Self-Taught Traditional Chinese Medicine nearly Drives Man to Madness

He then prescribed himself a treatment regimen consisting of two packages of Chinese herbal medicine, which he purchased online, including cow蒡子 powder and a proprietary blend of herbs copied from an online recipe. Approximately two hours after taking the medicine, Mr. Jin began to experience severe side effects, including dizziness, nausea, and loss of motor control. His partner found him speaking incoherently and dancing wildly, with their home in disarray, and he was promptly rushed to the hospital.

Medical professionals have warned about the risks of taking unknown or unverified medications, especially those purchased online, and emphasized the need for patients to consult with qualified healthcare professionals before attempting to treat themselves. The practice of traditional Chinese medicine requires a deep understanding of complex medical concepts and extensive clinical experience, and self-administered treatment can lead to problems such as inappropriate ingredient combinations and excessive dosages.

The incident has sparked widespread concern and debate about the dangers of self-medication and the importance of seeking proper medical attention. Experts caution that while learning about traditional Chinese medicine and its health benefits can be beneficial, it is crucial to consult with a doctor when faced with health concerns, rather than attempting to diagnose and treat oneself. The lack of quality control and regulation in the production and sale of Chinese herbal remedies further exacerbates these risks, and medical experts stress that self-prescribing Chinese herbal remedies can lead to adverse interactions, overdose, and contamination from unknown sources.

The case has also sparked a heated discussion among netizens, with many emphasizing that learning traditional Chinese medicine requires professional knowledge and clinical experience. They stressed that self-study of traditional Chinese medicine should focus on acquiring health-related knowledge, and that individuals should seek medical attention if they are unwell, rather than attempting to diagnose and treat themselves. Many online commentators pointed out that the case highlights the dangers of self-medication and the importance of seeking professional medical help when needed, and argued that traditional Chinese medicine should be practiced under the guidance of qualified practitioners, rather than through self-study and experimentation.

The incident has led to a renewed call for caution and responsibility when it comes to seeking medical knowledge and treatment, with many emphasizing the importance of prioritizing professional medical advice and treatment. As one commentator noted, "While it's great that people are taking an interest in their health, it's crucial that they do so in a safe and informed manner, under the guidance of qualified medical professionals." By doing so, individuals can ensure that they receive accurate diagnoses and effective care, rather than relying on unproven remedies or self-diagnosis.