Unbelievable Treatments in Chinese Medicine History: Swallowed Nails, Faked Illnesses & Genius Cases with Michael Brown

From a child who swallowed a nail and was saved by an ingenious Ming dynasty formula, to patients faking dramatic blood-coughing episodes, this episode uncovers the wildest, most surprising stories from classical Chinese medicine texts.

Join host Marie Hopkinson and special guest Michael Brown — scholar, acupuncturist, Chinese herbalist, and classical Chinese translator — as they dive into forgotten cases from Zhang Jingyue and other texts. Discussing the integration of acupuncture by famous herbalists, and the joy of returning to source texts to bring happiness into modern practice.

You'll also hear insights into classical literature, point combinations, the value of studying source texts, and why frequent treatment and deep study still matter in clinic today.

About Michael BrownMichael Brown is a Brisbane-based scholar-practitioner of Chinese Medicine with clinical experience since 2009. He completed Honours in Classical Chinese at the University of Queensland and is Head Lecturer at the Academy of Source-based Medicine, which he co-founded in 2022. He has contributed to or edited over 6 major translations and works, including the landmark Explanations of Channels and Points (Vol 1 & 2) — often considered one of the most important acupuncture commentaries — and multiple volumes of Zhang Jingyue’s Complete Compendium (including Eight Principles, Ten Questions, Mingmen Theory, and the Eight Battle Arrays of New Formulae). His passion lies in bridging classical literature with modern clinical practice.

Perfect for TCM students, acupuncture and herbal medicine practitioners, self-learners, and anyone fascinated by the depth and surprises of traditional Chinese medicine. Dive into the classics, challenge common assumptions, and get inspired to deepen your own study and practice.

Michael Brown's Contacts: Clinic: Eastern Mountains (Brisbane Australia) https://easternmountains.com.au/EMAIL: [email protected] Chinese Medicine with Michael Brown and the Academy of Source Based Medicine: Current course: https://asbmcm.thinkific.com/courses/Acupuncture-LuLIOther Courses by ASBM. https://asbmcm.thinkific.com/collectionsMichael Brown Social Media: Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@AcademyofSource-BasedMedicineInstagram https://www.instagram.com/asbmcm/https://www.facebook.com/sourcebasedmed/

Chinese Medicine Podcast is run by Acupuncturist and Chinese Herbalist, Marie Hopkinson. Marie Hopkinson is a Chinese herbalist and acupuncturist in Perth with 24+ years of clinical experience. At her clinic, Bespoke Medicine in Bayswater, Marie combines acupuncture, pulse diagnosis, and traditional herbal formulas based on the Shang Han Lun and Jingui Yaolue. She trained in Australia and China, holds a Master of International Health, and teaches Chinese medicine in Perth.📍Book a session (Perth patients and International via Telehealth, can both book here: https://bespokemedicine.net/patients/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chinesemedicinepodcastInstagram https://www.instagram.com/chinesemedicinepodcast/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@chinesemedpodcastAUDIO - find us on Apple, Spotify and Google Podcasts in audio-only format CONTACT THE PODCAST (MARIE) [email protected] IMPORTANT: This video, as with all videos on the The Chinese Medicine Podcast are NOT a replacement for a health professional diagnosis. While Marie may answer your questions, all answers are not of a professional consultation level - it is impossible to check your pulse through the internet, hence Chinese medicine cannot be practiced properly through the internet. If you have any un-diagnosed symptoms, or changes in your health condition The Chinese Medicine Podcast urges you to see your own doctor, GP, Chinese medicine practitioner, acupuncturist or other health professional as appropriate.

Jeff Shearer is an Acupuncturist and Chinese herbalist of 31 years clinical experience, currently practicing in Newcastle, Australia (NSW). He has inspired many practitioners through his teaching community, and in today's episode Marie interviews Jeff about why he now so often only uses one needle in practice. What lead to his journey of this type of practice, and how patients respond to this very different type of treatment in Australia.

