New Exploration and Understanding of Traditional Chinese Medicine

Abstract

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), originating from oriental philosophy and culture, has been developing through a series of special research and experiments with meditation, accumulation of experiences, and a complete comprehension of ancient theories and methods. However, compared with Conventional Western Medicine (CWM), the theory of TCM is complicated and not easily accepted by Westerners. It is important to explore TCM by using modern scientific techniques and theories. Utilizing his frontier experience and up-to-date scientific knowledge, Dr. Qian Xuesen has been trying to incorporate some key principles with the comprehensive understanding of TCM and clarify difficult but important concepts and principles. Some examples are the existence of invisible matter; 'Qi' and 'Qi monism'; the Heart representing the 'whole will' of human beings; the water environment functioning as a fundamental condition of life; the human body being united with nature and universe as one; the spirit and physical body always being considered unified and connected with the five viscera, especially with the Heart; and the Chinese herbal formula working with different principles than CWM drugs. These works are important for understanding the essence of TCM, the promoting of the modernization of TCM theories by means of the latest of achievements in scientific developments, establishing the direction for future medicines with TCM characteristics, uniting Chinese and Western medicines, and exploiting a bright future for the health of mankind.

Prospective randomized controlled study of a Chinese herbal medicine compound Tangzu Yuyang Ointment for chronic diabetic foot ulcers: A preliminary report

“…As a comprehensive ancient theory and method originated from oriental philosophy and culture, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), which combines medicinal herbs, acupuncture, food therapy, massage, and therapeutic exercise for both treatment and prevention of diseases, is considered a kind of complementary and alternative medicine in Western countries (Xutian et al, 2009). TCM is widely used for treatment of diabetes and its complications, including diabetic foot ulcers, and it has demonstrated good results (Liu et al, 2004;Ahn et al, 2007).…”

The Clinical Utility of the Concept of Jing in Chinese Reproductive Medicine

“…(Li 2005;Chao et al 2005) 184 (Tempest et al 2005;Farquhar 1987;Geng ÍÍA/. 2010;Xutian et al 2009) 10 (Heese 2006;Deadman 2008;Clavey 2003;Qian 1997) Wiseman and Feng 1998 'Essence fs jing: That which is responsible for growth, development, and reproduction, and determines the strength of the constitution, and is manifest physically in the male in the form of semen. Essence is composed of earlier heaven essence (congenital essence) which is inherited from the parents and constantly supplemented by later heaven essence (acquired essence) produced from food by tbe stomach and spleen.'…”

Cancer Chemoprevention by Natural Products: How Far Have We Come?

“…Ayurvedic literature called Charaka and Sushruta clearly describes the use of natural products in the management of "minor neoplasms" (Granthi) and "major neoplasms" (Arbuda), or benign and malignant tumors, respectively (11). In a similar fashion, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) represents another ancient culture which uses natural products and exercise to maintain health and prevent disease (12). As a last example, the Mayan civilization, known for their knowledge of astronomy and advanced calendar system, also developed an elaborated study of medicinal plants.…”