Theory Behind the Medicine

Traditional  Chinese  Medicine (TCM) has a  rich and complex history of over two thousand   years.  It  developed not   from the scientific   method,  but from  the philosophical constructs  of Yin-Yang Theory & Five Element Theory.  Underlying both  is the  notion that  nothing  exists  separately,  in  and  of  itself, but  rather everything is  part of  an  integrative  system.  In  simple  terms, yin and yang are opposing   but  inseparable   forces.  Yin  embodies   the more  introverted,  cooler, nourishing and feminine energy while yang refers to the more invigorating, warmer and masculine energy.  Yin and yang mutually exist to define and balance one another.

Yin-Yang

Five Element Theory provides a framework for understanding all processes of nature through the interactions and transformations of five creative forces: fire, earth, metal, water and wood.  Each element has its own distinguishing, unique characteristics.  For example, fire is warm and upward rising while water is cool, nourishing and descending.  The qualities of creating, transporting and receiving pertain to the earth element.  Clearing, descending and contracting characterize the metal element.  Wood includes all things associated with growth and ascension.  The elements interact and strive to maintain relative balance and,  thus, harmony is achieved.

The 12 Main Organs

In terms of health and medicine, these theories apply the phenomena and laws of nature to the physiological functions and pathological changes of the human body.  According to Chinese Medicine there are 12 main organs, each with its own distinct energetic pathway in the body.  These paths are called channels or meridians.  

The yin organs of the body (lung, spleen, heart, kidneys, pericardium and liver)  are associated with storing functions, while the yang organs (large intestine, stomach, small intestine, urinary bladder, triple burner and gallbladder) are more active and involved in the digestion and elimination processes.  For every yin organ there is a corresponding yang organ;  each yin-yang pair belongs to a specific element. Each  body part is viewed  as a component  of an interactive  system, or network, rather  than existing  as a distinct and separate structure with a fixed location.  Furthermore, there is no separation of mind and body.  Each organ has both a specific physiological and a specific  psychological  aspect.   For  example, the liver is  associated with  stress and anger. The spleen is associated with excessive thinking and worrying. When emotions are unbalanced, they can adversely affect their  associated  organ and  result  in  illness.   TCM  is a  holistic  approach that  examines both  external and internal factors in treating and preventing illness.

Five Element Theory

Traditional Chinese Medicine

with

Aiesha Abel

Licensed Acupuncturist, MSTOM