In contrast to many other cultures, the Chinese reportedly have actively attempted to combine their traditional medicine with modern scientific practices. Early records indicate that illness was generally thought to be caused by unseen demons or evil spirits that entered the body where it was most vulnerable. Today, in much the same fashion, disease is said to be caused by creatures invisible to the naked eye that enter the body. This perception of the situation is looked upon even by many physicians as not entirely proved. They see health as being related to the whole person.
Some modern hospitals have healers on the staff.
Acupuncture is an accepted practice by many Western physicians. Some aspects of traditional folk medicine, therefore, are enjoying a revival among those who practice modern scientific medicine. The means by which a cure is produced is not nearly so important as the fact that the cure is produced. Recommended readings include 'Potions, Remedies and Old Wives' Tales' by W. W. Bauer, published in 1969, and Virgil Vogel's 'American Indian Medicine', published in 1970. The first title may be available in public libraries.