What is the purpose of syndrome differentiation in TCVM?

The purpose of syndrome differentiation in Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine (TCVM) is to identify patterns of disharmony within the body. This practice is fundamental to TCVM because it allows practitioners to assess the unique presentation of an animal’s condition based on various factors, such as their symptoms, behavior, and overall energy levels. Each pattern of disharmony indicates an imbalance in the body's Qi, Blood, Yin, or Yang, or may reflect issues within specific organs or systems. By pinpointing these patterns, the practitioner can then tailor treatment strategies to restore balance, addressing not just the symptoms but the root causes of the issues.

The ability to differentiate syndromes is key to effective treatment in TCVM, guiding choices in herbal medicine, acupuncture points, dietary adjustments, and lifestyle recommendations. This systematic approach is rooted in the philosophy that health arises from harmony within the body and between the body and its environment.