Classical Prescriptions

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Classical Prescriptions
Classical prescriptions are those that have been proven by doc-
tors down through the ages to have remarkable curative effects.
Now more than 100,000 prescriptions fall into this category.
In traditional Chinese medicine there are eight principals used to guide diagnosis, namely yin and yang , exterior and interior, cold and heat, and deficient and excessive symptoms.
Classical prescriptions are an important part of traditional
Chinese medicine. Their origin dates back to the time of legendary Chinese ruler Shennong over 5,000 years ago, and they were first recorded in the Shennong’s Herbal Classic , Canonical Methods for Brews and Decoctions , and Treatise on Febrile and Miscellaneous Diseases.
The Principle of Compatibility of ingredients in Classical Prescriptions
The principle of compatibility is described as the relationship between “monarch, minister, assistant and guide,” signifying dif-ferent roles played by different ingredients of a prescription in their actions. Rational combination of ingredients makes the prescription more effective.
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In the 2002-3 outbreak, Classical prescriptions were used to successfully fight against SARS in thousands of cases. The World Health Organization confirmed that traditional Chinese medicine
prescriptions have good results alleviating the symptoms of SARS
and reducing side effects caused by the use of hormones.
This prescription, invented by Han Dynasty doctor Zhang Zhongjing (circa 150-219), consists of cinnamon twig, peony,
licorice root, date and ginger. It is used to treat headache and fever caused by the common cold.
Made from powders of peony, balloonflower root, and unripe bitter orange, this prescription is used to treat bronchial asthma, cough and phlegm retention.
This prescription, consisting of pinellia tuber, scutellaria root, dried ginger, ginseng and licorice root, is from the Han Dynasty Treatise on Febrile Diseases . It is effective in treating gastritis, and is used by heavy drinkers to prevent stomach problems.。