Classical Chinese Medicine (CCM) is a sophisticated and holistic medical system deeply rooted in Daoist philosophy, recognizing the intricate and multi-dimensional nature of both the external world and the human body within it. Unlike Modern acupuncture, often referred to as Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), which primarily emphasizes collections of points along 12 Primary channels, CCM delves deeper, addressing not just symptoms but also the underlying causes of chronic illnesses at a constitutional level. The transition to TCM in the 1950s was primarily motivated by political shifts in China, leading to the fusion of Chinese and Western medical practices. While practical, and likely responsible for the spread and popularity of acupuncture in the West today, this amalgamation often resulted in the oversimplification and loss of many traditional and spiritual elements inherent in the classical texts. These elements, deeply ingrained in CCM, underscore the interconnectedness of body, mind, and spirit, which is essential for comprehensive healing.

While the Primary channel system plays an essential role in treatment and is excellent for addressing acute physical symptoms and supporting deficiencies in the body, the classical system of CCM incorporates an additional 50 channels, also known as Complementary channels. These channels play a vital role in supporting the Primary channels, serving as reservoirs of resources and providing a buffer when the body's conditions become impaired. By aiding in the maintenance of homeostasis, the state of equilibrium essential for optimal functioning, these channels contribute significantly to overall health and wellbeing.

One of the distinguishing features of CCM is its highly individualized approach to treatment, tailored to address the unique needs of each patient at any given time. This means meeting the body exactly where it is, every time. This highly personalized approach often leads to the effective management of a wide range of health conditions, including those that pose challenges for the allopathic medical system.