributes them to the five zang-viscera and six fu-viscera."
