What are the distinguished features of TCM?
TCM has its own unique understandings about the physiological activities and pathological changes in the human body. It has , as well, many distinguishing features in terms of the diagnosis and treatment of disease. This unique theoretical system has two basic characteristics, i.e., the concept of integrity and treatment on the basis of differentiation of syndromes. For example, it views the body as an organic whole. The center of this organic integrity is the system of Zang-fu organs which are linked through an elaborate system of meridians. Traditional Chinese medicine also views the relationship between the human being and nature as an integrated one. And though it recognizes the importance of the six climatic factors and seven emotions in the pathogenesis of diseases, it emphasizes the importance of the endogenous pathogenic factors even more. A diagnostic system of syndrome differentiation (bian zheng) has been created based on the four diagnostic methods,the eight principal syndr
