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Where Western medicine fails, Traditional Chinese Medicine

may offer new hope.

EAST OF THE USUAL

Growing up, Henry Lu was skeptical about the ancient art of Chinese medicine, even though his uncle ran a Chinese herb shop. But then, as an adult, suffering from chronic digestive problems, he experienced a profound awakening to the possibilities of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).

For years, he followed his own doctor’s advice by taking a daily laxative and trying different diets and exercises — all to no avail. Having seemingly exhausted all of the treatment options available to him through Western medicine, in desperation he travelled to Hong Kong and Taiwan, where he was prescribed an herbal formula and underwent acupuncture treatments. Together, they cured him of his ailments.

This inspired Lu to begin studying TCM. He subsequently left his position as a professor at the University of Alberta to open his own college, the International College of Traditional Chinese Medicine of Vancouver, in 1986.

“I became convinced that drugs used in Western medicine do not outweigh the side effects in many cases,” Dr. Lu says. “Unlike Western medicine, which commonly strives to control symptoms, Chinese medicine focuses on the cause of the illness, and treats the cause.”

For many Westerners, TCM might seem confusing and off-putting, with its exotic terminology, peculiar diagnoses, and unconventional treatments. And yet it’s become increasingly popular, due to its emphasis on preventative health and controlling chronic conditions.