Chinese herbal medicine is part of the centuries-old tradition of applying traditional healing techniques in Asian countries. It

uses the natural bioactive components of herbs to alleviate symptoms and improve health. Like other branches of Chinese

medicine, herbalism also uses a fundamental concept called a vital force of life or Qi. From this book, you'll learn how the imbalance

of Qi affects the human body and causes disease and illness. Since this imbalance is considered disharmony of the Qi, the key to eliminating a disease or illness is to restore Qi's natural balance.

Ancient Chinese believed we are connected with nature and, therefore, subject to its forces. Elements of nature, like fire, earth,

water, metal, and wood, affect our internal equilibrium, and we must keep them in balance with our Qi. Traditional Chinese

medicine focuses on treating illnesses by treating the entire body - but the treatment is based on the specific cause of the condition.

This principle allows herbalists to use specific treatments for specific conditions, unlike Western Medicine, which generalizes

treatment for similar illnesses.