Chinese versus Western Medicine

Even though Chinese medicine has been used as an effective method for over 5,000 years, Western scientific proof continues to debate whether this is a logical method to help with healing. If you are interested in Chinese medicine, but are not certain of its effectiveness, you can look at the various research studies that have helped others to reach conclusions about its effectiveness.

The most debated science between East and West is the use of acupuncture as a medicine. At this point, the research studies have not led to any complete conclusions about whether acupuncture can be considered a science. At the same time, research indicates that the use of meridians in acupuncture is effective in healing. Scientists have also stated that because the treatment is harmless, it can be used, and simply needs to have more investigations related to it.

Another debate that has been studied by Western scientists is herbal medicines that are used from traditional Chinese medicine methods. While some of these have not been studied, other parts of the herbs are used in pharmaceutical medications that are prescribed to patients. Chinese wormwood, Ephedra, and artemisinin are some examples of ancient remedies that have moved into Western medicine from Chinese ideals.

Western Medicine - Western medicine has reached a high degree of technological advancement, and yet we have to admit that it has its drawbacks and limitations such as spiraling high-cost, limited access, side-effects, iatrogenic effects, etc. in working with chronic degenerative disease, lifestyle induced illness.Western medicines typically does not address the multitude of factors that often connect an individual to his or her condition.

Modern Drugs - Modern drugs often control the symptoms, but do not truly alter the body susceptibility to disease or sickness.Examples (a) antibiotics help eliminate the bacteria but they do not improve a person's resistance to infection (b) diuretics rid excess fluid without improving inherent kidney function (c) allergy & heartburn medications may reduce the symptoms but also create a host of other side-effects and lastly, the high prevalence of depression in today's society is certainly not from a lack of antidepressants in the diet.

Chinese Medicine - Chinese Medicine has a long history of over 4,000 years.Rather than treating symptoms as western medicine does, Chinese medicines focuses on strengthening your own vital energy (Chi) so that your body can heal itself. It's true value is based in its power to enhance recuperative ability, immunity, and the capacity for pleasure, work, and creativity.

One of the shortcomings of Chinese Medicine is the lack of research in the area of toxins and heavy metals. This is because Chinese Medicine was established centuries ago when the world was not polluted by industrial waste or toxic chemicals. The lack of standardization in Chinese herbs and the possibility of toxicity present some of the major disadvantages in dealing with traditional Chinese herbs.

From the philosophy to the science, Chinese medication is a debated concept in Western society. However, there is also a growth and a beginning to understanding the concepts that have been used and experimented with over time. Through the various techniques of Chinese medicine to the continuous use by individuals who are looking for holistic health, Chinese medicine continues to become prominent in Western society.