Safe use of over-the-counter traditional Chinese medicine

Author: Gao Yimin
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2003-10-01
Features: The remarkable efficacy of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) in combating SARS has once again highlighted the charm of traditional medicine. TCM works by adjusting the body's own disease-fighting capabilities and regulating immune function, ultimately eliminating the virus. However, as the saying goes, "all medicines have side effects." While over-the-counter (OTC) Chinese herbal medicines do not contain toxic ingredients, they can still cause harm if used improperly. This book comprehensively introduces the issues and relevant knowledge that the public is concerned about regarding the safe use of OTC Chinese herbal medicines.
The book first concisely introduces the basic knowledge of OTC medicines, the characteristics of OTC Chinese herbal medicines, the principles of safe and effective use, how to reasonably select OTC Chinese herbal medicines through syndrome differentiation, and precautions. Then, based on the national OTC medicines approved by the State Food and Drug Administration (SFDA) in the first and second batches, it provides a brief overview of common and frequently occurring diseases in various departments such as internal medicine, surgery, gynecology, pediatrics, ophthalmology, otolaryngology, orthopedics, and dermatology. It summarizes the syndrome types, syndrome differentiation, self-medication, and precautions for each disease. Additionally, it lists or names the applicable OTC Chinese herbal medicines for each syndrome type, including the name of the medicine, its composition, functions and indications, specifications, dosage and administration, and remarks, to facilitate readers in identifying diseases and selecting the right medicine.
The book introduces the knowledge of safe OTC Chinese herbal medicines in the form of "precautions" or "remarks" to reduce theness of medication. For common minor illnesses and mild symptoms, patients or family members can refer to the book for syndrome differentiation and carefully read the medication instructions before purchasing the medicine independently. This book is highly suitable for medical staff in grassroots healthcare units, pharmacies, and store assistants to read and reference.