What is Traditional Chinese Medicine?

Written By illuminate qi

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a unique medical system with a written history that traces back more than 2,000 years and that has been practiced even longer. TCM acknowledges that there is a vital life force called “qi” that flows through all things. Qi (pronounced “chee”) is an East Asian term whose meaning changes with context. In medicine, qi can mean breath, a substance which flows through the meridians, or the vital movements necessary and present in every living system. Qi can flow along pathways in the human body that correspond to the organs, muscular system, and nervous system. When the balance of this energy is disturbed due to poor diet, medication, stress, hereditary conditions, environmental factors or emotional issues, pain or illness results. TCM focuses on correcting the imbalances and stimulating the body’s natural ability to heal itself. Today, TCM is used for preventative care, health maintenance, and the treatment of certain diseases.

  • Acupuncture - Points on the body are connected by pathways called meridians. Acupuncturists insert thin needles into the skin at different points to access and redirect the qi.

  • Herbal Medicine - Utilizes natural substances such as leaves, roots, bark, flowers, fruit, and minerals. Herbs are administered as a formula to balance the patient’s energy.

  • Tui Na - Chinese style of therapeutic massage that utilizes kneading, pressing, rolling, shaking and stretching to treat musculoskeletal problems and improve the functions of channels, internal organs, tendons, bones, and joints.

  • Moxibustion - An external heat therapy using the herb Ai Ye (mugwort), or Moxa, which is used to heat and tonify the body.

  • Gua Sha - Involves scraping the skin with a broad, flat instrument, increasing qi and blood flow to the area.

  • Electro-acupuncture - Involves small electrodes clipped to placed acupuncture needles. A low current then stimulates the body.

  • Cupping - Suction cup therapy used to draw out pathogens and increase qi and blood flow to an area.

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