Am J Chin Med. 1983 ; 11(1-4): 54-61.

The three heaters as the link between man and universe.

Piers AD.

Taking stock of the origin, the location and the function of the three heaters is determining their inseparability from the art of acupuncture. Apart and together they are the ducted heating system of the body and pervade every cell. This really wholistic concept is firmly tied up with the birth place of all matter in the cosmos. At the change-over from energy to matter and v.v. we find them as the triggering and fertilizing force keeping body, mind and spirit together as a trinity. Consequently, although concerned with the Chi conversion on one hand, a not properly working San Chiao is mainly involved with disturbances of emotional life on the other. Locating them in the lining of the stomach is introducing the concept of heaven, earth and man. Applied to the traditional pulse positions the three heaters quite clearly, but not surprisingly, represent the three urges of life.