Traditional Chinese Medicine: What Does Science Have to Say

Nowadays, the interest in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is steadily growing, which is a breakthrough in a world that is dominated by western medicine. The former is a healing method that originated in China about 23 centuries ago. Here, practitioners utilize different mind as well as body practices together with herbal as well as dietary remedies to address health issues. The long list includes anxiety, high blood pressure, diabetes, infertility, menopause symptoms, back pain, and so on. 

The efficacy of TCM is exceptional–to say the least–that is why many patients with different medical conditions turn to it for treatment. This, regardless if they want to achieve healing, recovery, transformation, etc. Proof of this is in the last Olympics event, Michael Phelps and other athletes were seen with purplish-red marks. A sign that they received the healing therapy of cupping. Putting the said factors into consideration, one does not have to wonder why TCM clinic in Singapore facilities are being established almost everywhere. 

Why not? TCM is a tried and tested approach that has been proven time and time again that it works. But what is the fad all about? You ask. Read on and find out what science says about this century-old healing method. 

Acupuncture

Acupuncture is one of the most common services of many TCM clinic facilities. Here, specific points are stimulated by means of needle insertion. Scientific studies suggest that it prompts the body to release natural pain killers. This is the reason why acupuncture is prevalent among patients who experience chronic low-back pain, knee pain, neck pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, and other related ailments. 

Herbal products

The use of herbal products is a bit of a grey area. On the one hand, it is proven safe and effective. In fact, an antimalarial drug, which was rooted in Chinese medicine and was credited to saving millions of lives, enabled pharmacologist Youyou Tu to win the 2015 Nobel Prize for Physiology of Medicine. On the other hand, if you are contemplating turning to herbal products to improve your health or treat a serious condition, make sure to work with a certified practitioner from a legitimate TCM clinic. This is because inappropriate use can lead to serious side effects. 

Tai Chi

Heralded by many as “medication in motion,” Tai Chi combines specific gentle movements, postures, breathing, mental focus, practices, etc. to improve balance in older people. In the process, it also plays a key role in improving certain conditions that affect the elderly. They include osteoarthritis, fibromyalgia, back pain, Parkinson’s disease, etc. If done properly, it can improve their well being and quality of life. 

Things to consider

If you are considering TCM, there are certain measures that you need to consider. Some of the most notable ones are as follows: 

• Do not use TCM to replace conventional medical care. 
• Talk to your healthcare provider first, especially if you are pregnant or nursing.
• Inquire about the training that a TCM practitioner has undergone and his/her experience in the field.
• Coordinate your medical history and how you take care of your health (lifestyle, workout, diet, etc.)

Summing up

TCM is a safe and effective method of treating various health conditions. However, it should be administered by trained TCM clinic practitioners to ensure that its benefits are maximized and detrimental effects are minimized.