Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has been practiced for thousands of years in China, and it holds a prominent place in the country’s rich cultural heritage. For the imperial family, TCM was not just a means of maintaining health; it was also closely linked to the concepts of longevity, spiritual well-being, and the preservation of royal power. The Chinese emperors and their families sought out the wisdom of skilled herbalists, acupuncturists, and physicians to develop treatments that could address a wide array of ailments, promote vitality, and extend life.

This article explores some of the most notable traditional Chinese medicines and remedies that were commonly used by the imperial family, their significance in royal health practices, and the broader influence of these treatments on Chinese culture.

1. The Role of Traditional Chinese Medicine in the Imperial Court

For centuries, the emperors of China have had access to some of the most advanced healthcare practices of the time, which were often provided by a select group of court physicians and practitioners. These medical experts, often highly educated in the classical theories of Chinese medicine, were responsible for the health of the royal family, as well as the broader court.

One of the most important tenets of TCM is holistic health, which emphasizes the balance of body, mind, and spirit. This belief was deeply ingrained in the philosophy of the imperial family, as they viewed health not just as the absence of illness but as a harmonious state of being. Therefore, the selection of herbal remedies, acupuncture treatments, and other forms of TCM was done not only to cure disease but also to balance the body’s vital energy, or Qi, and support longevity.

In the royal courts, access to TCM practitioners was abundant. Emperors were often treated by top doctors who used carefully prepared herbal medicines, acupuncture, cupping therapy, and even Qi Gong exercises to maintain health. These treatments were often thought to be essential for preserving the vitality and power of the emperor, who was considered the Son of Heaven and thus needed to maintain a strong and resilient body in order to rule effectively.

2. Commonly Used Traditional Chinese Medicines in the Imperial Court

Throughout history, various Chinese herbal remedies were highly regarded by the imperial family. These remedies were used to treat a wide range of ailments, enhance physical endurance, improve mental clarity, and prolong life. Below are some of the most well-known TCM herbs and remedies that were used in the royal court.

a. Ginseng (Panax ginseng)

Ginseng is one of the most famous herbal remedies in Chinese medicine, often referred to as the “king of herbs.” It has been used for thousands of years to enhance vitality and longevity. The root of ginseng is believed to have the ability to tonify the Qi, boost energy, improve circulation, and strengthen the immune system.

For the emperors, ginseng was highly prized as a longevity tonic, and its use was associated with youthful vitality and mental clarity. Royal physicians would often prescribe ginseng to help treat fatigue, low energy, and to improve stamina for the emperor and his family. In the imperial court, ginseng was often prepared as a decoction or as part of a more complex herbal formula.

b. Goji Berries (Lycium barbarum)

Goji berries, also known as wolfberries, have long been used in Chinese medicine to promote longevity and enhance overall health. These small red fruits are considered rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, making them highly beneficial for the body.

In the imperial court, goji berries were often included in tonic soups or taken as part of health-preserving formulas. It was believed that they could improve vision, strengthen the liver and kidneys, and promote a youthful appearance, all essential attributes for those in the royal family. These berries were often consumed regularly by emperors to maintain their health and vitality.

c. Schisandra (Schisandra chinensis)

Schisandra is a powerful adaptogen that has been used for centuries in TCM for its ability to support vital energy (Qi), improve mental clarity, and enhance physical endurance. Often referred to as the “five-flavor fruit” because it contains all five basic tastes—sweet, sour, salty, bitter, and pungent—schisandra was believed to balance the body and prevent Qi stagnation.

Emperors and members of the royal family would use schisandra berries to boost endurance, support mental focus, and improve respiratory health. Schisandra was commonly included in imperial tonic formulas designed to treat stress, fatigue, and aging.

d. Cordyceps (Cordyceps sinensis)

Cordyceps is a unique medicinal fungus that grows on the larvae of certain insects. It has been used in TCM for centuries for its energy-boosting properties and its ability to enhance lung function, improve stamina, and support kidney health.

