The Embodiment and Application of the Holistic Concept of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Malignant Tumors

Abstract

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) plays a crucial role in malignant tumor management through its unique holistic concept and syndrome differentiation-based therapy. It conceptualizes tumors as systemic dysfunction driven by healthy qi deficiency, pathogenic invasion, and emotional/social perturbations, highlighting the local-systemic unity. Clinically, TCM mitigates chemo/radiotherapy adverse effects, boosts efficacy, stabilizes advanced tumors, and lowers recurrence risk. Modern studies confirm tonic herbal prescriptions and non-pharmacological interventions exert anti-tumor effects via multi-target regulation. Future efforts should advance TCM’s modern interpretation, high-quality trials, and standardization to integrate TCM with Western medicine for optimized whole-course patient care.