Therapies of Chinese medicine
Each technique explained with its traditional logic, what a session is like, its precautions and an honest reading of the scientific evidence.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine technique that involves inserting very fine needles into specific points on the body. Traditionally it is explained as a way of regulating the flow of Qi through the meridians; current research suggests modest benefits, mainly for some types of chronic pain and for nausea.
Therapies中药Chinese herbal medicine
Chinese herbal medicine is the use of plants, and to a lesser extent minerals and animal products, combined into formulas according to the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine. It is the most widely used TCM therapy in China; some substances have led to effective drugs, but it also poses real risks of toxicity, contamination and interactions.
Therapies艾灸Moxibustion
Moxibustion is a traditional Chinese medicine technique that applies heat to acupuncture points by burning moxa, a material made from dried mugwort leaves. Traditionally it is used to warm and tonify; the scientific evidence on its effectiveness is scarce and of limited quality.
Therapies拔罐Cupping
Cupping therapy consists of placing cups on the skin and creating a vacuum that draws up the tissues. In traditional Chinese medicine it is used to move Qi and Blood and relieve pain; the scientific evidence is limited and of low quality, although some studies suggest some relief of musculoskeletal pain.
Therapies推拿Tuina
Tuina is the therapeutic massage of traditional Chinese medicine: it combines pressing, kneading, rubbing and mobilizations on meridians and acupuncture points. It is one of the classical branches of TCM; the evidence suggests it may relieve some musculoskeletal pain in the short term, although the quality of the studies is limited.
Therapies刮痧Gua sha
Gua sha is a traditional Chinese medicine technique that consists of scraping lubricated skin with a smooth-edged tool until small reddish marks called sha appear. Traditionally it is used to move Qi and Blood and relieve muscle pain; the scientific evidence is scarce and comes from small studies.
Therapies气功 太极拳Qigong and tai chi
Qigong and tai chi are Chinese practices that combine slow movements, breathing and mental focus. Qigong is a set of health exercises and tai chi is a martial art practiced today mainly as gentle exercise. The evidence suggests benefits for balance and fall prevention in older adults and for general physical fitness.
Therapies食疗Chinese Dietary Therapy
Chinese dietary therapy is the branch of traditional Chinese medicine that uses food to maintain health and balance. It classifies each food by its nature, from cold to hot, and by its flavor, and recommends adapting them to the person and the season; these categories are traditional and have not been scientifically validated.
