AI: Bridging Ancient Wisdom and Modern Innovation in Traditional Chinese Medicine

• Published in: JMIR medical informatics Vol. 12; p. e58491
• Main Authors: Lu, Linken, Lu, Tangsheng, Tian, Chunyu, Zhang, Xiujun
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Toronto JMIR Publications 28.06.2024
• Subjects: Accuracy; Artificial intelligence; Chinese medicine; Collaboration; Datasets; Disease; Innovations; Machine learning; Medical diagnosis; Medical imaging; Medical screening; Patients; Physicians; Physiology
• ISSN: 2291-9694; 2291-9694
• DOI: 10.2196/58491

The pursuit of groundbreaking health care innovations has led to the convergence of artificial intelligence (AI) and traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), thus marking a new frontier that demonstrates the promise of combining the advantages of ancient healing practices with cutting-edge advancements in modern technology. TCM, which is a holistic medical system with >2000 years of empirical support, uses unique diagnostic methods such as inspection, auscultation and olfaction, inquiry, and palpation. AI is the simulation of human intelligence processes by machines, especially via computer systems. TCM is experience oriented, holistic, and subjective, and its combination with AI has beneficial effects, which presumably arises from the perspectives of diagnostic accuracy, treatment efficacy, and prognostic veracity. The role of AI in TCM is highlighted by its use in diagnostics, with machine learning enhancing the precision of treatment through complex pattern recognition. This is exemplified by the greater accuracy of TCM syndrome differentiation via tongue images that are analyzed by AI. However, integrating AI into TCM also presents multifaceted challenges, such as data quality and ethical issues; thus, a unified strategy, such as the use of standardized data sets, is required to improve AI understanding and application of TCM principles. The evolution of TCM through the integration of AI is a key factor for elucidating new horizons in health care. As research continues to evolve, it is imperative that technologists and TCM practitioners collaborate to drive innovative solutions that push the boundaries of medical science and honor the profound legacy of TCM. We can chart a future course wherein AI-augmented TCM practices contribute to more systematic, effective, and accessible health care systems for all individuals.