15/01/2025
Traditional Vietnamese Medicine (TVM)
Traditional Vietnamese Medicine, one of Vietnam's oldest cultural traditions, combines local knowledge, natural medicinal plants, and energetic concepts like Yin-Yang and Qi (life energy). Heavily influenced by Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), it has been adapted to Vietnam’s flora and conditions. Today, TVM is integral to modern integrative medicine and has global influence.
Origins
TVM dates back to prehistoric times when herbs and natural remedies were first used. Chinese rule (111 BCE–938 CE) introduced concepts like Yin-Yang, the five elements, and Qi, which were integrated into local practices. However, the Vietnamese developed their own identity by incorporating unique plants and methods suited to their tropical environment.
During the Nguyễn dynasty, TVM was systematized, notably by Hải Thượng Lãn Ông (Lê Hữu Trác), an 18th-century physician whose work Hải Thượng Y Tông Tâm Lĩnh laid the foundation for TVM. He is known as the "father of Vietnamese medicine."
Practices and Methods
TVM focuses on harmonizing body, mind, and environment through herbal remedies, manual therapies, and energetic techniques:
1. Herbal Medicine:
- TVM uses around 3,000 medicinal plants, such as:
- Betel nut: For digestion, oral health, and parasites.
- Artichoke, star anise, turmeric, lemongrass, ginger: Commonly used in teas, ointments, and pastes.
- Medicinal mushrooms and roots for detoxification.
- Remedies often combine plants to treat complex illnesses.
2. Acupuncture and Acupressure:
- Acupuncture regulates Qi by stimulating energy points, while acupressure uses finger pressure or tools.
3. Moxibustion:
- Burning mugwort ("moxa") warms points and improves circulation, especially for colds and joint pain.
4. Cupping Therapy:
- Removes toxins, boosts circulation, and relieves pain using vessels traditionally made of bamboo or clay.
5. Dietetics:
- Foods are categorized as "warming" (Yang) or "cooling" (Yin) to maintain balance.
6. Massage and Healing Baths:
- Herbal oil massages and plant-infused baths promote relaxation and healing.
7. Steam Inhalation:
- Popular for respiratory issues, using lemongrass, ginger, and medicinal plants.
Inventions and Tools
1. Inventions:
- Herbal formulas and tinctures tailored to tropical flora.
- Betel nut products: Used for both medicine and dental care.
- Hải Thượng Lãn Ông's Work: Systematized plants, mixtures, and diagnoses.
2. Tools:
- Acupuncture needles: Made from bamboo, steel, or precious metals.
- Cupping vessels: Initially bamboo or clay, now often glass.
- Moxa cones: Dried mugwort or herbal rolls.
- Massage tools: Wooden sticks and rollers for acupressure.
- Herbal tea utensils: Special pots for extended boiling.
The Influence of China
Chinese influence shaped TVM significantly:
- Philosophy and Diagnosis: Yin-Yang and Qi theories are central.
- Herbs and Recipes: Chinese remedies, like ginseng, were imported but often replaced with local alternatives.
- Techniques: Practices such as cupping, acupuncture, and moxibustion were adopted and adapted.
Worldwide Influence and Modern Integration
1. Global Significance:
- TVM, including herbal products like artichoke teas and star anise extracts, is internationally recognized.
- Alternative medicine trends have popularized TVM practices like acupuncture and cupping worldwide.
2. Modern Use in Vietnam:
- TVM is integrated with Western medicine in hospitals and clinics.
- Acupuncture is widely used for pain relief, rehabilitation, and stress management.
- Research focuses on medicinal plants like Trinh Nữ Hoàng Cung (crinum lily) and ginger for pharmaceutical development.
3. Scientific Research:
- Efforts are underway to align TVM with modern standards, particularly for chronic disease treatments.
Summary
TVM is a unique, Chinese-influenced medical system utilizing over 3,000 medicinal plants, techniques like acupuncture, and tools such as cupping vessels and moxa cones. Scholars like Hải Thượng Lãn Ông played a key role in its development. Today, TVM is globally respected and practiced alongside Western medicine in Vietnam.
