Traditional Chinese Medicine
The conception of traditional Chinese medicine is thousands of years old, and has undergone minimal changes throughout the centuries. Its basic concept is the fundamental force of life, which is known as Qi. It is pronounced as “chi”, and has the meaning of energy, power, and force. It travels throughout (meridians) the body to give strength. The imbalance in Qi causes illnesses and diseases. This imbalance is the result of changes in the opposite and complementary forces that form Qi. These are known as yin and yang. The fundamental principles of Chinese philosophy and medicine are none other than yin and yang. For good health, the balance of yin (dark, feminine, negative) and yang (bright, masculine, positive) is an essential key. It is believed that restoring balance involves achieving harmony between the body’s internal organs and the external elements of earth, fire, water, wood, and metal. Traditional Chinese medicine involve acupuncture, tai chi, cupping, herbal medicine, moxibustion, and Qigong.
The fundamental principles of Chinese philosophy and medicine are none other than yin and yang. For good health, the balance of yin (dark, feminine, negative) and yang (bright, masculine, positive) is an essential key. It is believed that restoring balance involves achieving harmony between the body’s internal organs and the external elements of earth, fire, water, wood, and metal.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a key component of traditional Chinese medicine. There are 2,000 acupuncture points in the human body. They connected with each other with various meridians. It is believed that using acupuncture within certain points is to improve the flow of blocked or inactive QI. It restores the movement of keys and improves health. The procedure involves the insertion of thin needles through the skin at acupuncture points on the human body. Needles must be sterilized to prevent infection. Heated needles and mild electric current may be applied during treatment. Improper insertion of needles causes pain during treatment, that’s why finding an experienced and well-trained provider is a must. Acupuncture is widely used for removing pain and discomfort, particularly in cases of chronic pain such as arthritis and low back pain. It is also an effective solution for conditions like nausea, headaches, dental pain, asthma, and carpal tunnel syndrome. Moreover, acupuncture may aid in stroke rehabilitation. Beyond pain management, it has shown benefits for reducing stress, improving sleep, boosting the immune system, and enhancing overall well-being. As a component of Traditional Chinese Medicine, acupuncture aims to restore the body’s natural balance and promote holistic health. The risks are low if the acupuncturist is experienced and certified. Common side effects include soreness, bruising, and minor bleeding at the insertion points. Some find acupuncture relaxing, while others feel energized. If your symptoms don’t get better within a few weeks, acupuncture might not be the best option for you.
Modern Chinese Medicine
In the 16th century, western medicine was introduced in China but remained uncommon and had minimal impact. It was only after the opium war that Western Medicine began to develop in China. Hence, before that period, traditional Chinese medicine was the predominant form of medical care in China. With the establishment of a new China in 1949, western medicine started to play a significant role in medical care. As the influence of modern (Westernized) medicine grew, it resulted in the emergence of “integrative medicine” by the late 1950s. Modern Chinese medicine blends traditional Chinese practices, like herbal remedies and acupuncture, with modern medical research and technology. This approach aims to offer comprehensive healthcare by integrating the preventative and holistic methods of traditional Chinese medicine with the evidence-based techniques of Western medicine. It focuses on treating the whole person, addressing both symptoms and their root causes, and providing personalized care.
MedBound Times connected with specialist Dr. Jessica Smith, Doctor of Chinese medicine and Acupuncturist for her opinion on the traditional Chinese medicine and acupuncture.
Acupuncture is a multi-faceted and nuanced traditional medicine that has withstood the test of time due to its various benefits. In recent times, acupuncture research discovered its positive health effects neuromodulation and stimulation of opioid receptors thus reducing pain and inflammation in various illnesses.Dr. Jessica Smith, Doctor of Chinese Medicine, Acupuncturist and Registered Nurse (non-practising), Australia
○ Reduce pain
For decreasing pain and inflammation, traditional Chinese medicine works well. As for the treatment, specialists generally choose acupuncture and herbal medicine.
○ Improved fertility
It might encourage healthy hormonal adjustments, enhance blood flow to the uterus, and boost fertility. It’s safe with no side effects, that’s why applying is not harmful.
○ Reduce stress
Treatments like tai chi, acupuncture, and holistic medicine offer the benefit of alleviating stress. These therapies can induce a sense of calm, with many finding the treatment process itself soothing.
○ Promotes body balance
Tai chi blends martial arts with mindfulness and relaxation techniques, providing stress reduction and enhancing overall well-being for various practitioners seeking holistic health benefits.
○ Accelerate recovery process
Massage therapy, chiropractic care, and acupuncture are known to accelerate recovery. Additionally, tai chi serves as a safe alternative for physical therapy for many individuals.
○ Reduce chronic pain
Acupuncture effectively reduces chronic pain through targeted therapy, offering lasting relief and improved quality of life.
○ Control allergic asthma
Acupuncture can aid in controlling allergic asthma by reducing inflammation and enhancing respiratory function, complementing conventional treatments effectively.
○ Healthy sleep
Acupuncture promotes healthy sleep patterns by regulating neurotransmitters, reducing insomnia, and enhancing overall relaxation, fostering improved sleep quality and well-being.
○ Help in migraine
Acupuncture provides relief from migraines by reducing the frequency, severity, and duration of attacks, offering a natural and effective treatment option for migraine sufferers.
○ Decrease menstrual cramps
Acupuncture helps decrease menstrual cramps by promoting blood circulation, reducing inflammation, and balancing hormone levels, providing effective relief from discomfort.
Scientific evidence strongly supports acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for various health benefits. Meta-analyses confirm acupuncture’s effectiveness in managing chronic pain, reducing stress by lowering cortisol levels, and improving digestive health. Research also highlights acupuncture’s ability to enhance immune function and improve sleep quality. TCM, with its holistic approach and tailored herbal treatments, complements conventional medicine by emphasizing preventative care and reducing side effects, offering comprehensive health benefits.
Traditional Chinese Medicine, anchored in principles like Qi, yin-yang balance, and the flow of meridians, offers a holistic approach to health that has endured for millennia. Acupuncture, a cornerstone of TCM, exemplifies this approach by promoting wellness through targeted therapies that alleviate pain, improve sleep, and enhance overall well-being. Supported by scientific evidence, TCM and acupuncture continue to integrate with modern medicine, offering comprehensive care that addresses both symptoms and root causes. As interest in holistic health grows, these ancient practices provide valuable alternatives and complements to conventional treatments, embodying a blend of ancient wisdom and modern understanding for optimal health outcomes.
References:
Bedosky, Lauren. “Potential Health Benefits of Acupuncture.” EverydayHealth.com, July 25, 2024. https://www.everydayhealth.com/alternative-health/potential-health-benefits-of-acupuncture/.
Wong, Cathy. “Acupuncture Benefits and Risks.” Verywell Health, December 9, 2023. https://www.verywellhealth.com/acupuncture-health-uses-88407.
“The Advantages of Choosing Traditional Chinese Medicine.” Spine Chiropractic Ooltewah, TN, September 22, 2020. https://spine-chiropractic.com/blog/the-advantages-of-choosing-traditional-chinese-medicine.