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Traditional Chinese Medicine

All articles tagged with #traditional chinese medicine

health-and-wellness3 months ago

Ear Seeding: Ancient Technique for Facial Puffiness?

Ear seeding, a trend derived from traditional Chinese medicine involving applying beads to stimulate ear pressure points, is popular on TikTok for purportedly reducing facial puffiness, but there is limited scientific evidence supporting its effectiveness for cosmetic purposes. Experts warn that while generally low-risk, improper use could cause skin or cartilage damage, and emphasize that persistent facial swelling should be medically evaluated for underlying health issues.

health2 years ago

Decoding Health through Tongue Color

The color and texture of your tongue can provide valuable insights into your health. Traditional Chinese medicine practitioners have long used tongue examination as part of their diagnostic approach, and a recent study found that tongue images were 95% accurate in diagnosing conditions like diabetes and anemia. Changes in tongue color, such as yellowish hue indicating liver problems or a whitish coating suggesting digestive issues, can be significant indicators. Tongue examination could also aid in early disease detection and facilitate telemedicine, allowing patients to capture tongue images at home and transmit them to healthcare professionals for assessment. However, it's important to consult a healthcare provider if you notice any noticeable changes in your tongue.

health2 years ago

Unveiling the Scientific Basis of Traditional Chinese Medicine

A new study suggests that traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has a scientific foundation based on a complex network of proteins, challenging the perception that it is pseudoscience. The study mapped the proteins associated with symptoms and the target proteins of chemicals in TCM herbs onto the human protein interaction network. The researchers found that TCM herbs tend to target proteins close to the symptoms they are intended to treat, similar to modern drug-disease relations. The study validates the effectiveness of TCM herbs on a systematic level and hopes to inspire further research and utilization of traditional medicine's wisdom in creating better treatment methods and novel drugs.

health2 years ago

Investigation Launched into Fake Chinese Doctor's Deadly "Cement Treatment" for Breast Cancer

A self-proclaimed "tumour research institute" in China is being investigated after a woman revealed how her mother, diagnosed with late-stage breast cancer, was deceived into paying 200,000 yuan for treatments that included bloodletting and applying cement to her skin. The woman's mother died in April, and the doctor, surnamed Yu, later admitted to having no medical qualifications and selling health-enhancing products. The certificates and documents he presented were purchased online. Authorities are currently investigating the case.

health2 years ago

"Promising Results from Tongxinluo Trial Raise Questions about Active Ingredients"

A clinical trial conducted in China has shown that the traditional Chinese medicine compound Tongxinluo reduced major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events and cardiac deaths in patients with acute myocardial infarction. However, the active ingredients of Tongxinluo remain unclear, as the study did not provide a breakdown of the specific plants and insects used or their quantities. The trial also had limitations, including a missing mechanism of action, suboptimal adherence to guideline-directed therapy, and a low-risk patient cohort, which may limit the generalizability of the findings. Further research is needed to confirm and expand upon these results.

health2 years ago

Exploring Traditional Chinese Medicine's Impact on Acute Myocardial Infarction Outcomes

In a randomized clinical trial of 3777 patients with acute ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), the addition of a traditional Chinese medicine compound called Tongxinluo as an adjunctive treatment to guideline-directed therapies significantly improved clinical outcomes. Tongxinluo reduced the rate of major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (MACCEs) at 30 days and 1 year, with a significant reduction in cardiac death. There were no significant differences in major bleeding. Further research is needed to understand the mechanism of action of Tongxinluo in STEMI.

health-and-wellness2 years ago

"Quick and Effective Finger-Tapping Technique Relieves Anxiety, Study Reveals"

A study has found that a simple finger-tapping technique combined with mental reframing exercises, known as Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT), can significantly reduce anxiety within minutes. The technique involves tapping on specific acupuncture points on the body for 10 minutes. Participants with specific phobias reported less distress and anxiety about their fears after the treatment, and EFT was found to be more effective than deep breathing exercises. EFT has shown positive effects in reducing anxiety in various studies, including for healthcare workers and individuals with chronic pain. The technique may help alleviate minor bouts of fear and anxiety in daily life.

environment2 years ago

Illegal Use of Endangered Animal Parts by Three Chinese Firms Exposed

Three publicly traded Chinese drugmakers, including Beijing Tong Ren Tang group, Tianjin Pharmaceutical group, and Jilin Aodong Pharmaceutical Group, have been found to use parts of endangered animals as ingredients in their products, according to a report by the Environmental Investigation Agency. The report highlights 72 firms that use body parts of threatened leopards and pangolins in at least 88 traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) products. The NGO urges global investors, including major banks and financial institutions, to divest from these companies. The Chinese government is called upon to prohibit the use of endangered animal parts for commercial purposes.

health-and-wellness2 years ago

The Science-Backed Secret to Weight Loss: Ear Seeding Works!

