Expert Interviews

An In-Depth Conversation with Dr. Li Wei: 30 Years of Traditional Chinese Medicine Excellence

In the bustling heart of Beijing's medical district, Dr. Li Wei has been quietly revolutionizing how Traditional Chinese Medicine integrates with modern healthcare. With over three decades of clinical experience, Dr. Li has treated more than 50,000 patients, published extensively on TCM research, and trained hundreds of practitioners worldwide.

We sat down with Dr. Li at his clinic to discuss the evolution of TCM, the challenges facing modern practitioners, and his vision for the future of integrative medicine. What emerged was a fascinating conversation about bridging ancient wisdom with contemporary healthcare needs.

"Traditional Chinese Medicine isn't about rejecting modern medicine," Dr. Li begins, settling into his chair surrounded by centuries-old medical texts and modern diagnostic equipment. "It's about offering a complementary perspective that addresses the whole person, not just the disease."

The Journey: From Skeptic to Advocate

Interviewer: Dr. Li, you didn't start your career in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Can you tell us about your journey?

Dr. Li: That's correct. I actually began as a Western-trained physician, specializing in internal medicine. I was quite skeptical of TCM initially—I thought it was outdated, unscientific. But in my early years of practice, I encountered patients who weren't responding to conventional treatments, and some colleagues suggested they try TCM as a last resort.

I started referring patients to TCM practitioners and was surprised by the results. Patients with chronic conditions that we couldn't effectively manage were showing significant improvements. This piqued my curiosity, and I decided to study TCM formally while maintaining my Western medical practice.

Interviewer: What was the most challenging aspect of learning TCM after your Western medical training?

Dr. Li: The fundamental difference in thinking. Western medicine is very linear—symptom, diagnosis, treatment. TCM is more holistic and pattern-based. We look at the entire person: their constitution, emotional state, lifestyle, even the season and climate. It took me years to truly understand concepts like Qi, Yin-Yang balance, and the Five Elements theory.

The diagnostic methods were particularly challenging. Learning to read the tongue, feel the pulse in the TCM way, and understand how seemingly unrelated symptoms connect—it was like learning a completely new language of the body.

To understand these fundamental concepts, explore our comprehensive Traditional Chinese Medicine basics guide for core principles and theories.

The Integration Challenge: Combining Two Medical Worlds

Interviewer: How do you integrate Western and Traditional Chinese Medicine in your current practice?

Dr. Li: Integration requires understanding the strengths of each system. Western medicine excels at acute care, emergency situations, and conditions requiring surgical intervention. TCM shines in chronic conditions, prevention, and addressing the root causes of illness.

In my practice, I use Western diagnostic tools—blood tests, imaging, physical examinations—to understand what's happening from a biomedical perspective. Then I apply TCM diagnostic methods to understand the patient's constitutional patterns and energy imbalances.

For example, a patient might come in with diagnosed hypertension. Western medicine would focus on blood pressure numbers and prescribe antihypertensive medications. TCM would ask: Why is this person's blood pressure elevated? Is it due to Liver Yang rising? Kidney Yin deficiency? Phlegm obstruction? Each pattern requires a different treatment approach.

Interviewer: Can you give us a specific case example?

Dr. Li: Certainly. I had a 45-year-old executive who came to me with chronic insomnia, digestive issues, and frequent headaches. He'd been to multiple specialists—neurologists for headaches, gastroenterologists for digestion, sleep specialists for insomnia. Each prescribed different medications, but his overall condition wasn't improving.

From a TCM perspective, I saw a clear pattern of Liver Qi stagnation with Spleen deficiency—essentially, chronic stress was disrupting his energy flow and weakening his digestive system. Instead of treating each symptom separately, we addressed the root pattern through acupuncture, herbal medicine, and lifestyle modifications.

Within six weeks, all his symptoms improved significantly. The key was treating the person, not just the individual symptoms.

The Science Behind Ancient Wisdom

Interviewer: How do you respond to critics who say TCM lacks scientific evidence?

