Beijing:Artificial intelligence is emerging as a "digital teaching assistant" for students of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) in China, providing support beyond classroom settings.

According to Emirates News Agency, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine is leading the development of a large AI model that incorporates comprehensive TCM knowledge, including classical texts, theories, teaching materials, herbal medicines, and prescriptions. This system allows students to query the combination of herbal medicines and receive instant insights into the logic and principles of various formulas.

Additionally, the university has created an intelligent robot to demonstrate traditional TCM massage techniques, enhancing practical training for students. Li Ziyuan, a doctoral student at Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, noted that AI helps organize ancient medical texts, analyze clinical experiences, and suggest medication, effectively shortening the learning curve for young physicians.

Huang Luqi, a TCM expert, highlighted that AI could systematically capture diagnostic approaches, prescriptions, and treatment experiences. This could lead to more objective and quantifiable TCM diagnostic information, reducing the subjectivity involved in manual assessments.

China is making AI a component of its national strategy to advance TCM. The 2026-2030 blueprint emphasizes the use of digital and intelligent technologies in TCM and aims to develop high-quality datasets within the field.