Basic Theory of Chinese Medicine The basic theory of Chinese medicine attempts to explain the nature of life cycle and disease changes. It includes five theories: Yin and Yang, the five elements, how to direct one's strength, zangfu (internal body organs), and channels. It also researches dialectics, and explains why diseases occur, how to diagnose and prevent diseases, and how to keep the body healthy. The concept of Yin and Yang comes from an ancient philosophical concept. After observing the phenomenon, ancient people grouped all conflicting ideas into Yin and Yang. They used this concept to explain how things changed. Chinese medicine used Yin and Yang to illustrate the complicated relationship between various things, such as the different parts of the human body and living things versus nature or society. It was believed that the relative balance of Yin and Yang served as the basis to maintain the normal activities of the human body. If such a balance was disturbed, diseases occurred, thus affecting people's health. The five elements - wood, water, fire, metal, and earth -- emerged from the observation of the various groups of dynamic processes, functions, and characteristics in the natural world. Each of the elements is seen as having a series of correspondences relating both to the natural world and the human body. TCM uses a system of inter-relationships between the five elements to understand how the various processes of the body support and control each other. Because of these inter-relationships, when one of the organs and its associated element is out of balance, the other elements are also affected. This imbalance will manifest in the individual with many different signs and symptoms. It may show in the facial color, the sound of the voice, or a change in the emotional state as well as disharmony in the functioning of the connected organs. The theory of directing one's strength focuses on how various components such as astronomy, meteorological phenomena, and climate would affect health. This theory consists of two parts, five strengths, and six climatic factors. The five strengths, namely the strengths of metal, wood, water, fire, and earth, refer to the different seasons of the year such as spring, summer, long summer, autumn, and winter. People regarded wind, coldness, summer, rawness, dryness, and fire as the six elements of the climate. This theory tried to predict climatic change and how disease occurred by parameters in astronomy. The theory of Zangfu is a collective name for the various Yin and Yang organs identified in TCM. A Yin organ is called a Zang and a Yang organ is called a Fu. Each organ is considered to have its own functions, but these functions have a far wider scope than the purely physiological function described in Western medicine. The Zang consists of the five solid organs -- spleen, heart, lungs, liver, and kidneys. The Fu consists of the six hollow organs -- small intestine, large intestine, gall bladder, bladder, stomach, and san jiao (a three-part invisible metabolizing organ in TCM concept). The meridian (energy channels) theory is the study of the physiological function and pathological change on the meridians and their related zangfu organs. The essential functions of the meridian system are to "transport qi (energy force) and blood," "to maintain conductivity," and "to resist invasion of exogenous pathogenic factors (such as viruses)." = Chinese Herbal Medicine Chinese herbal medicine aims to prevent, diagnose, and treat diseases. It mainly consists of natural medicines and processed ones, namely medicines made from herbal, animal, mineral, and some chemical and biological substances. Although the invention and application of Chinese medicine has a history of thousand of years, the word "Chinese medicine" appeared only after Western medicine was introduced into China, to make a difference between the two. Natural Resources for Chinese Herbal Medicine China enjoys a large territory, various geographical features, and different types of climate. These factors have given rise to different ecological environments, which enable it to grow a great variety of herbal plants. At present, China has cultivated more than 8,000 kinds of herbal medicines, 600 of which are commonly used. This makes China the country with the most number of herbal medicines in the world. These medicines not only meet the demands of domestic people but also are exported to 80 countries and regions where they enjoy great fame. Application of Chinese Medicine Most of the ingredients of Chinese medicine come from natural resources, which have little or side effects. The multiple ingredients inside the medicines enable them to treat various diseases. Another feature of Chinese herbal medicines is that they are mostly compounds. By being made with an appropriate proportion of different ingredients, the medicine can treat complicated diseases while maintaining the lowest possible side effects. Application of Chinese medicine is based on its theory and focuses on the impact the medicine has on the human body. The nature of the herbal plant determines the effectiveness of the medicine. In order to use the medicine in a safe and effective way, doctors have to know such things like what ingredients are needed, the contraindication (effect), the dosage, the way to take it, and the way to make up a prescription. Sometimes doctors need to select different ingredients in light of the patients' different situation. As for contraindication, doctors have to consider the effects of ingredients, pregnancies, food, and diseases. Regarding the dosage, doctors will have to consider how much volume patients should take per day and what the appropriate proportion for every ingredient should be in order to make up a compound medicine. Future Trend of Chinese Medicine In the future, China will carry on the current way of producing herbal medicine while giving more focus on cultivating better varieties of plants by adopting such methods like isotope and biological engineering. Meanwhile, China will expand the production of those greatly needed herbs, such as licorice root, the roots of large-flowered skullcaps and Chinese thorowax, and those imported from abroad, which amounts to 20 kinds. At the same time, China will do more researches to prevent the degeneration of seeds and cultivate more new resources. = Traditional Chinese Dietotherapy Guided by fundamental theories of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), traditional Chinese dietotherapy (TCD) is a specialty that concerns the study of how to make good use of foods and natural nutriments as well as Chinese material medicine to preserve health, prevent and heal diseases, quicken recoveries, and slow down aging. Dietotherapy is a gem in Chinese scientific cultural heritage. China has a long history of dietotherapy. Confucius (551-479 BC) died at the age of 72, which was considered a long life 2,000 years ago. It is because Confucius had a special diet. He once wrote in Analects of Confucius, (Lun Yu, a record of speeches by Confucius and his disciples, as well as the discussions they held) that, among many other principles, food with changed flavor, corrupt food, and food with bad color could not be eaten. In the Tang Dynasty (618-907), the famous doctor Sun Simiao, who died at the age of 101, once said that when a person is sick, the doctor should first regulate his or her diet and lifestyle. In most cases, these changes alone are enough to bring about a cure over time. TCD has remained an important component of TCM, the same as acupuncture, herbology, Tuina (massage), Qigong (energy-oriented philosophy and exercises), and so on. The therapeutic effect of TCD has been proved by clinical practice for centuries, especially that in preventive medicine, rehabilitation, and gerontology (study of old age). TCD, as mentioned above, is based on the fundamentals of TCM in the aspects of both theory and clinical practice, such as for example, the theory of Yin-Yang, Five-Elements, Zang-Fu organs, meridians, etiology and pathogenesis (the study of causes and development of diseases), diagnostic methods, therapeutic principles, and so on. Differing from the thought of microcosmic chemical composition, TCD concentrates on the idea of holistic entity and the