On the fertile ground of Chinese civilization, Chinese medicine stands as a crystallized wisdom of millennia, rooted in the fusion of nature and human culture. Henan—the cradle of this ancient heritage—bears not only the epics of dynastic glory but also the living legacy of Chinese medicine, blending ancient wisdom with holistic healing.

One of Henan's most influential historical figures is Zhang Zhongjing, a physician from Nanyang during the Eastern Han Dynasty. Revered as the "Sage of Medicine", he authored the foundational medical text Treatise on Cold Damage Diseases, which established core principles still followed in Chinese medicine practice today. His methodical approach to treating fevers and internal illnesses laid the groundwork for centuries of clinical practice.

Henan's geography plays a vital role in its medicinal heritage. The province's rich soils and diverse climate support the growth of key herbs used in traditional Chinese medicine, such as Chinese yam, chrysanthemum, and polygonum. In regions like Xinyang, Jiaozuo, and the Taihang Mountains, herb farming and wild harvesting remain integral to both the local economy and Chinese medicine's national supply chain.

Today, Henan continues to be a leader in both preserving and modernizing Chinese medicine. Institutions such as the Henan University of Chinese Medicine in Zhengzhou are actively engaged in research, education, and clinical innovation. These centers serve as bridges between tradition and technology, training new generations of practitioners while contributing to scientific validation of Chinese medicine therapies.

Chinese medicine in Henan transcends academia—acupuncture and moxibustion coexist with modern healthcare in urban/rural clinics. Residents embrace Chinese medicine philosophy to maintain dynamic health, embodying the Eastern wisdom of "preventing disease before it arises."

The everyday presence of traditional Chinese medicine in Henan is not confined to academic settings. In villages and urban clinics alike, acupuncture, moxibustion, cupping, and herbal therapies are commonly used alongside modern medicine. Many residents rely on these techniques not only for curing illnesses, but also for maintaining balance and preventing disease—a reflection of the philosophy that sees health as a dynamic state of harmony.

Henan's role in promoting traditional Chinese medicine also extends beyond China's borders. With support from national health initiatives, the province has increased its export of herbal products and actively participates in international cooperation. From pharmaceutical collaborations to overseas wellness centers, Henan's knowledge and resources are finding new relevance in the global health landscape.

Henan plays a leading role in advancing the development of traditional Chinese medicine. Today, as global recognition grows for the value of natural healing and preventive care, the province's enduring commitment to Chinese medicine stands as a testament to historical wisdom. From preserving ancient medical heritage to integrating these practices into daily life, Henan envisions a more balanced and sustainable future in healthcare.

Web editors: Shen Jianqi, Li Siyao