We also discuss important topics for new graduates and students of Acupuncture /herbal medicine programs about learning your craft, discovering the right style for you and so much more. It was my pleasure to have this chat with Jeff as he has so much to give to the Chinese medicine community. whether you are a patient of an acupuncturist, a Chinese medicine hobbyist learner, student of natural medicine or experienced practitioner there is something to be inspired about in this conversation. Jeff can be contacted about his clinic in Newcastle, NSW here: Evolve Natural Medicine: https://evolvenaturalmedicine.com.au/And for practitioners looking to join one of Jeff's courses, find out more here: https://evolvenaturalmedicine.com.au/acupuncture-training/ If you enjoyed this episode don't forget to leave us a review on Spotify or Apple AND come over to YouTube where there's 3x the content of videos and tutorials! Chinese Medicine Podcast is run by Acupuncturist and Chinese Herbalist, Marie Hopkinson. About Dr Marie Hopkinson (Chinese Medicine Doctor) SUPPORT YOURSELF AND THE CHANNEL BY ENROLLING IN ONE OF MARIE'S COURSES HERE: https://www.metrohealth.com.au/courses/ Marie Hopkinson is a Chinese herbalist and acupuncturist in Perth with 24+ years of clinical experience. She works with patients facing sleep issues, fatigue, digestive problems, stress, menstrual health, and chronic pain using classical Chinese medicine. At her clinic, Bespoke Medicine in Bayswater, Marie combines acupuncture, pulse diagnosis, and traditional herbal formulas based on the Shang Han Lun and Jingui Yaolue. She trained in Australia and China, holds a Master of International Health, and teaches Chinese medicine in Perth.📍Book a session (Perth patients and International via Telehealth, can both book here: https://bespokemedicine.net/patients/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chinesemedicinepodcastInstagram https://www.instagram.com/chinesemedicinepodcast/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@chinesemedpodcastAUDIO - find us on Apple, Spotify and Google Podcasts in audio-only format CONTACT THE PODCAST (MARIE) [email protected]

IMPORTANT: This video, as with all videos on the The Chinese Medicine Podcast are NOT a replacement for a health professional diagnosis. While Marie may answer your questions, all answers are not of a professional consultation level - it is impossible to check your pulse through the internet, hence Chinese medicine cannot be practiced properly through the internet. If you have any un-diagnosed symptoms, or changes in your health condition The Chinese Medicine Podcast urges you to see your own doctor, GP, Chinese medicine practitioner, acupuncturist or other health professional as appropriate. If it is an emergency call 000 in Australia. If you are unsure if this advice is appropriate for your individual situation ask your own practitioner before applying any diet or lifestyle techniques /concepts discussed in this video. Marie Hopkinson and The Chinese Medicine Podcast wishes you the best of health and improvement in your own health journey.

Why you fell scattered, and how to fix it - A series on the Spiritual Resources focus on women's health - this episode looks at the Shen, feelings 'not grounded' , overcome by emotions, and so much more is unpacked by CM practitioner, Marie Hopkinson in this episode.

Chinese Medicine Podcast is run by Acupuncturist and Chinese Herbalist, Marie Hopkinson. About Dr Marie Hopkinson (Chinese Medicine Doctor) Marie Hopkinson is a Chinese herbalist and acupuncturist in Perth with 24+ years of clinical experience. She treats sleep issues, fatigue, digestive problems, stress, menstrual health, and chronic pain using classical Chinese medicine. At her clinic, Bespoke Medicine in Bayswater, Marie combines acupuncture, pulse diagnosis, and traditional herbal formulas based on the Shang Han Lun and Jingui Yaolue. She trained in Australia and China, holds a Master of International Health, and teaches Chinese medicine in Perth.📍Book a session (Perth patients and International via Telehealth, can both book here: https://bespokemedicine.net/patients/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chinesemedicinepodcastInstagram https://www.instagram.com/chinesemedicinepodcast/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@chinesemedpodcastAUDIO - find us on Apple, Spotify and Google Podcasts in audio-only format CONTACT THE PODCAST (MARIE) [email protected] IMPORTANT: This video, as with all videos on the The Chinese Medicine Podcast are NOT a replacement for a health professional diagnosis. While Marie may answer your questions, all answers are not of a professional consultation level - it is impossible to check your pulse through the internet, hence Chinese medicine cannot be practiced properly through the internet. If you have any un-diagnosed symptoms, or changes in your health condition The Chinese Medicine Podcast urges you to see your own doctor, GP, Chinese medicine practitioner, acupuncturist or other health professional as appropriate. If it is an emergency call 000 in Australia. If you are unsure if this advice is appropriate for your individual situation ask your own practitioner before applying any diet or lifestyle techniques /concepts discussed in this video. Marie Hopkinson and The Chinese Medicine Podcast wishes you the best of health and improvement in your own health journey.

FIVE SPIRITUAL RESOURCES FOR WOMEN - PART THREE - The Yi. This is going to be a new series for Women about women's health and the five spiritual resources of Chinese medicine. The Yi relates to the earth element - digestion and so much more.

