Traditional Chinese medicine

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Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is a major component of traditional Chinese culture. TCM studies the functions of the human body to gain an understanding of the relationship between Human and Nature, investigate human physiology and pathology, and examine the relationship between the human body and natural medicines derived from animal, vegetable, and mineral sources.

The theories of TCM emphasize the concept of holism. The human body is regarded as an organic, integrated system, so by analyzing external changes in the body, it is possible to diagnose pathological changes in the organs. It is believed that to cure localized problems, it is necessary to treat the whole person. This holistic approach to treatment, which emphasizes the correspondence between Humanity and Nature, is consistent with the traditional philosophical concept of “the unity of Heaven and Humanity.”TCM stresses identifying the underlying pattern of a disease or disorder. Four methods are used for pattern identification visual inspection, listening, inquiry, and pulse examination, after which individualized and appropriate treatment plans are determined.

Traditional Chinese medicine utilizes a number of basic theories drawn from holistic Chinese philosophy. Among these is the theory of yin and yang, the concept that the universe is composed of two complementary, constantly transforming principles known as yin and yang, or receptive and active. TCM categorizes substances and functions that affect the body in ways that are concentrating, moistening, and restraining as yin, and those that are expansive, warming, and stimulating as yang. The theory of yin and yang permeates every aspect of traditional Chinese medicine. It is used to describe the structure of the human body, physiological functions, and the etiology of disease and disorder, and serves as the guiding principle for clinical diagnosis and treatment.

TCM stresses prevention of disease, early intervention, and deterrence of complications.

Principles of treatment include treating the root of the disorder, strengthening beneficial qi(energy) and dispelling harmful qi(energy) in the body, regulating the balance between yin and yang, regulating the functions of the organs, regulating the qi(energy) and blood, and taking account of differences in time, place, and individual.

Acupuncture and moxibustion are unique treatment methods used in traditional Chinese medicine to prevent and treat disease and disorder. Acupuncture involves stimulating specific points on the body by puncturing with special needles, while moxibustion stimulates certain regions by applying heat. Acupuncture and moxibustion were introduced to Japan, Korea, and various countries of southeastern and central Asia during the Han-Tang period(202 BC-907 AD), and to Africa and Europe during the Song-Yuan period(960-1368 AD). Today, acupuncture continues to be highly regarded both in China and abroad.

China’s earliest myths and legends contain numerous references to the use of herbal medicine to cure disease. Huangdi Neijing(The Yellow Emperor’s Inner Classic of Medicine), compiled over2,000 years ago, is China’s earliest medical treatise, including both principles of traditional Chinese medicine and numerous clinical case studies. Tang Bencao(Tang Materia Medica), completed in 659 AD, is the world’s earliest government-sponsored pharmacopoeia. Bencao Gangmu(Compendia of Materia Medica), by Ming Dynasty physician Li shizhen(1518-1593 AD), contains descriptions of 1,892 medicinal substances and over 10,000 different prescrir tions. This work made an outstanding contribution to the development of pharmacology in China and the entire world.

Today, traditional Chinese medicine continues to build on its ancient foundation while also drawing from modern Western medicine, in an ongoing process of improvement and advancement.