History and Principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine (01:59)

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TCM seeks similitude in spirit, and understands the mind and body connection. Chinese physicians, like artists, seek to integrate the patient and their environment and see the big picture along with the symptoms.

Huang Di Nei Jing (02:25)

Shennong founded Chinese medicine in 2,700 B.C. The early medical writing "Yellow Emperor's Inner Canon" offers insights to physiology, pathology, diagnosis, and disease mechanics. It also demonstrates Chinese philosophy.

Chinese Philosophy (02:57)

Chinese medicine strives to maintain and mental and physical balance, and draws on natural harmony principles found in the I Ching. Disease results from disequilibrium with the natural environment, as well as pathogens.

Chinese vs. Western Medical Approach (01:21)

Chinese physicians assist the body restore its balance to heal itself. Taoists believe individuals should pursue mental tranquility and physical motion—the opposite of modern lifestyles.

Body as a Universal Microcosm (02:46)

The Chinese worldview is circular and self-contained; learn about the yin and yang theory. Yin and yang converge at the "Ren Zhong Que" accupoint between the nose and upper lip. Physician Bian Que used acupuncture to revive Prince Guo.

Influential Physicians (02:09)

Zhang Zhong Jing wrote "Discourse on Fevers and Miscellaneous Illness." TCM flowered during the two Han dynasties; Hua Tuo pioneered an anesthetic for surgery 1,600 years before modern medicine.

Confucian Influence (02:18)

Chinese medicine draws on principles of benevolence, mental calmness, and compassion. Free clinics are an integral part of Chinese society.

Great Pharmacopoeia (01:45)

Chinese medicine peaked in the 16th century when Li Shizhen compiled information on thousands of medicinal plants. Physician knowledge and skills are passed down over generations.

Alternative View on Medicine (02:10)

Ancient Chinese pictographs depict "yao," or medicine, with the same character as "yue," meaning music, and "le," meaning happiness. TCM continues to locate illness within a context of an individual's complete physical and physiological wellbeing.

Facilitating Self-Healing (02:12)

TCM addresses disease in a harmonious, non-violent way, rather than fighting pathogens as in Western medicine.

Credits: History and Principles of TCM (00:19)

Credits: History and Principles of TCM