principle of curing diseases in accordance with the differential diagnosis of syndromes. It is understood in TCM that like herbs, foods are also in different natures and flavors, accounting for their actions of reinforcing or reducing, and ascending or descending. Foods are able to balance Yin and Yang, and Qi and blood in the body. To prevent and cure diseases, both foods and medicines can exert important effects since they share the same source, are based on the same theory, and have similar medicinal actions; hence food and herbs are combined in clinical use. = Four Natures and Five Flavors Ancient Chinese people believed that foods, like herbs, could also be classified into "four natures" and "five flavors." Four Natures The four natures, also called si qi，including "cold," "hot," "warm," and "cool." The foods of "cold" or "cool" property can be used to treat hot-natured diseases. The following are foods that are cold or cool in nature: barley, millet, buckwheat, green bean, celery, spinach, lettuce, green cabbage stems, turnips (white), bamboo shoot, lily bulb, lotus root, eggplant, tomato, watermelon, white gourd, sponge gourd, cucumber, bitter melon, apple, pear, orange, banana, rabbit's meat, frog's meat, duck's meat, duck's egg, crab, sea couch (grass), freshwater snail, kelp, laver, green tea, soy sauce, table salt, and rock candy. The "hot" or "warm" foods are used in treating the cold-natured diseases. The foods that are hot or warm in nature include: glutinous rice, Chinese sorghum (kind of cereal grass), pumpkin, hot pepper, ginger, scallion, onion, leek, mutton, dog's meat, and so on. Besides the four natures, there are other foods that are neutral in nature, like rice, wheat, corn, bean, and so on. Five Flavors In terms of the theory of Five Elements, it is held in TCM that the bitter flavor is connected to the heart, sour to the liver, sweet to the spleen, pungent to the lungs, and salty to the kidneys. Foods with a pungent flavor: ginger, scallion, garlic, hot pepper, pepper, cayenne pepper, onion, leek, and spirit. Foods with a sweet flavor: potato, lotus root, wheat, polished rice, pea, milk, pork, chestnut, date, and honey. Foods with a sour flavor: tomato, tangerine, plum, lemon, grape, papaya, haw, cherry apple, pomegranate, and vinegar. Foods with a bitter flavor: bitter melon, almond, lily bulb, orange peel, tea, coffee, bitter green, arrowroot, and pig liver. Foods with a salty flavor: barley, millet, dried purple seaweed, kelp, jellyfish, pork, beef, crab, and table salt. = Chinese medicated diet Relationship between Dietotherapy and Medicated Diet People often confuse the concept of dietotherapy and Chinese medicated diet. In fact they have both similarities and differences. TCD does not add medicine, but Chinese medicated diet adds medicine. Of course, Chinese medicated diet is not just a simple combination of food and Chinese drugs, but rather a special highly finished diet made from Chinese drugs, food, and condiments under the theoretical guidance of diet preparation based on TCM's differentiation of symptoms and signs. Chinese medicated diet has not only the efficiency of medicine but also the delicacy of food, and can be used to prevent and cure diseases, build up one's health, and prolong one's life. Characteristics of Chinese medicated diet The characteristics of Chinese medicated diet are as follows: Laying Stress on the Whole, Selecting Medicated Diet on the Basis of Differential Diagnosis "Laying stress on the whole, selecting medicated diet on the basis of differential diagnosis" means that when doctors prescribe a medicated diet, they should first make an overall analysis of the patient's physical and health condition, the nature of the patient's illness, the season the patient got ill in, and the geographical condition, and so on, before forming a judgment on the type of syndrome. Only then should the doctors decide on corresponding principles for dietetic therapy and select a suitable medicated diet. Take a patient suffering from a chronic stomach condition, as an example. If the patient is suffering from a stomach condition resulting from a cold, he or she should take one kind of medicine, but if the patient is suffering from the same kind of condition brought on by a stomach deficiency, he or she should take another kind of medicine. Relationship between Dietotherapy and Medicated Diet People often confuse the concept of dietotherapy and Chinese medicated diet. In fact they have both similarities and differences. TCD does not add medicine, but Chinese medicated diet adds medicine. Of course, Chinese medicated diet is not just a simple combination of food and Chinese drugs, but rather a special highly finished diet made from Chinese drugs, food, and condiments under the theoretical guidance of diet preparation based on TCM's differentiation of symptoms and signs. Chinese medicated diet has not only the efficiency of medicine but also the delicacy of food, and can be used to prevent and cure diseases, build up one's health, and prolong one's life. Characteristics of Chinese medicated diet The characteristics of Chinese medicated diet are as follows: Laying Stress on the Whole, Selecting Medicated Diet on the Basis of Differential Diagnosis "Laying stress on the whole, selecting medicated diet on the basis of differential diagnosis" means that when doctors prescribe a medicated diet, they should first make an overall analysis of the patient's physical and health condition, the nature of the patient's illness, the season the patient got ill in, and the geographical condition, and so on, before forming a judgment on the type of syndrome. Only then should the doctors decide on corresponding principles for dietetic therapy and select a suitable medicated diet. Take a patient suffering from a chronic stomach condition, as an example. If the patient is suffering from a stomach condition resulting from a cold, he or she should take one kind of medicine, but if the patient is suffering from the same kind of condition brought on by a stomach deficiency, he or she should take another kind of medicine. = Introduction of Yangsheng Yangsheng refers to the improvement of health and prolonging of life through the proper ways of caring for and nurturing one's body and mind. The Goal or Purpose of Yangsheng The goal is to prolong life and enjoy good health. According to Dao De Jing (the representative book of Daoism), those who are good at yangsheng know how to avoid things that are harmful to the body and mind. They know how to gain health through the right diet and healthy lifestyle, meaning they can live longer and healthier than most people, as disease and ill health will not affect them. When one is free of diseases, it is easy to delay aging and prolong life past the average lifespan. So the goal of yangsheng is to ward off disease, delay aging, prolong life, and ensure a healthy, happy, high-quality life. Specific Measures of Yangsheng The first, primary step is the cultivation of one's moral attitude, which is the prerequisite condition of health and longevity. Daoism has established many disciplines that emphasize virtues such as kindness, loyalty, love, friendliness, mercy, and sympathy, as well as attempts to help others, and influencing others through one's own actions. Such practices help benefit both the individual and the society, and those who practice them usually enjoy a happy, long life without having to consciously seek longevity. The second method is to incorporate regular, consistent physical exercise into our lifestyle. Those who have diseases need to exercise to get better, while those who are free of diseases need to exercise for prevention, because physical exercise can strengthen the body, improve the mind, stimulate digestion, increase circulation, and build up the immunity. The third measure is about mental, emotional, and psychological health. Yangsheng requires us to foster a healthy mental and emotional stability that is free from mental extremes, psychological upheavals, and emotional outbursts. From the perspective of TCM, anger harms the liver, sorrow harms the lungs, and over-excitement harms the heart. The forth measure of yangsheng is a healthy, balanced diet. For thousands of years, a healthy diet was considered as the crucial approach to