Which channel begins at the ulnar side of the little finger?

The correct answer is Small Intestine. The Small Intestine meridian begins at the ulnar side of the little finger, specifically at the following point: the Small Intestine 1 (Tongguan), which is located at the back of the finger. This pathway travels up the arm along the radial aspect, passing through the shoulder and continuing towards the face and the inner canthus of the eye.

Understanding the meridian pathways is essential in Traditional Chinese Medicine, as the movement of Qi and blood along these channels is foundational to treatment strategies in acupuncture and other modalities. The Small Intestine channel also plays a significant role in digestion and nutrient absorption, highlighting its importance in maintaining overall health.

In contrast, the Large Intestine, Spleen, and Heart channels begin at different locations and have distinct pathways that do not start at the ulnar side of the little finger. For instance, the Large Intestine channel starts at the index finger, while the Spleen channel commences at the big toe, and the Heart channel begins at the center of the chest. Understanding these specifics not only aids in identifying the correct answer but also reinforces the broader knowledge of meridian theory in acupuncture practice.