History of Japanese Medicine
| Medicines in Japan were initially introduced as a way to cure the Japanese royalty of various ailments in 5 AD. These medicines were of Chinese origin, and were brought to the country by Japanese doctors all the way from Korea. |
The 5th and the 6th century saw the introduction of Chinese medicinal ideas in Japan by traveling physicians and monks from China and also Korea. Moxibustion and acupuncture concepts along with in-depth illustrations were introduced in Japan by Zhi Cong, a Chinese doctor.
Even today, Japanese medications have largely been influenced by the Chinese. However, the medical practice in the country has advanced further with many special features. For example, shiatsu, an acupressure treatment for specific abdominal problems has been developed.
Japanese also believe a lot in herbal medicine again having links to the Chinese herbal practices. However, the formulae used in Japan are different as compared to the Chinese, who tend to use more use more pure ingredients in their medicines compared to the former culture. Kampo is an example of Chinese medicine adapted in Japan. Also, other therapies like spiritual medicine, folk treatments, spa baths, and talismans were used by Japanese who considered that diseases were sent by Gods or caused by evil spirits.
As Christian missionaries started visiting the country, a new approach to medicines started called "cosmopolitan" medicine. Though Kampo is still popular, cosmopolitan medicines introduced from the west also used quite widely in Japan even today. Interestingly, though the western influence in Japan came much later, the speed with which this approach was accepted is noticeable.
Herbal medications in Japan are controlled today by pharmaceutical preparations where government monitors both the agricultural standards and also the manufacturing processes.
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