What Is Traditional Chinese Medicine? (Part Two)
TCM practitioners use various psychological and physical approaches (such as acupuncture and tai chi) as well as herbal products to address health problems.
Traditional Chinese medicine is based on ancient Chinese practices and includes:
·Acupuncture
·Tai chi
·Chinese herbal medicine
·Dietary therapy
·Chinese massage（Tui Na）
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a form of complementary and alternative medicine.Acupuncture can be used to treat many conditions. It involves inserting fine needles into specific sites on the body. These are called acupuncture points. The needles are used to clear energy blocks and encourage the normal flow of energy through the body. The needles used in acupuncture are sterile, single use and disposable.
Acupuncture is a technique in which practitioners stimulate specific points on the body, usually by inserting thin needles through the skin. Studies suggest that acupuncture stimulates the release of the body’s natural painkillers and affects areas in the brain involved in processing pain; however, some trials suggest that real acupuncture and sham acupuncture are equally effective, indicating a placebo effect. Results from a number of studies, however, suggest real acupuncture may help ease types of pain that are often chronic, such as low-back pain, neck pain, osteoarthritis/knee pain, and carpal tunnel syndrome. It also may help reduce the frequency of tension headaches and prevent migraine headaches.
Tai chi
Tai chi combines certain postures, gentle movements, mental focus, breathing, and relaxation. Research findings suggest that practicing tai chi may improve balance and stability in older people and those with Parkinson’s disease, reduce pain from knee osteoarthritis, help people cope with fibromyalgia and back pain, and promote quality of life and improve mood in people with heart failure.
Chinese herbal medicine
Chinese herbal medicine focuses on both the prevention and treatment of illness.Chinese herbal medicine prescriptions are personalised. So, people with similar health conditions may receive different Chinese herbal medicine prescriptions.A qualified Chinese herbal medicine practitioner will change the formula as you recover.More than 450 substances are used in Chinese herbal medicine. Most are of plant origin, although some animal and mineral substances may also be used. Chinese herbal products have been studied for many medical problems, including stroke, heart disease, mental disorders, and respiratory diseases (such as bronchitis and the common cold).
Like all herbal medicines, Chinese medicines can be toxic. They can also interact with other prescription medicines that you may be taking. Always tell your doctor if you are taking Chinese herbal products.
Dietary therapy
Food therapy aims to maintain balanced nutrition through diet.Medical diet therapy aims to balance Yin and Yang through the combination of nutrition and medicine.
Chinese massage (Tui Na)
Tui Na is a form of therapeutic massage. It is used to treat specific patterns of disharmony.Tui Na involves strong mechanical stimulation to the muscles and tissues. This activates the nerves, creating physiological and biomechanical changes that allow healing to happen.