Established by the Western Han dynasty more than 2,000 years ago, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is currently finding increased acceptance. A General Introduction to Traditional Chinese Medicine explores the thinking behind TCM, its philosophy-based theory, and its cutting-edge uses in today’s clinical practice. The book covers: Establishment and characteristics of TCM’s theory Establishment and development of TCM’s clinical system. Basic features of TCM TCM’s philosophical bases: primordial qi, yin-yang and Five Elements TCM’s medical model, method, and architecture Organized to make information easily accessible, each chapter contains: Goals & Requirements and Key Contents to enable readers to understand the core and the outline of the chapter Endnotes for readers to learn some cultural and historical information peculiar to China Glossary for readers to understand more specific information about TCM and Chinese culture Complete with chapter outlines and ancillary material, this carefully designed guide brings a time-tested practice back to the future.

This volume provides both an overview and detailed concepts of the history of Chinese medicine. It considers its evolution throughout history, from the Pre-Qin dynasties until the present day, and provides insights into the theory of body systems and how balance creates health in the human body. The book also explicates the theory of viscera and the concepts of Qi, meridian, and collateral, and details the diagnosis of diseases in Chinese medicine.