Dr. Li: This is a common misconception. There's actually substantial research supporting TCM, but it's often not well-publicized in Western medical circles. The challenge is that TCM doesn't fit neatly into the Western research model of isolating single variables.

TCM is inherently personalized medicine. Two patients with the same Western diagnosis might receive completely different TCM treatments based on their individual patterns. This makes randomized controlled trials—the gold standard of Western research—difficult to design.

However, we're seeing more sophisticated research methodologies that can evaluate TCM's effectiveness. Neuroimaging studies show how acupuncture affects brain activity. Genomic research is revealing how herbal medicines influence gene expression. Microbiome studies are demonstrating how TCM herbs affect gut health.

Interviewer: What recent research findings excite you most?

Dr. Li: The research on acupuncture and neuroplasticity is fascinating. We now have brain imaging showing that acupuncture can literally rewire neural pathways, which explains why it's effective for conditions like chronic pain, depression, and addiction.

There's also exciting work on how TCM herbs affect the gut microbiome. We're discovering that many traditional herbal formulas work by modulating gut bacteria, which influences everything from immune function to mood regulation.

The research on circadian rhythms is particularly relevant to TCM's organ clock theory. Modern science is validating what TCM has taught for millennia—that our organs have optimal functioning times throughout the day.

Learn more about the scientific validation of TCM in our comprehensive overview of Traditional Chinese Medicine history and research.

Common Conditions and TCM Approaches

Interviewer: What conditions do you see most frequently in your practice?

Dr. Li: The modern epidemic is definitely stress-related disorders. I see countless patients with anxiety, depression, insomnia, digestive issues, and chronic fatigue—all stemming from our fast-paced, high-stress lifestyle.

TCM is particularly effective for these conditions because we understand the mind-body connection. In TCM, emotions and physical health are inseparable. Chronic worry affects the Spleen, anger impacts the Liver, fear weakens the Kidneys. By addressing both the emotional and physical aspects, we can achieve more comprehensive healing.

Interviewer: How do you approach chronic pain, which seems to be another modern epidemic?

Dr. Li: Chronic pain is often a result of Qi and Blood stagnation in TCM terms. Pain occurs when energy isn't flowing smoothly through the body. This can be due to physical trauma, emotional stress, poor posture, or constitutional weakness.

Our approach is multi-faceted: acupuncture to move Qi and Blood, herbal medicine to address underlying deficiencies, manual therapies like Tui Na massage, and lifestyle recommendations including appropriate exercise and stress management.

What I find remarkable is that patients often experience not just pain relief, but improvements in sleep, mood, and energy levels. This is because we're addressing the root imbalance, not just masking symptoms.

Interviewer: What about women's health issues?

Dr. Li: TCM has a sophisticated understanding of women's health, particularly menstrual and reproductive issues. We see the menstrual cycle as a reflection of overall health—irregularities often indicate deeper imbalances.

For conditions like PCOS, endometriosis, or menopausal symptoms, TCM offers gentle, effective treatments that work with the body's natural rhythms rather than suppressing them. We use acupuncture to regulate hormones, herbal formulas to nourish the reproductive system, and dietary therapy to support overall health.

Many women come to me after years of hormonal medications that haven't addressed their underlying issues. TCM can often help restore natural balance without side effects.

For specific acupressure techniques, discover our comprehensive acupressure points guide for self-care and wellness support.

The Art of Diagnosis: Reading the Body's Signals

Interviewer: TCM diagnosis seems quite different from Western medicine. Can you explain your diagnostic process?

Dr. Li: TCM diagnosis is like being a detective. We gather information through four main methods: looking, listening and smelling, asking, and touching.

Looking involves observing the patient's overall appearance, complexion, body language, and especially the tongue. The tongue is like a map of the body's internal condition. Its color, coating, shape, and texture tell us about the state of various organs and systems.

Listening includes not just what the patient says, but how they say it—their voice quality, breathing patterns, even body sounds. Smelling can reveal information about metabolic processes and internal heat conditions.

Asking goes beyond symptoms to include sleep patterns, emotional states, food preferences, and how the person responds to different weather conditions. These seemingly unrelated details help us understand the person's constitutional pattern.

