This summer, the rich tapestry of Dunhuang's medical culture—from the "moxibustion charts" painted on its ancient grotto walls to the "prescription collections" and the legendary "immortal porridge" recorded in its scrolls—has stepped out of the caves and manuscripts. These traditions are now transformed into tangible experiences for visitors, including acupuncture, tuina massage, moxibustion, gua sha, and sanfu herbal patches, creating a vibrant sensation in local daily life and continually enriching wellness tourism along the Silk Road.

According to official statistics, the Dunhuang Library Cave houses 34 fragmented medical prescription manuscripts. In recent years, Dunhuang has delved deep into the traditional Chinese medicine resources found in its medical murals and scriptures. A multidisciplinary research team has been established to systematically organize the medical therapies and theoretical origins embedded in the Dunhuang manuscripts and wall paintings.

Where to Begin Your Exploration

Pictured on August 12 is a display of Dunhuang medical texts at the "Dunhuang Medicine Exhibition Hall" within the Dunhuang Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital. Another image from the same day showcases the "Songzi Pulse Pillow" (a pillow used to check the pulse for fertility) exhibited at the hall. Additional photos illustrate the comprehensive narrative of Dunhuang medicine's evolution, from its origins to its present-day resurgence, as presented in the exhibition space.

Bringing Ancient Wisdom to Life

On August 12, patients at the Dunhuang Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital were seen experiencing moxibustion, as depicted in the ancient grotto's "moxibustion chart," while others received acupuncture treatments. These interactive sessions highlight how centuries-old medical knowledge is being revived and integrated into contemporary healthcare and tourism.