Discussion and consideration on special decoction method for Chinese materia medica (I): Decoction first / 中草药

ABSTRACT

"Decoction first" is one of the characteristics of the special decoction of Chinese materia medica (CMM). However, some people have misunderstanding or lack of basic knowledge about the CMM for decoction first leading to the poor cruative effect or even toxic effects because of improper decoction. This study attempts to analyze the causes of CMM for decocting first from the perspective of reducing toxicity and increasing efficacy, discuss its matters needing attention from the point of view of the effect of decoction time and crushing degree on the decoction first based on ancient and modern literature, and put forward exploratory thinking on methods for decocting first in order to provide scientific evidence for promoting clinical rational decoction for CMM.