There have been many Western scientific studies of TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine), but none have arrived at a conclusion which is ultimately satisfactory. The reason for this is that Western science seems unable to quantify qi, and the way it affects health, in the same way that other physiology is understood. However, clinical trials invariably produce results, but which cannot be explained by Western science. Suffice to say: it works!
The concept of qi is fundamental to traditional Chinese medical thought; there is nothing comparable in allopathic (conventional Western) medicine. While human physiology in allopathic medicine is organized according to specialized function, Chinese medicine is more concerned with the dynamics and patterns of vital energy.
TCM looks at the whole body - the physical, mental , spiritual and emotional aspects - as well as the symptoms a patient is experiencing. It looks for the cause of the symptoms, and by treating those, as well as the symptoms themselves, balance of the vital energy, and therefore health, is restored.
Unlike allopathic medicine, it is unlikely that any two patients, even those who may be experiencing similar symptoms, would be treated in a similar fashion.
Each patient is unique, and is treated uniquely therefore.