Introduction on TCM 5 Elements Theory

What is Five Element Theory?

The five elements are Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal and Water. This theory has been used in TCM diagnosis as early as ancient China’s “Warring States Period (476-221 BC)”.

When you come in for a consultation, our TCM physicians will ask about your symptoms, check your tongue and pulse. Together with the information collected, TCM physicians may use this Five Element theory to guide our diagnosis.

As each element is associated with different organ networks, colours, emotions, taste and sensory organs, this provides a multi-dimensional view of your internal organs and helps physicians to recognise where the imbalances lie.

Know Your Element

For yourself, it can help you to understand your personality as well as about your body.

By knowing your element, it empowers you to:

• Shed light on the goals you set and the risks you take.
• Become more accepting of your “faults” when you see them as part of a package. For example, a Wood type can get irritated and have a bit of a temper but they can be a powerful leader who loves challenges and not hindered by boundaries.
• Examine your health and understand why you get a particular symptom.
• For example, when a Wood type is stressed out, he/she may easily get itchy or dry eyes whereas an Earth friend may get digestive issues. Same cause but different symptom.
• Lead a better lifestyle by adopting a diet and pressing acupuncture points that are specifically for your body’s type and needs.

Which Element Are You?

Not sure which element you are? Take the quiz below to find out.

Quiz inspired by “Between Heaven and Earth” by Harriet Beinfield and Efrem Korngold.