Simple Chinese Medicine

For anyone interested in Traditional Chinese Medicine, you can’t go wrong with Dr. Aihan’s book.  Every essential concept and theory is covered in great detail, and examples are provided to illustrate the points.  If you are new to the concept of Chinese medicine, this book will explain everything in a precise, detailed manner.

The first section covers the differences between Western and Eastern medicines. While my general impression of the book is positive, this particular section was a bit of a stretch. Along the first few pages, there is a statement that TCM is based on “several millennia of practical experience,” while later in the book it states that TCM has been practiced for roughly 5000 years (the latter statement being more realistic.)  Secondly, some sections of the book reference medical cases and studies for claims like Qi Gong = longevity, without referencing specific research. While I do not doubt this statement, IMO vague references to research are a red flag for any book trying to give a thorough overview of any art or science. Citing specific research enables a reader to cross reference material for accuracy, and generally provides the written material with more credibility.

The book provides comparisons and contrast between Western and Eastern medicine, using diagrams to illustrate the core differences between the two disciplines. The author seems to have a realistic outlook of both, and points out the pros and cons of each. However, her overall conclusion varies by circumstance, where TCM is more geared towards certain chronic ailments, while Western medicine is better geared towards others.

The 5 element theory of TCM is explained clearly, the qi meridians and acupuncture points are discussed, and several pressure point treatments are provided as an example. Various means of diagnosis (pulse, tongue, odor) and treatment are discussed, and various treatments are described. There is a brief section dedicated to Tui Na (massage,) and several exercises for the relief of neck pain, stress, headaches, and indigestion.

One of my favorite sections is dedicated to disease prevention, focusing on the benefits and detriments of various foods. This section focuses on finding a happy medium, eating right, balancing nutrition, and eating specific foods to treat various ailments. Weight reduction and supplements are also discussed in relation to TCM, and a food control program and eating log are provided.  

The Qi Gong section of the book discusses general Qi Gong practice, and Taiji Quan. It starts by trying to define Taoism, which amounts to 4 pages of vagueness, and advice to read the Tao Te Ching and record your thoughts. In my opinion, this is one section of the book that could have been left out. There is also an excellent cancer prevention section which gives practical advice and provides a daily routine of light exercise. One section features Qi Gong for preventing breast cancer, which I found to be very interesting. Oddly enough, it does not provide any directions for breathing or mental focus, which are generally important in Qi Gong practice.

I was pleasantly surprised to see a section dedicated to the Ba Dua Jin (8 Brocade Qi Gong.) If you are interested in health, this set has a proven track record of keeping the practitioner in good shape, and is one of the better known Qi Gong sets around the world. I did, however, have a knee-jerk reaction when Taiji Quan was mentioned as an “energy system” that is to be practiced in a non-competitive manner. However, this being a TCM book which focuses on Taiji as a healing exercise more so than a martial art, the context is more than understandable.

The final section deals with general health tips, covering various trends found in people who live to be well within their 90s and 100s. Various herbal tonics are listed for various ailments. One of my favorite sections features a set of healthy recepies which alone would have made this book worth the cost. You get directions for dishes like vegetarian sushi wrap, various soups, stir fried vegetables, spicy rice, miso soup, salads and curry dishes.

Overall, this book tries to present a lot of information within a limited space, and as a result, some topics feel condensed (or rather, like the Taoism section, cannot be defined in the brief space provided.) However, the material presented is solid, the author is a doctor who has been practicing medicine for many years, and the content is well organized. While I would have preferred clear references to medical studies, the book presents its information in a credible manner, and follows through on its intent to present TCM in simplified terms which  would be accessible to the average reader.

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