When it comes to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), you may think about herbs and practices that are used to both cure and prevent disease. TCM has been practised since ancient China and is known to be functional in looking after your overall health.

While many people are still confused or clueless about TCM, we are here to offer a comprehensive guide to how it is used, how it functions, and so on. Read on to learn more and discover today.

Understanding the Main Purpose of TCM

In Western medicine, the human body is viewed as little more than a vehicle. Inputs and outputs are required by a wide range of systems.

TCM, on the other hand, rejects scientific research and medical practice. For this, equilibrium, harmony, and energy are preferable. TCM contains two fundamental ideas:

1. Qi

Qi is the vital or life energy. It appears to be a systemic issue. It is always subject to modification. TCM treatments stimulate and sustain qi circulation.

2. Yin and Yang

Qi’s polar opposites are thought to be Yin and Yang. Yin represents gloom, coldness, and femininity.  Whereas, Yang is associated with masculinity, warmth, and brightness.

Given that everything contains a trace quantity of its complement, a healthy equilibrium is required. It is possible to recover from illness by taking prescription medications as directed by a doctor.

These principles, according to TCM, can be seen acting within our bodies. The yin and yang energies that dwell within your Qi are directly tied to your health. If they aren’t working, it signifies you’re sick. The goal of Traditional Chinese Medicine is to balance qi.

Learning about the Techniques of TCM

TCM techniques are often used in acupuncture, cupping, prescription of herbs, meditation, moxibustion, and tai chi. 

• Acupuncture: Acupuncture is the practice of putting extremely small needles into the skin.
• Cupping: Cupping is the practice of sucking the skin with the help of heated cups.
• Herbs: Beverages, powders, and capsules are examples of herbal products derived from plants.
• Meditation: Meditation is a technique for calming the mind.
• Moxibustion: Moxibustion is the practice of burning herbs very near the skin – it is a single herb called moxa.
• Tai Chi: Tai chi is a kind of exercise that emphasises movement and breathing harmony between the mind and body.

When performed by a professional, these treatments are usually safe and risk-free. 

The Effectivity of TCM

TCM encompasses a wide range of practices, and the outcomes can vary. It is used in respected Western medical institutes to treat sleepiness, arthritis, and menopause-related symptoms. 

Moreover, acupuncture relieves pain and minimises the severe side effects of chemotherapy, patients with Parkinson’s disease who practise Tai Chi report improved balance.

TCM from Patient to Patient

Stress and carpal tunnel syndrome can both be treated using TCM. If you have a multitude of symptoms for which there is no apparent cause if you need to deal with the side effects of medication, if you have tried Western treatment without success, and if you want to avoid illness, it could be a viable option for you.

However, TCM is not recommended to use as a substitute for Western medication, especially if you have a liver or cancer issue. People who are elderly, pregnant or breastfeeding, undergoing surgery, using other medications, or treating a child should also exercise extra caution when using herbs.

Conclusion

Traditional Chinese Medicine offers a myriad of health benefits for one’s overall health. It is mostly safe and accessible, and may even cost less than healthcare provided by Western medicine. If you are looking for alternative ways to improve your well-being, TCM might be for you.