Zhongguo Zhong Yao Za Zhi. 2025 Oct;50(19):5584-5604. doi: 10.19540/j.cnki.cjcmm.20250516.101.
ABSTRACT
This study was based on the photoreprint of the Ming dynasty’s officially revised Essentials of Materia Medica Distinctions(hereinafter referred to as the Roman version) held in the National Central Library of Rome, Italy. It examined the number of traditional Chinese medicines(TCMs) recorded, TCM adjustment status, the origins of newly added TCMs, and the characteristics of some TCM illustrations in this version. The study aimed to provide reference for the subsequent research and utilization of Essentials of Materia Medica Distinctions. The study employed methods of literature statistics, induction, and herbal textual research to investigate the number of TCMs recorded in the book, the adjustments, the origins of newly added TCMs, and the origins of some TCMs in the illustrations. The Roman version actually recorded 1 808 TCMs. Compared with The Revised Zhenghe Classified Materia Medica from Historical Classics for Emergency, it included 38 newly added TCMs marked as "newly supplemented TCMs", 23 TCMs marked as "newly separated entries" which were split from existing entries, 31 TCMs that were adjusted, and 422 TCMs with newly added illustrations. The origins of the 38 newly supplemented TCMs and 23 newly separated entries were identified. The rationality of TCM separation and movement was evaluated, and the characteristics of the TCM illustrations in Essentials of Materia Medica Distinctions were summarized. By sorting out the number of TCMs, analyzing the adjustments, examining the newly supplemented TCMs and their origins, and investigating the characteristics of TCM illustrations, this study provides reference for the compilation, structure, versions, TCM collection, reading, and utilization of Essentials of Materia Medica Distinctions.
PMID:41508249 | DOI:10.19540/j.cnki.cjcmm.20250516.101
