Pharmacopoeia is one of the five fundamental pillars of traditional Chinese medicine (MTC). Used for over 3000 years, there are no less than a few thousand ingredients that make it up, 400 of which are commonly used! It is a living science that adapts to our evolution and our ills. 🌱
Unlike the concept of active ingredients acclaimed in Western medicine, Chinese pharmacopoeia is based on synergy between different plants to access higher combined effects and thus minimize the side effects that the taking of a single plant could cause.
Like the other MTC disciplines, the pharmacopoeia aims to find the balance and harmony between yin and yang. ☯️
Certain plants or preparations can be found in trade for self -medication, but in most cases, a herbalist or a practitioner in Chinese medicine will prescribe the most suitable. The pharmacopoeia always favors non -toxic plants aimed at supporting the body's self -healing capacity. 💚
In accordance with the observation of nature, the Chinese have established correlations between the characteristics of the plants and the parts used, the bodies affected and the season. There are five main characteristics:
- The colour 🌈 (green, red, yellow ...)
- The flavor 🧂 (bitter, salty, sweet, sweet ..)
- Nature 🌡️ (hot, cold, neutral, wet)
- The configuration 💧(texture, humidity content, shape)
- Properties 🌱 (Dispel, consolidate, purge, tone.)
For example in spring, season associated with liver and green color, green leaves will be used to treat liver disorders. 💚
Although some names in the Chinese pharmacopoeia are familiar to us, many have no French translation because they simply do not exist in the European pharmacopoeia!
Do not hesitate to get closer to a practitioner who will guide you to the most suitable plant combination for you. 🌿
