Many people have studied the Ben Cao Gang Mu (Compendium of Materia Medica), and research on it has almost become a specialized academic discipline. My reflections on reading the Ben Cao Gang Mu are merely a small insight into this great work. In the opening section of Li Shizhen‘s Ben Cao Gang Mu, the principles … Read more
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), treating diseases requires not only a correct diagnosis of the patient’s condition but also a proficient understanding of the properties of Chinese herbs to effectively apply them in clinical practice. The properties of Chinese medicine refer to the fundamental nature and characteristics of herbal medicines, also known as medicinal properties. … Read more
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), treating diseases requires not only a correct diagnosis of the patient’s condition but also a proficient understanding of the properties of Chinese herbs to effectively apply them in clinical practice. The properties of Chinese medicine refer to the fundamental nature and characteristics of herbal medicines, also known as medicinal properties. … Read more
Ginger is a common seasoning in the kitchen. However, with the variety of ginger available on the market, many people are concerned about how to choose high-quality, safe, and healthy ginger. Ginger has a wide range of uses in cooking, whether for removing fishy odors or as a spice to complement various ingredients, it plays … Read more
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Fuzi (Aconite) is known as the “first product for reviving yang and rescuing from reversal.” It has the effects of reviving yang, rescuing from reversal, tonifying fire and assisting yang, dispersing cold, and alleviating pain. The Shennong Bencao Jing records it as pungent, warm, and toxic. Fuzi, also known as … Read more
Coix seed (Yi Yi Ren) is a well-known medicinal food in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), praised for its rich nutritional value and referred to as the “king of cereal health supplements.” It is commonly used in daily life, often made into a porridge suitable for all ages, and has now become an important ingredient in … Read more
This product is the dried sclerotium of the fungus Poria cocos (Schw.) Wolf, belonging to the family Polyporaceae. It is harvested from July to September. After excavation, the soil and sand are removed, and the sclerotia are piled up to induce sweating, then spread out to dry until the surface is dry, followed by repeated … Read more
Holy Medicine for Sores—Lian Qiao —.Knowledge of Chinese Medicine.— In the Book of Songs, it is written: “A thousand steps of Lian Qiao are not stained by dust, the incense descends lazily painting the spring of the moth’s brow. With a sincere heart, I only wish for the blessing of the immortal, to heal the … Read more
This product is the dried rhizome of the Ranunculaceae plant Huanglian (Coptis chinensis Franch.), Sanjiao Ye Huanglian (Coptis deltoidea C.Y.Cheng et Hsiao), or Yunlian (Coptis teeta Wall.). The three types are commonly referred to as “Weilian,” “Yalian,” and “Yunlian.” Harvested in autumn, the roots are cleaned of fibrous roots and soil, dried, and any remaining … Read more
Introduction to the Species This species is a plant of the Ranunculaceae family, known as Huang Lian Coptis chinensis Franch. 1 Morphological Characteristics Perennial herb. The rhizome is yellow, often branched, densely covered with numerous fibrous roots. The leaves are all basal; petiole length is 5–12 (up to 16) cm; leaf blade is thick and … Read more