Finally, touching—primarily pulse diagnosis—is perhaps the most sophisticated aspect. We feel the pulse at three positions on each wrist, at different depths and pressures. An experienced practitioner can detect dozens of different pulse qualities that reveal information about organ function, blood circulation, and energy levels.

Interviewer: How long does it take to master these diagnostic skills?

Dr. Li: Honestly, it's a lifelong journey. I've been practicing for over 30 years, and I'm still learning. The basics can be learned in a few years of intensive study, but developing the sensitivity and intuition to read subtle patterns takes decades.

Pulse diagnosis, in particular, requires thousands of hours of practice. I tell my students to feel every pulse they can—family members, friends, patients. Each pulse teaches you something new.

The key is developing what we call 'clinical intuition'—the ability to synthesize all the diagnostic information into a coherent pattern. This comes from experience, but also from understanding the deeper principles of TCM theory.

Herbal Medicine: Nature's Pharmacy

Interviewer: Let's talk about Chinese herbal medicine. How do you approach prescribing herbs?

Dr. Li: Herbal medicine is the heart of TCM treatment. We have over 5,000 documented medicinal substances, though we commonly use about 300-400 in clinical practice.

The key principle is formula composition. We rarely use single herbs—instead, we create formulas with multiple herbs that work synergistically. A typical formula might have 8-15 herbs, each with a specific role: chief herbs that address the main pattern, deputy herbs that support the chief herbs, assistant herbs that moderate side effects, and envoy herbs that guide the formula to specific organs or areas.

What's fascinating is that the same herb can have different effects depending on how it's prepared and what it's combined with. For example, ginger can be warming and digestive when fresh, but more drying and warming when dried.

Interviewer: How do you ensure safety with herbal prescriptions?

Dr. Li: Safety is paramount. First, proper diagnosis is essential—the wrong formula can be ineffective or even harmful. Second, I only source herbs from reputable suppliers who test for contaminants and adulterants.

I also educate patients about what to expect and what to watch for. Most TCM herbs are quite safe when used appropriately, but like any medicine, they need to be used correctly.

I always consider potential interactions with Western medications. Some herbs can affect drug metabolism, so coordination with other healthcare providers is important.

Finally, I start with smaller doses and adjust based on the patient's response. TCM is about gentle, gradual healing, not dramatic interventions.

Learn more about medicinal herbs in our comprehensive herbal encyclopedia with detailed therapeutic properties and applications.

Acupuncture: The Gateway to TCM

Interviewer: Acupuncture seems to be the most widely accepted TCM modality in the West. Why do you think that is?

Dr. Li: Acupuncture is tangible and measurable in ways that Western medicine can understand. You can see the needles, measure physiological responses, and document outcomes. It's also relatively quick to learn the basics, compared to herbal medicine or advanced diagnosis.

From a patient perspective, acupuncture often provides rapid relief for pain conditions, which makes it appealing. Many people try acupuncture as a last resort for chronic pain and are surprised by the results.

However, I always tell patients that acupuncture is just one tool in the TCM toolkit. For complex or chronic conditions, combining acupuncture with herbal medicine and lifestyle modifications usually produces better results.

Interviewer: What's the most important thing people should know about acupuncture?

Dr. Li: That it's not just about pain relief. Acupuncture can regulate virtually any body system—hormones, digestion, immunity, sleep, mood. The key is finding a practitioner who understands TCM theory, not just needle insertion techniques.

Also, acupuncture is cumulative. One treatment might provide temporary relief, but lasting change usually requires a series of treatments. I typically recommend 6-10 sessions for most conditions, with treatments spaced 1-2 times per week initially.

The needles themselves are just the delivery method. What we're really doing is influencing the body's energy system to restore balance and promote healing.

Lifestyle Medicine: The Foundation of Health

Interviewer: How important is lifestyle modification in your treatment approach?

Dr. Li: Absolutely crucial. In TCM, we say that lifestyle is 70% of treatment. You can have the best acupuncture and herbal medicine, but if someone continues habits that created their imbalance, the results won't last.

