Sample Exhibitions of the National Palace Museum (III)

As introduced by the National Palace Museum

Ancient Medical Books

Disease has been a constant threat to people all over the world. In prehistoric times, praying and witchcraft were practiced on the ailing and infirm, but gradually these methods were replaced by the use of various forms of drugs.

By the Warring States period (480-221 BC), there already existed more than fifty prescriptions and over two hundred varieties of medicinal drugs in forms such as pellet, powder, ointment and brew. In the twelfth century, people began to record, compile and publish traditional medical practices including diagnosis, treatment and knowledge of the use of each drug. Since then a formidable body of medical literature has been collected.

For the visitors' interest, a selection of representative documents on traditional Chinese medical practices have been put on display in this exhibit.