How to Learn About Chinese Medicine

Chinese medicine uses herbs, massage and acupuncture to treat and prevent a wide range of physical maladies, from insomnia to chronic pain. Its medicinal treatments come form theories of bodily and spiritual harmony and were China's best kept secret for centuries. Now, traditional Chinese medicine is enjoying ever increasing visibility in the West as a viable alternative to Western treatments. Follow these steps to learn more about Chinese medicine.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Computer with Internet connection

Learn the Basics

1. Familiarize yourself with the Chinese cosmological theory of Yin and Yang. This basic theory forms the underbelly of Chinese medicine. An Internet search or a visit to your local library or New Age bookstore will yield a great deal of information.

2. Know that the so-called Five Elements in Chinese thought are wood, fire, earth, metal and water. Many Chinese medical treatments make use of the Five Elements to varying degrees.

3. Learn about the vital energy centers in the human body, known in Chinese medicine as the "Meridian System." Many Chinese medical techniques rely upon improving the flow of energy through these centers.

4. Read up on Zang Fu organ theory, which relates the function of the various human organs to the concept of Yin and Yang.

5. Understand that many Chinese medicine treatments are moderately priced, but may not be covered by your medical insurance.

Find Out More About Chinese Medicine

6. Know the difference between Chinese and Western diagnostic techniques. Chinese medicine relies upon different principles of observation, including hearing, smelling and touching the affected area.

7. Understand the basic treatment methods. Today, herbal treatments and acupuncture are the most visible, but massage, meditation and martial arts techniques are also used to treat illnesses and physical conditions.

8. Recognize that there are differing schools of thought beneath the umbrella term of "Chinese Medicine." The Wenbing and Jingfang schools are the most prominent in the modern West.

9. Learn more about the unique diagnostic tools, treatments and history of Chinese medicine at the Los Angeles Chinese Learning Center Web site (see Resources below).

Tips & Warnings

• Check with your regular physician before pursuing alternative treatment options. Under no circumstances should you ever self-diagnose and/or self-treat chronic or extreme illnesses.
• Before you start any alternative medical technique, be aware that many have not been scientifically evaluated. Often, only limited information is available about their safety and effectiveness. Each state and each discipline has its own rules about how alternative medicine practitioners can be professionally licensed. If you decide to visit one, choose one licensed by a recognized national organization. Consult your primary health care provider about your decision first. Keep your doctor informed about the alternative medical technique you undertake.

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