A Preliminary Study on Chinese Alchemy

Author: Rong Zhiyi (Editor)
Publisher:
Publish Date: 1998-05-01
Features: The origins of Chinese alchemy can be traced back to the Warring States period. Subsequently, with the emergence of Taoism, alchemy experienced rapid development. From its inception, alchemy was intertwined with the idea of immortality and achieving divinity through ingestion, motivating immortal cultivators and Taoist priests to seek various alchemical methods. However, these alchemical practices also contributed to the advancement of ancient Chinese natural philosophy and scientific thought, positively influencing numerous fields such as mineralogy, metallurgy, chemistry, medicine, and pharmacology. This book provides a systematic exposition of the origins, development, and evolution of alchemy, enabling readers to gain a clear understanding of this cultural phenomenon.