In recent years, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has garnered increasing attention and credibility internationally, especially as interest in alternative health practices rises worldwide.

This shift is exemplified by a recent livestream event featuring US influencer IShowSpeed, who has over 37 million followers on YouTube.

During his visit to Chengdu, located in Southwest China's Sichuan Province, he engaged with various TCM treatments, including acupuncture and bone setting.

Initially hesitant about acupuncture, IShowSpeed later expressed surprise at the treatment's efficacy, stating that it alleviated his headache significantly.

The livestream attracted over 7.6 million views, making it a pivotal moment for TCM's presentation to a global audience.

TCM, often viewed through a lens of mystique, is increasingly recognized for its scientific underpinnings as viewers turn to authentic sources of knowledge.

The growing popularity of treatment modalities like acupuncture and moxibustion is changing perceptions, as they are no longer solely regarded as enchanting traditions but as viable healthcare options supported by experiential testimonials.

Evidence of this trend can be observed in Northeast China, particularly in Hunchun, Jilin Province, where a surge of Russian clientele has emerged, specifically seeking moxibustion therapy.

Local practitioner Han Shiming reported welcoming thousands of Russian visitors annually, many traveling from as far as Moscow and St. Petersburg for treatments primarily targeting conditions like cervical spondylosis and shoulder periarthritis.

Recommendations from satisfied friends and relatives have played a crucial role in attracting these international patrons, who often leave testimonials praising the effectiveness of their treatments in Russian.

Additionally, foreign patients have begun to report positive outcomes when utilizing TCM methods.

Sun Zhijia, a professor at the Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, detailed various cases of foreign patients he has treated with TCM, including individuals from Germany and Belgium.

One notable case involved a German patient with severe cold symptoms who, after consulting with Sun, experienced relief following TCM herbal treatment.

Another patient from Belgium, suffering from a chronic cough and unsatisfied with previous treatments, found success through TCM which addressed underlying digestive issues rather than solely targeting respiratory symptoms.

These case studies reflect a growing global acceptance of TCM's holistic approach to health.

Community events and informal initiatives are playing an essential role in promoting TCM's profile abroad.

Moxibustion clinics in Han’s town have garnered a notable reputation through word-of-mouth, while organizations like the Beijing Massage Hospital have organized 'Diplomatic Experience Days' to familiarize foreign diplomats with TCM practices.

The extensive reach of IShowSpeed’s livestream symbolizes a fusion of grassroots advocacy and digital channels potent in elevating TCM's status worldwide.

Efforts to convey the depth and effectiveness of TCM face challenges, particularly in international communication.

Engaging storytelling and cultural representation in various media have emerged as significant methods.

A recent animated film, _Ne Zha 2_, which has been screened in multiple countries, features a scene relevant to TCM that has catalyzed discussions about the practice and its historical relevance.

Experts within the TCM community assert that increased representation and contemporary adaptations of traditional practices are key to establishing broader acceptance.

The evolving narrative surrounding TCM aims to illustrate its historical significance and ongoing potential in modern healthcare.