TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine) is an ancient system of health and wellness that has been used in China for thousands of years. While Western medicine focuses primarily on treating disease, TCM aims to improve our mental and spiritual as well as physical health.

What is the idea behind TCM?

TCM is based on balance, harmony and energy. There are two concepts at the heart of TCM:

• Qi: Called vital energy, it flows in our body, is always in motion and is constantly changing. TCM treatments often focus on ways to promote and maintain regular qi flow.
• Yin and Yang: These are opposites that describe the qualities of qi.

Yin: night, dark, cold, feminine energy, negative
Yang: daytime, light, warm, positive, masculine energy
The belief is that everything in life also has a bit of its opposite, and balance is key. For example, a drug from your doctor might cure disease but it’s poisonous if you take too much.

According to TCM, these ideas are manifested by seeking inner balance. When you balance the yin and yang of Qi, you feel healthy and healthy. If you go off balance, you get sick. TCM aims to create harmony and a healthy flow of qi.

Who should avoid TCM?

In general, doctors suggest not using traditional Chinese medicine to totally replace Western medicine, especially if you have a serious health condition. They also recommend caution, especially with herbs, for those who are:

• Elder
• Pregnant or nursing
• Scheduled for surgery (certain herbs may lead to bleeding problems or stop medications used during surgery from working)
• Already being treated with other Western medicines
• A child or growing