Health Concepts in Chinese Medicine from Coursera

What's inside

Syllabus

Basic Theories in Chinese Medicine

In the first foundation module, students are going to learn basic theories in Chinese Medicine. Please enjoy a series of animations introducing Chinese Medicine History and different Chinese Medicine Concepts. Prof. Ko explains these concepts further in the lecture videos afterwards.

Balance and Interactions, and Preventive Health

Chinese Medicine concerns about "Holisticity", which involves (1) Yin and Yang balance and (2) Five Elements Interaction among visceral organs. In this foundation module, you will learn the importance of Balance and Interactions, as poor Balance and Interactions lead to body function deficiencies. Common examples of body function deficiencies encountered by many city dwellers are illustrated. Prof. Ko also explains how different Chinese Medicines can prevent and/or treat these deficiencies. Some people may make use of Modern Medicine, such as Vitamins, for preventive health, Prof. Ko also compares and contrasts the difference between Chinese Medicine and Modern Medicine in preventive health.

Pharmacological Basis of Chinese Tonifying Herbs

In the last foundation module, Prof. Ko explains, in the language of Modern Medicine, the pharmacological basis of different kinds of Chinese Tonifying Herbs - (1) Yang and Qi invigoration, (2) Yin Nourishment and (3) Blood Enrichment, We also look into different examples of Chinese Medicine for their effects and applications.

Seminar 1: Yin and Yang: A Pharmacological Perspective

Chinese Medicine concerns about Yin Yang Balance, as Yin Yang balance generates Qi, which can circulate along the Meridian and nourish different organs. In this seminar series, Prof. Ko explains how Yin Yang is related to Modern Medicine. Chinese Medicine also believes that Chinese tonifying herbs can restore the Yin Yang balance in body function and hence a healthy body status. The seminar series also describes how different Chinese tonifying herbs can enhance the physiological function by means of activating energy metabolism, stimulating immunomodulatory action, enhancing antioxidation ability, etc.

Seminar 2: Yang Invigoration and Yin Nourishment

From the previous seminar series, we understand that Yang is primarily related to energy metabolism while Yin is primarily related to the immune system in our body. In this seminar series, we look into the effect of Yang Invigoration and Yin Nourishment to our body, from the biochemical perspective, in the language of Modern Medicine.

Seminar 3-4: Qi Invigoration and Chinese Tonifying Herbs for Promoting Health

In Chinese Medicine, Yin Yang Balance generates Qi. In the last module of the course, Prof. Ko gives a thorough explanation of the nature of Qi from the biochemical perspective. Schisandra Berry - a common Qi invigorating tonifying herb is used for illustration on how Qi invigoration is important to our health. Due to the gradual change of diseases over the past century from the prevalence of infectious diseases to age-associated diseases, Chinese Medicine is highly regarded as a gold mine for exploring alternative ways to prevent and treat these diseases. Prof. Ko wraps up the course by summarizing the use of different categories of Chinese tonifying herbs and when we should use them for preventive health.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Is good for those interested in learning the pharmacological basis of different kinds of Chinese Tonifying Herbs

Is good for those interested in understanding the practice of Chinese Medicine in the context of Modern Medicine

Is suitable for those who have no background of Chinese Medicine

May be limited in preparing someone for a complete understanding of all concepts taught in a traditional Chinese Medicine degree

May be limited in preparing someone for a complete understanding of all concepts taught in a Modern Medicine degree

Requires no prerequisites to get started

Reviews summary

Well-received course on health concepts in chinese medicine

According to students, the course titled Health Concepts in Chinese Medicine is largely positive. Well-received qualities of this course include its engaging assignments, informative teachings, and well-organized structure. Learners say that lectures are clear and well-supported with visual aids. The course also provides supplemental readings that are described as helpful and thorough. One student notes that the course assignments and readings encourage students to "think critically about the material". The course's quizzes and exams are described as fair and challenging. Some students thought the deadlines were a bit short. Overall, students recommend this course to anyone interested in learning more about the fundamentals of Chinese Medicine.

The course ties concepts of Chinese Medicine to Modern Medicine.

"It gives you another perspective about Modern Medicine"

"Great course, recommended for all healthcare practitioners to understand patients who use this system of Medicine alongside other treatment modalities"

"The course was very helpful in introducing traditional chinese medicine concepts in theory, and in making a clear comparison with western medicine."

Difficult but fair exams and quizzes.

"I really loved this course. It was quite challenging, and absolutely worth it."

"The course was difficult but very informative."

"Course is informative but could be difficult."

Supplemental readings are informative and well-written.

"Very informative. "

"well put together course. It has lots of future reading material"

"the reading materials made me have the confidence that I was truly learning something important and useful"

Professors are knowledgeable and engaging.

"Lectures are organized so logicable"

"Professor very devoted to his subject"

"Professor Ko Hong is a very good teacher and science man."

Some students found the content to be repetitive.

"An interesting introduction to Chinese medicine concepts, although I found it somewhat repetitive at some moments."

"Good overview on metabolism and immunity. But too much repetition in course material from week to week."

