Authors

Alfredo Serrano Ruiz

Position

Enfermero. Farmacología Clínica.

Contact address

Servicio de Farmacología Clínica. Hospital Clínica Puerta de Hierro. San Martín de Porres, 4. 28035 Madrid.

Contact email: aserrano.hpth@salud.madrid.org

Abstract

Traditional Chinese Medicine is the oldest way to approach health and fight against disease still in practice today. It dates back to over 5000 years ago and its introduction in Europe goes back to II BC. Chinese medicine is based on a theoretical framework that is, surprisingly, in sharp contrast with Western medicine. In the Chinese system, the concept of the five elements of nature is vital, Ying-Yang´s theories and Chi (energy or vital strength), that followed the therapist during the diagnostic process and the choice of treatment, also accompanied this type of medicine. Phytotherapy, acupuncture, and moxibustion are all original traditional Chinese medicine techniques used by the individual to overcome the unbalance that has led to the development of the disease.

Keywords:

tradicional chinese medicine; phytotherapy; botanicalpharmacology

Versión en Español

Título:

Medicina tradicional china. Aplicaciones Terapéuticas de la Fitoterapia Oriental (Parte I)