CHAPTER 15

PROPERTIES AND CATEGORIZATION OF CHINESE MEDICINALS

中药的性能与分类

Upon completion of this chapter, you are required to:

  1. Master the basic words forming TCM terms associated with this chapter.
  2. Understand new TCM terms formed by these words.
  3. Make new TCM terms using these basic words.
  4. Explain four qi and five flavors.
  5. Discuss the directional action and meridian entry.
  6. Explain clinical indications of some medicinals.

Chinese pharmacy is the branch of TCM dealing with the source, nature, collection, processing, dispensing, actions, effects and uses of Chinese medicines. The use of Chinese medicinals is based on the four qi, five flavors, four directional action, meridian entry

*, and specific functions. Most medicinals need to be processed, and the methods of processing sometimes change the property of the medicinals. A formula usually contains several medicinals which jointly provide therapeutic effects. However, a few medicinals are not compatible as their combination may cause adverse effects.

The following websites may be useful for you to improve your TCM English related to this chapter: