This is exactly the kind of development needed in the field of space medicine: holistic remedies that strengthen human capacity to adapt to the rigors and stresses of space travel.
According to a recent article, China is already applying the wisdom of their ancient medicine to space flight, since Chinese herbal formulas are administered to increase recovery and stamina in their astronauts. The formula "Taikong Yangxin (space heart-nourishing) Capsule" is made of 10 different herbs. It apparently treats motion sickness and is proven to "improve cardiovascular conditions." And, in true TCM spirit, these fo
rmulas are apparently being tailored for each astronaut, since individuals have unique patterns or disharmonies of qi that a formula is adjusted for (whether modified in amounts according to the person's weight of each herb or their replacement based on their effectiveness). The "Space-Heart Nourishing" formula reportedly "helps taikonauts recover from stress and fatigue," as well as improve sleep and support recovery between missions. As a Chinese doctor and herbalist in training, I have no doubt of these herbs' capacity. I literally can't wait to get my hands on some. Remeber the orange drink Tang? I guess this a kind of 21st century, ancient Chinese wisdom's answer to our beloved surgary orange drink.Wait...Tang sounds Chinese already...did it really come out of NASA? Urban legend says yes, but it looks like it was invented before being used on the 1965 Gemini missions.
Li Yongzhi, director of the medical department at the China Astronaut Research and Training Center, said: "The medicine will boost their physical conditions and improve their adaptability in an extreme environment." Even if this is the Chinese's answer to Tang, it probably doesn't have a refreshing orangey zip...
I hope NASA is taking notes!
Related Articles: 'China Says Space Mission is Peaceful' from Canada.com on Nov. 7th. 'Astronauts to Rely on TCM', 9.25.08
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