Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has been around for more than 2,000 years. While imperfect and sometimes controversial — such as the “spiritual” aspect of forces and energies — the concepts and learnings of TCM may be of use to the medical community and society as a whole.
Many Chinese-Filipinos have greatly benefitted from TCM. Below are five Chinese medicine that Chinoys frequently use:
1) White Flower: A Chinoy’s cure to almost anything
Image from SCMP
White Flower has been a staple for clogged sinuses, colds, dizziness, headaches, muscular pain, and more. Its combination of menthol, eucalyptus, wintergreen, camphor, lavender, and peppermint make it a great solution for almost any ailment. Plus, with its compact size, you can easily take it with you anywhere!
2) Pei Pa Koa: An effective cough syrup
Image from Says
A cure for cough and hoarseness! Pei Pa Koa’s effects have been called “significantly effective against cough” by an article published by the China Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine. The article titled, “Pharmacological Studies of nin jion pei pa koa,” also stated that the medicine has “an evident effect on relieving asthma in vivo [within the living] and in vitro.” The cough syrup is made from different herbs, like pomelo peel, fresh ginger, and menthol, among many others.
3) Po Chai Pills: To stop LBM in its tracks
Image from Retail News Asia
For many Chinese, this is the ever-recognizable man on a medicine box! Po Chai pills are able to relieve diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain, indigestion, and cold symptoms. This medicine even has a 124-year legacy dating back to 1896 when it was first made by Li Shiu-kei in Hong Kong.
4) Seirogan: For stomachaches and toothaches
Image from Azusa 999
Seirogan helps treat stomachaches, diarrhea, food poisoning, vomiting, and toothaches caused by pulpitis, a condition that causes the painful inflammation of the tooth’s pulp. What’s interesting is that it was founded in Japan, but one of its main ingredients is Chinese licorice root, a fundamental Chinese herb.
5) Lianhua Qingwen: A potential future favorite
Image from Philippine Archipelago International Trading Corporation
The medicine Lianhua Qingwen Jiaonang, recently approved by the Philippine FDA, could prove to be useful, especially in the fight against COVID-19. Used as a treatment for “hot symptoms” in TCM, Lianhua Qingwen serves as a cooling supplement — and a strong one at that.
The inherent beauty of Traditional Chinese Medicine lies in its long history and resounding adaptability. Thus, even today, many Chinoys rely on these medicine for various ailments.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is not medical advice and should not be treated as such. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. All content, including text, graphics, images, and information, contained in this article is for general information purposes only. Do not ignore professional medical advice or treatment on the basis of this article or the products mentioned herein. Always seek the advice of a licensed medical professional for any questions regarding a medical condition. CHiNOY TV does not guarantee the effectiveness or safety of any of the products in this article. If you are experiencing any medical issue or emergency, please consult a licensed medical professional.
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The author of this article:
An accomplished young Chinese Filipino writer and media personality, Aaron S. Medina is associated with the Philippine Daily Inquirer, the Ateneo de Manila University Chinese Studies Program, the Philippine Association for Chinese Studies, and CHiNOY TV. He has a passion for truth, justice, and Pokémon, too! Follow him on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aaron.joseph.s.medina/
