Causes of disease in TCM
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) views disease as an imbalance or disruption in the body’s natural flow of energy, known as Qi (pronounced “chee”). There are several causes of disease in TCM, including:
External factors: TCM recognizes that external factors, such as wind, cold, heat, dampness, and dryness, can cause disease by invading the body and disrupting the flow of Qi.
Internal factors: Internal factors, such as emotional stress, poor diet, lack of exercise, and genetic predisposition, can weaken the body’s Qi and lead to disease.
Blockages in the meridians: The meridians are channels that carry Qi throughout the body. Blockages in these channels can prevent the smooth flow of Qi and lead to disease.
Imbalances of Yin and Yang: TCM recognizes Yin and Yang as complementary, yet opposing forces in the body. Imbalances between these two forces can disrupt the flow of Qi and lead to disease.
Invasion of pathogenic factors: TCM recognizes six pathogenic factors, including wind, cold, heat, dampness, dryness, and fire. When these factors invade the body, they can disrupt the flow of Qi and lead to disease.
Accumulation of toxins: TCM recognizes that the accumulation of toxins in the body can disrupt the flow of Qi and lead to disease.
TCM practitioners use various techniques, such as acupuncture, herbal medicine, dietary therapy, and Qi Gong, to help restore the balance of Qi and treat the underlying causes of disease.