Chinese medicine is on the rise as a form of alternative treatment. And although modern Western medicine cannot properly explain how it works, Chinese medical techniques such as acupuncture have been recognized as effective ways to cure certain illnesses.
But Chinese medicine is more than just a branch of alternative medicine. It is a complete, extensive system of medicine with a history that goes backan estimated 5,000 to 7,000 years.
Here are five essential points of difference to know between Chinese and Western medicine.
1. Human Body: Just a “Body” Or Something More?
Taiji and Five Elements. (Taiji via Shutterstock)
Chinese Medicine: The philosophy of Chinese medicine can be understood in the context of classical Taoism. Chinese physicians view the human body as an intricately connected universe, albeit a microscopic one, comprising the “five elements”—metal, wood, water, fire, earth—and governed by dichotomous yin-yang forces.2. Battle Against Microbes Vs. Balancing Act
Under the microscope. (Microbes via Shutterstock)
Chinese Medicine: Chinese medicine is based on ensuring a balance between the yin and yang elements in the body, and regulating the body’s vital energy, or “qi” (pronounced “chee”). Illnesses pop up when there’s a yin-yang imbalance in the body, or if the body’s internal pathways, or meridians, are blocked somewhere, thus impeding the flow of qi.3. Natural Medication Vs. Synthesized Medication
There are plenty of different herbs, minerals, sea and land animal extracts in Chinese medicine. (Herbs via Shutterstock)
Chinese Medicine: The legendary first Chinese physician Shennong identified 365 healing herbs 5,000 years ago and Chinese physicians have been adding to the list ever since. Minerals, insects, sea-animals and parts from larger animals are also used. These ingredients are mixed into liquid or pill form, and target general areas of the body to restore the yin-yang equilibrium.4. Two Different Approaches to Better Health
A woman practices the Falun Gong meditation exercise. (Jeff Nenarella/Epoch Times)
Chinese Medicine: Apart from herbs, Chinese medicine also has a number of treatment methods such as acupuncture, moxibustion (the burning of mugwort, an aromatic plant, to facilitate healing), tuina (a type of massage used to treat musculoskeletal ailments), and qigong (qi-regulating exercises that often include meditation). Be it needles, cupping techniques, and gentle exercises, these different methods all seek the same essential goal: to restore the yin-yang balance and regulate qi to treat and prevent illnesses.5. Ancient Supermen Vs. Super Machines?
Zhang Zhongjing and Hua Tuo, two great Chinese doctors during the Han Dynasty said to have supernormal abilities. (KanZongGuo.com)
Western Medicine: To peer inside the human body without cutting it open, Western doctors use bulky X-ray machines and MRIs.