Today’s blog post highlights the imaginary ancient acupuncturist Li Wei, who lived in China more than two thousand years ago. His thriving acupuncture clinic treated the most influential leaders of the day, including a high-ranking general. In our story, Li Wei was mysteriously transformed 2000 years into the present to assess and treat a stubborn modern health condition – autoimmune diseases. How would he approach treating this condition? And what would be his reaction to modern Western medicine’s approach? Let’s find out.
Ancient Acupuncturist Li Wei
In the lush countryside of ancient China, nestled within a picturesque village named Liuyuan, there lived a renowned Chinese medicine doctor named Li Wei. Liuyuan was known for its harmonious blend of nature’s bounty and a close-knit community that valued traditional healing practices.
Li Wei was born into a family of esteemed physicians who had served the village for generations. From an early age, he was exposed to the wisdom and secrets of Chinese medicine, passed down through the family’s lineage. His father, Master Li Sheng, was a highly respected acupuncturist, revered for his skill in restoring health and harmony to countless patients.
Learning By Tradition
Under the watchful eye of his father, Li Wei began his apprenticeship as an acupuncturist at an early age. His training included the intricate art of inserting fine needles into specific points on the body and a deep understanding of the body’s energy pathways known as meridians. Master Li Sheng instilled in his son the importance of observing and listening to the physical and energetic aspects of a patient’s being.
Li Wei’s talent and dedication flourished under his father’s guidance, and his reputation spread far beyond the village of Liuyuan. His remarkable skill in diagnosing and treating various ailments attracted patients from near and far. Word of his healing abilities reached the ears of emperors, scholars, and fellow physicians throughout China.
Li Wei’s Famous Cases
Among ancient acupuncturist Li Wei’s most famous cases was the treatment of a high-ranking general who had fallen gravely ill while defending the kingdom against invaders. The general’s condition had baffled other physicians, but Li Wei’s perceptive diagnosis and precise acupuncture techniques swiftly restored his vitality, enabling him to lead his troops to victory.
Another notable case involved a young woman suffering from a mysterious illness that caused chronic fatigue and debilitating pain. Li Wei recognized the imbalance in her body’s energy flow and devised a treatment plan involving acupuncture, herbal medicine, and dietary adjustments. Gradually, the woman’s health improved, until finally she was healed. Stemming from her gratitude to Li Wei, she spent the rest of her life advocating for Chinese medicine, and spreading the word about Li Wei’s remarkable abilities.
The Humble Healer
Li Wei’s humble nature and genuine concern for his patients earned him a place in the hearts of the people he served. His reputation as a compassionate and skilled healer extended far and wide, making him a revered figure in the annals of Chinese medicine.
In the village of Liuyuan, Li Wei’s name lives on as a symbol of healing, wisdom, and the enduring legacy of traditional Chinese medicine. His lineage of physicians continues to carry the torch, passing down their knowledge to future generations, ensuring that the ancient healing arts of acupuncture and herbal medicine thrive for years to come. Thousands of years later, his legacy was to become the foundation of twenty-first century traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), as practiced today throughout the world.
Time Traveling Acupuncturist
In this story, Li Wei has miraculously traveled 2000 years into the future to assess and treat one of the most perplexing modern conditions – autoimmune disease. Autoimmune diseases are conditions in which the immune system mistakenly attacks and damages healthy cells, tissues, and organs, causing inflammation and a host of debilitating symptoms.
Autoimmune Diseases
Some of the most common autoimmune diseases include:
- Rheumatoid arthritis (RA)
- Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)
- Hashimoto’s thyroiditis
- Type 1 diabetes mellitus
- Multiple sclerosis (MS)
- Psoriasis
- Inflammatory bowel disease (including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis)
- Celiac disease
- Sjögren’s syndrome
- Autoimmune hepatitis
Ancient Acupuncturist Tackles Autoimmune Diseases
As you can imagine, the ancient acupuncturist approach to assessing, diagnosing, and treating a modern autoimmune disease is quite different from contemporary Western medicine. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) views health as a balance between Yin and Yang energies within the body and focuses on restoring harmony to promote healing. Here’s how Dr. Li Wei approached treating this group of diseases:
Assessing the Patient
Patient History: Dr Wei would first gather a detailed medical history, including information about the onset and progression of symptoms, previous illnesses, and the patient’s overall constitution.
Observation: Then he would carefully observe the patient’s physical appearance, noting any signs of imbalance, such as skin discoloration, changes in complexion, or abnormal body odors. Furthermore, he would observe the patient’s posture, movement, and gestures.
Palpation: The doctor would use palpation techniques to assess the patient’s pulse, considered an essential diagnostic tool in TCM. Different qualities of the pulse indicate imbalances in specific organs and meridians.
Tongue Examination: Dr. Wei would then examine the patient’s tongue, looking at its color, shape, coating, and moisture. The tongue reflects the condition of internal organs and provides valuable diagnostic information.
Making a Diagnosis
Based on the assessment, the ancient acupuncturist would form a diagnosis according to the principles of TCM, which involve identifying patterns of disharmony. In the case of autoimmune disease with organ inflammation, he might find patterns such as excessive heat, dampness, or stagnation in specific organs or meridians.
