Sasang Medical Perspectives on Viral Immunity: A Discussion of Intrinsic, Constitutionally Related Factors in Disease Onset and Resistance

Abstract

There remain more questions than answers regarding the manifestation of certain diseases, such as Ebola, in some otherwise healthy individuals but not in others. Sasang medicine offers a possible clue to solving this mystery by introducing a constitutionally based, intrinsic approach to determining disease susceptibility. The Sasang constitution is identified by a detailed examination of inherent physiological and psychological traits that are likely, but not yet, to be associated with specific genetic patterns. Hence, it is anticipated that after further examination, the Sasang model will contribute to the advancement of medical research and treatment by establishing genetically traceable psychological and physiological traits that contribute to, or offer protection against, various diseases. To progress along this journey, additional research involving Sasang-based organ-associated emotions and inherent emotional/physiological inclinations is warranted. This study presents an argument in favor of additionally examining constitutionally specific disease components related to viral epidemiology.

Keywords

• Sasang Medicine
• Sasang Constitutional Medicine
• Oriental Medicine
• Immunology
• Ebola
• Epidemiology