Traditional Chinese medicines derived from the human body

Traditional Chinese medicines derived from human body parts

Traditional Chinese medicines derived from the human body are a subset of Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) that utilize human body parts or substances for therapeutic purposes. These practices have historical roots in ancient Chinese medical traditions and are based on the belief that human-derived substances can have potent healing properties.

Overview

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is a holistic approach to health that has been practiced for thousands of years. It includes various practices such as acupuncture, herbal medicine, and qigong. Among these, the use of human-derived substances is a lesser-known but historically significant aspect.

Common Human-Derived Medicines

Ziheche

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Ziheche, or human placenta, used in TCM

Ziheche (紫河车) refers to the dried human placenta, which is believed to have nourishing and revitalizing properties. It is used to treat a variety of conditions, including fatigue, infertility, and impotence. In TCM, it is thought to replenish the body's vital energy, or qi.

Human Gallstones

Human gallstones, sometimes used in TCM

Human gallstones, known as "Bezoar" (牛黄), are sometimes used in TCM for their purported ability to clear heat and toxins from the body. They are believed to have a cooling effect and are used in the treatment of high fevers and convulsions.

Human Bones

Human skull, used in some TCM practices

Human bones, particularly skulls, have been used in TCM to treat conditions such as epilepsy and convulsions. The bones are often ground into a powder and used in various formulations.

Mellified Man

Mellified man, a legendary TCM preparation

The concept of the "mellified man" involves a legendary process where a human body is preserved in honey and used as a medicinal substance. This practice is more mythological than historical, but it reflects the belief in the potent healing properties of human-derived substances.

Human Urine and Feces

Human urine and feces have also been used in TCM, albeit less commonly. Urine is sometimes used in the treatment of skin conditions, while feces have been used in the treatment of certain digestive disorders.

Ethical and Safety Considerations

The use of human-derived substances in medicine raises significant ethical and safety concerns. Modern medical ethics generally discourage the use of human body parts in medicine without clear scientific evidence of efficacy and safety. Additionally, there are concerns about the transmission of diseases and the potential for exploitation.

Modern Perspectives

In contemporary practice, the use of human-derived substances in TCM is rare and often replaced by herbal or synthetic alternatives. The focus has shifted towards evidence-based practices and the integration of TCM with modern medical approaches.

Related Pages

• Traditional Chinese medicine
• Acupuncture
• Herbal medicine
• Qi (vital energy)