Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) originated in China more than 3000 years ago, making it one of the longest standing systems of medicine in the world. Acupuncture and herbal medicine are the two main components of Traditional Chinese Medicine along with nutrition, massage, exercise, and lifestyle counselling.
What is Traditional Chinese medicine?
Prevention and treatment
This system of medicine offers preventive health care and treatment. Prevention of the disease is one of the key components of Traditional Chinese medicine. This system of medicine uses an individualized treatment plan with personal diagnosis. The practitioner makes the TCM diagnosis by patient’s signs, symptoms, mental temperament, and physical constitution. The diagnosis process also involves tongue and pulse examination to determine the imbalance. The goal of this treatment is to harmonize the body and mind to improve one’s over all well-being.
Herbal medicine
Chinese herbal medicines are mainly plant-based, but some may include minerals and animal products. Herbal medicine formulas may include two to sixteen herbs. Each herb has a specific property and function, which balances particular parts of the body. Herbal formulas are specifically prepared according to the personal diagnosis of the patient customizing each medicine for each individual patient.
The herbal medicines are available in tablet form, powder form, liquid (tea) forms or as loose herbs. Some of the herbs are available in lotion or paste forms for external use.