Medical Interchanges between Ancient China and the Ancient Middle East from 7th to 15th Century

Abstract: The Silk Road witnessed the exchange, integration, and innovation of medicine between ancient China and the ancient Middle East. This article outlines a panoramic historical picture of medical interchanges between ancient China and the ancient Middle East along the Silk Road by multilingual literature research, textual criticism and scientific methods. Through the exchange of medicinal materials, the supplement of prescriptions, the reference of dosage forms, and the absorption of medical concepts, the two major medical systems along the Silk Road have interacted and integrated. Anchored in the political cooperation, sustained by translation network, and promoted by commercial intercourse, this medical dialogue shows the openness and adaptability of traditional medicine. This interchange history provides a historical paradigm for the modernization of traditional medicine, cross-cultural collaboration, and the building of the Silk Road of Health.