Courses Marie is running can be found here: https://www.metrohealth.com.au/courses/ (Self Care with the five elements $49 AUD) and the full one-year program check out at the link above Chinese Medicine Podcast is run by Acupuncturist and Chinese Herbalist, Marie Hopkinson. About Dr Marie Hopkinson (Chinese Medicine Doctor) Marie Hopkinson is a Chinese herbalist and acupuncturist in Perth with 24+ years of clinical experience. She treats sleep issues, fatigue, digestive problems, stress, menstrual health, and chronic pain using classical Chinese medicine. At her clinic, Bespoke Medicine in Bayswater, Marie combines acupuncture, pulse diagnosis, and traditional herbal formulas based on the Shang Han Lun and Jingui Yaolue. She trained in Australia and China, holds a Master of International Health, and teaches Chinese medicine in Perth.📍Book a session (Perth patients and International via Telehealth, can both book here: https://bespokemedicine.net/patients/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chinesemedicinepodcastInstagram https://www.instagram.com/chinesemedicinepodcast/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@chinesemedpodcastAUDIO - find us on Apple, Spotify and Google Podcasts in audio-only format CONTACT THE PODCAST (MARIE) [email protected] IMPORTANT: This video, as with all videos on the The Chinese Medicine Podcast are NOT a replacement for a health professional diagnosis. While Marie may answer your questions, all answers are not of a professional consultation level - it is impossible to check your pulse through the internet, hence Chinese medicine cannot be practiced properly through the internet. If you have any un-diagnosed symptoms, or changes in your health condition The Chinese Medicine Podcast urges you to see your own doctor, GP, Chinese medicine practitioner, acupuncturist or other health professional as appropriate. If it is an emergency call 000 in Australia. If you are unsure if this advice is appropriate for your individual situation ask your own practitioner before applying any diet or lifestyle techniques /concepts discussed in this video. Marie Hopkinson and The Chinese Medicine Podcast wishes you the best of health and improvement in your own health journey.

New Course now open to enrollments: BETTER GUT HEALTH with Chinese Medicinehttps://www.metrohealth.com.au/beter-gut-health-with-tcm-diet-therapy/Explore more courses with Marie Hopkinson here: https://www.metrohealth.com.au/courses/(Self Care with the five elements $49 AUD) and the full one-year program avail at the course link above Chinese Medicine Podcast is run by Acupuncturist and Chinese Herbalist, Marie Hopkinson. About Dr Marie Hopkinson (Chinese Medicine Doctor) Marie Hopkinson is a Chinese herbalist and acupuncturist in Perth with 24+ years of clinical experience. She works with patients facing sleep issues, fatigue, digestive problems, stress, menstrual health, and chronic pain using classical Chinese medicine. At her clinic, Bespoke Medicine in Bayswater, Marie combines acupuncture, pulse diagnosis, and traditional herbal formulas based on the Shang Han Lun and Jingui Yaolue. She trained in Australia and China, holds a Master of International Health, and teaches Chinese medicine in Perth.📍Book a session (Perth patients and International via Telehealth, can both book here: https://bespokemedicine.net/patients/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chinesemedicinepodcastInstagram https://www.instagram.com/chinesemedicinepodcast/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@chinesemedpodcastAUDIO - find us on Apple, Spotify and Google Podcasts in audio-only format

CONTACT THE PODCAST (MARIE) [email protected] IMPORTANT: This video, as with all videos on the The Chinese Medicine Podcast are NOT a replacement for a health professional diagnosis. While Marie may answer your questions, all answers are not of a professional consultation level - it is impossible to check your pulse through the internet, hence Chinese medicine cannot be practiced properly through the internet. If you have any un-diagnosed symptoms, or changes in your health condition The Chinese Medicine Podcast urges you to see your own doctor, GP, Chinese medicine practitioner, acupuncturist or other health professional as appropriate. If it is an emergency call 000 in Australia. If you are unsure if this advice is appropriate for your individual situation ask your own practitioner before applying any diet or lifestyle techniques /concepts discussed in this video. Marie Hopkinson and The Chinese Medicine Podcast wishes you the best of health and improvement in your own health journey.

Courses Marie is running can be found here: https://www.metrohealth.com.au/courses/

Join me for a deep dive discussion into what's the difference between Qi gong, Tai Chi and Kung fu. Learn what REALLY is kung fu and how hard work is part of health.

