Formulary Rhymes: A New Compilation

Author: Cao Shibiao, edited by Cao Sihao
Publisher:
Publishing Date: 2004-08-01
Features: Formulariology is an important component of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and a compulsory course for those learning TCM. Since the Neijing (Yellow Emperor's Inner Canon), effective formulas have been passed down through generations, with new and proven formulas continuously being researched and created, presenting a vibrant scene of vitality. To skillfully apply formulas in clinical practice, one must first be thoroughly familiar with established formulas before adapting them to specific conditions. However, since there are numerous formulas, rote memorization is indeed challenging. Therefore, the medical field often compiles formulas into rhyming couplets to facilitate memorization. Yet, rhyming couplets vary in quality—the superior ones are expressive, coherent, and easy to read and remember, while the inferior ones are verbose, lacking clarity, and difficult to recite or retain.
Moved by this, the compilers collected various versions of formulas, carefully comparing and selecting them. For the excellent rhyming couplets in the original texts, they were directly quoted. For those that were not perfect, they were revised and refined. For those without rhyming couplets, they attempted to create them. The result is this book, titled New Compendium of Formulas in Rhyming Couplets. Each verse in the book summarizes the herbs while also striving to clarify the main indications and functions, aiding comprehension. The formula names are prominently listed at the beginning of each verse, and the rhyme scheme adheres to the rules of tonal patterns to facilitate recitation and memorization.