Chinese Remedies and Treatments like Acupuncture, Tui Na and Qigong
Perhaps the most popular and still respected ancient medical practice in the world is that of the Chinese. They have been practicing medicine including assessment, diagnosis and treatment for centuries. Today, this practice is known as Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). In mainland China and Taiwan, TCM is very much part of their healthcare system; however, in other parts of the world, TCM is considered as an alternative medicine.
Traditional Chinese Medicine is based on a number of philosophical frameworks such as the yin-yang theory, the five elements and the meridian system among others. TCM is not scientific, though some have tried to link the practice to that of the modern science. It is more focused in listening to what the nature is saying.
Procedural Remedies
Procedural Chinese remedy is the use of other traditional procedures and exercises in the treatment, control or prevention of illnesses. Its main objective is to bring back balance to the body. Some of the common procedures used in TCM are:
- Acupuncture – A technique of inserting needles to acupuncture points throughout the body. It is more popularly known for pain management.
- Tui Na or massage therapy – Also known as acupressure. Muscles and joints are rubbed, kneaded and pressed to get the body’s energy moving.
- Qigong or breathing and meditation exercise – An art of managing one’s breathing to maintain good health. Qigong is mostly for health maintenance though some claim it to have therapeutic properties as well.
- Tai Chi Ch’uan or physical exercise – Developed as internal Chinese martial arts but later on evolved to be an exercise routine that promotes health and longevity. Some call this a moving meditation.
Medicinal Remedies
Medicinal Chinese remedy is the use of herbs and spices in treating illnesses. Herbs are the low-growing shrubs while spices come from roots, bark, seeds or flowers of plants. The Chinese have long ago used herbs and spices in the treatment of illnesses. These plants or parts of them are either taken orally or applied directly to the injured or afflicted body parts. Herbs and spices are mostly used in combination and very rarely used alone. Chinese healers follow different concepts which mostly focus on maintaining balance of energy inside the body.
Although Chinese herbology has been an ancient art, it is still widely used today. Of course, the use of traditional chinese herbs and spices have advanced to more than remedial, it is now used for relaxation, fragrance and aesthetics.
Posted in Chinese Herbs