Journal of Hebei Medical College for Continuing Education ›› 2026, Vol. 43 ›› Issue (1): 42-49.DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.1674-490X.2026.01.005

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Exposition and elucidation of Liu Wansu's Xuanfu theory

MA Yuchen1, BIAN Yuanyuan2, DU Xin3, ZHAO Zhiyong4, LI Yang4   

  1. 1. Shouzhen Tang, Baoding Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Baoding 071000, China; 2. Department of Nephrology, Baoding Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Baoding 071000, China; 3. Department of Preventive Treatment, Baoding Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Baoding 071000, China; 4. Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine Rehabilitation, the Hospital of 82nd Group Army of PLA, Baoding 071000, China
  • Received:2025-11-06 Published:2026-03-10

Abstract: ObjectiveTo research and perpetuate the academic thought of LIU Wansu to provide a theoretical basis for Traditional Chinese Medicine(TCM)treatment.Methods Through a study of the Su Wen, Suwen Xuanji Yuanbingshi, and the Laozi, this paper investigates the TCM term “Xuanfu”.This is achieved by tracing its origin,provides detailed explanations and insights,summarizing,and upholding tradition while innovating.Results It is concluded that the “Xuanfu” described by LIU Wansu refers to the minutest pores in the human body.These are mysterious passageways that are imperceptible to the human sensory organs.they are also termed “pores for Qi”.They are widely distributed throughout the body,serving as gates for internal-external communication,facilitating the generation of Qi and its interaction with the natural world.They ensure the smooth flow of Qi within the body and maintain a dynamic balance of Yin and Yang between the internal and external environments, as well as among various organs and tissues, so as to enable the performance of physiological functions.By dispersing Qi, the Xuanfu, which is distributed in sweat pores and striae, thereby promotes sweating and fluid excretion through them.Hence,the sweat pores,striae and Xuanfu are collectively termed as the “pores for Qi and fluids.”The Shen belongs to the category of Qi.It encompasses aspects of spirit,thought,and mental activity.These functional activities of the spirit are also conducted through the Xuanfu.Thus, mental disorders can lead to diseases of the organs and tissues.The Xuanfu possesses both Yin and Yang aspects, and it can be obstructed by either cold or heat pathogens.External damage of the Liuyin, internal damage from the Qiqing, and the detrimental changes in the struggle between healthy Qi and pathogenic Qi can all lead to blockage of the Xuanfu.This blockage leads to Yangre Fuyu, causing Liuqi Huare,which can lead to various diseases.Conclusion There is a solid theoretical basis for considering the Xuanfu as pores for Qi.

Key words: Xuanfu, pores for Qi, pores for Qi and Fluids, blockage of the Xuanfu, Yangre Fuyu

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