The Heart and Four-Dimensional Physical Elements: A Modern Interpretation of TCM "Heart Fire"

Abstract Background: The TCM concept of "Heart Fire" is a core pathological concept but lacks a modern physical definition. Methods: This study reconstructs the "Heart Fire" concept from four dimensions: time, velocity, temperature, and pressure. Results: The physical state of the heart can be described by four-dimensional elements: time (cardiac working time), velocity (cardiac metabolic rate), temperature (cardiac metabolic heat production), and pressure (blood pressure). These four elements are dynamically coupled, forming the physical basis for either "Hyperactivity of Heart Fire" or "Decline of Heart Yang." Conclusions: "Heart Fire" is essentially an imbalanced state of the heart's four-dimensional physical elements, providing a testable framework for the modernization of TCM cardiac theory.