文档介绍：Traditional Chinese Medicine: An Introduction
On this page:
Introduction
Key Points
Keep in Mind
Background
Side Effects and Risks
The Status of TCM Research
If You Are Thinking About Using TCM
Key References
For More Information
Introduction
Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) originated in ancient China and has evolved over thousands of years. TCM practitioners use herbal medicines and various mind and body practices, such as acupuncture and tai chi, to treat or prevent health problems. In the United States, people use TCM primarily as plementary health approach. This fact sheet provides a general overview of TCM and suggests sources for additional information.
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Key Points
Is It Safe?
Acupuncture is generally considered safe when performed by an experienced practitioner using sterile needles. Improperly performed acupuncture can cause potentially serious side effects.
Tai chi and qi gong, two mind and body practices used in TCM, are generally safe.
There have been reports of Chinese herbal products being contaminated with drugs, toxins, or heavy metals or not containing the listed ingredients. Some of the herbs used in Chinese medicine can interact with drugs, have serious side effects, or be unsafe for people with certain medical conditions.
Is It Effective?
For most conditions, there is not enough rigorous scientific evidence to know whether TCM methods work for the conditions for which they are used.
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Keep in Mind
Tell all your health care providers about plementary health approaches you use. Give them a full picture of what you do to manage your health. This will help ensure coordinated and safe care.
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Background
TCM passes many different practices, including acupuncture, moxibustion (burning an herb above the skin to apply heat to acupuncture points), Chinese herbal medicine, tui na (Chinese therapeutic massage), dietary therapy, and tai chi and qi gong (practices bine specific movements or postures, coordinated breathing, a