Bedside to Bench to Bedside: Rethinking TCM in the West

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Abstract: Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has seen a major rise in popularity in the West in recent decades. This method of treatment is attractive to many seeking holistic alternatives to the modern healthcare system. The widespread use of TCM in western countries has prompted discussion over its efficacy and safety, however. This study focuses specifically on Chinese herbal remedies, which are suited to rigorous scientific study as opposed to acupuncture or massage therapy. In America, dietary supplements often do not require any research proving a supplements’ effectiveness. This has created a market for TCM which allows for dubious claims of health benefits, and in some cases, the distribution and consumption of dangerous products. In spite of this, to some scientists TCM is a promising source of drug discovery. Many pharmacologists across the country are already pursuing cell-based screening of TCM herbs, sometimes with surprising results. Dr. Yung-Chi Cheng, a leading pharmacologist from Yale University, makes the strongest case for rethinking TCM in the West.