Traditional Chinese Medicine(TCM) refers to a medical system that is at least 23 centuries old and intends to prevent and heal health conditions by restoring balance within your body. The latest techniques, including acupuncture, moxibustion, cupping, and Chinese herbal medicine, are quite different from ancient times. But still, all these techniques have foundations rooted in traditional Chinese medical history. Let's take a closer look at the brief history of Traditional Chinese Medicine.
The Origin - Shamanistic Shang Dynasty
It is believed that the foundations of traditional Chinese medicine date back to the era of the Shang Dynasty (1766-1122 BC). The era is also referred to as the shamanistic era. Back in that time, a religious deity called Shang Di was believed to live in heaven accompanied by the dead ancestors. He thought that any health condition is either caused by upsetting an ancestor or when a demon or an evil spirit enters the human body. The shamans would then act as a meditation between the alive, unwell humans and their ancestors who have passed away.
The Transformation - The Zhou Dynasty Period
However, traditional Chinese medicine emerged as a science in the Zhou Dynasty Period (475-221 BC). During this time, China was undergoing intellectual reforms. It was the work of this period that shifted ideologies from shamanist viewpoints to a more systematic and comprehensive medical framework. Many of the current traditional Chinese medicine practices are rooted in the texts of this era which today serve as a guide for Chinese medicine practitioners worldwide.
The Evolution Continues - The HuangdiNeijing
The conversations between the Yellow Emperor and his physician continued as they attempted to outline Traditional Chinese Medicine's core concepts, including acupuncture and moxibustion, as the essential tools for correcting imbalances in the body and treating illnesses. Back in that time, sharpened stones and long sharp bones were used as surgery and acupuncture tools. However, as the evolution continues, the tools continued to get more advanced and more comfortable for the patients.
Modern-Day Traditional Chinese Medicine
Traditional Chinese Medicine progressed in the next few centuries and became a standard medicalpractice in China and worldwide. However, somewhere in the 17th century, traditional Chinese medicine practices were considered to be superstitious. Moreover, the advancement in conventional medicine further affected the authenticity and effectiveness of traditional Chinese medicine. However, given its effectiveness and the Chinese government's efforts, traditional Chinese medicine regained its reputation as an effective form of treatment.
Traditional Chinese Medicine in Victoria
Today, most hospitals in China offer Western and traditional Chinese medical services, but you can also find traditional Chinese medicine practitioners in other parts of the world. While the treatment today looks very different from what it used to be 2000 years ago, the foundation of the practice is rooted back in times. Today, practitioners prioritise safety, hygiene, and comfort more than anything. We, too, work traditional Chinese medicine to treat various health conditions including infertility, and several other dermatological conditions. Get in touch today to find out more about our services.