New textbook series entitled Essentials of Chinese Medicine launched

Authoritative publication supports the East-West exchange of medical traditions

The Baptist University of Hong Kong (HKBU) and Springer Science+Business Media have launched a new textbook series entitled Essentials of Chinese Medicine. The three-volume English language set is of fundamental significance for the subject. Spearheaded by the Beijing University of Chinese Medicine and the School of Chinese Medicine HKBU, the books were co-written by 14 distinguished scholars from Hong Kong, mainland China and the USA. Representatives from HKBU, as well as the Chinese government and Springer, attended the book launch in Hong Kong on 19 April.

Speaking at the event, Mr. Zhu Haidong, a director from China's State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine (SATCM), said the book series was initiated by HKBU, with the help of SATCM and mainland institutions and organizations. The publication provides international scientists and students with essential, detailed information about traditional Chinese medicine. Mr. Zhu confirmed that his institution will continue to support HKBU in promoting East-West academic exchange and collaboration.

In his speech, Professor Ng Ching-fai, President and Vice-Chancellor of the Baptist University of Hong Kong, said that the publication showcases HKBU's achievement in promoting the internationalization of Chinese medicine, thanks to the collaboration between HKBU and well-known institutions in China and the US over the years. It also means that Hong Kong will continue to become an international hub for the study of Chinese medicine.

Professor Liu Liang, Dean of the School Chinese Medicine HKBU, and associate editor of the series, said that the books can be used as textbooks of Chinese medicine for western medical schools and for self-study. They are also ideal for conveying the depth and complexity of Chinese medicine to an international audience.

The three-volume series has more than 1,500 pages introducing the theoretical basics, diagnostic methods and therapeutic practices of traditional Chinese medicine, as well as the principles and practices of general health care and rehabilitation. It also explains the basic theories and methods of acupuncture and moxibustion. In addition to numerous illustrations of Chinese herbs, nearly a hundred herbal formulas, acupuncture meridians, and acupoints for clinical practice have been specified.