categories of chinese herbal medicine

traditional chinese herbal medicine classifies herbs and prescriptions into distinct therapeutic categories based on their primary actions within the body. these classical categories — such as release the exterior, clear heat, drain dampness or expel parasites — provide a systematic framework for understanding how herbal treatments address disharmony patterns rather than isolated symptoms. each category reflects a specific therapeutic strategy rooted in centuries of clinical observation. exploring these categories offers a clear overview of the logic and structure behind chinese herbal prescriptions. they also serve as a practical guide for navigating prescriptions according to their functional roles in treatment.

select a category below to explore the prescriptions traditionally associated with each therapeutic approach.