There are also eight extra meridians: the Du (govern vessel), Ren(conception vessel), Chong, Dai, Yinqiao, Yangqiao, Yinwei, Yangwei meridians. The eight extra meridians interlace the twelve principal meridians, helping reinforce the communication between and adjustment of the twelve principal meridians. The eight extra meridians are not directly related to any of the internal organs.

The twelve divergent meridians are extensions of the twelve principal meridians. They usually start from the limbs, run deeper into the body and emerge from the body at the back of the neck. Again, these meridians have counterparts in both the left and right sides of the body. They are divided into yang and yin divergent meridians. The yang divergent meridians start from the six principal yang meridians, and, after traveling through the body, rejoin the principal meridians. They yin divergent meridians give off from the six yin principal meridians; however, after traveling through the body, the join the yang principal meridians with which they are externally and internally related.