TCM as a Forerunner of Individualized Care
Today, “personalized medicine” is a modern endeavor in healthcare: tailoring treatments to an individual’s unique genetic and biological characteristics. However, for practitioners of TCM, this concept has been the standard for thousands of years.
Diagnosis of the Pattern
TCM has never believed in a “one-size-fits-all” approach. The principle is that it is not the disease, but theperson with the diseaseis being treated. This is done through pattern differentiation. We look not only at the complaint, but at the whole individual:
The constitution (innate strengths and weaknesses).
The tongue and pulse, which provide a snapshot of the internal state.
The lifestyle, nutrition and emotional state.
Two people with headaches may therefore receive a completely different approach and herbal formula because thecauseof their headaches differs.
TCM in the 21st Century
The ancient wisdom of TCM offers a valuable framework for the modern quest for personalized care. It reminds us that an effective approach must look beyond symptoms and consider the unique balance and imbalances of each person.