Bridging Cultures Through Acupuncture
In the northern Algerian city of Setif, Dr. Lu Yuanzheng, hailing from Shiyan in central China’s Hubei Province, has spent years weaving new narratives of health and friendship. Since joining the 27th medical aid team from the Chinese mainland in 2017, Lu has applied the art of acupuncture—known locally as Libaira—to treat ailments, ease pain, and spark hope in hundreds of patients.
While acupuncture is often seen as an ancient practice, its roots in Algeria stretch back to 1963, when the Chinese mainland dispatched its first medical team to North Africa. The local name, Libaira—literally “needle treatment”—speaks to the method’s simple power: it’s affordable, effective, and fast-acting. This legacy of the “magic needles” continues to shine through Lu’s daily work, as he helps patients from all walks of life regain comfort and balance.
More Than Treatment
For Lu, acupuncture is more than a series of meridian points: it’s a bridge between cultures. Through every session, he shares not only therapeutic techniques but also stories of his hometown. Patients, in turn, open up about local traditions, forging bonds that extend beyond the clinic walls. In workshops and informal gatherings, Lu also introduces colleagues to the philosophy behind TCM, ensuring that knowledge flows both ways.
Global Health in Action
Across the globe, medical diplomacy is often measured in grand summits and headlines. Yet in Setif’s treatment rooms, real-world impact unfolds one needle at a time. Lu’s work highlights how age-old practices can adapt to new environments, offering practical relief while connecting communities. As young global citizens and health enthusiasts look for fresh perspectives on innovation and care, the story of Libaira shows that sometimes, the simplest solutions carry the most profound effects.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
