A Brief History of Chinese Medicine

There is evidence of Chinese Medicine being used 5000 years ago. Originally, practitioners used stones and twigs to effect the acupuncture points. It is speculated that ancient enlightened practitioners of Chinese Medicine were aware enough of the energy flow in their own bodies to feel the meridians and acupuncture points.

The first book written about the practice of Chinese Medicine is called Huang Di Nei Jing which translates as The Yellow Emporer’s Classic of Internal Medicine. Common belief is that it was published in the 1st century BCE, but this is debatable.

Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine was China’s, and much of the East’s, form of medicine. It was and is a complete system of medicine designed to treat and prevent many illnesses. It was the only form of medicine practiced in China until the late 19th century, when China and Japan outlawed Chinese Medicine due to the influence of European medicine and the invention of Penicillin which was like a wonder drug at the time curing many infectious diseases.

This outlaw was in effect until the Communist rule of the 1950’s. Due to China’s impoverished state at that time, famine and disease were rampant in the Chinese countryside prompting the government to use any kind of medicine possible. In addition, Chairman Mao, in an effort to re-establish ancient Chinese traditions, began opening schools of Chinese Medicine and made it legal to practice Chinese Medicine again.

Unfortunately, much was lost during the period of outlaw of Chinese Medicine. And up until the the ban, Chinese Medicine was passed down from one teacher to one student in a teacher-disciple system. Now, Chinese Medicine is taught in more of a standardized way where everyone gets the same education. Many believe the soul of Chinese Medicine was lost during this time.

There is hope of the soul of Chinese Medicine being returned as we enter the 21st century. Many people are asking questions like “Why was I born” and “What is my purpose in life”. These questions are very soulful in nature and many people who ask them seek out the ancient healing arts. When we as a human community become more aware of our inner nature and our connection to all living beings, we return to our souls. The ancient healing arts of Chinese Medicine, Ayurvedic Medicine, Yoga, Tai Chi, Qi Gong, and many more create a place for that connection to happen.

For more information about the history of Chinese Medicine and Chinese Medicine itself, read Between Heaven and Earth by Harriet Beinfield, L.Ac. and Efrem Korngold, L.Ac. OMD or The Web That Has No Weaver by Ted Kaptchuk OMD.

Disclaimer: The above information is just that: information. Please consult a heath care practitioner before taking action with your own health care needs.