longevity, and improper eating habits and an unbalanced diet was a source of most health problems. Daoism have established a tradition of a basically vegetarian diet with simple, balanced flavors, without alcohol consumption or cigarette smoking. Grains, beans, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and fruits are fully nourishing for both the body and the mind. Daoism recommends three meals a day, with moderation of eating at each meal, and no late night eating. It also advises people to eat only when hungry, drink only when thirsty, and be moderate with their intake. It believes excessive and indulgent eating habits are harmful to health. The fifth step to health is prevention. Prevention is a major approach to health and longevity. With regular exercises, with the correct use of natural herbal remedies and food therapies, and other healthful practices, each person can achieve the goal of preventing diseases, thus prolonging his or her life. = Excellent Choice: Tea and Medical Liquor Tea for medicinal purposes has a history of 2,700 years in China. Many books, like Shen Nong Ben Cao (Materia Medica of Deity of Agriculture; Eastern Han Dynasty (25-220)), Cao Ben Shi Yi (Tang Dynasty (618-907)), and Cha Pu (Classification of Tea, Ming Dynasty (1368-1644)), all recorded the tea's effect for medicinal purposes. Cha Jing (Tea Classics, written by Lu Yu of the Tang Dynasty) recorded 24 examples to show tea's pharmacology effect Tea contains more than 5,000 biochemistry ingredients closely correlated to human body. Tea not only can refresh the mind, clear heat, and help people lose weight, but also has certain pharmacology effects on some modern diseases, like radiation sickness, cancer, heart disease, and blood sickness. How to Drink Tea Green Tea is the Best Choice for Office Workers People who always work in places with air conditioning may face skin problems such as easily dry skin and the growth of small wrinkles. Therefore, the moisture content of their bodies needs to be supplemented. Among all the drinks, green tea is the best choice. Because there are four primary polyphenols (natural chemicals that are beneficial to health) in green tea and they are often collectively referred to as catechins (types of flavored chemical compounds). Also, green tea, like makeup, can prevent computer radiation. Winter is the Season to Drink Black Tea Chinese medicine believes that different people should drink different tea according to the different characteristics and tastes of each kind of tea. Black tea can warm the stomach, refresh the mind, and accelerate digestion. Therefore, drinking warm black tea in the cold winter is a most suitable choice. Do not Drink Thick Tea Strong tea may make the human body excessively excitable and can badly affect the cardiovascular as well as the nervous system. For a person who has cardiovascular disease, to drink overly strong tea may induce heart and blood pressure disease, or even the relapse of old illnesses. Do not Drink too Much Tea When You are Eating Drinking too much tea or strong thick tea may affect the absorption of many constant elements (like calcium) and trace elements (like iron and zinc). Also, peopke should not drink tea with milk or other milk products because the caffeine and tannin (a kind of complex organic compound) in the tea may reduce the nutritional value of milk products. Medicated Liquor Medicated liquor refers to a transparent medicated liquid obtained by using wine as a solvent to soak out the effective components of herbs. Most medicated liquors are taken orally, while some are for external use. To improve the taste, crystal sugar or honey can be added to the medicated wine. Because liquor itself has the effect for stimulating blood circulation and relaxing muscles and joints, it can be used to treat general asthenia (loss of strength), rheumatic pain, and traumatic injury. In addition, alcohol is a kind of good menstruum (solvent), which may distill (extract) a higher proportion of ingredients from medical material. Chinese people like to use precious medical material to make medical liquor, which can reinforce body fluid and nourish the blood. However, though medical liquor is good for the human body, it cannot be drunk superfluously. A frequency of 2 or 3 times a day with each dosage measuring 10 ml to 50 ml is proper for people. = Bronze Human Figure for Teaching Acupuncture Wang Weiyi, an official medical officer during the reign (1023-31) of Emperor Tiansheng of the Song Dynasty (960-1279), cast a life-sized bronze human figure for teaching acupuncture and moxibution (heat therapy). The model was marked with 657 acupuncture -points, and each point bore its name. Students used the model to practice, and during examinations a layer of yellow wax was applied, so as to cover up the points and their names. The inside of the model was filled with water. During examinations, if the insertion was made at the right point, water would ooze out, but if a student failed to locate the required acupuncture point, no water would come out. There is a replica of the figure in the Museum of Chinese History in Beijing. = Needles for TCM Acupuncture-Moxibustion is one of the most ancient and characteristic therapeutic techniques of Chinese medicine. Traditional Chinese medical acupuncture treatment with needles has played an extremely important role in history; even in the age of the New Stone Age there was already a kind of original needle called bianshi (bian stone) that was used for cutting abscess or eliminating some indisposition or ailment. From the use of spiculas (small sharp-pointed spikes), bamboo needles, and ceramic needles to copper needles, silver needles, and today's stainless steel needles as well as magnetic needles, needles have always been basic necessity of acupuncture. According to the Medical Classic of the Yellow Emperor (Huang Di Nei Jing), there were nine kinds of metallic needles in ancient times with different shapes and usage, including the needles for puncturing, surgical incision, and massage. Along with the progress of tools and technology, the nine needles also evolved over the course of history, with some of them no longer being used for clinical treatment. = Five Animal Frolics (Wu Qin Xi) China's great physician Hua Tuo created the Five Animal Frolics (frolic refers to dance or movement) in the last stage of the Eastern Han Dynasty (25-220). He summarized the traditional practice and invented gymnastics, including the movement of the bird, bear, monkey, deer, and tiger , hence the Frolics of the Five Animals. Key Benefits The Bird Frolic develops balance, lightness, and agility. It cools and relaxes the whole body, balances the heart-energy, gently stretches the ligaments, and releases the spine. The Bear Frolic to develops deep-rooted power. It creates greater leg strength, fortifies the bones, and develops energy in the kidneys, which is the body's fundamental source of vitality. The Monkey Frolic develops suppleness and agility. It helps a person become quick witted, alert, and nimble. The Deer Frolic develops grace and relaxation. It gives a long stretch to the legs and spine, creating an open, expansive movement with very flexible muscles and bones. The Tiger Frolic develops muscular strength. It strengthens the waist, muscles, and kidneys and builds internal power. = Tai Ji Quan Tai Ji Quan (Tai Chi Chuan) is a major division of Chinese martial art, meaning "supreme ultimate fist." Tai means "Supreme," Ji means "Ultimate," and Quan means "Fist." There have been different stories on the origin of Tai Ji Quan. The traditional legend goes that the wise man Zhang Sanfeng of the Song Dynasty created Tai Ji Quan after he had witnessed a fight between a sparrow and a snake; while most people agree that the modern Tai Ji Quan originated from the Chen-style Tai Ji Quan, which first appeared during the 19th century in the reign of Emperor Daoguang of the Qing Dynasty. Tai Ji Quan has its philosophical roots in Taoism and is considered as an internal martial art, utilizing the internal energy, or Qi, and following the simple principle of "subduing the vigorous by the soft." Taoism is China's oldest philosophy and is represented by the famous symbol of the Yin and Yang. The symbol expresses the continuous flow of Qi in a circular motion that generates two opposite forces, plus and minus, which interact and balance with each other to bring existence to the physical and metaphysical world. The most famous forms of Tai Ji Quan practiced today are the Chen, Yang, Woo, Sun, and Wu styles. All five styles can be traced back to the Chen-style Tai Ji Quan. According to historical records, Tai Ji Quan was founded by Chen Wangting (1597-1664), who lived in Chen Village, in today's Henan Province in Central China. Based on the Chen style and created by Yang Luchan, a Hebei (province in North China) native of the Qing Dynasty, the Yang style is now the most popular style worldwide. The Woo Style is based on the Chen and Yang styles and was created by Woo Yuxing. The Sun style is derived from Chen and Woo styles and was created by Sun Lutang. This style is a combination of the more famous internal Chinese martial art forms of Ba Gua, Xing Yi, and Tai Ji. The Wu style is based on the Chen and Yang styles, and was created by Wu Jianquan. Nowadays, when most people talk about Tai Ji Quan, they are usually referring to the Yang style, which has already spread throughout the world and is practiced by millions of people. = Brief Introduction to Medicine of Ethnic Minority Groups Chinese medicine is not only medicine of Han people, but also medicine of other ethnic groups. The ethnic minority groups -- including Tibetan, Mongol, Uygur, Korean, Zhuang, Dai, Yi, Miao, Lahu, Oroqen, and so on --, living under different geographical locations and cultures, create medicines with their own characteristics. These medicines' current status differs because of the ethnic groups' different histories and cultures. Some ethnic groups not only have lots of treatment methods in medicine, but also have many theories. Other ethnic groups retain a few books scattered among the people; these books need to be sorted out. And there are still some ethnic groups who transmit their medicine orally. Some ethnic minority groups adopt the medicine of Han and medicine from other countries when forming their own medicine. For instance, Tibetan medicine adopts contents of Han and ancient Indian medicine, while Mongolian medicine takes in contents of Han, Tibetan, and Russian medicine and so on. = Tibetan Medicine To date, the use of altogether 2,294 kinds of Tibetan medicine have been recorded. Over 300 of them are commonly in use, of which over 200 of them are plant herbs, making up 70 percent of the total; over 40 are animal medicines (12 percentl); and with the remaining plus-40 being minerals (14 percent). One-third of the commonly used Tibetan medicines have the same names as Chinese traditional medicines (TCMs), while the herbal medicines produced in local Tibetan areas account for more than half of the commonly used medicines. Five main characteristics of the application of Tibetan medicine: First, the application of Tibetan medicine is closely related with the theory system of Tibetan iatrology (medical science). As the Tibetan iatrological diagnosis falls into two main types -- symptoms caused by cold factors and symptoms caused by heat --, the prescriptions are classified, according to their properties, into two kinds: medicines of a warm nature and medicines of a cold nature. Tibetan doctors treat patients with symptoms caused by cold factors and heat with medicines of a warm and cold nature respectively. Second, Tibetan medicine is classified according to its property, sapor (taste), and effectiveness. Third, Tibetan doctors always adopt compound prescriptions in treating patients, and seldom use just a single kind of herb. Many prescriptions contain more than 25 kinds of medicinal herbs each, with some prescriptions containing over 80 or even 100 kinds of medicine. Fourth, Substandard medicines and substitutes are used for most Tibetan medicines. To solve the problem of a lack of precious medicines, there are substandard medicines and substitutes to replace the original Tibetan medicines, but with the substitutes having a similar nature to the original. Fifth, Tibetan doctors pay great attention to the process of preparing Tibetan medicines. The toxicity of processed Tibetan medicine is eliminated or reduced, and sometimes the function and effectiveness of the medicine can be changed and raised respectively. There are three main ways of medicine processing: fire processing, water processing, and fire-and-water processing. Development of Tibetan Iatrology Yuthog Yonten Gonpo (708-835), the most outstanding Tibetan doctor in ancient Tibet, was a former imperial doctor who founded the Tibetan medical theory system. Combining the achievements of TCM and Western medicine, he compiled over 30 medical works to form a complete Tibetan iatrological system. With the development of medicine practice, in the 15th century there emerged two schools of Tibetan iatrology -- the north and the south schools, which summarized the experience of the common diseases and concerned treatments in the northern cold area and the southern river valley areas, respectively. After the 18th century, famous doctor Dima Danzengpingcuo extensively collected medicine samples and compiled the Jingzhu Annotation, recording more than 2,000 types of medicines in Tibet, and detailing the medicines' modality (the creation process), nature, taste, and function. In 1916, the 13th Dalai Lama created the Medical Bureau. The bureau, still operating today, recruits students and teaches medical theory, promoting the development of Tibetan iatrology and medicine. Origin of Tibetan Iatrology As early as the ancient times, in their fight with nature, people living in the Tibet Plateau became knowledgeable about some characteristics and functions of herbs and hence began to use the herbs for therapies; people also came to know some medical functions of some animals during hunting. Records show that the earliest popular healing art in Tibet was called "local medicine." At that time, without any systematic theory, doctors treated patients in three main ways, namely bloodletting, fire treatment, and spreading-kneading (massage ). In addition, some primitive and simple therapies such as ghee (butter) for stanching (stopping blood flow) and highland barley wine for trauma treatment were also used. In the 4th century, noted Indian physicians came to Tibet to spread the knowledge of health care and to push forward the local health care. From the 6th century, the medical profession, astronomy, calendar, and arithmetic from the hinterland came to Tibet. Later, in the 7th century, Princess Wencheng entered Tibet with 404 prescriptions, five therapies, six medical apparatuses, and four medicine works. In the 8th century, another princess, Princess Jincheng, entered Tibet also with many physicians and medicine works, with some of the works having been translated into the Tibetan language. In the reign (755-796) of Khri-srong lde-btsan, Tibetan iatrology developed greatly and nine well-known physicians emerged. Principles of Tibetan Iatrology The human body's physiological functions are summed up in three major elements -- swell (energy and wind-evil, relating to the organs),"Chiba" (fire-evil), and "Peigen" (grume, or semifluid) --in Tibetan iatrology. The functions of the swell in the human body are to keep life, maintain blood and limbs' function, and decompose food. The Chiba is bile, to create and regulate body heat, keep a good complexion, and aid in digestion. The Peigen is grume, to supply nutrition, increase fat, sustain skin, and keep regular sleep patterns. According to the Tibetan iatrological theory, the three elements, when balanced, will help the body function smoothly, but when unbalanced, will cause various diseases. Tibetan iatrology also suggests that the human body is made up of seven substances: good diet, blood, flesh, fat, bone, marrow, and energy. A human's internal organs are not separated but rather are connected with one another through nerves and blood vessels, hence making up the organism. People are closely related with nature and so their organ functions are affected by the changes of nature. Tibetan doctors employ the methods of observation, palpating (heartbeat) manipulation, and interrogation in diagnosis. As for treatments, besides using herbals, animals, and minerals, other