The Five Elements: What Science Has To Say About This Chinese Medicine Theory
Philosophers have questioned the origins of life and the makeup of the universe since prehistory, the time before written records even existed.
According to some traditions, everything in the universe comes from the five elements: wood, fire, earth, water, and metal.
From the smallest atom to a giant whale to the solar system itself, all things are said to be composed of some combination of these elements.
When it comes to human life, some people believe the five elements play a role in the balance of energies in the body, contributing to everything from personality traits to health and well-being.
While it sounds plausible, is this theory supported by science? Can the scientific approach and five element theory live side by side?
Here’s what experts and scientists say about the five elements, plus what they can and can’t teach you about your health.
What is the five element theory?
Five element theory, also referred to as Wu Xing or the five phases, has been a part of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for centuries.
According to a 2008 report, an early mention can be found in the ancient text Huangdi Neijing, which likely dates back to 300 B.C. Even so, this theory still has many believers today.
“The five elements are used in pretty much every different style of TCM to some extent [to] diagnose and differentiate between different illnesses, dysfunctions, and people,” says Tiffany Cruikshank, licensed acupuncturist, experienced registered yoga teacher, and founder of Yoga Medicine.