Chinese traditional medicine, influenced by the philosophy of Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism, has thousands of years of history behind it. Thus, he recited some of his colleagues, authors of History and Development of Traditional Chinese Medicine, traditional medicine, with its emphasis on the mind and social interactions can be seen as a reflection of Chinese society.
The concept of yin-yang, a balance of hot and cold elements, can be seen as a compromise of the five fundamental elements: metal, wood, fire, water, and earth. The human body is divided into yin and yang regions: The external organs, including the small intestine and stomach, are considered to be yang, while yin consists of internal organs such as the lungs and spleen.
The Chinese diet is based on the yin-yang balance, since all foods and herbs are naturally embedded with some of the five fundamental elements. By eating the right combinations of foods, the correct balance can be maintained, or if need be, restored. Thus, yang (hot) foods, including meats, seafood, tonics, and fried food, are eaten with yin (cold) foods, such as vegetables and fresh fruits. Excesses of yin or yang foods could result in various illnesses; yin excess results in fever and dehydration, while gastric orders - amongst other ailments - can be attributed to an excess of yang.
Moreover, foods and herbs have also been utilized in medicinal remedies. Chinese adjust their food choices according to climates and seasonality, as well as to the physical condition of each individual. Consequently, an ailment such as a blood deficiency has been designated a yin condition, and requires special yang foods, such as ginger with brown sugar, and soups containing pork liver. Moreover, high blood pressure, resulting from an excess of yang, can be combated with garlic porridge or celery porridge.
