From honeysuckle to health: Expats experience TCM's rich traditions

Expats try their hands at picking honeysuckle. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Over 10 expats from the UK, the Philippines, South Africa, Canada, and the United States visited the Huayu Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Ecological Industrial Park in Qixia, Yantai, East China's Shandong province, on June 2, where they experienced the enchanting world of TCM culture.

Guided by the park's staff, the expats learned about and tried their hands at picking honeysuckle, a Chinese medicinal herb renowned for its abilities in clearing heat, detoxifying the body, and combating inflammation.

"I thought it was merely a field of flowers at first. But I later realized the historical significance of honeysuckle as a Chinese herb capable of treating colds. It's truly remarkable," said Ryan Waurynchuk, the principal of YewWah International Education School of Yantai.

Expats grind Chinese medicinal herbs to make sachets. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

In the the greenhouse, where over 50 varieties of Chinese medicinal herbs, including perilla, isatis root, and cassia seed are cultivated, they received in-depth explanations about the therapeutic properties of various herbs and engaged in the process of grinding cloves, lavender, and mint leaves to make sachets.

In addition to expanding their understanding of Chinese medicinal herbs, the expats also delved into the traditional health practice of baduanjin, or Eight Brocade Exercises.

"I was astonished to discover the Eight Brocade Exercises have a rich history spanning over 800 years. After practicing it, I felt a sense of relaxation and inner peace," said Leanne Hillier from the UK.

According to Dong Shan, the chairman of the Huayu Traditional Chinese Medicine Industrial Park, the park serves as a comprehensive center for herb cultivation, research, tourism, and educational endeavors, not only aiding local farmers in boosting their income but also effectively upholding the legacy of TCM culture.

Eight Brocade Exercises make expats feel relaxed. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]