Theory behind Chinese Medicine

The practice of traditional Chinese medicine started as early as 1200 BC and it has been influenced by Taoism, Buddhism and neo-Confucianism as seen in ancient writings. Though there may be some differences on the foundational principles of Chinese medicine for every school of thought or religion.
Additionally, similar to other disciplines, Chinese medicine, explains information on the basis of inductive and synthetic cognition. To further simulate this, experts of Chinese medicine always look for a rational relationship between two effective positions occurring at the same time but in dissimilar locations. The other side of the coin is causality where the logical link between two effective positions at different times in the same place in space. In short, if something happens in separate areas yet simultaneously in time they are mutually inductive.Traditional Chinese medicine continues to operate under these theories. However, present-day Western medicine has persisted in the habit of making causal connections first and finding inductive links later. The difference in the way in which medicine is approached is considered the biggest obstacle to an appreciation of science and medicine by either side.Another base of philosophical concept in traditional Chinese medicine is that it posits that the human body is in itself a small universe where a complete system works interdependently. Meaning, each of these systems mustwork efficiently and effectively in order to maintain homeostasis or balance which consequently promotes health or wellbeing. The Chinese call this balance of yin and yang to be in respect to qi. Qi is the breath or life force of the human body.Moreover, it also postulates a very unique model of the human body. The model outlines the human body with Meridian systems which divide the physical body into functions. Chinese medicine looks deeper on the functions played by the different parts of the body as compared with western anatomical model which is more concerned with the parts itself. Thus,While Western anatomical model looks at parts of the body, Chinese medicine is more concerned with function. Thus, the spleen is not just a piece of tissue which filters the blood but rather related to transportation within the body and of mental functioning.Some of the more common theory is used to describe the human body and its function in Chinese medicine are channels, Qi, Wu Xing, three jiaos, Yin and Yang and Zang and Fu. A discussion of the differences between these theories is well beyond the scope of our discussion here. Suffice it to say they are several different theories which are responsible for the treatment recommendations and protocols which traditional Chinese medicine specialists use in their practices.Interestingly, there are also separate models that are used to apply to specific pathological influences on the body. So, not only are theories responsible for the differences in treatment protocols but also has an influence on the way in which pathological changes to the body are interpreted.

Coming out of these specific series of medicine, Chinese practitioners have introduced acupuncture, acupressure and the use of herbal medications into the Western world. With the push towards greater prevention and alternative health care practices, these alternative methods have been well received in based on the hundreds of years of successful use.

RESOURCES

Traditional Chinese Medicine Basics: The Five Elements Theory

National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine: Traditional Chinese Medicine

The Journal of Chinese Medicine: Osteoarthritis and Chinese Medicine

Edinburgh Natural Health Centre: The Theory of Chinese Medicine

Science Based Medicine: What is Traditional Chinese medicine

China.Org.CN: Philosophical Basis of Traditional Chinese Medicine