About Traditional Medicine

The origin of traditional Chinese medicine can be traced back to ancient times, even before the BC era. In ancient China, it was believed that harmonizing the flow of qi in the human body leads to good health. The fundamental concept was to "treat the illness before it arises." The treatment methods included physical therapies such as acupuncture, moxibustion, and tuina (massage), herbal medicine, and dietary therapy.

It is said that Chinese medicine was introduced to Japan during the Nara period (8^th century). At that time, it was mainly used by Buddhist monks for treating patients. Subsequently, during the Heian period (about 10^th to 12^th century), it spread among the nobility and samurai and underwent changes to adapt to the Japanese environment and culture. In the mid-Edo period (18^th century), as prescriptions of herbal medicine described in the "Shanghan Lun" and "Jin Gui Yao Lue" became popular, Japanese traditional medicine came to be called "Kampo" (Chinese method) while the Dutch medicine introduced during the same period was referred to as "Ranpo" (Dutch method). Kampo medicine widely disseminated among the common people.

Presently, both Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Japanese Traditional Medicine have developed differently in their respective countries, although they share some commonalities. They are sometimes collectively referred to as Oriental Medicine.

Acupuncture stimulates the skin and muscles to promote the flow of qi, as described in traditional medicine. It helps relax tense muscles, promotes fatigue recovery, reduces stress, and balances the body. Qi is considered the vital energy of life, and its quantity and strength are related to vitality and immune function.

On the other hand, moxibustion involves burning the herb mugwort to warm the body, which in turn enhances blood circulation and provides relief from conditions such as cold sensitivity, menstrual pain, and joint pain. It also offers effects such as pain relief, stress reduction, and autonomic nervous system regulation. When the autonomic nervous system and the body-mind are in harmony, the flow of qi becomes balanced, leading to a state of good health.

While acupuncture and moxibustion have various effects, it is important to use them correctly. Besides receiving treatment from a qualified acupuncturist with proper knowledge and skills to balance the flow of qi, it is also crucial to get sufficient rest and engage in moderate exercise on a regular basis. Please incorporate traditional medicine to efficiently maintain your physical and mental well-being.

There is an ongoing integration between traditional and modern medicine. In recent years, acupuncture treatment has been covered by health insurance, and the combination of Eastern and Western medicine has been recommended. It has been recognized for its effectiveness in managing pain and stress and is expected to play a complementary role in cancer treatment.

Moreover, in cases where Western medicine finds it challenging to treat conditions such as infertility, menopausal symptoms, and atopic dermatitis, Eastern medicine has been found to be effective.

Additionally, more and more athletes who wish to avoid using medications are choosing acupuncture and moxibustion for their treatment. The integration of traditional and modern medicine has not only expanded the options for treatment but also provided a wide range of choices for preventive medicine, improving overall health.

Traditional medicine is gaining attention as an effective treatment method when combined with modern medicine. We will continue to dedicate ourselves to the study and promotion of traditional medicine, hoping that more people can lead healthy and fulfilling lives.

Moonbow Shinkyu, Acupuncturist Kaisei