The medical function indicates the channels an herb will enter and the channel distribution reflects the herb’s medical function. This is based on the Theory of: the Theory of Zang-fu organs the Theory of Channels
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Herbs contraindication in pregnancy
Herbs contraindication in pregnancy 1. absolute contraindication 1) herbs with toxicity or drastic action( shui yin, xiong huang, ban mao, ma qian zi, chan chu, chuan wu, cao wu, li lu, gu di, ba dou, gan sui, da ji, yuan hua, qian niu zi, shang lu) 2) herbs that move qi and blood strongly: (such […]
Continue readingBotanical Terms
Achene—a small, dry fruit that contains one loose seed and that does not split open spontaneously Acuminate—tapering gradually to a point at the apex Acute—coming sharply to a point at the apex Alternate—arranged singly at different points along a stem or axis Annual—completing the cycle from seed to death in one year of season Apex—the […]
Continue readingFive Transformations of Taste
The five transformations (elements) system of the ancient Chinese served as an aid for understanding the limitless correspondences that pervade every facet of life. In the six divisions in the six influences we discover simple yet effective patterns that describe the constitution the condition of an individual. Pungent (Including acrid, Spicy, hot, and aromatic flavors) […]
Continue readingTendancy Action Direction
Tendency of action Ascending / lifting — rise Descending / lowering — fall Floating — disperse Sinking — astringe inward and drain urine and stool These actions are: related to the four qi and five tastes: acrid, sweet, warm and hot pertain to ascending and floating sour, bitter, salty, astringent, cold and cool pertain to […]
Continue readingApplication of Herbs
Application of Herbs: seven emotions / aspects 1. Single application ( such as Du Shen Tang) 2. combinations: 1) mutual reinforcement / accentuation long gu / mu li shi gao / zhi mu da huang / mang xiao ru xiang / mo yao e zhu / san leng cang zu / ban xia hong hua […]
Continue readingChinese Herb Prefixes
Pin Yin Preparation Example Xian Fresh, Juicy Xian Lu Gen, Xian Huo Xiang Sheng Raw, Uncooked Sheng Gan Cao, Sheng Di Huang Chao Toasted, Dry Fried Chao Bai Zhu, Chao Mai Ya Zhi Honey Fried Zhi Gan Cao, Zhi Huang Qi Zhi Steamed Zhi Da Huang, Zhi Shou Wu Jiao Charred, Over Cooked Jiao […]
Continue readingMeasurement
Measurement 1 lian= 30 g 1 qian=3 g 1 fen=0.3g Dosage is based on: 1) properties of herbs: quality, texture and toxicity 2) combinations and forms of prescriptions( combination, preparation form, and purpose of using herbs) 3) patients( patient’s condition, constitution and age)
Continue readingpreparation and administration of herbs
preparation and administration of herbs 1. Decoct these herbs first 1) toxic herb fu zi, chuan wu, cao wu —30-60 mins or until tongue is numbless 2) minerals, shells, stones long gu, mu li, daizhe shi, shi gao, shi jue ming, ci shi, zhen zhu, gui ban, biejia, shui niu jiao 3) some tonifying herbs […]
Continue readingHerb Temperatures and Flavors
Four Qi Yin: cool, cold — (such as Huang Qin, Bo He) Yang: warm, hot — ( Fu Zi, Gan Jiang) very hot/cold slightly cold/warm neutral/bland Five tastes: Acrid / pungent Dispersing (Ma Huang, Bo He) Moving ( Mu Xiang, Hong Hua) aromatic: penetrate through turbidity, dissolve dampness, strengthen spleen and open the orifices(Huo Xiang, […]
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