therapies such as puncture and bloodletting are also used. Embryology is an important part of Tibetan iatrology. As early as the 7th century, Tibetan doctors had begun to study embryology (the growth of a baby in its first several weeks), and recorded human embryo growth. Their study in the growth of the human body predated foreign ones in many respects. Four Medical Works The major Tibetan medical works are Ju Xi (The Four Medical Works). The existing versions are not the original ones. The work covers an abundant array of contents, including the classification of diseases, physiology (the study of living things and their functioning parts), diagnosis and therapy, and prescriptions. Many countries and areas in the world are studying Tibetan iatrology. The former Soviet Union Artists Publishing House published the Picture Album of Tibetan Medicines and regarded the book and The Four Medical Works as the most unique Tibetan medical works in the world. = Mongolian Ethnic Minority Mongolian Iatrology Based on traditional medical experiences gathered by the Mongolian people in fighting against diseases and under the influence and direction of simple materialism and dialectic, Mongolian iatrology absorbed parts of basic Tibetan and Indian medical theories as well as the Han iatrological knowledge and came to form its own unique iatrology. Mongolian iatrology treats the human body as an organic whole and studies the internal body connection macroscopically, therefore clarifying the basic rule of life function. In clinic, it mainly diagnoses the patient via the methods of comprehension, analysis, and judgment. The remarkable characteristics of Mongolian iatrology are that it is a macrocosm directed by Yin and Yang (opposite principles or forces existing in nature and human affairs), the five-element philosophy, and the dialectical treatment for six causes of diseases. Mongolian iatrology points out definitely that the disease itself is the intrinsic factor and the pathogenesis (the disease's development) is the exogenous factor. The basic reason of pathogenesis is that when the intrinsic factor loses its balance, the disease occurs. Intrinsic factor is not only the energy and material base for life functions but also the underlying factor for all diseases. Mongolian iatrology suggests that life is a comprehensive complex action process. Each part of the inner digestive system and the sensory organs will affect other parts or even the whole, causing unbalance, function obstruction, and a series of symptoms as results. Therefore, in the process of diagnosis and treatment, to analyze all parts dialectically instead of focusing on the appearance is the only way to achieve an appropriate result. Mongolian Medicine There are a large variety of medicines and abundant medicine resources, with most of the medicines being herbs. According to an account of documents, there are 2,351 kinds of seed plants and pteridophytes (flower plants) in Inner Mongolia of North China. There are over 450 kinds of medicinal herbs commonly in use, of which Mongolian doctors specially use 260 kinds. For instance, Guangzao (Fructus Choerospondiatis) is used to cure palpitation and angina pectoris (chest pain). Shaji (Hippophae rhamnoides L) is used to reduce phlegm, relieve cough, eliminate stasis (stoppage of any bodily fluid), and improve blood circulation. Modern scientific researches have proved the two medicines' reliable effectiveness. = Uygur Iatrology The Uygur iatrology and medicine account for a rather large proportion of TCM. Till now, the medicines included in the national pharmacopoeia have amounted to 202 kinds, including 115 medicinal materials and 87 preparations. Compared with other national medicines such as TCM and Tibetan iatrology, Uygur iatrology has its special conception. It is made up of body fluid, temperament, and organ theories. Its therapy and medicine have special effect on tumor prevention, heart and blood disease, dermatitis (skin inflammation), and diabetes. Uygur iatrology has a traditional special therapy conception and hereditary secret formula. By integrating these two components with research on modern physical conception, this particular iatrology has developed Compound Musk Oral Liquid, Xiangfei Cardiac Stimulant, and 13 types, as well as 147 species national drugs for vitiligo (a skin disorder) and diabetes. Some of the medicines have been launched in markets of the United States, Japan and Singapore. In Northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Automonous Region, one of the four long-life areas worldwide, the Uygur medicines are well known. As a special part of Chinese medicines born in jokuls (snow- or ice-covered snow mountains), deserts, prairies, and oases, Uygur medicine brings hope for more and more people. = Zhuang Ethnic Minority According to the statistics from 1983 to 1987, the herbal medicines in the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region (South China) alone amount to 4,623 kinds, of which 4,064 kinds are plant herbs, 509 kinds are animal medicines, and 50 are mineral medicines, ranking second in China. Medicines commonly used by the Zhuang doctors are as many as 709 kinds. The wide application of poisonous and alexipharmic (antidote to poison) herbs is an important character of and a prominent contribution to Zhuang iatrology. The Zhuang medicine resources such as Grosvenor momordica, cinnamon, aniseed, and honeysuckle have good prospects of development. In addition, specialists have paid great attention to the development and comprehensive use of pseudo-ginseng. Some Chinese patent medicines, such as medicine for setting bones, Yunxiangjing, and pills for traumatic injuries, have formed a certain production scale in Guangxi Zhuang. They are mostly developed based on the Zhuang prescriptions or other folk secret recipes. = IDiagnosing Methods of Chinese Medicine In Chinese medicine, doctors use various methods to get full and detailed information about the patients and to guide their treatment, via observing, listening, smelling, and touching. They also talk to the patients or their relatives. To treat diseases, doctors use the methods of observation, auscultation and olfaction, interrogation, and pulse feeling and palpation. These methods, known as the four major methods, each have their distinctive function and doctors can make a correct analysis of diseases by applying all of them. Observation It is believed that people's outer appearance is closely linked with their internal organs. If there is something wrong with the internal organs, such changes will be reflected in people's expressions and appearance. Therefore, doctors can analyze the changes of internal organs by observing the outer appearance. Auscultation and Olfaction By the methods of auscultation and olfaction, doctors try to diagnose diseases by listening to the sound of the patients and smelling the odor of excreta released by the human body. By listening to the sound of the patients, doctors cannot only detect the changes of the organs related with sound, but also changes of the other internal organs. The sounds include: speech sound, breathing, coughing, hawking (clearing the throat noisily), and belching. Also, doctors can smell the odor released by patients. It is believed that when viruses attack the human body, people's internal organs and blood will be affected, thus making their body fluid and excreta release a bad smell. Interrogation By interrogation, doctor will talk to the patients or someone who knows about the disease (to get the information about how the disease occurs, how it develops, its current symptoms, and how it is treated). This method is useful when there are no obvious symptoms from the patients' outer appearance. In this case, interrogation will help the doctors to get the information they need. Also, by interrogating, doctors can obtain other indirect information related with the disease, such as the patients' daily life, working environment, food preference, and marital status. Pulse Feeling and Palpation Doctors use the method of pulse feeling and palpation by touching or pressing the patient's pulse. It is believed that changes inside the body are reflected by the changes of the pulse activity. Sometimes doctors press the skin of a certain part of the body to identify the nature and the severity of the disease inside the body part. = Acupuncture Acupuncture is an important part of Chinese medicine. It was initially invented as a medical treatment technique and gradually became a science. The science of acupuncture aims to record its technique, clinic regulation, and basic theory. Acupuncture has a long history. In ancient books, the tool for acupuncture was recorded as being made of stone. Such tool appeared between 4,000 to 8,000 years ago, which was the later part of the clan society, according to archeological excavation. In the Spring and Autumn Period (770-446BC), medicine shifted away from sorcery and some doctors arose. In the book, Chun Qiu Zuo Shi Zhuan, Doctor Yi Huan mentioned about acupuncture and moxibustion (ancient form of heat therapy) when treating Duke Jing of a disease. From the Warring States Period to the Western Han Dynasty (475BC-24AD), there were more and more needles made of metal with the development of the iron-smelting technique at that time. Needles made of metal could reach the parts of the body which the needles made of stone could not, thus further improving acupuncture. In the Eastern Han Dynasty and the Three Kingdoms Period (25-280), there appeared many doctors good at acupuncture. Zhen Jiu Jia Yi Jing, written by Huang Pu Mi, was the first book to discuss acupuncture systematically. More and more books on acupuncture were written in the Jin and the Northern and Southern dynasties (265-589), when acupuncture was introduced to Korea and Japan. In the Sui and Tang period (581-907), acupuncture became a specialized subject. In the medical educational institutions, it was set up as a major. In the 16th century, during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), acupuncture was introduced to Europe, yet it experienced a setback in the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911) when it was not highly regarded. After the establishment of the People's Republic of China in 1949, acupuncture has seen great progress. Currently, acupuncture sections were set up in all Chinese Medicine hospitals, which now number 2,000 all over China. It now can be applied to different systems inside the human body. In addition, much valuable information have been obtained in the study of acupuncture, in its regulative function, in easing pain, in developing the immunity system, and in the study of human channels, acupuncture points, and internal organs. = Acupuncture Gua sha is a traditional ancient Chinese healing technique used by practitioners of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) dating back to over two thousands years and involves firmly rubbing a person's skin with a ceramic soupspoon or large coin. The goal is to relieve stagnation, or in other words, to clear some illness from the body via movement. For example, the skin of the upper back, neck, and chest may be rubbed. Gua sha is used commonly on respiratory illnesses. TCM Theory Gua sha releases the exterior Sha syndrome by moving body fluids and blood, stimulating blood flow and helping to discharge coldness and negative energy through the skin. The skin will feel warm and red marks are often seen after a Gua sha treatment. This redness or purplish hue to the skin is trapped or congealed blood that is not circulating properly in the body. Left untreated, this can create major problems in not just the muscles but also in the internal organs as well. The muscles deeply under the superficial fascia (thin, connective tissues) and the organs deeply under the muscles are also affected. This new circulation of blood immediately relieves any pain, spasm, or tightness in the muscles, while the increased circulation of energy, blood, and fluids likewise revitalizes the organs. Operation Before the process, the skin is daubed with oil. Then the skin is scraped with something that has smooth edges. Coins and porcelain spoons are widely used and special scraping equipments are also available in TCM shops. The skin is always scraped in the same direction until the skin is red and purple marks appear. The intensity, speed, duration, depth of the action, and the location of scrape, all directly impact the curative effects. = Massage Massage (tui na in Chinese) means to manipulate the channels of the human body, thus preventing disease and maintaining health. Guided by Chinese medicine theory and dialectical principles, a massage is able to cure diseases without the need to take pills or herbal medicine. It is easy to perform and does not have side effects. It can be applied to cure many diseases. Yet people most often use massage to cure diseases of the cervical vertebra, and injuries such as psoatic (loin muscle) strain, herniated disc, and soft tissue damage. Standard manipulation and special skills are needed to do a massage. The strength used should be persistent, strong, well distributed, mild, deep, and thorough. The hand is most often used for a massage but the foot, a forearm elbow, and special tools can also be used. Sometimes doctors apply some substances on the body, such as ointment, milk-like liquid, wintergreen, safflower oil, sesame oil, talcum powder, or other lubrication oils. The ways to do a massage vary, such as pulling, pushing, finger pushing, rubbing, knocking, and so on. People can massage themselves or have others massage them. Passive massage, including child, bone, and Qi Gong massages, are for treating disease. Self-massages are for keeping healthy, and include massages such as eye massage, arms and legs massages, massage for stomach health, and massage for soothing the nerves. = Cupping Cupping is a TCM therapy involving the placement of glass, plastic, or bamboo cups on the skin with a vacuum. The therapy is used to relieve what is called "stagnation" in TCM terms, and is used in the treatment of respiratory diseases such as the common cold, pneumonia, and bronchitis. Cupping is also used to treat back, neck, shoulder, and other musculoskeletal pain. Its advocates claim it has other applications as well. = Forensic Medicine Works The first monographic work on forensic medicine in the world is Xiyuan Jilu (Collected Writings on the Washing Away of Wrongs), written by Song Ci of the Southern Song Dynasty (1127-1279). It was written in 1247, and is the earliest systematic book on judicial examination in the world. Later, it was spread abroad, and was translated into English, French, Dutch, German, Korean, Japanese, and Russian as well as other languages. Chinese forensic medicine has a very long history, with examination by forensic physicians having been practiced from long ago. When Cai Yong of the Han Dynasty (206BC-220AD) explained the book Li Ji, Yueling, he defined the following terms related to injury: Injury of the skin is called shang, injury of the flesh (involving bleeding) is called chuang, and injury of the bones and muscles is called zhe. However, before the Song Dynasty (960-1279), there was no monograph especially for forensic physicians. Song Ci was born into a bureaucratic family in Jianyang of East China's Fujian Province, and he worked as a senior judge in criminal court four times. After years of practice, he accumulated a lot of experience in administrative justice; hence based on his experience and with reference to a great amount of related data, he wrote this book. The major contents of the book include: laws on autopsy in the Song Dynasty; methods and caution of autopsy; postmortem phenomena; different kinds of death caused by mechanical asphyxia (suffocation); different kinds of blunt and sharp instrument injuries; traffic accidents in ancient times; death caused by high temperature; poisoning; death from illness; sudden death; corpse exhumation; and so on. All these contents cover the most the central aspects of forensic pathology. The major achievements include the following: the appearance and distribution of cadaveric (corpse) spasm (instant stiffening of the body); the signs of corruption and the influencing conditions; the relationship between postmortem phenomena (body after death) and postmortem interval (time after death); discovery of postmortem delivery; classification of the ropes for hanging; the characteristics and influencing conditions of the ligature mark of hanging (marks form hanging); and