ABSTRACT
Objective: Patients and doctors often have questions about the equivalence of traditional and machinery decoctions. In this article, using Da-cheng-qi Decoction (DCQD) as a model of formula, traditional decoction (TD), machinery decoction under high pressure (MDHP), and machinery decoction under normal pressure (MDNP) were compared. Methods: For chemical components, HPLC fingerprints were established and evaluated using AHP combined with CRITIC weighing method; For animals' effects, the experiments of small intestinal propulsion were conducted; For clinical effects, a randomized clinical trial (RCT) was designed and performed. Results: Although there were some differences between TD and MDNP in chemical ingredients, there was no significant difference in animal experiments and clinical trials (P > 0.05). Conclusion: The traditional and machinery decoctions of DCQD could be used bioequivalently.