A chronological overview of common Chinese medicine treatment methods

Abstract This overview provides a synopsis of the history and development of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) treatment methods, highlighting its foundational principles and key modalities. While certain concepts are exclusive to TCM, other applications of TCM intertwine with Western concepts, thus showing a holistic approach to medicine, diseases, and their treatment. Chinese Medicine (CM) originated during the Yin and Shang dynasties, with core concepts such as yin and yang and the five elements emerging in the Spring and Autumn Period. Key texts from the Qin and Han dynasties shaped various CM disciplines. Acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, Tuina, and cupping therapy have been central to CM’s development. Today, TCM is globally recognized, integrating modern technology and collaborating with academic institutions, ensuring its relevance in contemporary healthcare. Conducted through an online search using PubMed and China National Knowledge Infrastructure databases, this study also includes a review of ancient and modern Chinese medical textbooks, focusing on essential CM treatment methods over a chronological timeline. Only original articles on humans published in English, Chinese, French, or German in peer-reviewed international journals were considered eligible. In this narrative review, no further restrictions on study design were applied. The results were evaluated, analyzed, classified, and summarized. This overview explores the history and evolution of TCM treatment methods. It traces its origins and development, shedding light on its historical foundations and evolution over time, thus providing context for contemporary practice.