Nèi JīngAutoimmunityImmune SystemMicrobiomeClassical TCM
Friendly Fire: When Your Immune System Attacks Itself — Modern Nèi Jīng Ch.27
Medically Reviewed by Derek Doran, BHSc (Acupuncture) · AHPRA Registered · AACMA Member · Updated April 3, 2026
March 27, 202612 min readBy MediChi Editorial
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Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Nei Jing discuss autoimmune disease?
The Nei Jing predates the modern concept of autoimmunity, but Chapter 27 of the Su Wen — on Wei Qi (defensive Qi) — describes the body attacking itself when defensive Qi becomes disordered, a remarkable conceptual parallel to autoimmunity.
What is Wei Qi in Chinese medicine?
Wei Qi is the defensive aspect of Qi that circulates between the skin and muscles, warms the surface, controls the pores, and resists external pathogens. It is the closest TCM analogue to the modern immune system.
How does TCM treat autoimmune conditions?
TCM treats autoimmunity by regulating Wei Qi, clearing residual pathogens, tonifying underlying Qi, Blood, Yin, or Yang deficiencies, and resolving the Phlegm or Blood stasis that often accompanies chronic inflammation. Treatment is always individualised.
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Derek Doran, BHSc (Acupuncture)
AHPRA Registered (CMR0002211465) · AACMA Member
Derek is the founder of MediChi and a registered acupuncturist with clinical expertise in integrating Western diagnoses with Traditional Chinese Medicine treatment protocols.
Clinically reviewed: April 3, 2026
