TCM

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a complete medical system that has been used to diagnose, treat, and prevent illnesses for more than 2,000 years. It represents the highest level of human wisdom.

Yin, Yang

Yin and Yang are fundamental concepts in TCM that represent the dualistic nature of the universe. Yin is associated with qualities like darkness, cold, rest, and substance, while Yang is associated with qualities like light, heat, activity, and function. Health is believed to result from a balanced interaction between Yin and Yang.

Qi (Chi)

Qi is often translated as “vital energy” or “life force.” It is the fundamental energy that flows throughout the body, maintaining health and vitality. Balancing and harmonizing the flow of Qi is central to TCM.

Blood stasis (血瘀)

Invisible, different from WM concept. Read more:https://tcmdrma.com/q-how-to-understand-blood-stasis-in-tcm/

Water retention

It is different from edema in WM, invisible, but can cause a lot of health issues, such as cough, nausea, dizziness, etc. Read more: https://tcmdrma.com/what-is-water-retention-in-tcm/

Phlegm (痰, Tan)

In TCM, phlegm is not just the substance associated with respiratory congestion, but a broader concept. Phlegm refers to an accumulation of fluids that are not properly transformed and transported by the body’s organs. It can manifest as physical symptoms such as coughing, congestion, mental issues and a feeling of heaviness, etc.

Five Elements (五行，Wu Xing)

The Five Elements—Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water—are symbolic representations of natural phenomena and processes. Each element corresponds to certain organs, tissues, emotions, and qualities, and understanding their interactions helps diagnose and treat imbalances.

Organs and Zang-Fu Theory (heart, lung, spleen, liver, kidney etc)

TCM considers organs as more than just physical structures. Organs are classified into Zang (solid) and Fu (hollow) organs, and each has specific functions beyond their physiological roles. Imbalances in these organs are believed to contribute to disease.

Patterns of Disharmony

TCM diagnosis involves identifying patterns of disharmony or imbalance within the body. Practitioners analyze symptoms, pulse, tongue appearance, and other signs to determine the underlying pattern and address it accordingly, such as deficiency, excess, cold, heat, etc.

Holistic Approach

TCM views the body, mind, and spirit as a whole which interconnected and influenced by the environment. Treatment addresses the whole person, not just isolated symptoms, nor WM disease names.

Mind-Body Practices

TCM includes mind-body practices such as acupuncture, acupressure, Tai Chi, and Qigong. These practices aim to promote Qi flow, balance Yin and Yang, and enhance overall well-being.

Dietary Therapy

TCM emphasizes the importance of proper nutrition in maintaining health. Foods are classified based on their energetic properties and effects on the body, and dietary adjustments are recommended to address imbalances.

Herbal Medicine

TCM utilizes a wide variety of herbs and natural substances to restore balance and promote health. Herbal formulas are tailored to individual patterns of disharmony.

Meridians and Acupuncture Points

TCM identifies a network of meridians (energy pathways) through which Qi flows. Acupuncture points along these meridians are stimulated to influence the flow of Qi and restore balance in the body. Acupoint self-massage is a very traditional and effective way of health care in China.

Kidney Yang Deficiency

A condition in TCM where the warming and energizing functions of the kidney are weakened. Common symptoms include fatigue, cold limbs, lower back pain, and frequent urination, particularly at night.

Kidney Yin Deficiency

This refers to a deficiency of the cooling and nourishing aspect of the kidney. Symptoms include night sweats, tinnitus, dry mouth, lower back pain, and a feeling of heat, especially in the palms, soles, and chest.

Spleen Deficiency

A weakened spleen function in TCM, leading to poor digestion, fatigue, bloating, loose stools, and a tendency to gain weight or retain fluids.

Cold

A TCM concept referring to an internal or external condition characterized by stagnation, pain, and symptoms like cold sensations, pale complexion, and preference for warmth.

Heat

Represents an excess or imbalance of heat in the body, often resulting in symptoms such as fever, redness, thirst, irritability, and a rapid pulse.

Dampness

A TCM term for pathological fluid accumulation that can cause symptoms like heaviness, sluggishness, bloating, and swelling, often aggravated by humid environments.

Liver Qi Stagnation

A disruption in the free flow of Liver Qi, causing symptoms like emotional distress, hypochondriac pain, bloating, and irregular menstruation.

Liver Deficiency

A condition in TCM where the liver is unable to nourish the body adequately, leading to symptoms like blurred vision, dry eyes, muscle weakness, and brittle nails.

Liver Qi Stagnation Transforming into Fire

When stagnant Liver Qi generates excessive heat, leading to symptoms like irritability, headaches, red eyes, dry mouth, and a bitter taste.

Food Stagnation

A condition in TCM where undigested food accumulates in the stomach, causing symptoms like bloating, abdominal discomfort, acid reflux, and foul-smelling breath.

Disharmony Between Heart and Kidney

A TCM pattern where the heart and kidney fail to balance each other, resulting in symptoms like insomnia, palpitations, anxiety, night sweats, and a red tongue with little coating.