On October 19, reported from Xi’an, a fascinating blend of traditional Chinese medicine and international collaboration emerged as healthcare professionals from Central Asia embarked on a learning journey in Shaanxi province. “During my time here, I have encountered various new treatment methods and traditional medical practices. I hope to apply these Chinese medicinal techniques to help my patients recover more quickly,” shared Malina, a reflexologist from Kazakhstan. Her interest in acupuncture and moxibustion led her to Xi’an for an in-depth understanding of these traditional practices.

At the Xi’an Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine for Brain Diseases, Malina is joined by 11 other young professionals from Kazakhstan with similar aspirations. They have come to participate in the “Qihuang Silk Road” International Training Program on Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), co-hosted with the Kazakhstan Traditional Medicine Expert Association. This program signifies the beginning of an enlightening journey into TCM for these budding healthcare practitioners.

Shaanxi province boasts an extensive history with TCM resources, being closely linked to classic Chinese medical texts such as the “Huangdi Neijing” and “Beiji Qianjin Yaofang.” As the influence of TCM expands globally, many international physicians are drawn to Shaanxi to experience the allure of this ancient practice firsthand.

On October 15, students engaged in hands-on learning, practicing head massage techniques under the guidance of medical professionals. “This is a patient suffering from a cerebral hemorrhage, currently receiving fire needle therapy. This technique can help alleviate cold sensations and relieve pain,” a physician explained while demonstrating the procedure. Some students captured the entire process on their phones, while others eagerly sought opportunities to practice themselves.

Anisya, an acupuncturist from Kazakhstan, noted, “I learned a lot about the proper temperature for the needles and the diseases suitable for this treatment. Experiencing it firsthand, I found it wasn’t as painful as I had imagined. I will consider how to incorporate this into my treatment approach for patients back home.”

Among the students, Saya stood out with her fluent Chinese and ease in conversing with the doctors. “I enrolled at Shaanxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine in 2015, initially drawn by the depictions of TCM in Chinese historical dramas. Seeing so many patients from my hometown embrace TCM makes me grateful for that choice,” she said, now a certified acupuncturist returning to Shaanxi with excitement.

“Despite its ancient roots, TCM has evolved rapidly due to its rich history and depth. I view graduation not as the end of my education but as an opportunity to continue learning,” Saya remarked, recalling her surprise at the medicinal properties of common plants and the immediate effects a single needle can have on the body. She maintains a sense of wonder, stating, “TCM is not just a treatment method; it is a cultural heritage.”

Both Malina and Saya expressed their shared vision: “As healthcare providers and enthusiasts of TCM, our aim is to learn here and then bring this cultural treasure back home, acting as cultural ambassadors to deepen communication and exchange between our countries.”

Director Song Hujie of Xi’an Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine highlighted that this training program covers treatments for conditions such as cerebral hemorrhage and cerebral infarction. Techniques such as acupuncture, gua sha, cupping, and tui na are taught through a combination of lectures and clinical training, enhancing participants’ understanding of TCM.

“Our hospital has conducted numerous international training programs in recent years, cultivating over a hundred international ‘Western TCM experts’ from countries like Russia, Kazakhstan, and Pakistan,” Song stated. “We also plan to tailor training programs to meet the diverse needs of different students, ensuring they can apply what they learn in clinical settings and become true practitioners and ambassadors of TCM.”