An unbroken tradition of one of the greatest herbal system in the world, dating all the way back to the 3rd century BC is Chinese herbal medicine. Due to its profound effect, it has for centuries had a very great influence on the theory and practice of medicine in the East, and more recently has been able to gain a lot of popularity in the West.
Practitioners may work within a tradition that comes from Japan, Vietnam, Taiwan or Korea.
Various forms of Chinese herbal medicine.
It is not just a specific medical system, where Chinese herbal medicine is a complete medical system that is capable of treating a very wide range of conditions. There are several forms like herbal therapy, acupuncture, dietary therapy, and exercises in breathing and movement (tai chi and qigong). Some or several of these may be employed in the course of treatment.
The concept of Chinese Herbal Medicine
Chinese Herbal Medicine, along with the other components of Chinese medicine, is mainly based on the traditional concepts of Yin and Yang. The main aim is to understand and treat the many ways in which the fundamental balance and harmony between the two may be undermined and the ways in which a person’s Qi or vitality may be depleted or blocked. Clinical strategies are based upon the diagnosis of patterns of signs and symptoms that reflect an imbalance.
However, the tradition as a whole places great emphasis and importance on lifestyle management in order to prevent disease before it occurs. Chinese medicine recognises that health is more than just the absence of disease, it is more like a way of living and it has a unique capacity to maintain and enhance our capacity for well being and happiness. The main emphasis is given to the balance of life, keep an active and healthy lifestyle.
