In ancient China, there was a continuous quest for achieving immortality. Emperor physicians were often ordered to discover the elixir of longevity—or even better, immortality itself. Although some of the tonics developed during this period proved helpful in improving health, increasing survival, and preventing disease, others were unfortunately fatal.
This includes the well-known story of mercury usage during the reign of Emperor Qin Shi Huang: However, in the search for the elixir of immortality, many safe, unique, and valuable methods were discovered. These methods became fundamental pillars of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), which is now practiced worldwide for the prevention and treatment of illness. Among these are:
- Acupuncture — stimulating specific points on the body to balance the flow of Qi (vital energy), relieve pain, and promote healing.
- Chinese Herbal Medicine — using plant-based formulas tailored to individual patterns to address internal imbalances and support organ function.
- Qi Gong and Tai Chi — meditative movement practices that regulate breathing, improve circulation, and balance mind and body.
- Dietary Therapy — personalized nutrition based on an individual's constitution and seasonal needs to maintain optimal health.
- Moxibustion — burning dried Artemisia (moxa) near specific points to warm the meridians and promote smooth flow of Qi and Blood.
Biohacking vs. Immortality
Unlike the ancient and unachievable goal of immortality, biohacking is a modern and trending approach aimed at "hacking" one's biology to optimize health based on personal genetic predispositions.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, this concept would align with living in accordance with one's constitutional pattern, rooted in the Theory of the Five Phases (Wu Xing). We also emphasize preserving Jing (Essence) — a fundamental substance passed down from one’s ancestors (which some interpret as an early understanding of genetics).
Can Modern Biohacking Complement Chinese Medicine?
In my opinion, yes. Nutrition, lifestyle choices, herbs, supplements, and even types of exercise can be fine-tuned by blending the insights of both philosophies. This integrative approach allows for more personalized, effective care.
For this reason, we offer a unique perspective in analyzing reports provided by the SelfDecode biohacking platform, allowing us to better understand your genetics and adapt treatment accordingly during Functional Medicine Consultations.
👉Please let us know if you are interested in Selfdecode refferal or other biohacking company by emailing [email protected].
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My recomended reading list:
Rosa roxburghii Fruit Extracts Upregulate Telomerase Activity and Ameliorate Cell Replicative Senescence
Discovery of potent telomerase activators: Unfolding new therapeutic and anti-aging perspectives
Brain-derived Neurotrophic Factor Signaling Pathway: Modulation by Acupuncture in Telomerase Knockout Mice - ProQuest
Moxibustion on telomerase activity in aging rat | Journal of Acupuncture and Tuina Science
Signal Transduction Pathways of Acupuncture for Treating Some Nervous System Diseases - Lai - 2019 - Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine - Wiley Online Library
References to terms:
1️⃣ Acupuncture — stimulation of specific acupuncture points to regulate the flow of Qi (vital energy), relieve pain, balance organ systems, and promote healing.
Reference: NIH National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH), "Acupuncture: In Depth", 2017.
2️⃣ Chinese Herbal Medicine — complex plant-based formulas tailored to individual diagnosis patterns, supporting the body’s natural healing mechanisms.
Reference: Pharmacopoeia of the People's Republic of China; Chen & Chen, Chinese Herbal Formulas and Applications.
3️⃣ Qi Gong & Tai Chi — therapeutic movement and breathing exercises that improve circulation, reduce stress, enhance balance, and strengthen immunity.
Reference: Harvard Medical School Special Health Report, An Introduction to Tai Chi, 2013.
4️⃣ Dietary Therapy — using food as medicine, based on an individual's constitution, organ systems, and seasonal factors, to prevent and treat disease.
Reference: Bob Flaws, The Tao of Healthy Eating: Dietary Wisdom According to Chinese Medicine, 1998.
5️⃣ Moxibustion — burning dried Artemisia (moxa) near acupuncture points to warm meridians, tonify Qi and Blood, and dispel Cold and Damp.
Reference: World Health Organization (WHO), WHO Standard Acupuncture Point Locations in the Western Pacific Region, 2008.