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Ancient prescriptions utilized units such as zi (a small weight unit), zhu (a minute weight unit), fen, and liang for dosage, which differ from modern standards. The term "one sheng" (volume unit) referred to a large white porcelain cup. Six zhu constitute one fen, equivalent to approximately 2.5 qian in modern measurement. Twenty-four zhu make up one liang. "Three liang" in ancient texts corresponds to two liang today. "One liang" corresponds to 6.5 qian today.

When powdered medicines are measured by "dao gui," it refers to one-tenth the volume of a "fang cun bi" (a square-inch measuring spoon), roughly the size of a sophora seed (Wutongzi). A "fang cun bi" is a square-inch spoon where the powder is scooped without spilling. Using the five characters on the edge of a "five zhu coin" to scoop powder is called "qian wu bi." One "cuo" (pinch) equals four "dao gui." Ten "cuo" equal one "shao" (spoonful).

For pills described as the size of "xi ma" (sesame seeds), this refers to sesame seeds. Sizes like millet or broomcorn millet follow similar proportional logic: sixteen millet grains equal one soybean. Three sesame seeds equal one hemp seed. "Hu dou" (broad beans) refer to green speckled beans; two hemp seeds approximate their size. "Xiao dou" refers to adzuki beans. "Da dou" (soybeans) are approximated by two adzuki beans. "Wutongzi" (sophora seeds) are approximated by two soybeans.

When decocting herbal soups, use low heat to maintain a gentle boil. Water quantity depends on the prescription. Generally, twenty liang of herbs require one dou of water, boiled down to four sheng of liquid. However, laxative decoctions should be lightly cooked with less water to yield more juice; tonic decoctions should be thoroughly cooked with more water to yield less concentrated juice.

If Muxiao (Natrii Sulfas), Yitang (Maltose), or Ejiao (Donkey-hide Gelatin) are required, they must be added only after the decoction is finished and strained clear. Reheat briefly for two or three boils until fully dissolved before consumption.

If wine, vinegar, tong bian (child's urine), zhuli (bamboo sap), or jiangzhi (ginger juice) are added, do so after the decoction is finished and strained into a cup, then mix and consume immediately.

For aromatic drugs such as Chenxiang (Aquilaria Wood), Muxiang (Aucklandia Root), Ruxiang (Frankincense), and Moyao (Myrrh), grind them into fine powder. After the decoction is ready, pour a small amount of the liquid into a cup to dissolve the powder, consume that portion first, then drink the rest of the decoction.

Herbs for pills and powders should first be sliced thin and dried. Then weigh according to the prescription, mix evenly, and grind into fine powder. For moist herbs like Tianmendong (Asparagus Root) and Dihuang (Rehmannia Root), slightly increase the weight during winter and spring to account for moisture loss, crush into paste, and mix in. This applies similarly to summer and autumn. Other herbs should be dried and ground.

Sift pill powders using heavy, fine silk gauze. For herb powders, use light, coarse silk gauze. If certain ingredients were ground separately, even if sifted fine, re-sift after mixing with other powders to ensure uniform color and texture.

For honey-pilled formulations, use twelve liang of honey per jin (16 taels) of herb powder. Refine over low heat, skim off foam, until the color turns dark yellow and drops form beads when tested in water. Add four liang of clear water and mix well. Pills made this way can be dried and stored long-term without spoiling.

Mix herb powder and honey thoroughly by pounding hundreds or thousands of times in a stone mortar by strong hands to achieve a soft, pliable consistency suitable for rolling. Otherwise, pills may be loose or sticky. Apply this method to all paste-based preparations.

For constipation-relieving pills containing Badou (Croton Seed) or combined with Xiaomangxiao (Mirabilite) and Dahuang (Rhubarb Root), coat them with melted Chuanla (Beeswax). This prevents dissolution in the stomach, allowing delivery to the lower jiao while protecting the spleen and stomach. Patients with robust constitution need not strictly adhere to this.

Pills coated with Zhusha (Cinnabar) powder or Jin/Yinbo (Gold/Silver Leaf) must be applied while the pills are still wet.