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The history of Chinese medicine spans thousands of years, with documented medical practices dating back to the 2nd century BC. Over time, countless practitioners have refined these methods, leading to the development of what is now known as Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).
TCM is renowned for its unconventional and often peculiar methods. Modern science is only starting to uncover the mechanisms behind these practices. While comprehensive research remains limited, existing studies provide enough insight to compile a list of intriguing, occasionally alarming, and outright strange TCM treatments.
10. Cupping Therapy
Beyond the iconic image of a bruise-covered Michael Phelps, cupping offers more than just a placebo effect. This therapy is commonly employed to alleviate chronic pain and is also believed to assist in managing cardiovascular conditions, arthritis, and hypertension.
Recent studies suggest that cupping therapy can enhance vasodilation and improve blood circulation, helping the body eliminate toxins and waste more efficiently. While it may not cure heart conditions, it has shown promise in alleviating various types of pain with few side effects.
Once the pain subsides, you’ll be ready to dive back into the pool. However, following Phelps' example, you might want to keep your shirt on.
9. Acupuncture
Acupuncture, a time-honored practice, is gaining global recognition. Traditionally believed to balance life energy and treat numerous ailments, it is now widely used for chronic pain relief. In China, it is even utilized as an anesthetic in surgical procedures.
Research indicates that acupuncture is effective in managing chronic pain and fibromyalgia. Its role as a complementary therapy continues to gain credibility over time.
While acupuncture may seem intimidating, it is surprisingly less painful than it appears—provided you can overcome the mental hurdle of being pricked in multiple spots for the sake of better health.
8. Ginseng
Ginseng, one of the most iconic components in TCM, is often called the “person plant root” due to its striking resemblance to the human form. This visual similarity has made it a symbolic cure-all in Chinese medicine. Beyond its mystical reputation, ginseng is scientifically recognized for its long-term health benefits.
Known for its powerful antioxidant properties, ginseng is believed to combat inflammation. Studies suggest it can lower oxidative stress in the body, potentially improving brain function, addressing erectile dysfunction, and even aiding in cancer prevention.
7. Seahorses
Seahorses, beloved for their unique trait of male pregnancy, are popular as aquarium pets and even consumed as food. In TCM, these fascinating marine creatures are believed to offer a wide range of health benefits.
Seahorses are praised for their ability to enhance kidney function, improve sexual health, and boost overall vitality. TCM practitioners also suggest they strengthen the kidneys and stimulate nervous system activity.
6. Softshell Turtles
Softshell turtles are a prized ingredient known for their cooling effects. They are thought to hydrate the skin, enrich blood, alleviate diarrhea, and strengthen the immune system.
Research suggests that soft turtle shells enhance the production of immune globulin, which helps sustain certain antibodies. This process strengthens immunity and shields the body from illnesses.
Apart from their medicinal uses, softshell turtles are also a culinary delicacy in parts of China, prized for their rich content of minerals and collagen.
5. Cockroaches
In recent years, cockroaches have gained significant popularity in TCM. Numerous farms across China breed billions of these unsettling insects for medicinal purposes. A notable incident in 2013 involved millions of cockroaches escaping from a breeding facility.
Cockroaches are believed to aid in treating burns and are commonly used in cosmetic products across China and South Korea.
They are also thought to assist with conditions like gastroenteritis, duodenal ulcers, and pulmonary tuberculosis. A pharmaceutical company in Sichuan is even developing a medicinal syrup aimed at addressing these ailments.
4. Deer Sinew
A popular remedy in Chinese households, deer sinew is valued for its potential to strengthen bones and tendons, alleviate muscle spasms, and provide temporary relief from arthritis. These benefits are attributed to its high collagen peptide and protein content. Research indicates that deer sinew can reduce bone loss and slow osteoporosis progression in rats.
If you ever consider purchasing deer sinew for bone health, ensure you source it from a trustworthy supplier, as there have been numerous cases of pharmacies substituting it with cheaper cattle tendons.
3. Gecko
Geckos are utilized to combat coughs and colds due to their believed impact on the lungs and kidneys, which are associated with respiratory issues in TCM. By fortifying these organs, a pinch of dried lizard can reportedly alleviate coughing. Additionally, practitioners often recommend it for treating impotence and premature ejaculation.
If you’ve ever been curious about the peculiar dried creature displayed in your local Chinese pharmacy, you now understand its purpose and the remarkable benefits it is said to offer.
2. Caterpillar Fungus
Referred to as “worm grass” in China, caterpillar fungus is scientifically known as Cordyceps. This unique fungus begins as a spore that infects moth caterpillars living in high-altitude mountainous regions.
After the caterpillars perish, the fungus grows out of their bodies, forming eerie, finger-like structures. Fortunately, this parasitic fungus does not pose a threat to humans.
Cordyceps is renowned for its potential to support kidney and liver health, and some athletes use it to enhance performance. Emerging studies also suggest it may inhibit the growth of cancer cells, particularly in lung and skin cancers, potentially reducing tumor size.
1. Sea Stars
Sea stars, commonly known as starfish, are celebrated for their powerful anti-inflammatory properties. Given that inflammation is associated with numerous conditions like arthritis, diabetes, heart disease, irritable bowel syndrome, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, allergies, asthma, and even cancer, it’s no wonder such an ingredient is highly valued.
Western medicine is also exploring these benefits. Researchers are studying the mucus from a specific sea star species for its potential to treat inflammation-related diseases.
