Causes of Disease
Hereditary Conditions
These are usually passed on genetically. They can also occur if our parents are generally healthy but are suffering from an illness at the time of conception, or if our mother experiences major shock, illness, or trauma during pregnancy.
Emotional Imbalances
Long-standing emotional imbalances can eventually affect the functioning of our internal organs, leading to physical symptoms and more systemic patterns of disease.
Overwork
More than excessive physical exertion, this refers to the tendency of some people to consistently work long hours every day without allowing for periods of rest, a process that can slowly deplete us both physically and emotionally.
Improper Diet
Some common dietary imbalances include excesses of raw, spicy, or fatty foods, and eating too much or not enough. Habits like eating too fast, eating while standing or working, eating at irregular times, or eating late in the evening can also cause issues.
Environmental Factors
Exposure to extremes of temperature and weather can have major effects on us and can even be life-threatening. Environmental factors like allergens, chemicals, pollution, and radiation can also be a major cause of disease and illness.
Pathogens
These include infectious micro-organisms like viruses and bacteria as well as other "pathogens" like poor quality foods, allergens, and extremes of weather.
Physical Trauma
Trauma can cause pain and scarring and disrupt circulation and the functioning of the internal organs. Even beneficial procedures like surgery can do this. Trauma can also have a lasting effect on our emotions, like in Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome.
Drugs
Pharmaceutical drugs have many well-known side effects and tend to interact with each other and with other medicinal substances like herbs. Recreational drugs can also have side effects, even milder ones, especially with long-term use.
Imbalanced Sexual Activity
What is correct for each individual depends a lot on their age and health. Signs of excessive sexual activity include lower back pain, dizziness, fatigue, and poor memory or concentration. Lack of sexual activity is mainly an issue when there is a sexual desire present. When this desire is unfulfilled it tends to affect the heart, causing emotional issues like anxiety and depression.
*from Giovanni Maciocia's book, "The Foundations of Chinese Medicine: A Comprehensive Text for Acupuncturists and Herbalists"