Five Elements
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Five Elements
Coupled with the theory of yin-yang, the theory of the five elements was another part of the interpretation of natural phenomena that originated in ancient China. It reflected a primitive concept of materialism and dialectics and played an active role in promoting the development of natural science in China. Ancient physicians applied the theory to the field of medicine, greatly influencing the formation and development of the theoretical system of traditional Chinese medicine, and guiding clinical work up to the present time.
The five elements refer to five categories in the natural world, namely wood, fire, earth, metal and water. The theory of the five elements states that all phenomena in the universe correspond in nature either to wood, fire, earth, metal or water, and that these are in a state of constant motion and change. Historically it derives from observations of the natural world made in early times by the Chinese people in the course of their lives and productive labour. Wood, fire, earth, metal and water were considered to be five indispensible materials for the maintenance of life and production, as well as representing five important states that initiated normal changes in the natural world.