The Triple Burner

The Triple Burner (or Triple Warmer or Triple Heater) is a concept unique to Chinese Medicine. Rather than a physical area, the Triple Burner can be described as having a name but no form, a collection of functions rather than a physical organ. Its Chinese name is San Jiao which is often translated as ‘three burning spaces’.

One of the main functions of the Triple Warmer is regulating the movement of water within the body.  According to Chinese medicine, water behaves differently in the three different burners.

The upper burner (the mist) is located above the diaphragm and includes the heart and lungs. Its function is the dispersal of fluid throughout the body. This fluid is in the form of mist or vapour.

The middle burner (bubbling or muddy pool) includes the area above the naval and below the diaphragm, including the spleen, pancreas and stomach. Its main function is digestion and the distribution of nutrients throughout the body.

The lower burner (drainage ditch) is located below the naval and includes the liver, kidneys, large intestine, small intestine, and bladder. It separates food and drink waste. Useful fluids are absorbed, with the remainder transported to the bladder.

Many Qigong exercises focus on the Triple Burner, as a healthy Triple Burner allows the smooth co-ordination and communication between all its organs and plays a crucial part in maintaining the health of the entire body.  The Triple Burner is the body's regulator of water pathways, chi (vital energy), and fluid metabolism, ensuring that the body's various systems work in harmony. It acts like a thermostat, distributing chi and fluids, warming the body, and managing heat production. Imbalances in the Triple Burner can lead to various health issues, such as digestive problems, respiratory issues, or urinary disturbances.

More detailed information can be found at the following websites:

https://drsaritaelizabeth.com/triple-burner/

https://torbay-acupuncture-centre.co.uk/functions-triple-burner/

https://www.rennwellness.com/blog/interstitium-mysterious-triple-warmer.html