Traditional Chinese Medicine: Idea Behind TCM
Western medicine often sees the body as a machine, like a car, with different parts needing proper care and function. It’s very straightforward and logical, relying heavily on science and medicine.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), however, doesn’t focus much on scientific explanations or medicine. Instead, it’s centred on balance, harmony, and energy. There are two main concepts in TCM:
- Qi: This is known as life energy or vital energy, believed to flow throughout the body, always changing and moving. TCM treatments often aim to support and maintain this flow of qi.
- Yin and Yang: These are opposing forces describing the qualities of qi.
- Yin: Associated with night, darkness, coldness, femininity, and negativity.
- Yang: Linked today, light, warmth, positivity, and masculinity.
According to TCM, everything in life contains elements of both yin and yang, and balance is essential. For instance, a medicine prescribed by a doctor can heal illness, but too much of it can be harmful.
In TCM, these concepts apply to our bodies. When the yin and yang of qi are balanced, we feel healthy and well. But when they’re imbalanced, we may feel unwell. TCM aims to restore harmony and ensure a healthy flow of qi in the body.
Traditional Chinese Medicine
Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is a medical system that’s been around for at least 23 centuries. It aims to prevent or cure diseases by keeping or restoring the balance of yin and yang. China has one of the oldest medical systems globally, with practices like acupuncture and Chinese herbal remedies dating back over 2,200 years. The earliest written record of Chinese medicine is from the 3rd century BCE, known as the Huangdi neijing (The Yellow Emperor’s Inner Classic).
In this article, we will learn about the Traditional Chinese Medicine in detail. Let’s get started!