Theoretical Analysis on Standardization of Time-Based Moxibustion with Linggui Bafa for Intervention in Mild Cognitive Impairment: From the Perspectives of Time-Based Qi Transformation and Meridian Time Sequence

Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) is the only reversible intervention stage of Alzheimer's Disease, with a high prevalence and disease conversion rate among the elderly population in China. Western medical interventions can only delay cognitive decline in the short term, and are difficult to repair the disorder of central circadian rhythm, with limitations in efficacy and medication safety issues. Time-based moxibustion with Linggui Bafa fits the core pathogenesis of MCI characterized by deficiency in origin, excess in superficiality, and time sequence imbalance, and has outstanding advantages in time-selective intervention. However, the current research in this field faces problems such as fragmented theoretical system, inconsistent intervention standards, and large research heterogeneity, which restrict its standardized and evidence-based application. This study adopts methods of literature research, interdisciplinary coupling and standardized system construction, integrates the core theories of time-based qi transformation, extraordinary vessel time sequence and Linggui Bafa, constructs a four-dimensional theoretical framework of "celestial time qi transformation - meridian time sequence - moxibustion stimulation - brain cognitive repair", identifies three core syndrome types of time-based qi transformation imbalance in MCI, and elucidates the mechanism of time-based moxibustion in improving circadian cognitive impairment by regulating central circadian clock rhythm, repairing hippocampal neuroplasticity, and balancing time-sequenced inflammation. Meanwhile, this study establishes a standardized intervention system integrating time-sequenced syndrome differentiation, time-selective acupoint selection, quantitative operation, and dynamic time sequence evaluation, and designs supporting animal mechanism experiments and multi-center clinical RCT schemes to ensure the verifiability of the theory. This study fills the theoretical and normative gaps in time-based acupuncture and moxibustion intervention for MCI, can provide unified theoretical support for relevant basic research and clinical evidence-based practice, and promote the standardized application of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) time-based acupuncture and moxibustion technology in the prevention and treatment of senile cognitive impairment.