the pulmonary framework, comprises the lungs, trachea, pharynx, larynx, and nasal passages. Its primary function is to draw in pure qi from the external environment and expel impure qi, thereby regulating the circulation of qi and blood, generating the corporeal soul (Po), and preserving innate life essence. The pulmonary framework also interconnects with the skin, hair follicles, sweat pores, oral cavity, anal canal, and urinary outlet, facilitating bidirectional information exchange throughout the body.
Anatomically, the lungs are formed by countless alveoli and fine bronchioles. Each alveolus transfers inhaled pure qi to the capillary networks for integration into the blood, while simultaneously channeling exchanged impure qi back into the bronchioles for exhalation. The trachea, directly continuous with the lungs, serves as the airway for gas exchange; its function must synchronize with that of the lungs, and pathological changes in one will impact the other.
The pharynx and larynx act as the secondary gateway of the pulmonary framework. Here, external pathogens can directly invade, extending inward to affect the trachea, lungs, heart, kidneys, and joints, or outward to involve the nasal passages and oral cavity.
The nose functions as the body’s principal portal for gas exchange. The mind’s spiritual qi communicates with the external world through the nasal passages, enabling the nose to discern scents and odors, filter incoming air, and relay critical sensory information to the pulmonary framework.
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