Treating Autoimmune Diseases
The TCM treatment approach aims to restore balance and harmony within the body. Here are some possible treatment modalities:
Herbal Medicine: Dr. Wei might prescribe a customized herbal formula containing a combination of herbs targeting the specific pattern of disharmony identified. These herbs may have anti-inflammatory, immune-regulating, and organ-nourishing properties.
Acupuncture: The doctor would use acupuncture to stimulate specific points along the body’s meridians. This technique aims to regulate the flow of Qi (vital energy) and restore balance to the organs. The practitioner chooses specific acupuncture points to address inflammation, immune system regulation, and overall well-being.
Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations: Dr. Wei would provide guidance on dietary modifications, suggesting foods that help reduce inflammation and support the affected organs. He might also recommend lifestyle changes such as stress reduction techniques, appropriate exercise, and sufficient rest.
Mind-Body Practices: Ancient acupuncturist medicine emphasizes the mind-body connection. Dr. Wei might suggest practices like Tai Chi, Qi Gong, or meditation to promote relaxation, improve energy flow, and support overall healing.
Dr. Li Wei’s Reaction To Western Treatment
Upon his arrival into the twenty-first century, Li Wei was surprised to see modern medicine’s use of antibiotics and steroids to treat inflammation caused by autoimmune flares. It was immediately clear to him that the principles and philosophy of traditional Chinese medicine differed significantly from modern Western medicine.
In an interview at a local radio station, Dr. Wei described his reaction to modern Western medical treatment and how it compared to his medicine from ancient China.
Philosophical Differences
Thanks for having me on your show. Wait until my friends hear about the invention of the radio! As an ancient acupuncturist, I approach the treatment of inflammation from a holistic perspective, aiming to restore balance and harmony in the body.
In contrast, I view Western physicians’ use of antibiotics and steroids to suppress symptoms as overly reductionist. Their approach fails to address the root causes of the imbalance. Likewise, using medicines to suppress their innate immune response is inferior to addressing the root cause triggering the immune system in the first place.
Putting the Cart Before The Horse
To me, this approach is putting the cart before the horse. The body elicits symptoms to warn us of hidden problems. Suppressing them without addressing the underlying root disturbance seems foolish. Likewise, the immune response defends our bodies against pathogenic attacks. Why would we want to suppress this internal defense system? Isn’t it better to find the cause of the problem and correct it? Otherwise, you will only have a short-term solution and never fully heal.
Such an approach only makes sense if your overarching goal is to keep the patient sick, forcing them to continue medical treatment on an ongoing basis. How absurd! It’s as if these Western doctors care more about selling medicine than healing their patients. But of course, this is impossible. No healer would ever do such a thing!
Side Effects and Long-Term Consequences
I am also concerned about the potential side effects and long-term consequences of using antibiotics and steroids. These medications can significantly harm the gut microbiota, weaken the immune system, and increase the risk of infections. From an ancient acupuncturist perspective, it is crucial to strengthen the body’s innate healing abilities rather than relying on medications that may have unintended consequences.
Suppressing Symptoms vs. Addressing Underlying Imbalances
Chinese medicine, on the other hand, identifies and addresses the underlying imbalances that trigger autoimmune flares. Rather than suppressing symptoms with medications, we aim to re-calibrate the body’s energy, strengthen the organs, and promote overall well-being. This approach involves herbal medicine, acupuncture, dietary adjustments, and lifestyle modifications tailored to the individual’s condition.
Harmonizing the Body’s Energy
In TCM, autoimmune conditions correlate to imbalances in the body’s energy, such as excess heat, dampness, or stagnation. Therefore, I would focus on herbal formulations and acupuncture points that help cool and clear heat, resolve dampness, and promote the smooth flow of energy throughout the body. This approach aims to restore harmony and alleviate inflammation naturally, from the inside out.
Ancient Chinese Doctor Consults With Western Physician
During the radio interview, the host received a call from pre-eminent Western physician Dr. Marcia Welby, daughter of noted TV celebrity Dr. Marcus Welby. The two physicians then entered a fascinating exchange on their different approaches to treating autoimmune diseases.
Dr. Li Wei
Good day, esteemed colleague. Thank you for joining this conversation about different approaches to treating autoimmune diseases. In ancient Chinese medicine, we focus on restoring balance and harmony within the body. I have observed that the modern use of antibiotics and steroids suppresses symptoms rather than addresses the underlying imbalances. What are your thoughts?
Dr. Marcia Welby
It’s a pleasure speaking with a 2000-year-old physician! In Western medicine, our approach to autoimmune diseases involves a combination of medications, lifestyle modifications, and immunosuppressive therapies. While our treatments aim to manage symptoms and control the immune response, we also consider the underlying causes and work towards minimizing long-term damage. We have not been able to pinpoint these underlying causes as of yet. Our scientists are actively engaged in this endeavor as we speak.
