The Extraordinary Fu

The Extraordinary Fu

In addition to the Five Zang and Six Fu, which together form the Twelve Viscera responsible for governing the human organism, classical Chinese medicine describes a distinct group of six functional systems known as the Six Extraordinary Fu (Qi Heng Zhi Fu). These include the brain, marrow, bones, vital circulations (mai), gallbladder, and uterus. Although categorized as Fu, they share key characteristics with the Zang organs—most notably, their role in carefully storing essence (jing) in various forms. These systems are among the most vital in the body, working in succession to initiate development, sustain life, and ensure reproduction.

This course offers an in-depth exploration of each of the Six Extraordinary Fu, studied both individually and in connection with the group as a whole. The uterus will be mentioned in relation to the set but will not be discussed in detail, as it requires a full presentation in…