The first written work on this system was done in the 8th century as a question and answer dialogue between physician and student. It had 156 chapters. The five energies of the physical world-earth, water, fire, wind and space connect to the energies of the body by way of the three humors. It is believed that any illness is a result of some combination of dietary imbalance, behavioral factors, seasonal maladjustment or spirit problems. The practitioner uses pulse taking, urinalysis and extensive questioning to make a diagnosis.
Pulse taking is a complex mixture of Chinese and Ayervedic styles.
Urine is looked at for color, odor, vapor and froth for traces of disease. There is also a visual examination of the tongue. The questions are used to understand the patient, how they live, what their situation is. The treatment consists of herbs, Golden Needle acupuncture, dietary and behavioral changes. There are more than 2000 herbs used in this system, including gems, minerals and plant substances.