Traditional Chinese medicine

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According to traditional Chinese medicine, vital body energy (qi) passes through channels called meridians. Acupuncture, for example, acts on these meridians. Ex-Press

In traditional Chinese medicine, acupuncture is called an "external therapy". It influences the body's functions by acting on specific points with needles. Ex-Press

In cupping, the therapist creates a vacuum inside suction cups, for example by heating or with the help of a manual pump. The vacuum acts like a massage on the connective tissues. Ex-Press

Moxibustion is another traditional treatment. As with acupuncture, it acts on points on the body's surface. Rather than using needles, one heats up dried leaves of mugwort - a plant with healing properties used in both Asia and Europe. Ex-Press

Traditional Chinese medicine is based primarily on plants, but also on minerals and animal parts. Tres Camenzind/Ex-Press, all rights reserved

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Traditional Chinese medicine was developed over 2,000 years ago. Its original zone of diffusion included Vietnam, Korea and Japan, and these countries eventually developed their own individual variations on it.

Traditional Chinese medicine is based on five pillars: treatment using traditional medicine; acupuncture and moxibustion; dietetics; physical exercises (like Qi Gong and Tai Chi); and massage and cupping techniques.

Today, traditional Chinese medicine is the most widespread type of traditional medicine in the world, thanks in particular to acupuncture.

The Chinese Academy for Traditional Medicine in Nankin is the biggest research centre dedicated to these therapeutic techniques.