Chinese Universities Restructure Academic Programs

Professor Zhang Xiuqin, a renowned expert in Gua Sha, and Professor Han Tianlu from the School of Humanities at Hebei University will discuss Gua Sha from a cultural and etymological perspective, moving beyond purely medical viewpoints. They described Gua Sha as a 'people-friendly' method that is easy to master, unlike precise acupuncture. Wenge is described as bitter, salty, and cold, and it enters the kidney, liver, and stomach meridians. They said that traditional Chinese medicine said following natural seasonal changes for health. The professors also detailed how to use Gua Sha on the abdomen, specifically around the Qihai and Guanyuan acupoints, to improve energy flow. They explained that Gua Sha can promote circulation and reduce fever, and is for conditions like coughs and sore throats. They explained Gua Sha's benefits for promoting circulation and reducing fever, particularly for children. They also introduced the medicinal herb 'Ge Gen' (Kudzu root), describing its properties as bitter, salty, and cold, and its benefits in clearing heat, resolving phlegm, softening sinews, and stopping bleeding. Ge Gen is used to treat conditions like coughs with excessive phlegm and can also be applied externally to astringe wounds. The professors also touched upon the philosophical concept of 'Tian Dao' or the way of heaven, relating it to natural balance and bodily harmony. Another segment introduced the herb 'Wenge' (Radix Scutellariae), noting its properties for clearing heat, resolving phlegm, and soothing muscles, and its use in treating coughs and sore throat. They analyzed its role in social dynamics and personal conduct, drawing parallels to historical literature and workplace etiquette.