Study On Dosages In Decoctions Of TCM Formulas Through All Ages

Being an important part of the TCM formulas that closely related to their functions, efficacy and safety, the dosages are essential and very important for TCM formulas. However, the research on dosages of formulas of the past is still few, which is out of proportion to its importance.In this article, the dosages in decoctions of TCM formulas from representative formula books of the past are discussed by sorting, summarizing, comparing and analyzing their compositions, daily dosing frequency, sub-dose and daily dose, with an objective, true, reliable measurements conversion method, based on the modern achievements on ancient Chinese measurements made by the experts and scholars in archeology, metrology and traditional Chinese medicine. Then the historical transform and dynamic changes of dosages in the TCM decoctions are clarified and the difference between the modern decoctions and the ancient ones is disclosed. The study is intended to fill the research blankness about dosages in the decoctions of the past, to enrich the theories about dosages of TCM formulas and make the use of ancient formulas more extensive and valuable, so that important clues and information will be provided for the further research about the effect of dosages on the TCM formulating and efficacy of the formulas based on TCM theories, as well as the basis and thinking for the more scientific clinical treatment schemes, to improve the clinical efficacy and safety of the TCM formulas.