Chinamaxxing: Why Americans Are Embracing Chinese Wellness Trends

The pursuit of wellness is a global phenomenon, but a recent trend dubbed “Chinamaxxing” – embracing traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) practices – has taken hold in the United States, particularly on TikTok. From sipping hot water to prioritizing warm feet, young Americans are playfully adopting habits rooted in a 5,000-year-ancient health system, fueled by a complex mix of cultural fascination, skepticism towards Western medicine, and even a touch of geopolitical subversion.

A Viral Shift in Wellness

The trend gained momentum thanks to creators like Sherry Zhu, a 23-year-old Chinese American based in Novel Jersey, who shares TCM-inspired lifestyle tips with her millions of followers. Zhu’s guidance, and that of others, centers around principles like maintaining internal balance – or qi – through practices such as acupuncture, cupping, herbal remedies, and dietary adjustments. A simple example is the recommendation to drink hot water instead of cold, believed to aid digestion and promote overall wellbeing. Zhu herself explained to GQ that she feels “digestion-wise, a lot better” when drinking hot water.

This isn’t simply about adopting isolated practices; it’s about building habits, according to Shaoyu Yuan, a scholar of international relations at New York University. “When someone adopts qigong, acupuncture, cupping therapy, herbal remedies [or] gua sha … they are not consuming a one-time cultural export. Instead they are building a habit,” Yuan explained. This habit-building aspect is key to understanding the trend’s staying power.

From TikTok Trend to Cultural Commentary

The rise of Chinamaxxing is surprisingly linked to recent US-China tensions. Following economic targeting of China by the Trump administration in 2025 – including trade restrictions and a contested TikTok ban – some young Americans began expressing a fascination with Chinese culture as a form of subtle protest. This manifested in content showcasing an embrace of Chinese traditions, food, and now, wellness practices. Influencers have even traveled to China to create content, while Chinese cultural goods have seen increased demand in the US market.

This fascination isn’t necessarily a political statement, but it reflects a broader questioning of Western institutions. As Yuan notes, “When Americans don’t trust their own institutions, media or political class, they become more willing to look for alternative reference points.” This sentiment is compounded by a growing distrust in the US healthcare system, with some seeking alternative approaches to chronic conditions that often feel inadequately addressed by conventional medicine.

The Science Behind Traditional Chinese Medicine

Traditional Chinese Medicine is a holistic system that views health as a balance of opposing forces – yin and yang – and emphasizes the flow of qi through the body. While many TCM practices lack robust scientific validation in the Western medical model, some have shown promise in research. For example, studies suggest that TCM therapies can play a role in managing chronic diseases, though they are not considered cures.

Practices like acupuncture have been investigated for pain management, while herbal remedies are being studied for their potential therapeutic effects. However, it’s crucial to note that research on TCM is often limited by factors such as small sample sizes, methodological challenges, and the complexity of the system itself. It’s also important to distinguish between correlation and causation; just because a practice is associated with a health benefit doesn’t necessarily mean it causes that benefit.

Navigating Cultural Appropriation and Authenticity

The Chinamaxxing trend hasn’t been without its critics. Some Asian Americans have expressed discomfort with the appropriation of their culture, particularly given the history of discrimination and harassment faced by people of Asian descent in the US. Concerns have also been raised about non-Asian creators presenting themselves as authorities on TCM practices without proper training or understanding. Faith Xue, editor-in-chief of Coveteur, pointed out the “privilege” of being able to “try on someone else’s identity for a day without inheriting any of the consequences.”

Dr. Felice Chan, an acupuncturist and co-founder of the skincare brand Moonbow, acknowledges the potential for superficial engagement with TCM. “There’s a reason why your mom told you to wear slippers in the house… There is a medicine tied to it, but there’s almost a lapse in communication or understanding of why our parents told us.” She welcomes the increased visibility of TCM but emphasizes the importance of understanding its depth and nuance.

China’s Soft Power Strategy and the Future of TCM

The growing interest in TCM aligns with China’s broader strategy to promote its culture and influence globally. In 2016, the Chinese government issued a directive to actively introduce TCM to the world, and in 2020, it even recommended TCM as part of its Covid-19 treatment protocols. By 2022, the global TCM market was valued at $400 billion.

As Americans increasingly seek holistic and personalized approaches to health, and as trust in conventional medicine wavers, TCM may continue to gain traction. However, it’s essential to approach these practices with a critical eye, seeking guidance from qualified practitioners and understanding the limitations of current research. The trend also highlights a broader desire for community and belonging, as creators like Lulu Ge foster a sense of shared exploration and support among their followers.

The Chinamaxxing phenomenon is more than just a viral trend; it’s a reflection of shifting cultural values, geopolitical dynamics, and a growing appetite for alternative approaches to wellness. It remains to be seen whether this interest will translate into lasting changes in healthcare practices, but it undoubtedly signals a growing openness to exploring the wisdom of ancient traditions.

Looking Ahead: The efficacy of TCM practices will continue to be a subject of scientific investigation. Ongoing clinical trials and research studies are needed to better understand the mechanisms of action and potential benefits of these therapies. Regulatory bodies will likely face increasing pressure to establish clear standards for TCM practitioners and ensure the safety and quality of herbal remedies.