the characteristics of strangulation and its distinction with suicidal hanging. Other major achievements are: findings in the corpses of drowning and in deaths caused by pressing and stuffing the mouth and the nose with other objects; findings in rose teeth related to suffocation; identification of blood clots before and after death; features of different kinds of knife wounds; injury before death and postmortem injury; the difference between suicide and homicide; determination of a fatal trauma; methods of on-the-spot investigation of different kinds of death; and so on. The book gives a systematic summary of the experience in corpse appearance examination in forensic medicine before the Song Dynasty, becoming the first book to offer systematic guidance on corpse appearance examination. It has made a great contribution to the development of forensic medicine in the world. The book is a representative work on ancient forensic medicine. After Xiyuan Jilu, there were dozens of books published in succession on forensic medicine, such as Pingyuan Lu, Wuyuan Lu, Xiyuan Jielu, Xiyuan Falu, and Xiyuan Lu proofread by Luli Guan (Publishing House). But none of the books deviated from Xiyuan Jilu in central contents. Hence, this book is the ancestor of all the other books of the same kind in later generations, marking an epoch in the development of forensic medicine in China. The book was not only the guiding book for postmortem examination in ancient forensic medicine in China, but was also spread to Korea, Japan, Vietnam, and other countries. By the end of the 19th century, it was the basis for postmortem examination in those countries. As the representative work of Asian ancient forensic medicine, it contributed greatly to the cultural exchange between China and other countries. = The Earliest Gymnastical Painting In ancient times, Chinese people had already started to cure arthrosis (joint disease) with dance or movement. In the Spring and Autumn Period (770-476BC), people gradually summarized dao yin shu (medical gymnastics), tu na shu (breathing techniques), and other physical activities to prevent and cure the disease of people. In 1974, at the Ma-Wang-Dui Tombs in Changsha of Central China's Hunan Province, China's archaeologists found a dao yin picture. It was China's earliest extant painting of healthy movement, created at the end of 3th century BC. The picture shows more than 40 gymnastic movements, which include four aspects in medical gymnastics: breathing movement, body movement, instrumental movement, and the relationship between medical gymnastics and arthrosis curing. = The First Anesthetic in the World -- Ma fei san Ma fei san is the first anesthetic in the world and was invented by Hua Tuo, an outstanding doctor, in the 2nd century. Although Hua Tuo's ancient prescriptions are lost; the ingredients are thought to have included include cannabis and datura (a hallucinogenic plant), which later was recorded as an anesthetic during the Song Dynasty. Specific cases of abdominal operations were relayed in Hua Tuo's official biography: A patient who suffered from abdominal pain for more than 10 days and had depilation (hair loss) of his beard and eyebrows asked Hua Tuo for treatment. The doctor diagnosed him as having deterioration in the abdomen, asked him to drink the ma fei san, and then cut open and explored his abdomen. The doctor removed the deteriorated part, sutured and plastered the abdomen, and administered some herbs. The patient recovered after 100 days. This story is believed to be a treatment of acute appendicitis. According to a historical book, Hua Tuo "would cut them out, wash them, sew up the abdomen, and rub on an ointment; the illness would remit in four to five days." There is also the story of general Guan Yu, whose arm was pierced by a poisoned arrow during a battle. Hua Tuo advised Guan to drink ma fei san and undergo surgery. However, General Guan refused. At last he calmly sat playing a board game as he allowed Hua Tuo to clean his flesh down to the bone to remove necrosis (dead tissue), with a little anesthetic. Finally Hua Tuo saved Guan's arm and life. = The First Systematic Classic of Acupuncture and Moxibustion Written by Huang Fumi (215-282), The Systematic Classic of Acupuncture and Moxibustion consists of 12 volumes and 128 chapters and is the earliest extant classic on acupuncture and moxibustion (a form of heat therapy) in China. It summarizes information on the channels and collaterals (the channels' branches), acupuncture points, needle manipulation, and contraindication (effect). It lists the total number of the acupuncture points as 349, and discusses the therapeutic properties of each point. This book has exerted a great influence upon the medicine of acupuncture and moxibustion all over the world. In the 5th century it spread to Japan and South Korea and was stipulated by the Japanese authorities as early as 701. The Systematic Classic of Acupuncture and Moxibustion promoted the development of acupuncture and moxibustion, and became a model for later acupuncture and moxibustion works. = The first pharmacopoeia -- Xinxiu Bencao Xinxiu Bencao (Newly Revised Canon of Materia Medica) is the first pharmacopoeia (a book listing drugs and their directions for their uses) published by the Chinese government and is widely considered as the "first pharmacopoeia in the world." Twenty-three people headed by Su Jing of the Tang Dynasty (618-907) compiled the book in 659. The Newly Revised Canon of Materia Medica is also called Tang Bencao (Tang Materia Medica) or Yinggong Bencao. In the second year of the reign of Emperor Xianqing of the Tang Dynasty (657), Su Jing presented a petition to the emperor to compile a pharmacopoeia. Then, the Tang government issued a decree to let 23 experts led by Su Jing to compose the works. They completed the task on January 17 of the fourth year of Emperor Xianqing's reign (659). The book is in 54 volumes, divided into three parts. The "Main Body," namely the commonly called Newly Revised Canon of Materia Medica, contains 20 volumes, with one volume being the table of contents; and 25 volumes for pictures of medicines, with one volume also being the table of contents. In addition, there are 7 volumes of the third part -- "Illustrated Description." After the book's publication, the Tang government made it issued throughout the country as the basis for medical application, which lasted for more than 400 years. The text part of the Newly Revised Canon of Materia Medica contains the preface and the introduction of 850 kinds of medicine, with 114 new kinds in comparison with "Notes to Bencao Jing by Tao Hongjing." By supplementing, correcting, and revising the contents of earlier works, it has a high academic value. Newly Revised Canon of Materia Medica sums up the pharmacological achievements before the Tang Dynasty, and not only has more categories and quantity of medicines, but also included a lot of folk knowledge on pharmacy. At that time, the book's accuracy and authenticity were beyond comparison with any other books of the same kind. With its rich textual research on medicines and pharmacy knowledge, the book won the respect from the medical circle both home and abroad, and exerted a deep influence on the pharmacology development of later generations. = TCM in Asia Singapore By the 19th century, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) had spread to Singapore along with the inflow of Chinese people and became an important medical system there. In the last 20 years, Chinese medicine has become an essential factor in Singapore's various medical care enterprises. At present, there are more than 30 TCM treatment organizations and 1,000 TCM clinics. Malaysia Among Malaysian medicine shops, about 3,000 of them sell Chinese medicine and most of them are inherited pharmacies. Although the Malaysian Medical Ministry has been supportive of the development of TCM, the registration for Chinese medicine doctor still has not been formed; in other words, people in Malaysia can practice medicine without being registered. Thailand The Thai Government has admitted TCM's legal status. Only the doctor who passes a test could get the provisional charter. As early as 1987, the government passed a proposal for Chinese medicine. There are more