How were organs and viscera distinguished in historical Chinese medicine?

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Moxibustion — traditional Chinese medicine In moxibustion, or moxa treatment, small cones of an herb (typically *Artemisia moxa*) are burned on top of needles placed in designated points of the body, generally the same points as those used in acupuncture.

In traditional Chinese medicine, as outlined in the Huangdi neijing, organs and viscera were distinguished based on their perceived physiological functions within the body.1

Organs: The liver, heart, spleen, lungs, and kidneys were categorized as organs because they were thought to store materials.1
Viscera: The gallbladder, stomach, large intestine, small intestine, bladder, and the "three burning spaces" (unique areas that cannot be specifically identified) were viewed as eliminators.1

This classification was part of a broader system of correspondences that integrated these structures with substances, seasons, and the doctrine of the five elements to maintain health through balance.1