In the imperial court, cordyceps was considered a prestigious tonic for improving sexual health and vitality. Royal physicians often recommended it to help counteract fatigue, insomnia, and improve the body’s ability to cope with stress. The rarity and high cost of cordyceps made it an especially coveted remedy in the imperial palace.

e. Reishi Mushroom (Ganoderma lucidum)

Reishi mushroom is another revered herb in TCM, known for its immune-boosting properties and its role in promoting longevity. Often called the “mushroom of immortality,” reishi has been used by Chinese emperors to enhance overall health and prevent disease.

In the royal court, reishi was used to promote calmness, improve circulation, and boost the immune system. It was also considered a potent remedy for stress and anxiety. The use of reishi in royal medicine reflected the broader belief in the importance of maintaining mental and emotional balance for optimal health.

f. Angelica Root (Angelica sinensis)

Angelica root, also known as dong quai, is often referred to as the “female ginseng” because of its strong benefits for women’s health. It is widely used in TCM to regulate the menstrual cycle, support the blood, and improve overall vitality.

Although it is primarily associated with women’s health, angelica root was also used by the royal family for its blood-tonifying and Qi-regulating effects. The herb was used in various formulas to treat fatigue, anemia, and to support circulation.

3. TCM Therapies in the Royal Court: Beyond Herbal Remedies

While herbal remedies played a central role in maintaining the health of the emperor and his family, other forms of Traditional Chinese Medicine, such as acupuncture, moxibustion, and cupping therapy, were also highly valued in the royal court.

a. Acupuncture

Acupuncture, the practice of inserting fine needles into specific points on the body to regulate the flow of Qi, was a common therapy used by the imperial family. It was believed to be effective in treating a wide range of ailments, from digestive issues to pain management and stress reduction. Court physicians were skilled in acupuncture, and it was often part of the daily health regimen for the emperor.

b. Moxibustion

Moxibustion is a form of heat therapy in which moxa, or dried mugwort, is burned near the skin to stimulate specific acupuncture points. This therapy was believed to invigorate Qi, improve circulation, and promote healing. The imperial court used moxibustion for its supposed ability to balance energy and boost vitality, particularly during the colder months when the body was more susceptible to illness.

c. Cupping Therapy

Cupping therapy involves placing glass or bamboo cups on the skin to create suction, which is thought to improve the flow of Qi and blood. In the imperial court, cupping was used to treat muscle pain, congestion, and stress. The emperors and their families would often use cupping therapy to maintain optimal health and energy levels.

4. The Continued Influence of Royal Chinese Medicine

Today, many of the herbal remedies and therapies once used by the imperial family continue to be widely practiced in China and around the world. Modern Chinese herbal medicine and acupuncture clinics often offer treatments based on these ancient royal remedies.

The continued popularity of longevity tonics, such as ginseng and goji berries, speaks to the enduring legacy of the imperial health practices. Many of these herbs are not only available in traditional form but have also been integrated into modern supplements, skincare products, and wellness therapies. Furthermore, the growing global interest in holistic health and natural remedies has led to the continued reverence of Traditional Chinese Medicine, and the royal family’s use of these remedies is often seen as a testament to their effectiveness.

5. Conclusion: Traditional Chinese Medicine and the Royal Legacy

The use of Traditional Chinese Medicine by the imperial family highlights its long-standing importance in Chinese culture and its role in preserving the health and vitality of the nation’s rulers. From herbal tonics to acupuncture treatments, these remedies were not only about addressing physical ailments but were intertwined with the larger cultural ideals of harmony, balance, and longevity. While many of these practices continue to be used today, they also stand as a reminder of the profound relationship between

health, culture, and royal authority throughout Chinese history. Through the use of these ancient remedies, emperors and their families sought to ensure their health and longevity, securing their place as the eternal rulers of China.