"It wasn't exactly what I expected, but overall, I am satisfied with what I've learned. Thank you !"

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Health Concepts in Chinese Medicine with these activities:

Review Basic Concepts

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Understanding the basic concepts of Chinese Medicine will help you grasp the more complex topics covered in the course.

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Read the assigned textbook chapters.
Complete the online quizzes and exercises.
Discuss the concepts with your classmates in the discussion forum.

Review Chinese Medicine Concepts

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Reviewing Chinese Medicine concepts such as Yin and Yang will help you better understand the foundations of the practice.

Browse courses on Yin and Yang

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Read the textbooks and review your lecture notes.
Take practice quizzes or tests to identify areas where you need more review.

Practice Identifying Chinese Medicine Herbs

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Practicing identifying Chinese Medicine herbs will help you develop a strong foundation in the materia medica.

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Use online resources or textbooks to look up and study different Chinese Medicine herbs.
Take practice quizzes or tests to assess your knowledge and identify areas for improvement.

Six other activities

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Read "Chinese Medicine: A History and Critique" by Unschuld

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Reading this book will provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the history and development of Chinese Medicine.

View Nan-Ching on Amazon

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Read the book in sections and take notes on the key points.
Write a summary or review of the book, highlighting the main arguments and implications for your understanding of Chinese Medicine.

Follow Tutorials on Chinese Medicine Techniques

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Following tutorials on Chinese Medicine techniques will provide you with practical guidance and help you develop your skills.

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Search for reputable websites or online learning platforms that offer tutorials on Chinese Medicine techniques.
Choose tutorials that align with your learning goals and skill level.
Follow the instructions in the tutorials and practice the techniques.

Develop a Poster on Chinese Medicine Theories

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Creating a poster on Chinese Medicine Theories will help you visualize and consolidate your understanding of these concepts

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Choose the key Chinese Medicine theories you want to focus on.
Research and gather information on these theories.
Design and create a visually appealing poster that effectively communicates the theories.

Create a Chinese Medicine Journal

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By creating a Chinese Medicine journal, you can apply the concepts you're learning and track your progress.

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Choose a topic or area of Chinese Medicine that you're interested in exploring.
Research the topic and gather information from credible sources.
Write a journal entry that summarizes your research and your thoughts on the topic.
Share your journal with others to get feedback and insights.

Attend a Chinese Medicine Conference or Workshop

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Attending a Chinese Medicine conference or workshop will allow you to connect with experts in the field and learn about the latest advancements.

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Research and identify reputable Chinese Medicine conferences or workshops.
Register for the event and plan your attendance.
Actively participate in the sessions, ask questions, and network with other attendees.

Participate in a Hands-On Chinese Medicine Workshop

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Hands-on Chinese Medicine workshops provide an immersive experience where you can practice techniques and receive feedback from experienced practitioners.

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Find and register for a hands-on Chinese Medicine workshop that aligns with your interests.
Attend the workshop and actively participate in the exercises and discussions.
Consult with the instructors and other participants to enhance your learning.

Career center

Learners who complete Health Concepts in Chinese Medicine will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Acupuncturist

Acupuncturists diagnose and treat a variety of conditions using techniques such as acupuncture, cupping, and herbal medicine. The course 'Health Concepts in Chinese Medicine' provides a strong foundation in the theories and practices of Chinese Medicine, which is essential for success as an acupuncturist. The course covers topics such as the balance between Yin and Yang, the interaction among organs, and the pharmacological basis of Chinese tonifying herbs. This knowledge will help you to understand the principles behind acupuncture and other Chinese Medicine treatments, and to apply them effectively to your patients.

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Chinese Herbalist

Chinese herbalists use herbs to treat a variety of conditions. The course 'Health Concepts in Chinese Medicine' provides a strong foundation in the theories and practices of Chinese Medicine, which is essential for success as a Chinese herbalist. The course covers topics such as the balance between Yin and Yang, the interaction among organs, and the pharmacological basis of Chinese tonifying herbs. This knowledge will help you to understand the properties of different herbs and to use them effectively to treat your patients.

See salaries and explore the career path for Chinese Herbalist

Nutritionist

Nutritionists use nutrition to treat a variety of conditions. The course 'Health Concepts in Chinese Medicine' provides a strong foundation in the theories and practices of Chinese Medicine, which can be beneficial for nutritionists. The course covers topics such as the balance between Yin and Yang, the interaction among organs, and the pharmacological basis of Chinese tonifying herbs. This knowledge can help you to understand the body's energy systems and to use nutrition to promote health and well-being.

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Massage Therapist

Massage therapists use massage to treat a variety of conditions. The course 'Health Concepts in Chinese Medicine' provides a strong foundation in the theories and practices of Chinese Medicine, which can be beneficial for massage therapists. The course covers topics such as the balance between Yin and Yang, the interaction among organs, and the pharmacological basis of Chinese tonifying herbs. This knowledge can help you to understand the body's energy systems and to use massage techniques to promote relaxation and healing.

