Formulas of TCM Introduction

Introduction

Formula is a combination of herbs but not a random collection of herbs whatever. It is composed of corresponding herbs with suitable dosage on bases of definite diagnosis and therapy by means of syndrome differentiation and according to the principle of herb cooperation and proper preparation form.

Formula is developed from the application of single herb. The combination of more than two kinds of herbs forms a compound formula. From herb to formula is a process of change from quantity to quality. Single herb possesses its individual specialty, which has simple effect, limited application scope and is easy to produce toxic and side effects. However, formula has cooperative effects of herbs, on the basis of the interaction of herbs, it increases the curative effects through additive and synergetic effects, and decreases the toxic and side effects through mutual restraint and antagonism. By means of adjustment of dosage of different herbs, formula is more suitable to complicate diseases.

The study of the formulas is important to the system of theory, therapeutics in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). It is such a subject to expound the law of herb cooperation in formulae through the study of the composition, modification, and clinical application of the past and current formulae.

The course of formulas is one of basic subjects of TCM as well as a bridge between basic theories and clinical application. It is guided by the basic theories of TCM and based on the knowledge of Chinese herbology. Therefore, only is it possible to learn the course of formulas well on the bases of TCM's basic theories and the knowledge of Chinese herbology. On the other hand, because a formula is one of the main methods to treat diseases in various clinical departments, it is the essential foundation for learning different clinical subject to master the basic theories of the formulas and grasp the law of herb cooperation and clinical application of formulae.

The development of formulas has a long history. The whole development process reflects two historical phases, i.e. from herbs to formulas and from formulas to therapy.

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