The Many Benefits of Chinese Medicine
Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has been practiced in China for more than 5,000 years. With its emphasis on health and harmony, it has been a valued system of medicine for the Chinese people, especially in the past few decades. There has been a great deal of medical research into Chinese medicine in recent years, and more and more people are turning to it as a form of treatment.
In this article, we’ll discuss the pros and cons of Chinese medicine, describe its various types, and explain why certain remedies may be especially useful for some people.
What is Traditional Chinese Medicine?
Traditional Chinese medicine, or TCM, is a system of healing practices that developed over thousands of years in China. It’s based on the idea that health and disease begin with imbalances in the body’s energy system, known as “qi” in TCM.
Ayurveda, an ancient branch of Indian medicine, is one of the main influences on TCM. Others include traditional Chinese herbal medicine, homeopathy, and Chinese animal medicine, which involves diagnosing and “treating” conditions by treating the animal itself.
In its most basic form, TCM is a form of natural therapy. It relies on the body’s ability to heal itself, rather than using chemicals or other artificial methods to treat disease. Traditionally, TCM has been used to treat both acute and chronic conditions, as well as to promote overall health and prevent illness.
How Does Chinese Medicine Work?
Herbal remedies are used as part of Chinese medicine. They’re thought to trigger the body’s own healing response, which is called “qi.” Herbs have extensive histories that have been passed down thousands of years, and most have been used to treat specific ailments.
What’s interesting is that herbs that work well for one person may not work for another. This is because the body’s constitution is thought to be very important in Chinese medicine, and every person’s “qi” is different.
Of course, there are many herbs that are safe for use during pregnancy. These herbs may work well for a pregnant person because their “qi” needs to be strengthened.
Chinese Herbs
Chinese herbs are often highly concentrated, making them easy to take in many different forms—smoothies, teas, capsules, tinctures, and much more.
Herbs can be used together to make a formula, which is called a “tang.” A Chinese herbal medicine formula is often created to be taken as long term treatment.
Chinese herbs are generally safe to use during pregnancy, although there are some that should be avoided.
Chinese herbs are often used to treat acute conditions such as colds, flus, and infections. They may also be used to treat chronic conditions, such as diabetes, allergies, and high blood pressure.
TCM and Pregnancy
During pregnancy, you and your practitioner will decide which herbs are best for you. It’s important to remember that herbs should be taken according to the prescribed dosage, and they shouldn’t be taken for longer than the recommended time.
Most herbs during pregnancy are considered safe and don’t have any known side effects. However, there are some herbs that may have a negative effect on the developing baby.
To minimize any risk, pregnant women should avoid use of any herb that’s high in polyphenol, such as grapefruit or apples.
That said, there are many safe herbs that can be used while pregnant.
Chinese herbs that may be useful during pregnancy include:
- Arnica: Arnica is used to treat pain and swelling during pregnancy, as well as morning sickness.
- Peppermint: Peppermint is useful for treating nausea and vomiting, which are common during pregnancy.
- Cinnamon: Cinnamon is a powerful anti-inflammatory and is useful for treating nausea and vomiting.
- Ginger: Ginger is used to treat nausea and vomiting during pregnancy, as well as morning sickness.
TCM and Chronic Conditions
Rehabilitation programs, diet and nutrition, and exercise are often used to treat chronic conditions, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and arthritis. TCM is often combined with these programs to enhance the benefits of each.
Chinese herbs are a common addition to these therapies. Some herbs may have beneficial effects on the body’s metabolism, helping the body to better process food and insulin.
Other herbs may have anti-inflammatory properties and help relieve pain. This may help with conditions such as arthritis.
Herbs that may be particularly useful for treating chronic conditions include:
- Ginseng: Ginseng has long been used to treat conditions such as fatigue and low energy. It’s also useful for treating chronic conditions such as diabetes and hypertension.
- Ashwagandha: Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb that helps the body to better adapt to stress. This may be especially useful for people with chronic conditions, as it helps the body to overcome any imbalances that may exist.
- Cordyceps: Cordyceps has been used for thousands of years to treat low blood sugar and to maintain healthy blood sugar levels. It’s also useful for treating diabetes.
TCM and Sports
For many athletes, the focus is on improving performance. Strategies for this include building strength, endurance, and flexibility.
Herbal remedies can be used to promote general health and prevent illness. They can also be used to treat injuries, unhealthy habits, and stress.
Examples of herbs that may be especially useful for people who participate in sports include:
- Ginseng: Ginseng has been shown to improve endurance and stamina in athletes. It can also help to build strength and flexibility.
- Coconut: Coconut has antimicrobial properties that can help prevent infections and build immunity.
- Ginkgo: Ginkgo is a powerful antioxidant that can help prevent toxins from building up in the body during exercise.
How to buy TCM
If you’re hoping to purchase TCM while traveling, it’s recommended that you look for TCM shops near your accommodation. Before your trip. make sure you have access to local payment system and have some handy app such as a VPN for China ready during your trip.
TCM is also widely available in most major airports throughout China, so you don’t necessarily have to carry it with you throughout your journey.
China’s online TCM shopping platforms have made it incredibly easy to shop for TCM while on the go. Many offer English search functions and delivery options, so you don’t even have to step foot in a physical TCM shop to buy products.
There’s no shortage of TCM products being imported from Asia to the U.S., so you can also purchase TCM supplements and other products from Amazon, ebay, or other online retailers and have them shipped directly to your door.
Summary
Chinese medicine has many benefits, including being effective for treating a variety of conditions and promoting overall health. Herbs can also be taken safely during pregnancy, which gives them particular benefits for women.
There are many different types of Chinese medicine, so it’s important to choose the one that’s right for you. It’s also important to remember that traditional Chinese medicine takes time and dedication, so be prepared to commit to it.
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