Traditional Mongolian medicine

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Esszettel - Mongolei

Traditional Mongolian Medicine (TMM) is a form of traditional medicine practiced in Mongolia. It has been developed over thousands of years and incorporates influences from both Tibetan medicine and Chinese medicine, reflecting the geographical and cultural connections of the Mongolian people. TMM is characterized by its holistic approach to diagnosis and treatment, emphasizing balance and harmony within the body and between the body and the natural environment.

History

The origins of Traditional Mongolian Medicine can be traced back to ancient times, with its development closely linked to the nomadic lifestyle of the Mongolian people. It has evolved through the centuries, absorbing elements from neighboring cultures and adapting to the changing needs of its practitioners. The Yuan dynasty (1271–1368), established by the Mongols in China, was a particularly significant period for the integration of different medical traditions.

Principles

The core principles of TMM are based on the concepts of balance and harmony. It posits that health is maintained by the balance of the body's internal elements and its harmony with the external environment. TMM identifies three primary forces or humors in the body: wind, bile, and phlegm, similar to the humoral theory in Tibetan medicine. Disease is considered to arise from an imbalance of these forces.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis in TMM involves a comprehensive assessment of the patient's physical condition, lifestyle, and environment. Practitioners use various methods such as pulse reading, observation, and questioning to diagnose health issues. Treatment can include a range of therapies such as herbal medicine, acupuncture, moxibustion (a form of heat therapy), massage, and dietary and lifestyle advice. The use of specific herbs and minerals, often unique to the Mongolian region, is a hallmark of TMM.

Herbal Medicine

Herbal medicine is a cornerstone of TMM, with a vast pharmacopeia of plants and minerals used for treatment. These ingredients are often combined into complex formulas that are tailored to the individual patient's condition, aiming to restore balance within the body.

Modern Practice

Today, Traditional Mongolian Medicine is practiced alongside Western medicine in Mongolia, with hospitals and clinics offering both types of care. It has also gained recognition internationally, with research and exchange programs exploring the efficacy and knowledge base of TMM practices.

Challenges and Preservation

The preservation of Traditional Mongolian Medicine faces challenges such as the loss of medicinal plant species and traditional knowledge. Efforts are underway to document and standardize TMM practices, ensuring their transmission to future generations and their integration into the global healthcare system.

See Also

• Traditional Chinese Medicine
• Tibetan Medicine
• Ayurveda
• Herbal Medicine