Our ancestors did not view the monthly symptoms women experience, such as irregular menstruation, dysmenorrhea, and cold leukorrhea, merely as isolated female issues. In Donguibogam, all of these were explained in deep connection with two essential energy pathways in the body called the thoroughfare vessel and the conception vessel. The text viewed these two vessels as the fundamental roots of women's health.
The thoroughfare vessel acts as a sea where blood gathers in the body, supplying nutrients to the uterus and ovaries while regulating menstrual blood. Just like a full river flowing smoothly, this vessel must be healthy for the menstrual cycle to remain regular and for the flow volume to be properly maintained. When this thoroughfare vessel becomes deficient, blood circulation fails to run smoothly, much like a river drying up or becoming obstructed. Menstrual blood then fails to arrive on time, becomes too scanty or excessive, and can even form clots that trigger severe dysmenorrhea.
Another vital channel, the conception vessel, can be considered the leader overseeing all yin qi in the body. It governs overall balance and harmony, including the health of the uterus. When the conception vessel is healthy, the body remains moist and supple, and discharge issues such as cold leukorrhea do not readily occur. However, if this conception vessel weakens, the body's fluid regulation declines. The body turns cold and sticky discharges increase, leading to aggravated symptoms such as cold leukorrhea.
Donguibogam viewed this deficiency of the thoroughfare and conception vessels as arising from various factors, including stress, overwork, improper dietary habits, and cold environments. Rather than simply treating each symptom in isolation, it focused on restoring balance to these two vessels to normalize the circulation of qi and blood throughout the entire body. Just as an old tree produces new buds when given sufficient nourishment, this approach offers steady wisdom for cultivating the body's fundamental strength.
