TCM Proven Specialty (China) key terms

A traditional paired framework for interpreting relative qualities and relationships; it should not be treated as a direct substitute for a biomedical diagnosis.

Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal and Water as categories in a traditional relational model, with generating and controlling cycles distinguished.

The traditional sequence in which one phase supports another, distinguished from the separate controlling relationship and its pathological variations.

An excessive controlling relationship within traditional five-phase theory, distinguished from counter-restriction in the reverse direction of control.

A reversal of the usual controlling relationship in traditional five-phase theory, which differs from merely strengthening the normal control.

The traditional functional classification of organ systems, whose terms should not automatically be equated with isolated modern anatomical organs.

A concept in traditional Chinese medical theory used in functional explanations; its curriculum meaning does not independently establish a measurable biomedical mechanism.

Classification of a supplied presentation within a traditional framework, distinguished from proving a biomedical disease or selecting treatment without assessment.

A traditional diagnostic observation interpreted with other findings, which does not alone establish a modern diagnosis or exclude serious disease.

A named traditional description of pulse qualities within its teaching framework, distinguished from an independently validated diagnosis based on one impression.

The study of recognized medicinal substances, including their identity and traditional properties, with safety and product quality examined separately.

The specific plant or other source portion used in a preparation, which can affect identity, constituents and the applicable standard.

A preparation state produced by a defined method, distinguished from raw material and from a guarantee that all toxicity has disappeared.

The ingredient assigned the principal role for a traditional formula purpose, which need not invariably have the greatest dose or pharmacological potency.

A traditional classification of ingredient relationships, which does not replace a complete check of modern interactions, toxicity and patient factors.

The established biological source of a medicinal material, requiring more than a similar common name, appearance or claim about geographical origin.

The documented link between a product, its batch, supplier and handling history, supporting investigation of quality concerns and recalls.

An unwanted harmful response associated with use of a medicine or product, requiring assessment rather than dismissal because the product is natural.

Assessment of whether combined medicines or products may alter effects or risks, using the actual substances, patient and available evidence.

A boundary on what observations or studies establish, which should be stated instead of converting a traditional association into a guarantee.