Library

Zou Yan discussed the heavens, a pursuit my heart desired but my ability could not match; Han Kang sold medicine, a path my person could barely emulate. Since my talent was limited to aiding and saving the world, and my ambition was not willing to sink into obscurity, I was moved by the words of Mr. Wen Zheng (Fan Zhongyan): "A good physician is not easily found." However, each has strengths and weaknesses. Not daring to hide my ignorance, I discuss ancient and modern works together, hoping there may be something worth taking. Rather than boasting of perfection and remaining silent, why not expose oneself to criticism for the sake of acceptance?

The medical books of ancient and modern times are so numerous that they fill warehouses and make oxen sweat with labor, beyond count. From ancient times through Zhou, Qin, Two Hans, Wei, Jin, Six Dynasties, Tang, Song, Yuan, Ming, up to our dynasty, famous sages have emerged generation after generation, establishing their own schools. Their works number in the thousands. Among them, sand mixes with southern gold, and fish eyes pass off as pearls; such cases are not few. Now, having eliminated the superfluous, I have selected several key works. Like the three luminaries shining in the sky or the five flavors benefiting the mouth, these are indeed indispensable. For each work, I briefly outline its main purport, enabling people to know what to select. As for seeking good editions, some wish to read them thoroughly, some to study them carefully, and others to consult them; this depends on the reader's spiritual understanding.

Since ancient times, Shennong authored *Bencao* (Materia Medica), distinguishing the properties of herbs, minerals, insects, fish, birds, and beasts, neutralizing seventy poisons in one day, correlating them with the Five Zang Organs, Six Fu Organs, and Twelve Meridians, clearly detailing treatments for cold, heat, ascending, and descending. He recorded 365 medicinal substances, divided into Upper, Middle, and Lower grades, making it the ancestor of prescription books. The Yellow Emperor composed *Suwen* (Basic Questions), part of *Huangdi Neijing* (Yellow Emperor's Inner Canon), engaging in mutual questioning with Qibo, Leigong, and six other ministers. His words penetrated Heaven, Earth, and Humanity, encompassing all phenomena. Even figures like Zhang Jiebin, Li Dongyuan, Liu Wansu, and Zhu Zhenheng studied and admired it throughout their lives, yet none could exhaust its profundity. The commentary by Wang Bing (Era Initiator) of the Tang Dynasty provided considerable supplementation. *Lingshu Jing* (Spiritual Pivot), twelve volumes, discusses acupuncture and moxibustion, detailing the twists and turns of acupoints and meridians, which physicians cannot avoid; it is collectively titled *Neijing* with *Suwen*. *Nanjing* (Classic of Difficult Issues), two volumes, written by Yue Ren of the Zhou-Qin period, contains eighty-one difficulties. It elucidates the principles of *Neijing*; its language is archaic and obscure, difficult to grasp at first glance. The commentary by Hua Shou (courtesy name Boren) of the Yuan Dynasty is clearer and more fluent than various other annotations. *Jingui Yaolue* (Essential Prescriptions of the Golden Cabinet), written by Zhang Ji (courtesy name Zhongjing) of the Han Dynasty and compiled by Wang Shuhe of the Jin Dynasty, was rarely transmitted in the world. In the Song Dynasty, Wang Zhu began copying it from the Imperial Library, comprising twenty-five chapters and 262 prescriptions, becoming the ancestor for treating miscellaneous diseases. The annotation by Xu Bin (courtesy name Zhongke) of our dynasty is considered uniquely excellent. There is also *Shanghan Lun* (Treatise on Cold Damage), ten volumes, also compiled by Wang Shuhe and annotated by Cheng Wuji of the Jin Dynasty. Later scholars argued that Wang Shuhe had scrambled the original text, leading to various interpretations such as Fang Youzhi's *Front Analysis*, Cheng Jiaoqian's *Back Analysis*, and Yu Jiayan's *Shanglun Pian*. While these offer insights, Cheng Wuji's original annotation remains the most faithful without rigid adherence. In short, those studying *Shanghan Lun* should explore all aspects deeply. *Mingli Lun* (Theory Clarification), fifty articles discussing fifty prescriptions, were all written by Cheng Wuji to elucidate Zhang Zhongjing's intent. *Zhouhou Beifang* (Handbook of Prescriptions Kept in the Sleeve), eight volumes, written by Ge Hong (courtesy name Zhichuan) of the