Dr. Wei
Dr. Welby, your medical science is awe-inspiring. Similar to you, I lack full understanding of the root causes of autoimmune diseases. Furthermore, I understand your keen interest in managing symptoms – your patients demand relief. In my time, patients are less demanding! Now, while I cannot pinpoint the exact cause of these diseases, I know a great deal about why inflammation is plaguing these patients. In TCM, we believe in strengthening the body’s innate healing abilities. We use herbal medicine and acupuncture to restore balance to the body, thereby restoring health. Do any of your treatments focus on restoring balance through natural means?
Dr. Welby
Unfortunately not. For better or worse, the pharmaceutical industry drives modern medicine. It’s all about discovering the next “miracle pill.” People want quick solutions to their medical problems. For example, the advent of antibiotics has saved millions of lives. Likewise, modern surgery and emergency medicine have freed us from a vast array of illnesses and diseases. However, as a result of these advances, people expect immediate relief from the discomfort of disease.
Furthermore, while I admire your focus on restoring balance, it seems that your ancient acupuncturist medicine has not found the root cause of autoimmune illnesses either.
Dr. Wei
You are correct, Dr. Welby, to a point. The root causes of autoimmune disease are not as hidden as you might think. I have been observing your modern lifestyle since my arrival in your era. Based on these observations, I believe the root cause of autoimmune disease lies with stress. People are entirely stressed out. It is uncanny. Life is much more difficult in my era. We are constantly faced with disease, war, and the elements. Yet, ancient people are less stressed.
In the current age, people appear to be living in a constant fight-or-flight state. Their heightened stress has unhinged the body’s immune response, sending it into a continuous state of inflammation. I would use Chinese medicine to escape this perpetual cycle of stress by calming the mind, strengthening the organs, restoring proper Qi and blood circulation.
Dr. Welby
My dear ancient colleague, these are noble sentiments, but we cannot go back in time. The modern world demands modern solutions. Restoring Qi circulation will not calm anything! And it will certainly not reduce inflammation. How do you expect me to believe that the insertion of tiny needles on the surface of the body can effect a person’s physiology?
Dr. Wei
Oh, ye of little faith! Come to my clinic and see for yourself. Better yet, come to a clinic of my deal colleagues at Raleigh Acupuncture. They practice Chinese medicine in your modern times and can show you how this ancient medicine resolves pain and heals disease, all with just their tiny needles.
Dr. Welby
Alright, I’ll visit their clinic. But even if you can heal with needles and herbs, we have other problems. The pharmaceutical industry is here to stay. They drive modern medicine. In addiition, people have certain expectations, and physicians must fulfill those expectations. While our immunosuppression may not heal the patient, they effectively reduce symptoms. And ultimately, that’s what people want.
Dr. Wei
My friend, I respectfully disagree. I think people want healing, not band-aids.
Dr. Welby
But you, yourself, acknowledge that TCM does not fully understand how to cure autoimmune diseases. You, also, are just managing symptoms.
Dr. Wei
Yes, we are managing symptoms. But the difference between our approaches is that we’re managing by healing root imbalances – correcting, not masking. As a result, our relief is longer-lasting and self-sustaining.
Dr. Welby
Point taken. Not withstanding our differences, Western medicine welcomes alternative health options like acupuncture. We have no problem with our patients seeking relief at your clinics in conjunction with their Western treatment. At the same time we would appreciate your acknowledgement that Chinese medicine cannot solve this problem on its own. We need to collaborate.
Dr. Wei
Yes, of course, we should work together. That means we need to listen to each other. And more importantly, we need to listen to our patients. Ultimately, they need to drive the process. That being said, I believe any solution must involve changing the way people life in the modern age. People might want to revisit the ancient acupuncturists’ values of well-being, balance, simplicity, and respect for nature. Modern peoples seem to have forgotten how to live slowly, methodically, and with patience.
Returning To The Past
As Dr. Wei prepared to return home, he thought of all he’d seen and experienced during his brief trip to the future. Western medicine has ushered in so many benefits to the world. No wonder people flocked to it. Yet, at the same time, something had been lost. Or maybe a culture’s medicine reflects its nature. As life becomes more fast-paced and superficial, medicine follows suit. Quick life leads to quick illness, requiring quick fixes.
Dr. Wei hoped life in his time would stay slow as long as possible. But he knew better. Culture and society inevitably evolve, bringing both the good and the bad. Only time would tell if the wisdom of the past could help the people of the future.
About Raleigh Acupuncture
We have offered acupuncture and Chinese medicine to the greater Raleigh area since 2005. Incredibly, our modern acupuncture is quite similar to the medicine practiced by ancient acupuncturist Wei Li. We recognize the miracles of Western medicine, including surgical procedures, infertility clinics, and cancer treatments. Yet, we also see the gaps. Western medicine is quick to diagnose but often has no cure. Or the medications prescribed provide little relief while bringing adverse side effects.
Our mission is to provide pain relief for intractable cases and symptom relief for conditions poorly understood by Western medicine. One prime example is the case of autoimmune diseases. Acupuncture provides significant relief by reducing inflammation in the body and by calming an overactive immune system. While we don’t have a cure, our “treating the root” approach brings significant benefits with no adverse effects.
Next Steps
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