What we consider to be modern humanity began tens if not hundreds of thousands of years ago. Hippocrates, frequently credited with being the “Father of Modern Medicine,” lived nearly 2,500 years before our time. Modern doctors take the Hippocratic Oath in his honor. Yet Eastern practices such as Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) are even more ancient. Despite the differences between Western and Eastern medicine, the goals remain the same: to live long and healthy lives.
So what are the differences and similarities between these two ideologies? Today, we will be reviewing each, identifying what makes them unique, and discussing how combining traditional knowledge with modern scientific research can yield incredible results.
What is Traditional Chinese Medicine?
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is known all over the world for its holistic approach to health. Rather than merely reacting to negative symptoms, TCM is focused on preventative and all-around care. While there are innumerable practices held within Traditional Chinese Medicine, here are three of the most well known:
Chinese Herbal Remedies: A staple of TCM is the use of medicinal herbs. Frequently encountered herbs include ginseng, ginger, astragalus, cinnamon, licorice, and many more. Herbs are often used as a dietary supplement or as part of a topical solution.
Acupuncture: The art of inserting needles to selected and targeted body parts is known as acupuncture. Practitioners will tell you that it is so much more than just relaxing muscles. Modern scientific studies have suggested that acupuncture can effectively treat a wide range of illness aside from alleviating pain.
Tai Chi: Short for “T’ai chi ch'üan,” Tai Chi is a form of martial art which is meant to promote overall health. Like many martial arts, Tai Chi is ever evolving and can take many forms.
What is Western Medicine?
According to the National Cancer Institute, Western Medicine can be defined as “a system in which medical doctors and other healthcare professionals (such as nurses, pharmacists, and therapists) treat symptoms and diseases using drugs, radiation, or surgery.”
Simply put, Western Medicine is what most of us would call “mainstream” or “orthodox” medicine. Medical professionals use the rigors of modern scientific theory to test and apply cutting edge medical procedures and treatments. Revolutionary health breakthroughs such as organ transplants, vaccines, and advanced surgeries have resulted from Western Medicine.
One of the downsides of modern medicine is the focus on reacting to symptoms rather than treating the overall health of the patient. As a result, more Americans are frustrated by a healthcare system which is quick to prescribe medication without educating the public on general health practices.
TCM Mixes with Modern Technology to Astounding Results
It is important to understand that the world is becoming smaller as technology brings us closer together. Eastern and Western medicine is rapidly shifting towards one, cohesive modern healthcare community. This change of mindset can be felt on both sides of the aisle.
Western medical practitioners are beginning to recognize the benefits of TCM. Many physicians have already incorporated more traditional wisdom into their practices. Doctors and psychologists all over the world are seeing results using holistic, Eastern methodologies when treating patients. Where in the past, heart patients may have been given medications and told to stay off their feet, today doctors may recommend Tai Chi, soothing herbs, or meditation to treat the underlying issues.
Similarly, modern medicine is reaching across the globe. Eastern medicine (as with all medicine) has its share of quacks. TCM practitioners claiming to have “cure-alls” can still be found with regularity. The advent of technology and greater spread of information has led to a more educated public.
Traditional Wisdom and Modern Technology in Skincare Products
We have touched on how traditional and modern medicinal ideologies have both mixed over the years — but how does this translate to skincare? The skincare industry is saturated with two types of products:
- Mass produced skincare lines produced cheaply to maximize profit.
- “Alternative” products which have no scientific research to back their efficacy.
In many cases, consumers are forced to choose between the worst of both worlds when it comes to skincare products.
Thankfully, there is one other option. By combining TCM and Western Medicine, it is possible to create natural and effective skincare products.
East Meets West with Dr. Wang Herbal Skincare’s Family of Products
Dr. Wang Herbal Skincare co-founder Steven Wang, MD has enjoyed a long and successful career as a board certified dermatologist. He currently holds the title of Director of Dermatologic Surgery and Dermatology at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center in New York City. Dr. Wang and his father Gui Wang, a licensed acupuncturist with over 40 years of experience, have teamed up to create Dr. Wang Herbal Skincare.
We believe that our experience and knowledge of both modern Western medicine and time honored Eastern medicine allows us to provide unique skincare solutions. But don’t take our word for it! Read what experts from such reputable organizations as Bloomberg and The New York Times have to say about our products.