Jin Dynasty, divided into fifty-three categories, contains only prescriptions without discussion. It was revised by Tao Hongjing (courtesy name Zhenbai) of the Liang Dynasty and annotated by Yang Yongdao of the Jin Dynasty. *Jiayi Jing* (Systematic Classic of Acupuncture and Moxibustion), eight volumes, written by Huangfu Mi (courtesy name Shi'an) of the Jin Dynasty, synthesized *Zhenjing*, *Mingtang*, *Kouxue*, and *Zhenjiu Zhiyao*, extracting their essence to detail acupuncture methods most comprehensively. *Maijing* (Pulse Classic), ten volumes, written by Wang Shuhe of the Jin Dynasty, describes Yin-Yang and exterior-interior relationships, distinguishes Three Parts and Nine Pulses, differentiates Renying, Qikou, and Shenmen pulses, and systematically lists the Twelve Meridians, Twenty-Four Qi periods, and Eight Extraordinary Vessels to reflect the status of the Five Zang, Six Fu, Sanjiao, and Four Seasons; it is orderly like a net on a rope. Reading it suffices to know the interior through exterior signs, rescuing the dying and distinguishing life from death. *Chu Shi Yishu* (Remnant Books of the Chu Family), one volume, written by Chu Cheng (courtesy name Yandao) of Southern Qi, comprises ten articles. It elucidates the mysteries of Qi and Blood, Yin and Yang, and its discussion on differential treatment for widows, monks, and nuns was unprecedented. A printed edition appeared only during the Jiatai era of the Song Dynasty. *Chao Shi Bingyuan* (Source of Diseases according to Chao), fifty volumes, compiled under imperial decree by Chao Yuanfang et al. during the Daye era of the Sui Dynasty, covers sixty-seven categories and 1,720 items. However, it only discusses disease origins without recording prescriptions, so later scholars often adopted its theories to form their own books, regarding it as a standard model through the ages. *Qianjin Fang* (Prescriptions Worth a Thousand Gold), thirty volumes, written by Sun Simiao (courtesy name Zhenren) of the Tang Dynasty. Later, because it used many horseflies and leeches, he wrote *Qianjin Yi Fang* (Supplement to Prescriptions Worth a Thousand Gold), substituting other drugs to spare animal lives. Later versions mixed into ninety-three volumes; whether these are the original texts is unclear. *Waitai Miyao* (Secret Essentials from the Outer Platform), forty volumes, written by Wang Tao of the Tang Dynasty, composed when he served as governor of Ye Commandery, hence the name "Outer Platform." It contains 1,104 categories. All follow the ancient method of discussing theory before prescribing. Many specialized teachings of ancient sages are included. However, acupuncture was deemed harmful rather than beneficial and was omitted. Similarly, *Puji Benshi Fang* (Effective Prescriptions for Universal Relief), ten volumes, written by Xu Shuwei of the Song Dynasty, consists of empirical prescriptions and medical cases, hence the name "Benshi" (Actual Matters). Its language is concise and elegant, misunderstood by quacks, thus rarely transmitted, yet containing profound discussions. *Suwen Yuanbingshi* (Original Formulas of Disease Mechanisms in Suwen), one volume, written by Liu Wansu (courtesy name Shouzhen) of the Jin Dynasty, expands the Nineteen Pathogenic Factors listed in *Suwen: Zhi Zhen Yao Da Lun* into 277 characters. It establishes the book's framework and analyzes each point, primarily focusing on Fire. He also wrote *Xuanming Fanglun* (Discussion on Prescriptions of Xuanming), fifteen volumes, based on *Suwen* and *Jingui Yaolue*, but predominantly using cold and cool medicines, adapting to climatic conditions. Adhering rigidly to this is wrong, as is discarding it entirely. *Bingji Qi Yi Baoming Ji* (Collection on Disease Mechanisms, Qi Appropriateness, and Life Preservation), three volumes, written by Zhang Yuansu (courtesy name Jiegu) of the Jin Dynasty, divided into thirty categories, clarifying pulse and symptomatology significantly. Li Lian's *Yishi* states: Liu Wansu suffered from cold damage and could not cure himself until treated by Zhang Yuansu, indicating his skill matched Liu's. *Rumen Shinqin* (Confucian Methods for Serving Parents), fifteen volumes, written by Zhang Congzheng (courtesy name Zihe) of the Jin Dynasty. The title implies that Confucians understand principles and should know medicine to serve parents. His method uses sweating, vomiting, and purging for various symptoms, suitable only for exogenous pathogens caused by the Six Evils, not as a constant rule. When applied appropriately, effects