Si Fu Gawain Siu has 40+ years experience in practicing and teaching in martial arts (Kung fu, Tai chi), and has studied many years in Chinese medicine. Support yourself and the channel with one of my courses in Chinese Medicine for self care - Courses from as low as $49 (AUD) right up to the full 1 year course: https://www.metrohealth.com.au/courses/ About Sifu Gawain: Working in Perth, Western Australia, Si Fu Gawain Siu teaches Kung Fu and Tai Chi in his academy Ging Mo. www.gingmo.com.au

FIVE SPIRITUAL RESOURCES FOR WOMEN - PART ONE - The Hun. This is going to be a new series for Women about women's health and the five spiritual resources of Chinese medicine. The HUN relates to the LIVER, Wood and Purpose, drive, vision and seeing a future for yourself. If this helped you in any way, please subscribe to support the channel to get to 10K and 100K subs. Courses I mentioned in this video can be found here: https://www.metrohealth.com.au/courses/ Chinese Medicine Podcast is run by Acupuncturist and Chinese Herbalist, Marie Hopkinson. About Dr Marie Hopkinson (Chinese Medicine Doctor) Marie is an experienced Chinese Medicine practitioner both a herbalist and acupuncturist, of over 23 years. Initially studying in Perth, Marie went on to study at Hangzhou TCM Hospital and then completing a Masters of International Health at Curtin Uni. In recent years Marie has been studying Classical Chinese Herbal Medicine, taught by Dr Arnaud Versluys through ICEAM(R). Marie has been practicing classical herbal medicine for the past 9 years. Marie is also a lecturer in Chinese Medicine and social science and student clinic supervisor, with over 20 years lecturing experience across 3 different colleges. In addition to Classical herbal medicine, Marie has a special interest in Chinese Diet Therapy- the branch of Chinese medicine concerned with prevention and treatment of symptoms with food.Marie practices Chinese medicine full time, between seeing patients and teaching classes. FOLLOW Chinese Medicine Podcast on social medial: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chinesemedicinepodcastInstagram https://www.instagram.com/chinesemedicinepodcast/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@chinesemedpodcastAUDIO - find us on Apple, Spotify and Google Podcasts in audio-only format CONTACT THE PODCAST (MARIE) [email protected] CONTACT Marie Hopkinson for Clinical consultations (in Person - Perth Western Australia and worldwide - online consultation available MARIE HOPKINSON, Registered Chinese Herbalist and Acupuncturist in Australia (AHPRA) Consultations for treatment (individual) please head to : http://www.bespokemedicine.net/patients Phone (AUS ONLY) 08 9275 1999 - for patients inquiries only. Facebook: fb.me/bespokemedicine IMPORTANT: This video, as with all videos on the The Chinese Medicine Podcast are NOT a replacement for a health professional diagnosis. While Marie may answer your questions, all answers are not of a professional consultation level - it is impossible to check your pulse through the internet, hence Chinese medicine cannot be practiced properly through the internet. If you have any undiagnosed symptoms, or changes in your health condition The Chinese Medicine Podcast urges you to see your own doctor, GP, Chinese medicine practitioner, acupuncturist or other health professional as appropriate. If it is an emergency call 000 in Australia. If you are unsure if this advice is appropriate for your individual situation ask your own practitioner before applying any diet or lifestyle techniques /concepts discussed in this video. Marie Hopkinson and The Chinese Medicine Podcast wishes you the best of health and improvement in your own health journey.

Exploring how the emotions associated with digestion, the Earth element, Spleen energy are connected to dampness and Spleen Qi (energy) deficiency.

If you are interested in checking out the courses I mentioned in this video, please do so here, I'd love to have you on the journey with us learning more about the wonders of how Chinese medicine can make your life better https://www.metrohealth.com.au/courses/

