Traditional Chinese Medicine

What is Traditional Chinese Medicine?

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a medical practice with thousands of years of history, treating and preventing diseases by balancing the body’s internal energy. The theoretical foundations of TCM include the concepts of Yin and Yang, the Five Elements, and the vital energy “Qi.” These principles guide practitioners in treating patients through herbs, acupuncture, massage, and dietary adjustments.

Benefits of Traditional Chinese Medicine

Traditional Chinese Medicine advocates for prevention over cure, emphasizing maintaining health through the balance of Qi and blood and the harmony of Yin and Yang. It is particularly effective in treating chronic conditions such as digestive system diseases, respiratory diseases, and autoimmune disorders. Moreover, TCM plays an increasingly important role in modern healthcare, being used more and more for everyday health management and disease prevention.

Popular Chinese Herbal Medicines

Disclaimer: This article does not hold responsibility for the efficacy or side effects of any herbs. Please consult a professional doctor before trying Chinese medicine. Chinese medicine uses a variety of herbs that are categorized for their specific healing properties. Here are some common herbs and their main functions:

Blood Tonics

  • Dang Gui (Angelica Sinensis): Improves blood circulation and addresses blood deficiency symptoms.
  • Shu Di Huang (Rehmannia): Used for nourishing the blood and yin.
  • Bai Shao (White Peony Root): Harmonizes the blood and relieves muscle pain.
  • E Jiao (Donkey-hide Gelatin): Nourishes blood and stops bleeding, suitable for women.
  • Saffron: Activates blood circulation, often used in women’s health conditions.

Yang Tonics

  • Lu Rong (Deer Antler Velvet): Strengthens the body and enhances sexual potency.
  • Yin Yang Huo (Horny Goat Weed): Used for strengthening the kidneys and boosting yang, enhancing male function.
  • Cordyceps Sinensis: Boosts immunity and regulates lung and kidney functions.
  • Tian Shan Xue Lian (Snow Lotus): Grows in high altitudes, used for strengthening the body.
  • Du Zhong (Eucommia): Strengthens the muscles and bones, delays aging.

Qi Tonics

  • Gan Cao (Licorice): Harmonizes the properties of other herbs, improves gastrointestinal functions.
  • Huang Qi (Astragalus): Boosts immunity, widely used for enhancing qi.
  • Dang Shen (Codonopsis): Enhances physical energy, alleviates fatigue.
  • American Ginseng: Improves stress resistance.
  • Ren Shen (Ginseng): Greatly enhances physical energy, improves resistance to illnesses.

Spleen Tonics

  • Shan Yao (Chinese Yam): Nourishes the spleen and stomach, improves digestion.
  • Chen Pi (Tangerine Peel): Regulates the stomach, removes dampness.
  • Hong Zao (Red Dates): Nourishes the middle qi, moisturizes the heart and lungs.
  • Qian Shi (Euryale Seeds): Strengthens the spleen and stops diarrhea, secures kidney essence.
  • Fu Ling (Poria): Drains dampness, strengthens the spleen and calms the mind.

Yin Tonics

  • Shi Hu (Dendrobium): Nourishes yin and moistens dryness, enhances physical strength.
  • Yu Zhu (Solomon’s Seal): Nourishes yin and clears heat, moistens the lungs and stops cough.
  • Mai Dong (Ophiopogon): Nourishes the heart yin, clears the heart and calms the spirit.
  • Bai He (Lily): Clears the heart and moistens the lungs, regulates emotions.
  • Tian Men Dong (Asparagus Root): Nourishes kidney yin, moistens the lungs and stops cough.

Seasonal Foods According to Chinese Medicine

According to TCM theory, people should adjust their dietary habits according to the seasons to promote health. In spring, eat more sprouting green vegetables to clear the liver and dispel wind; in summer, consume more fruits to clear heat and generate fluids; in autumn, eat pears and honey to moisten dryness; in winter, consume more black beans and black sesame to nourish yin and store yang.

How to Find Traditional Chinese Medicine in China

In China, there are many official TCM hospitals where doctors have undergone years of study and obtained national certification; these are the professionals you can consult. Among the many TCM hospitals, “Triple A” hospitals (top-tier hospitals) are the highest level, and I recommend consulting at these facilities. Additionally, hospitals in China are state-run and serve everyone, so the prices are not high, and even the top-tier Triple A hospitals are affordable for the average visitor.

Chinese Culture Guide

Discover rich Chinese traditions and cultural practices through festivals, customs, and history.