Traditional Chinese medicine

From ArticleWorld

Traditional Chinese medicine is also called simply Chinese medicine. This name refers to medical practices in China that have been evolving over the course of several thousand years. It can be used broadly to define other traditional Asian medical systems, like Japanese, Korean, Tibetan and Mongolian. Practice involves a method of analysis and synthesis looking into the internal systems of the human body and their internal and external relationships. Uses

In Western culture, TCM is often considered an alternative medicine. In Asian countries, however, it is widely considered an important part of the health care system. It developed as a form on noninvasive therapeutic intervention and finds its root in ancient belief systems (as well as in religious concepts). TCM continues as an important branch of both the public health care system in China and modern medical practice worldwide.

TCM is used to treat a variety of ills, including the side effects of chemotherapy, cravings and withdrawal symptoms of drug addicts, antibiotic-resistant infections and a variety of chronic conditions. Practitioners in China also perform functions that are often performed by allied health professionals in the west (serving as nutritionists, pharmacists, nurses, chiropractors, therapists and more). In some instances, TCM hospitals perform emergency medicine (such as the treatment of shock and seizure).

Differences between TCM and Western medicine

The key difference between TCM and traditional Western medicine is that Western medicine involves cutting and acute care; TCM involves manipulation or chronic care. Surgery is scene in the west; bone setting and chiropractic spinal manipulation are seen with TCM.

TCM theory

TCM as it is today known is clearly heavily influenced by Taoism, Buddhism and Neo-Confucianism. For thousands of years, the Chinese have developed principles and theories behind their traditional medicine. Key principles include:

• The universe is maintained by constant change. Man is part of the universe. He cannot be separated from change.
• The universe (and everything within it) tends to balance it. Therefore, optimum health results from living harmoniously with the process of change. Balance is lost if there is no change – or if there is too much change. At this point illness can occur.
• Everything is interconnected. For this reason, address imbalances with a systematic approach.

Safety of Chinese medicines

During acupressure or acupuncture, which are largely accepted as safe, there is always the possibility of nerve damage or infection. In certain cases with herbal medicines, there is often the risk of poisoning. In the west, some herbs (such as ephedra) have been known to raise the heart rate and blood pressure of the patient. Some toxic or carcinogenic compounds (arsenic and cinnabar) are employed (using poison to cure poison).

Animal products are used in Chinese formulas; for this reason, vegans and vegetarians should inform their practitioner before accepting a subscribed substance. Often, there are alternatives that can be used.