Ear seeds, tiny metal beads placed on specific points on the outer ear, are gaining popularity as a DIY form of acupuncture for weight loss, pain relief, and other health benefits. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, ear seeds can stimulate meridians and restore balance in the body, leading to weight loss. Studies have shown that ear seeds can reduce food cravings, improve mood, alleviate chronic pain, and reduce stress. While they can be applied by an acupuncturist, kits are available for self-application at home. However, experts recommend using ear seeds alongside other lifestyle changes for optimal results.

health-and-wellness2 years ago

"Ear Seeding: The Ancient Weight Loss Technique Endorsed by Medical Professionals"

Ear seeds, tiny metal beads placed on specific points on the outer ear, are gaining popularity as a DIY form of acupuncture for weight loss, pain relief, and other health benefits. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, ear seeds can influence various body systems and processes, including hormones and neurotransmitters, by stimulating specific meridians in the ear. Studies have shown that ear seeds can help reduce food cravings, leading to weight loss, and provide relief from migraines, depression, chronic pain, and stress. While ear seeds can be applied by an acupuncturist, they can also be self-applied at home using kits available online. However, experts recommend using ear seeds alongside other diet or lifestyle changes for optimal results.

health2 years ago

Unveiling the Power of Cordyceps: Benefits, Nutrition, and Risks Explored

Cordyceps, a fungus used in traditional Chinese medicine, is believed to have various health benefits. It may improve athletic performance, heart health, blood sugar levels, inflammation, aging, and cancer outcomes. However, research is limited to animal studies and small clinical trials, and human studies are needed to confirm these effects. Cordyceps supplements are available in various forms, but it's important to purchase from reputable brands that undergo third-party testing. Consult with a healthcare provider before taking cordyceps supplements to ensure safety and avoid potential interactions with medications.

health2 years ago

Unveiling the Power of Cordyceps: Health Benefits and Risks

Cordyceps is a type of fungus used in traditional Chinese medicine for various health benefits. While research is limited to animal models and small clinical trials, it shows potential in improving athletic performance, heart health, blood sugar control, reducing inflammation, and potentially treating cancer. However, more human studies are needed to confirm these effects. It is important to consult with a healthcare provider before taking cordyceps supplements, especially for individuals with autoimmune diseases. Additionally, there have been reports of lead poisoning from contaminated cordyceps powder, and the FDA does not evaluate the safety and effectiveness of cordyceps supplements.

animal-welfare2 years ago

Freeing Asia's Farmed Bears from Bile Extraction

Activists are fighting to end the cruel and unsustainable practice of bear bile farming, where bears are kept captive and their bile is extracted for use in traditional medicines. While the trade of these products is forbidden in most Asian countries, it remains a lucrative industry in China, where domestic sales of bear bile remain legal. The practice involves invasive and painful techniques, and many bears rescued from bile farms show signs of extreme trauma. Despite efforts to eliminate bile farming, it remains a profitable business for farmers, and many consumers prefer the real thing.

animal-welfare2 years ago

Freeing Asia's Farmed Bears from Bile Extraction

Activists are fighting to end the cruel and unsustainable practice of bear bile farming, where bears are kept captive and their bile is extracted for use in traditional medicines. While the trade of these products is forbidden in most Asian countries, it remains a lucrative industry in China, where domestic sales of bear bile remain legal. The practice involves invasive and painful techniques, and many bears rescued from bile farms show signs of extreme trauma. Despite efforts to eliminate bile farming, it remains a profitable business for farmers, and many consumers prefer the real thing.

health2 years ago

Unconventional Weight Loss Method Backed by Science

Acupuncture using tiny beads on the ears can help in weight loss, according to new research. The study involved 81 Japanese men who were overweight or obese, with an average BMI of 28.4 and high levels of unhealthy abdominal fat. The participants lost an average of 10.4cm off their waist circumference and 4% of total body fat. The researchers found that acupuncture on the ear may aid weight loss when paired with diet and exercise. However, experts suggest that other elements of the intervention could have driven the weight loss, such as keeping a food diary.