Ben Cao Gang Mu, Volume I, Part A: Introduction, History, Pharmacology, Diseases and Suitable Pharmaceutical Drugs I

The first part of the Ben Cao Gang Mu, a 16th-century Chinese encyclopedia on medicine and natural history, is translated into English. It discusses the history of materia medica and pharmaceutical drugs for diseases, and is considered the most important and comprehensive book ever written on Chinese medicine.

Format: Hardback
Length: 814 pages
Publication date: 09 January 2024
Publisher: University of California Press

The Ben Cao Gang Mu, a renowned Chinese encyclopedia from the sixteenth century, is authored by Li Shizhen (1518-1593). This monumental work, spanning a sixteen-hundred-year legacy of Chinese medical and pharmaceutical literature, holds the esteemed title of being the most significant and comprehensive book ever produced in the annals of Chinese medicine. It continues to be a priceless resource for scholars and practitioners alike, offering a wealth of insights and knowledge. This nine-volume series presents a captivating panorama that spans nearly two millennia, encompassing a vast array of observations, sophisticated interpretations, ingenious manipulations, and practical applications of natural substances aimed at enhancing human health.

Volume I of the Ben Cao Gang Mu is structured into two parts. Part A encompasses chapters 1 and 2, along with portions of chapter 3, from the series. Chapters 1 and 2 primarily focus on introducing the historical background of materia medica, delving into its origins, development, and significance. Chapter 3, on the other hand, is dedicated to exploring pharmaceutical drugs and their applications for various diseases.

Part B of Volume I continues the narrative, encompassing chapters 3 and 4, along with additional content. This section further explores the realm of pharmaceutical drugs, providing detailed descriptions and explanations of their properties, preparations, and therapeutic uses. It sheds light on the diverse range of medicinal substances employed in Chinese medicine, including herbs, minerals, and animal parts, and their role in addressing various health conditions.

The Ben Cao Gang Mu, through its comprehensive translation by Paul U. Unschuld, presents a rare opportunity to delve into the culture and people of China's past. The annotated translation allows readers to appreciate the original Chinese text alongside a meticulous and insightful commentary, providing valuable insights into the historical context, cultural influences, and medical practices of the time.

In conclusion, the Ben Cao Gang Mu is a cornerstone of Chinese medical and pharmaceutical literature, offering a profound understanding of the historical development and practical applications of natural substances for human health. Volume I, with its two parts and comprehensive translation, provides a valuable resource for scholars, researchers, and practitioners interested in exploring the rich tapestry of Chinese medicine and its profound impact on global healthcare.

Weight: 1170g
Dimension: 160 x 236 x 45 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780520395152