are swift, depending on syndrome differentiation. *Neiwai Shang Bianhuo Lun* (Distinguishing Internal Injury from External Contraction), three volumes, written by Li Gao (courtesy name Dongyuan) of the Jin Dynasty. It elucidates internal injury syndromes resembling external contraction, primarily emphasizing tonifying the Spleen and Stomach. He also wrote *Lanshi Micang* (Secrets Hidden in the Orchid Chamber), six volumes, with twenty-one categories, emphasizing the Spleen and Stomach and warning against harsh cold medicines, implicitly correcting the excesses of Liu Wansu and Zhang Congzheng. Additionally, *Piwei Lun* (Treatise on the Spleen and Stomach), twelve volumes, explains tonifying Spleen Earth and raising Yang to benefit the Stomach, complementing *Bianhuo Lun*. *Yilei Yuanrong* (Original Fortress of Medical Barracks), twelve volumes, written by Wang Haogu of the Yuan Dynasty. Using the Twelve Meridians as the framework, it begins with cold damage and miscellaneous diseases, largely following Zhang Zhongjing's ideas while incorporating methods from his teachers Zhang Yuansu and Li Gao, differing slightly from Zhu Zhenheng's approach. He also wrote *Cishi Nan Zhi* (Difficulties in This Matter), two volumes, elaborating on Li Gao's theories, particularly regarding delayed medical consultation for cold damage. Li Gao's *Shanghan Huiyao* was lost long ago, preserved only in this work's outline. *Gezhi Yulun* (Remaining Thoughts on Investigating Things), one volume, written by Zhu Zhenheng (courtesy name Danxi) of the Yuan Dynasty. His theory posits that human Yang is often in excess and Yin often deficient, thus advocating Yin tonification. He also wrote *Jufang Fahui* (Exposition on the Bureau Formulas), criticizing the *Heji Jufang* for using warm, tonic, and drying-hot drugs that deplete True Yin. This started sectarian conflicts among later generations. He also wrote *Jingui Gouyuan* (Hooking the Origin from the Golden Cabinet), three volumes, focusing on Yin tonification and introducing the concept of Depression (Yu) in disease, opening infinite insights for later generations. *Tuiqiu Shiyi* (Pushing to Understand the Teacher's Intent), two volumes, written by Dai Yuanli of the Ming Dynasty. As a disciple of Zhu Zhenheng, Dai corrected and supplemented *Jingui Gouyuan* and elaborated on its unfinished meanings. Zhu used Huangbo and Zhimu for Yin tonification, sometimes too bitter-cold, damaging vital Qi; Dai adjusted this bias, demonstrating excellent learning. *Xue Shi Yi An* (Medical Cases of the Xue Family), seventy-eight volumes, written by Xue Ji (courtesy name Lizhai) of the Ming Dynasty. It compiles his lifetime works. He authored nine books and annotated fifteen old texts with his comments. His main idea identifies the Mingmen (Gate of Life) as True Yang and True Yin, with Qi and Blood derived from Yin-Yang. He commonly used over ten formulas, varying them flexibly. Later, Zhao Xianke wrote *Yiguan* (Canon of Medicine) based on Xue Ji's ideas but held them too rigidly, contrary to Xue Ji's original intent. *Mingyi Leian* (Classified Cases of Famous Physicians), twelve volumes, written by Jiang Guan of the Ming Dynasty, supplemented by his son Jiang Yingsu, covering 205 categories. It collects cases from Qin Yue Ren and Chunyu Yi down to Yuan and Ming physicians, offering much dialectical analysis, not merely collecting rich materials. *Chuishui Xuanzhu* (Dark Pearl of Chishui), thirty volumes, written by Sun Yikui of the Ming Dynasty, divided into seventy categories, analyzing each in detail. Its main focus is clarifying syndromes, discussing Cold, Heat, Deficiency, Excess, Exterior, Interior, Qi, and Blood in great detail. Its analysis of historical and contemporary disease names and realities is particularly meticulous. Its medical cases also elucidate disease origins and are worth adopting. He also wrote *Yizhi Xuyu* (Remaining Threads of Medical Intent), two volumes, deducing the principles of Yin-Yang and Five Elements from Zang-Fu, Qi-Blood, meridians, and acupoints, and commenting on the strengths and weaknesses of various schools. *Zhengzhi Zhunsheng* (Standard Mirror for Diagnosis and Treatment), one hundred and twenty volumes, written by Wang Kentang of the Ming Dynasty. It includes five parts: Miscellaneous Diseases, Cold Damage, Surgery, Pediatrics, and Gynecology, with attached formula categories. Its extensive collection and clear organization make it unsurpassed in comprehensiveness for studying formulas and