Category: Blog
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Chai Hu Shu Gan San
Introduction In the ancient world of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), herbal remedies have been employed for centuries to address a wide range of health imbalances. Among these time-honored formulas is Chai Hu Shu Gan San, a medicinal blend cherished for its ability to restore harmony between the mind and body. In this article, we delve…
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Tongue Diagnosis in Chinese Medicine
One of the surprising and exotic things about Chinese Medicine is the practice of looking at the patient’s tongue in order to get general information about the body’s overall condition. I usually explain each patient’s tongue to them, time permitting, but since I refer to it so often on my website, I think it’s about…
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What is Qi?
Exploring Qi: The Vital Energy of Traditional Chinese Culture Understanding Qi Qi, pronounced as “chee,” can be translated as “vital energy,” “life force,” or “breath.” It forms a cornerstone of East Asian cultures, including Chinese, Japanese, Korean, and Vietnamese traditions. While Qi cannot be scientifically measured or quantified, it is a concept deeply ingrained in…
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The Healing Power of Cold Water Swimming: A Chinese Medicine Perspective
Introduction: Cold water swimming, once considered an eccentric pursuit, has gained popularity worldwide for its remarkable health benefits. The practice involves immersing oneself in cold water, typically natural bodies like lakes, rivers, or seas, even during winter. While modern science acknowledges the physical advantages of cold water immersion, such as improved circulation and enhanced immune…
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Exploring Chai Hu (Bupleurum) Root
Introduction:Chai Hu, scientifically known as Bupleurum, is a medicinal plant deeply rooted in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). With a rich history spanning thousands of years, Chai Hu has been a cornerstone of herbal remedies and is celebrated for its potential health benefits. This article delves into the origins, traditional uses, and modern scientific insights surrounding…
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What is the Meaning of Excess in Chinese Medicine?
In Chinese medicine, “excess” (实, “shi”) refers to a condition where there is an overabundance or stagnation of one or more of the fundamental substances or pathogenic factors within the body. This is in contrast to “deficiency,” where there is a lack or weakness of these substances. Excess conditions can be caused by various factors,…
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What is Deficiency in Chinese Medicine?
In Chinese medicine, the term “deficiency” (虚, “xu”) refers to a state where there is an insufficient supply or weakened function of one or more of the fundamental substances or functional systems within the body. These fundamental substances include Qi (vital energy), Blood, Yin, and Yang. Deficiency can affect any organ system and lead to…
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Xiao Yao San: A Traditional Chinese Herbal Remedy
Introduction: Xiao Yao San, also known as “Free and Easy Wanderer” or “Rambling Powder,” is a time-honored traditional Chinese herbal formula that has been widely used for centuries. Rooted in the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Xiao Yao San is renowned for its ability to promote emotional well-being, relieve stress, and restore balance within…
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Understanding Phlegm in Traditional Chinese Medicine
The Nature of Phlegm in TCM In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the concept of phlegm goes beyond its conventional meaning as a thick, sticky substance in the respiratory system. Instead, phlegm represents a broader concept linked to imbalances within the body. TCM views phlegm as a pathological product formed due to imbalances in the body’s…
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Chinese Pulse Diagnosis
Introduction In the vast realm of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), there exists a practice that may seem mysterious to the uninitiated but holds profound insights into the body’s inner workings – Chinese Pulse Diagnosis. This ancient diagnostic technique, developed over thousands of years, offers practitioners a unique window into a patient’s overall health and energy…