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Korean medicine, related to Traditional Chinese Medicine, is a holistic approach that treats the whole body and spirit. Its history dates back to prehistoric times and includes herbal medicine, acupuncture, moxibustion, and meditation. Yi Je-ma’s theory of metabolism emphasizes individualized treatment.
Korean medicine is a form of Asian medicine related to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). It is native to both North and South Korea. As with TCM, it is a holistic approach that seeks to treat the whole body, including the spirit, rather than following the Western tradition of focusing solely on the problem.
The history of Korean medicine is longer than the history of the region. Archaeological excavations have unearthed bones and stone needles, which suggest prehistoric acupuncture. Much of modern Korean healthcare originates from its native shamanism and the influence of China. Two regional centers for its development were Jeju Island to the south and the northwestern region of the peninsula, which now borders China.
Early historical evidence for the development of Korean medicine includes Yi Seung-Hyu’s poem, “Jewang Ungi.” Between the poem and the 15th century, China’s influence grew. Kim Ye-mong spent three years between 15 and 1443 collecting thousands of medicinal prescriptions from across the kingdom. Developments continued over the centuries until the Japanese occupation of the nation in 1445.
Yi Je-ma realized that different patients would require different treatments for the same ailment. He called this idea the theory of metabolism. Central to Yi’s theory is the idea that all humans are different and it is wrong to assume that the same treatment works for everyone. He believed this was due to the way the body’s metabolism reacted to the drugs presented to it.
Korean medicine is divided into five broad holistic therapies. These are herbal medicine, acupuncture, moxibustion and medications. The latter is a key part of Jeju shamanism and local folk psychology. All remedies are in line with TCM treatment concepts that concern the whole body and soul.
The herbal remedies used in Korean medicine are produced from various natural elements, from moss to lichen through trees, plants and mushrooms. Which ingredients are used and how they are applied depend on the central problem. These can be eaten, drunk or used as suppositories. They can also be mixed into an ointment or cream and applied directly or indirectly to the affected area using a compress or poultice. Ingredients such as ginseng, garlic, onions and pepper are seen as crucial elements of a healthy lifestyle and folk remedies.
Acupuncture and moxibustion are interrelated disciplines. Korean medicine has a different style of acupuncture than Chinese medicine. Developed by Sa-am, Korean acupuncture focuses on just 60 pressure points instead of TCM’s 360. Muxibustion involves applying a warm stick of mugwort to the affected area. Acupuncture and muxibustion are usually used at the same time.
Meditation is more connected to ancient Korean religions, many of which are still active in the modern era. Jeju shamanism focuses on the welfare of the human soul. Korean medicine believes that meditation is helpful in calming the mind and body, thereby reducing blood pressure and stress.
