Geographical Characteristics and Historical Evolution of the Longsha Medical School

Abstract From the perspective of historical geography, this study conducts an in-depth investigation into the heritage timeline, regional characteristics, and formative factors of Longsha medical school (龙砂医派 Longsha medicine). Tracing its origin to the Song Dynasty, Longsha medicine has been handed down through successive generations, with numerous renowned physicians such as Xu Shuwei (许叔微) and Lu Wengui (陆文圭) making remarkable contributions to its development. A combination of favorable geographical location, superior ecological environment, an open cultural atmosphere, abundant local medicinal resources, and the unique physical constitutions of the local population comprehensively shaped the school’s distinct features and fueled its evolution. The core characteristics of Longsha medicine can be summarized as: emphasizing on inheritance and academic exploration, focusing on traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) classical theories and clinical practice, and embodying profound cultural connotations. As a regional and comprehensive TCM academic school, it originated in the Huashi area (historically known as Longsha) in Jiangyin County, Wuxi City, Jiangsu Province, gradually expanded to the areas surrounding Taihu Lake (太湖), and exerted far-reaching influence nationwide. Serving as a core representative of the TCM academic field in the Yangtze River Delta, Longsha medicine boasts a long history, solid cultural foundation, a galaxy of eminent physicians, classic works, distinct academic traits, unique diagnostic and therapeutic techniques, and vigorous dynamic inheritance. Contemporary in-depth research on Longsha medicine not only facilitates the dynamic inheritance of the core TCM theories such as Wu Yun Liu Qi (五运六气 the five movements and six qi theory) in Huang Di Nei Jing (《黄帝内经》 The Yellow Emperor’s Inner Classic ) but also verifies the effectiveness and scientific validity of TCM classical theories in guiding the prevention and treatment of modern diseases. Thus, the study helps to protect regional medical-historical sources, enrich the doctrinal landscape of TCM, sustain distinctive academic techniques, catalyzes contemporary innovation, cultivates characteristic TCM talent, and enhances clinical service effectiveness.