Chinese Medicine Podcast is run by Acupuncturist and Chinese Herbalist, Marie Hopkinson. About Dr Marie Hopkinson (Chinese Medicine Doctor) Marie is an experienced Chinese Medicine practitioner both a herbalist and acupuncturist, of over 23 years. Initially studying in Perth, Marie went on to study at Hangzhou TCM Hospital and then completing a Masters of International Health at Curtin Uni. In recent years Marie has been studying Classical Chinese Herbal Medicine, taught by Dr Arnaud Versluys through ICEAM(R). Marie has been practicing classical herbal medicine for the past 9 years. Marie is also a lecturer in Chinese Medicine and social science and student clinic supervisor, with over 20 years lecturing experience across 3 different colleges. In addition to Classical herbal medicine, Marie has a special interest in Chinese Diet Therapy- the branch of Chinese medicine concerned with prevention and treatment of symptoms with food.Marie practices Chinese medicine full time, between seeing patients and teaching classes. FOLLOW Chinese Medicine Podcast on social medial: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chinesemedicinepodcastInstagram https://www.instagram.com/chinesemedicinepodcast/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@chinesemedpodcastAUDIO - find us on Apple, Spotify and Google Podcasts in audio-only format CONTACT THE PODCAST (MARIE) [email protected] CONTACT Marie Hopkinson for Clinical consultations (in Person - Perth Western Australia and worldwide - online consultation available MARIE HOPKINSON, Registered Chinese Herbalist and Acupuncturist in Australia (AHPRA) Consultations for treatment (individual) please head to : http://www.bespokemedicine.net/patients Phone (AUS ONLY) 08 9275 1999 - for patients inquiries only. Facebook: fb.me/bespokemedicine IMPORTANT: This video, as with all videos on the The Chinese Medicine Podcast are NOT a replacement for a health professional diagnosis. While Marie may answer your questions, all answers are not of a professional consultation level - it is impossible to check your pulse through the internet, hence Chinese medicine cannot be practiced properly through the internet. If you have any undiagnosed symptoms, or changes in your health condition The Chinese Medicine Podcast urges you to see your own doctor, GP, Chinese medicine practitioner, acupuncturist or other health professional as appropriate. If it is an emergency call 000 in Australia. If you are unsure if this advice is appropriate for your individual situation ask your own practitioner before applying any diet or lifestyle techniques /concepts discussed in this video. Marie Hopkinson and The Chinese Medicine Podcast wishes you the best of health and improvement in your own health journey.

Take your learning to the next level Discover my 'Ultimate Chinese Medicine learning Experience' course that I mentioned in this video here: https://www.metrohealth.com.au/learn-chinese-medicine-with-marie-hopkinson/

Live intake from 1st June 2025 , on demand options will be added in the future, check the link for the latest updates on courses offeredChinese Medicine Podcast is run by Acupuncturist and Chinese Herbalist, Marie Hopkinson. About Dr Marie Hopkinson (Chinese Medicine Doctor) Marie is an experienced Chinese Medicine practitioner both a herbalist and acupuncturist, of over 23 years. Initially studying in Perth, Marie went on to study at Hangzhou TCM Hospital and then completing a Masters of International Health at Curtin Uni. In recent years Marie has been studying Classical Chinese Herbal Medicine, taught by Dr Arnaud Versluys through ICEAM(R). Marie has been practicing classical herbal medicine for the past 9 years. Marie is also a lecturer in Chinese Medicine and social science and student clinic supervisor, with over 20 years lecturing experience across 3 different colleges. In addition to Classical herbal medicine, Marie has a special interest in Chinese Diet Therapy- the branch of Chinese medicine concerned with prevention and treatment of symptoms with food.Marie practices Chinese medicine full time, between seeing patients and teaching classes. FOLLOW Chinese Medicine Podcast on social medial: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chinesemedicinepodcastInstagram https://www.instagram.com/chinesemedicinepodcast/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@chinesemedpodcastAUDIO - find us on Apple, Spotify and Google Podcasts in audio-only format CONTACT THE PODCAST (MARIE) [email protected] CONTACT Marie Hopkinson for Clinical consultations (in Person - Perth Western Australia and worldwide - online consultation available MARIE HOPKINSON, Registered Chinese Herbalist and Acupuncturist in Australia (AHPRA) Consultations for treatment (individual) please head to : http://www.bespokemedicine.net/patients Phone (AUS ONLY) 08 9275 1999 - for patients inquiries only. Facebook: fb.me/bespokemedicine IMPORTANT: This video, as with all videos on the The Chinese Medicine Podcast are NOT a replacement for a health professional diagnosis. While Marie may answer your questions, all answers are not of a professional consultation level - it is impossible to check your pulse through the internet, hence Chinese medicine cannot be practiced properly through the internet. If you have any undiagnosed symptoms, or changes in your health condition The Chinese Medicine Podcast urges you to see your own doctor, GP, Chinese medicine practitioner, acupuncturist or other health professional as appropriate. If it is an emergency call 000 in Australia. If you are unsure if this advice is appropriate for your individual situation ask your own practitioner before applying any diet or lifestyle techniques /concepts discussed in this video. Marie Hopkinson and The Chinese Medicine Podcast wishes you the best of health and improvement in your own health journey.

I'm very excited to announce this new course offering starting soon. check out the link: https://www.metrohealth.com.au/learn-chinese-medicine-with-marie-hopkinson/

After the start date if you are interested, please contact me for on-demand options or to jump in mid-learning with the on-demand recordings of what you have missed. There is a way to book a free call with me (Marie Hopkinson) to find out more or if its right for your learning needs.

Thanks again for supporting Chinese Medicine Podcast :)