"若要安,三里常不干"考辨.

This article has analyzed the source and clinical significance of statement of "if keeping health, Zusanli (ST36) frequently being given moxibustion" based on philology and medical principles. The statement was recorded in Suosuilu (Trivial Details of Traditional Chinese Medicine) written in early Southern Song Dynasty, which was originally designed for preventing and curing wind diseases. The moxibustion on ST36 is to diffuse and unblock qi and blood of zang-fu organs, but is not to give festering moxibustion. If the statement is explained as repeated festering moxibustion, Yubaizhuang moxibution recorded in Beijiqianjinyaofang (Essential Prescriptions Worth a Thousand Gold for Emergencies) and Bao moxibution recorded in Zhenjiuzishengjing (Classic of Nourishing Life with Acupuncture and Moxibustion) used only in the condition of excessive yang deficiency will be misunderstood. Acupressure, frottage and foot bath can be selected in ST36 healthcare. Considering safety, some mild moxibustion therapies are recommended, such as suspended moxibustion and sandwiched moxibustion, in patients with obvious cold symptoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]