Remedial Measures in This Book

Remedial Measures in This Book

Those who read Zhu Danxi's (1) writings often see that he frequently uses cooling medicines, leading some to abandon warming medicines altogether, which causes considerable harm. However, Zhu Danxi is not to blame, because his works never actually advocate abandoning warming medicines. Similarly, those who read Chen Xiuyuan's (2) writings often find that he frequently uses warming medicines, prompting some to discard cooling medicines, which is even more harmful. Yet Xiuyuan is also not to blame, because his works never actually advocate abandoning cooling medicines. The arguments put forth by these two masters are merely attempts to address temporary biases and express personal views. Unfortunately, many readers fail to grasp the broader context, focusing on what is emphasized while ignoring what is overlooked. Little do they realize that what these two masters overlook is precisely what others have already discussed in detail, so there is no need for me to repeat it. After all, I never claimed to completely reject the use of warming medicines. For instance, in my own writings, I also tend to use cooling medicines more often and warming medicines less often, but this does not mean I have abandoned warming medicines altogether. It simply reflects the fact that cooling medicines are more suitable for treating blood-related conditions, rather than suggesting that warming medicines should never be used at all.

〔Commentary〕This section warns people that whether reading books or practicing clinical medicine, one should never be biased toward one side. Instead, one must distinguish between yin and yang, carefully assess the condition, and tailor prescriptions accordingly to avoid mistakes. It also notes that Zhu Danxi often uses cooling agents, while Chen Xiuyuan often uses warming agents, and the author himself also tends to use cooling medicines in this book. Readers should not mistakenly assume that the medication choices of these masters are limited to these preferences alone. Although each has their own focus, clinical practice requires flexible adaptation and skillful judgment. The author clarifies: "In my own writings, I also tend to use cooling medicines more often and warming medicines less often, but this does not mean I have abandoned warming medicines altogether. It simply reflects the fact that cooling medicines are more suitable for treating blood-related conditions, rather than suggesting that warming medicines should never be used at all."