Translation guide
Refers to traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) as a system, its herbal remedies, or the practice of Chinese medicine. The most common Japanese term is 漢方 (kanpō), which specifically refers to the Japanese adaptation of traditional Chinese medicine. Other terms exist for the broader Chinese tradition or specific aspects.
The learner wants to refer to the medical system originating in China, often as practiced in Japan or in a general sense.
The standard term for traditional Japanese medicine derived from Chinese medicine. It is widely understood and used in Japan to refer to this system, including herbal remedies, acupuncture, and moxibustion.
漢方は日本で広く使われています。
Kampo medicine is widely used in Japan.
漢方薬を処方してもらいました。
I was prescribed a Kampo medicine.
Literally 'Chinese medicine'. This term is more academic and refers to the medical tradition of China as a whole, including its theories and practices. It is less common in everyday conversation than 漢方.
彼は中国医学を研究しています。
He is researching Chinese medicine.
Means 'Oriental medicine' or 'Eastern medicine'. This broader term encompasses traditional medical systems from China, Japan, Korea, and other East Asian countries. It is often used in contrast to Western medicine (西洋医学).
東洋医学では、体全体のバランスを重視します。
In Eastern medicine, the balance of the whole body is emphasized.
The learner wants to refer specifically to the herbal preparations or remedies used in Chinese medicine.
The most common term for Kampo herbal medicine. It refers to the prepared herbal formulas, often in the form of powders, pills, or decoctions.
この漢方薬は風邪に効きます。
This Chinese herbal medicine is effective for colds.
漢方薬局で相談できます。
You can consult at a Kampo pharmacy.
A more general phrase meaning 'Chinese medicine' or 'medicine from China'. It can refer to any medicine originating from China, not necessarily traditional herbal remedies.
中国の薬を試してみたいです。
I want to try Chinese medicine.
The learner wants to refer to a doctor or practitioner who practices Chinese medicine.
A doctor who specializes in Kampo medicine. This term is used for licensed medical doctors who also practice Kampo.
漢方医に診てもらいました。
I was examined by a Kampo doctor.
A more descriptive phrase meaning 'doctor of Chinese medicine'. It is less common and more formal.
彼は中国医学の医者です。
He is a doctor of Chinese medicine.
漢方 (kanpō) is the Japanese adaptation of Chinese medicine and is the term most Japanese people use in daily life. 中国医学 (chūgoku igaku) refers more strictly to the medical tradition of China and is used in academic or comparative contexts. When in doubt, use 漢方 for the practice and remedies in Japan.
漢方は日本の伝統医学です。
Kampo is traditional Japanese medicine.
中国医学の歴史は長いです。
The history of Chinese medicine is long.
When talking about Chinese medicine in Japan, 漢方 is the safest and most natural choice. It is understood by everyone and covers both the system and the remedies. For example, you can say 漢方に興味があります (I'm interested in Kampo) or 漢方を飲んでいます (I'm taking Kampo medicine).