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Pharmacist

Pharmacists dispense medications and provide information about their use. The course 'Health Concepts in Chinese Medicine' provides a strong foundation in the theories and practices of Chinese Medicine, which can be beneficial for pharmacists. The course covers topics such as the balance between Yin and Yang, the interaction among organs, and the pharmacological basis of Chinese tonifying herbs. This knowledge can help you to understand the properties of different medications and to use them effectively to treat your patients.

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Health Coach

Health coaches help people to improve their health and well-being. The course 'Health Concepts in Chinese Medicine' provides a strong foundation in the theories and practices of Chinese Medicine, which can be beneficial for health coaches. The course covers topics such as the balance between Yin and Yang, the interaction among organs, and the pharmacological basis of Chinese tonifying herbs. This knowledge can help you to understand the body's energy systems and to use coaching techniques to promote health and well-being.

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Chiropractor

Chiropractors use spinal adjustments to treat a variety of conditions. The course 'Health Concepts in Chinese Medicine' provides a strong foundation in the theories and practices of Chinese Medicine, which can be beneficial for chiropractors. The course covers topics such as the balance between Yin and Yang, the interaction among organs, and the pharmacological basis of Chinese tonifying herbs. This knowledge can help you to understand the body's energy systems and to use chiropractic techniques to promote health and well-being.

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Yoga Instructor

Yoga instructors teach yoga classes to help people improve their health and well-being. The course 'Health Concepts in Chinese Medicine' provides a strong foundation in the theories and practices of Chinese Medicine, which can be beneficial for yoga instructors. The course covers topics such as the balance between Yin and Yang, the interaction among organs, and the pharmacological basis of Chinese tonifying herbs. This knowledge can help you to understand the body's energy systems and to use yoga techniques to promote health and well-being.

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Meditation Teacher

Meditation teachers teach meditation classes to help people improve their health and well-being. The course 'Health Concepts in Chinese Medicine' provides a strong foundation in the theories and practices of Chinese Medicine, which can be beneficial for meditation teachers. The course covers topics such as the balance between Yin and Yang, the interaction among organs, and the pharmacological basis of Chinese tonifying herbs. This knowledge can help you to understand the body's energy systems and to use meditation techniques to promote health and well-being.

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Holistic Health Practitioner

Holistic health practitioners use a variety of methods to treat a variety of conditions. The course 'Health Concepts in Chinese Medicine' provides a strong foundation in the theories and practices of Chinese Medicine, which can be beneficial for holistic health practitioners. The course covers topics such as the balance between Yin and Yang, the interaction among organs, and the pharmacological basis of Chinese tonifying herbs. This knowledge can help you to understand the body's energy systems and to use holistic techniques to promote health and well-being.

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Tai Chi Instructor

Tai chi instructors teach tai chi classes to help people improve their health and well-being. The course 'Health Concepts in Chinese Medicine' provides a strong foundation in the theories and practices of Chinese Medicine, which can be beneficial for tai chi instructors. The course covers topics such as the balance between Yin and Yang, the interaction among organs, and the pharmacological basis of Chinese tonifying herbs. This knowledge can help you to understand the body's energy systems and to use tai chi techniques to promote health and well-being.

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Reiki Practitioner

Reiki practitioners use reiki to treat a variety of conditions. The course 'Health Concepts in Chinese Medicine' provides a strong foundation in the theories and practices of Chinese Medicine, which can be beneficial for reiki practitioners. The course covers topics such as the balance between Yin and Yang, the interaction among organs, and the pharmacological basis of Chinese tonifying herbs. This knowledge can help you to understand the body's energy systems and to use reiki techniques to promote health and well-being.

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Energy Healer

Energy healers use energy healing techniques to treat a variety of conditions. The course 'Health Concepts in Chinese Medicine' provides a strong foundation in the theories and practices of Chinese Medicine, which can be beneficial for energy healers. The course covers topics such as the balance between Yin and Yang, the interaction among organs, and the pharmacological basis of Chinese tonifying herbs. This knowledge can help you to understand the body's energy systems and to use energy healing techniques to promote health and well-being.

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Ayurvedic Practitioner

Ayurvedic practitioners use Ayurvedic medicine to treat a variety of conditions. The course 'Health Concepts in Chinese Medicine' provides a strong foundation in the theories and practices of Chinese Medicine, which can be beneficial for Ayurvedic practitioners. The course covers topics such as the balance between Yin and Yang, the interaction among organs, and the pharmacological basis of Chinese tonifying herbs. This knowledge can help you to understand the body's energy systems and to use Ayurvedic techniques to promote health and well-being.

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Naturopathic Doctor

Naturopathic doctors use natural therapies to treat a variety of conditions. The course 'Health Concepts in Chinese Medicine' provides a strong foundation in the theories and practices of Chinese Medicine, which can be beneficial for naturopathic doctors. The course covers topics such as the balance between Yin and Yang, the interaction among organs, and the pharmacological basis of Chinese tonifying herbs. This knowledge can help you to understand the body's energy systems and to use naturopathic techniques to promote health and well-being.

See salaries and explore the career path for Naturopathic Doctor