than 800 Chinese medicine stores, most of them having doctors for customers to consult. Vietnam Since from very early on, Vietnam has allowed Chinese medicine to operate alongside Western medicine. There are nearly 200 big-scale pharmacies in the country. At present, 16 of China's drug enterprise has obtained license to produce and sell medicine in Vietnam. Japan Since the 1980s, along with the quick development of Chinese medicine, the Japanese Government has given more and more support and attention to the study of TCM's application and research. According to statistics, at present about 15,000 Japanese are engaged in Chinese medicine, approximately 100,000 are engaged in acupuncture and massage, and nearly 30,000 researchers in the study of TCM. Moreover, Japan has more than 10 Chinese medicine study institutions, with the drug departments of 44 public or private medical colleges having established herb branch. = TCM in Europe England England, as the center of the Renaissance (14th-16th century), was one of the original places of modern medicine. Due to having a higher level in modern civilization and scientific technology, England has been prudent in introducing external culture and science as well as technology. However, under the influence of returning to nature, in the last ten years, Chinese medicine has developed rapidly in England, making the European country become the third herbal medicine market of the European Community. Chinese medicine spread in England in the 16th century and was accepted until the 17th century. In recent years, Chinese medicine, due to its remarkable effects, has obtained more and more recognition both from the government and the society. In England, Chinese medicine also receivec royal trust. Whenever Queen Elizabeth II goes to travel, she always takes Chinese medicine. At present, an estimated 2.5 million English spend 90 million pounds (US$158 million) on therapies by TCM, such as acupuncture, massage, and herbal medicine every year. There are more than 350 Chinese medicine pharmacies, and 60 percent of Chinese medicines are imported from China. Germany Because classical medicine has limitations in many chronic and difficult illnesses and may generate grave side effects, more and more German patients have come to choose Chinese medicine clinics in recent years. Statistics of German TCM institutions show that Germany has 50, 000 doctors who treat patients with Chinese medicine, accounting for one-sixth of the total in the country, and more than 2 million patients see Chinese medicine doctors every year. However, although millions of Germans favor the traditional medicine from China and TCM has been proved effective in treating many chronic and difficult illnesses, government authorities and national health care insurance funds are still reluctant to give TCM a parallel status with classical medicine; hence TCM is basically excluded from Germany's health care insurance = Other Places Australia At least 2.8 million Australians go to Chinese medicine clinics every year. With the widespread application of Chinese medicine, the import of Chinese herbs has quadrupled since 1992, gradually becoming an important component of the Australian medicine market. In May 2000, the Victorian Parliament passed the Chinese Medicine Registration Act, making Australia become the first country to grant Chinese medicines a legal status. Africa Since most African countries have backward health service, they are the rising market for Chinese herb. Since 1960, medical teams from China have aided many African countries, like Tanzanian, Zambian, Mozambique, Zaire, and Mali. They have introduced Chinese medicine and acupuncture to local people, building a stable foundation for TCM's development in Africa. In February 22, 2002, the South African government passed legislation recognizing TCM, making it one of the first countries on the African continent to legalize TCM. Arab From the 1950s, Chinese medical teams for foreign aid have brought Chinese medicine to the Middle East. Currently, those medicines for health care, weight loss, and cosmetology are extremely popular. At present, among the 21 Arab countries, nearly all has opened Chinese medicine clinics and Chinese herb shops. In 1988, the United Arab Emirates established the Chinese Medicine Treatment Center, while Saudi Arabia, Oman, and Yemen discussed with China the prospect of introducing experts from China into the three Gulf countries. = TCM in America United States (America) In America, TCM, led by the widespread acceptance of acupuncture, has been or is being legally licensed in the majority of the states. As a result, TCM, including the increasing practice of traditional Chinese herbalism, is truly becoming an alternative holistic medical practice. At present there are more than 20 acupuncture medical centers in the whole country. At the same time, along with the Chinese medicine and acupuncture's development in America, the Chinese herb is also favored by Americans. Statistics shows that approximately 5 percent of all patients take natural medicine; among them, 80 percent take Chinese herbs in the course of treatment. Canada Most of the Chinese acupuncture services are carried by personal clinics in Canada. In recent years these services have developed quickly, with approximately 2,000 people engaged in Chinese acupuncture. The acupuncture clinics have spread throughout the whole country and are mostly set up by overseas Chinese. Although at present the therapy involving Chinese medicine and acupuncture cannot enjoy medical insurance coverage in Canada, still many patients go to Chinese medicine clinics to see doctors. = Books Beiji Qianjin Yaofang (Prescriptions Worth a Thousand Pieces of Gold for Emergencies), also called Qianjin Fang (Precious Prescriptions for Emergencies) or Qianjin Yaofang, was edited by Sun Simiao in the year 652. As Sun Simiao said, "Human life is of paramount importance,more precious than a thousand pieces of gold; to save it with one prescription is to show your great virtue", thus, "gold" is used in the name of the book. From the Tang Dynasty (618-907) to the modern time, Beiji Qianjin Yaofang has had more than 40 versions at home and abroad, which are roughly divided into two categories. The book is in 30 volumes. Volume 1 is the pandect of medical science, including medical ethics, materia medica, pharmacy and so on; Volume 2-4 are on gynecopathy; Volume 5 on pediatrics; Volume 6 on diseases of the seven orifices; Volume 7-8 on dermatophytosis of all kinds; Volume 9-10 on febrile diseases caused by cold; Volume 11-20 on viscera diseases; Volume 21 on diabetes and similar diseases; Volume 22 on skin and external diseases; Volume 23 on hemorrhoid; Volume 24 on disintoxicating and various treatments; Volume 25 on techniques for emergencies; Volume 26-27 on dietetic therapy and cultivation of mental poise; Volume 28 on normal pulse; and Volumes 29-30 on acupuncture and moxibustion. There are totally 233 categories, containing more than 5,300 articles. It has set up the format for compilation of prescriptions. The book gives a systematic summing-up of the accomplishments in medical science before the Tang Dynasty. Its sources are extensive,and its contents are rich, covering all clinical sectors and many aspects such as acupuncture and moxibustion, dietetic therapy, medicament, prevention, hygiene and so on. It contains both discussion and description, having both proved recipes and classical prescriptions. It is the first comprehensive monumental works of medical science in China, another summing-up of Chinese medicine after Treatise on Febrile Diseases Caused by Cold and Miscellaneous Diseases by Zhang Zhongjing, and is praised as the earliest encyclopedia of clinical medicine in the Chinese history. Prescriptions Worth a Thousand Pieces of Gold for Emergencies Complete Dictionary of Effective Prescriptions for Women Plain Questions: Yellow Emperors Internal Canon of Medicine Classic of the Miraculous Pivot Treasured Knowledge of Obstetrics The Pulse Classic Prescriptions of Universal Relief Shennong Emperor's Classic of Materia Medica Collected Writings on the Washing Away of Wrongs Newly Revised Canon of Materia Medica Prescriptions for Diseases |
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