theories. *Bencao Gangmu* (Compendium of Materia Medica), fifty-two volumes, written by Li Shizhen (courtesy name Binhu) of the Ming Dynasty. It collated various materia medica, removing duplicates, filling gaps, and correcting errors. It classifies 1,892 substances into sixteen sections and sixty-two classes, with three volumes of illustrations and two on treating hundred diseases. Its rigorous考证 matches *Zhengzhi Zhunsheng* as an ocean of medical knowledge. He also wrote *Qijing Bamai Kao* (Study of the Eight Extraordinary Vessels), one volume. While the Twelve Regular Meridians are well-known, the Eight Extraordinary Vessels (Yang Wei, Yin Wei, Yang Qiao, Yin Qiao, Chong, Ren, Du, Dai) are often overlooked. He detailed their syndromes and treatments, attaching diagrams of the Qikou Nine Pulses, elucidating *Neijing* principles. *Guang Biji* (Extended Notes), four volumes, written by Miao Xiyong (courtesy name Zhongchun) of the Ming Dynasty. His main school follows Liu Wansu and Zhu Zhenheng, distinct from his contemporary Zhang Jiebin. Miao was agile but sometimes errant due to cleverness; Zhang was steady but sometimes slow. Both had merits and faults. He also wrote *Bencao Jingshu* (Elucidation of the Classic of Materia Medica), thirty volumes, divided into ten parts, with innovations for each drug. Wang Mao's *Shigao Bian* criticized Miao, but this represents a unique school of thought. *Leijing* (Classified Inner Canon), thirty volumes, written by Zhang Jiebin (courtesy name Jingyue) of the Ming Dynasty. He analyzed *Suwen* and *Lingshu* into 390 items, divided into twelve categories and seventeen volumes, adding *Tuyi* (Illustrations Wing) eleven volumes and *Fuyi* (Appendix Wing) four volumes. His annotations are thorough. Although he dissected ancient texts, the clear categories make it easy to search, serving as a practical raft for students. Li Gao and Luo Congqian had similar works, so Zhang did not start this trend. He also wrote *Jingquan Quanshu* (Complete Works of Jingyue), sixty-four volumes. His main theme is warm tonification, but his rigidity led to mixed reviews among his followers. *Wenyi Lun* (Treatise on Pestilential Qi), three volumes, with *Buyi* (Supplement) one volume, written by Wu Youxing (courtesy name Youke) of the Ming Dynasty. He argued that cold damage spreads from exterior to interior, while pestilential qi enters via nose and mouth, hiding in the Mouyuan (Membrane Source) between exterior and interior, requiring different treatments. He wrote this to distinguish them. During the Xin Si year of Chongzhen, pestilence spread across provinces, and treating it as cold damage caused many deaths, prompting him to investigate the source. *Nuè Lun Shu* (Commentary on Malaria), one volume, written by Lu Zhiyi of the Ming Dynasty. His discussion on diagnosis, treatment, and medication differentiating Cold, Heat, Deficiency, and Excess is very detailed. *Yimen Falü* (Laws and Rules of the Medical Gate), six volumes, written by Yu Chang (courtesy name Jiayan) of our dynasty. Aimed at criticizing mediocre physicians, each section starts with a treatise, followed by laws and rules. Laws are treatment examples; rules correct medical errors. His medical cases are recorded in *Yuyi Cao* (Grass of Meaningful Intent). He clearly diagnoses syndromes, unlike other case records that only claim cures without explaining reasons. His discussion on Autumn Dryness surpasses ancient and modern views. *Shanghan Shejian* (Tongue Diagnosis for Cold Damage), one volume, written by Zhang Deng of our dynasty. He uses tongue coating to differentiate cold damage causes, creating 120 diagrams based on personal experience, which are clear and easy to see. Other notable works include Zhang Zhuo's *Shanghan Jianzheng Xiyi* (Analysis of Meanings of Complicated Syndromes in Cold Damage), one volume; Wang Zijie (courtesy name Jinshan)'s *Gufang Xuanzhu* (Selected Annotations of Ancient Formulas), three volumes, and *Deyi Bencao* (Appropriate Materia Medica), one volume; Wei Zhixiu's *Xu Mingyi Leian* (Continued Classified Cases of Famous Physicians), sixty volumes; and Xu Dachun (courtesy name Huixi)'s *Bencao Baizhong Lu* (Record of Hundred Kinds of Materia Medica), one volume, *Lantai Guifan* (Norms of the Imperial Academy), eight volumes, *Shanghan Leifang* (Category-Based Formulas for Cold Damage), one volume, and *Yixue Yuanliu Lun* (Discussion on Sources and Streams of Medicine), two volumes. These are outstanding works that practitioners should definitely read.