This includes diet, sleep, exercise, stress management, and emotional regulation. TCM provides specific guidelines for each based on individual constitution and current health patterns.

For example, someone with Spleen Qi deficiency should avoid cold, raw foods and eat warm, cooked meals at regular times. Someone with Liver Qi stagnation needs regular exercise and stress reduction techniques. These aren't generic recommendations—they're personalized based on TCM diagnosis.

Interviewer: What's the most common lifestyle mistake you see?

Dr. Li: Ignoring natural rhythms. Modern life disconnects us from seasonal cycles, daily energy patterns, and our body's natural needs. We eat the same foods year-round, maintain the same schedule regardless of season, and push through fatigue instead of resting when needed.

TCM teaches us to live in harmony with natural cycles. This means eating seasonally, adjusting activity levels based on energy patterns, and recognizing that our needs change throughout the year.

The other major issue is chronic stress without adequate recovery. Our bodies are designed to handle acute stress, but chronic stress depletes our vital energy and creates numerous health problems.

For seasonal living guidance, explore our comprehensive seasonal living guide for natural wellness strategies throughout the year.

Training the Next Generation

Interviewer: You've trained many TCM practitioners. What do you emphasize in your teaching?

Dr. Li: First and foremost, respect for the tradition. TCM represents thousands of years of clinical experience and wisdom. Students need to understand the classical theories before they can innovate or integrate with modern approaches.

Second, clinical experience is irreplaceable. You can read about pulse diagnosis, but you need to feel thousands of pulses to truly understand it. I require my students to spend extensive time in clinical settings, observing and gradually taking on more responsibility.

Third, continuous learning. Medicine—whether Western or Traditional Chinese—is constantly evolving. Good practitioners never stop studying, questioning, and refining their skills.

Interviewer: What qualities make a good TCM practitioner?

Dr. Li: Patience is essential. TCM healing is often gradual, and practitioners need to help patients understand and accept this process. Compassion is equally important—we're treating people, not just conditions.

Intellectual curiosity is crucial. TCM theory is complex and nuanced. Practitioners need to enjoy learning and problem-solving.

Finally, humility. The more you learn about TCM, the more you realize how much you don't know. The best practitioners are always students, always learning from their patients and their experiences.

The Future of Traditional Chinese Medicine

Interviewer: Where do you see TCM heading in the next decade?

Dr. Li: I'm very optimistic. We're seeing increased integration with conventional medicine, more rigorous research, and growing public acceptance. Major medical centers are establishing integrative medicine departments that include TCM.

Technology is also opening new possibilities. AI is being used to analyze tongue and pulse diagnosis, making these skills more accessible to new practitioners. Telemedicine is allowing TCM consultations across distances, though hands-on diagnosis remains important.

Personalized medicine is moving in directions that align with TCM's individualized approach. As we understand more about genetics, microbiomes, and biomarkers, we're validating what TCM has always taught—that each person is unique and requires individualized treatment.

Interviewer: What challenges do you foresee?

Dr. Li: Standardization versus individualization is a ongoing tension. Regulatory bodies want standardized protocols, but TCM's strength lies in its flexibility and personalization.

Quality control in herbal medicine remains a challenge, especially as demand grows globally. We need better systems for ensuring herb quality and authenticity.

Training qualified practitioners is another challenge. There's growing demand for TCM services, but developing true expertise takes years. We need to maintain high standards while meeting growing demand.

Interviewer: What's your vision for integrative medicine?

Dr. Li: I envision a healthcare system where Western and Traditional Chinese Medicine work together seamlessly. Patients would have access to the best of both worlds—Western medicine's diagnostic precision and emergency care capabilities, combined with TCM's holistic approach and emphasis on prevention.

This isn't about replacing one system with another, but about creating a more complete approach to health and healing. Some conditions respond better to Western treatments, others to TCM, and many benefit from a combination of both.

The key is having practitioners who understand both systems and can guide patients to the most appropriate treatments for their individual needs.

Advice for Patients: Navigating TCM Treatment

Interviewer: What advice do you have for people considering TCM treatment?

