Traditional Chinese Medicine is an indispensable part of
the glorious culture of the Chinese nation.
Totally
different from the principles of western medicine, theories
of traditional Chinese medicine emphasize the balance of
the whole body. In the treatment process, the diagnostic
procedure involves four steps: observing, listening and
smelling, inquiring, and palpating. Among them, palpating
is the most important. Other methods of treatment include
acupuncture and moxibustion, breathing therapy(Qigong),
and medical massage.The enormous size of a Chinese pharmacy
is overwhelming, and the selection of its remedies may include
odd things like dried monkeys, toads, tortoises, and centipedes
to mention a few.
The development of traditional Chinese medicine spans several
thousands of years and is chronicled in many important books.
The Yellow Emperor's Canon of Interior Medicine, Shen Nong's
Canon of Herbs, the Compendium of Materia Medica are some
of the more influential medical books.
With
its unique theoretical framework, diagnostic methods and
abundant historical literature, it stands as an integral
part of the medical sciences of the world. Nowadays, traditional
Chinese medicine is regaining its importance. Both western
medical care and traditional Chinese medicial practice exist
in China, although the Western medical system seems to be
dominant. Large public hospitals in cities across the country
offer both traditional Chinese and Western approaches to
medical treatment. Those whose problems are not too serious
or urgent, are more likely to see a traditional doctor,
who can better restore harmony to their body.
Great importance has been attached to traditional Chinese
medicine since the founding of the People's Republic of
China. The Party and the People's government have formulated
a series of guiding principles and policies to support and
promote development of Traditional Chinese Medicine.
The ongoing effort to promote and further develop Traditional
Chinese Medicine will surely continue to make remarkable
contributions to the common wealth of the nation as well
as the whole of mankind.
