An Introduction to Traditional Chinese Medicine

Traditional Chinese medicine encompasses a system of medical treatments and practices used to promote health and heal illness. Many of these practices are standard in the East, and are being introduced as alternatives to conventional medicine in the West. Treatments include herbal medicine, acupuncture, acupressure, martial arts and more.

The History Behind Traditional Chinese Medicine

Traditional Chinese medicine is based on the ancient concepts of Yin and Yang. Yinyang is the fabric of nature, found throughout all existence. The concept promotes a balance and harmony between elements. Yinyang as a concept is also found in Taoism and Buddhism, and a number of other Eastern philosophical beliefs.

Chinese medicine draws heavily upon the natural laws of the universe, which are constantly moving much like yinyang. All systems of the body are connected with one another, much like the universe. It is our energy flow that helps the body to heal itself – and traditional techniques are based on realigning this flow, otherwise known as qi.

Exact philosophy and theory behind Chinese medicine differs from practitioner to practitioner, depending upon the specific systems and beliefs that they hold.

Chinese Herbal Medicine

Combinations of herbs provide important medical benefits, based on the general principles of traditional Chinese medicine. The tradition of using herbs with medicinal properties dates back as far as 2,000 years and continues to be used as a method of treating a variety of ailments – it has even seen a huge growth of popularity in the Western world.

The herbs used in Chinese medicine are classified according to four energies (hot, cold, warm and cool) and five tastes which all affect their healing properties. Some of the most popular herbs in Chinese herbal medicine include:

• Ginseng – to reduce stress and boost energy.
• Ginger – for a number of conditions including nausea and colds.
• Cinnamon – to treat colds and influenza.
• Wolfberry – to boost brain power.
• And many more, including 50 herbs fundamental to the practice of Chinese herbology.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture is one Chinese tradition that has now become popular around the world. The treatment has been in existence for over 2,000 years, like Chinese herbology, and is used as a way of maintaining health as well as a treatment for ailments and disease.

Acupuncture treatments are based on areas and energy flows within the body known as ‘meridians’. Needles are inserted into points along the meridians as a way to relieve pain and maintain health. Inserting needles at these points can stimulate the qi in the body – which is the traditional Chinese method of encouraging the body to heal itself.

Acupuncture is used to treat most diseases and illness, including stress, arthritis, insomnia, fatigue, asthma and much more.

Conclusion

The theory behind Chinese traditional medicine is based in ancient practice and philosophy, rather than scientifically proven systems in the body. However, the treatments and medications outlined above are becoming more and more common in Chinese medical practices set up around the world. Chinese medicine is widely regarded as a natural, drug-free alternative to modern medicine.