Dr. Li: First, find a qualified practitioner. Look for someone with proper credentials, extensive training, and clinical experience. Don't be afraid to ask about their background and approach.

Second, be patient. TCM works differently than Western medicine. Instead of quick symptom suppression, we're working to restore balance and address root causes. This takes time, but the results are often more lasting.

Third, be honest and thorough in your consultations. TCM diagnosis relies on detailed information about your symptoms, lifestyle, and health history. The more information you provide, the more accurate the diagnosis and treatment will be.

Fourth, follow through with recommendations. TCM treatment often includes lifestyle modifications, dietary changes, and herbal prescriptions. These are all important parts of the treatment plan.

Interviewer: How should patients evaluate if TCM is working for them?

Dr. Li: Look for gradual improvements in overall well-being, not just symptom relief. You might notice better sleep, improved energy, more stable moods, or better digestion before your main complaint improves.

Keep a simple health journal noting your symptoms, energy levels, and overall sense of well-being. This helps both you and your practitioner track progress.

Generally, you should notice some positive changes within 4-6 treatments for acute conditions, or 8-12 treatments for chronic conditions. If you're not seeing any improvement after this time, discuss with your practitioner whether adjustments are needed.

Remember that healing isn't always linear. You might have good days and challenging days, but the overall trend should be toward improvement.

To find qualified practitioners, connect with certified Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioners in your area.

Personal Philosophy: The Art of Healing

Interviewer: After 30 years of practice, what has TCM taught you about healing?

Dr. Li: That healing is as much an art as it is a science. Each patient is unique, and successful treatment requires understanding not just their symptoms, but their whole life context—their constitution, their stresses, their relationships, their hopes and fears.

TCM has taught me patience and humility. The body has incredible wisdom and healing capacity when given the right support. Our job as practitioners is to facilitate this natural healing process, not to force it.

I've also learned that true healing often involves more than just physical symptoms. Many of my patients experience profound personal growth during their treatment journey. They develop better relationships with their bodies, learn to manage stress more effectively, and often make positive life changes.

Interviewer: What keeps you passionate about this work?

Dr. Li: The privilege of witnessing transformation. I've seen patients recover from conditions that Western medicine considered incurable. I've watched people reclaim their vitality and joy in life. These experiences never get old.

I'm also continually amazed by the depth and sophistication of TCM theory. After 30 years, I'm still discovering new insights and connections. The ancient physicians who developed this system were truly remarkable.

Finally, I'm motivated by the potential to contribute to a more complete and compassionate healthcare system. Every patient who experiences the benefits of TCM becomes an advocate for integrative medicine. We're slowly but surely changing how people think about health and healing.

A Message for the Future

Interviewer: What would you like people to understand about Traditional Chinese Medicine?

Dr. Li: That TCM is not alternative medicine—it's a complete medical system with its own sophisticated theories, diagnostic methods, and treatment approaches. It's been helping people maintain health and treat disease for thousands of years.

TCM offers something that modern healthcare often lacks: a truly holistic approach that treats the person, not just the disease. In our increasingly complex and stressful world, this perspective is more valuable than ever.

I also want people to understand that TCM and Western medicine can work together beautifully. You don't have to choose one or the other. The best healthcare often combines the strengths of both systems.

Finally, I want people to know that TCM is not just about treating illness—it's about optimizing health and preventing disease. The highest level of TCM practice is helping healthy people stay healthy and vital throughout their lives.

Interviewer: Any final thoughts?

Dr. Li: We live in an exciting time for Traditional Chinese Medicine. Ancient wisdom is being validated by modern science, and more people than ever have access to these healing modalities.

My hope is that future generations will have access to truly integrative healthcare that honors both traditional wisdom and modern innovations. This is the future of medicine—not East versus West, but East and West working together for the benefit of all patients.

The journey of healing is deeply personal, but no one has to walk it alone. Whether through TCM, Western medicine, or a combination of both, there are always options, always hope, and always the possibility of transformation.

Dr. Li Wei practices at the Beijing Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine and is available for consultations. To learn more about Traditional Chinese Medicine principles and find qualified practitioners, explore our complete collection of TCM resources and educational articles.