Shen Nong Ben Cao Jing (The Divine Farmer's Materia Medica)
Shen Nong Ben Cao Jing (The Divine Farmer's Materia Medica), often abbreviated as Ben Jing, is the oldest and most systematically complete pharmacological classic extant in China. Compiled around the Eastern Han Dynasty, it is attributed to the legendary cultural hero Shen Nong (the Divine Farmer), a mythical figure associated with the origins of agriculture and medicine. As the seminal text of Chinese herbal medicine, it systematically summarizes pharmaceutical knowledge prior to the Han Dynasty, establishing the fundamental theoretical framework of the field. It exerted a decisive influence on the development of all subsequent Bencao (materia medica) studies and has been revered by generations of physicians as the authoritative classic of pharmacology.
Structure & Herb Classification
The text records a total of 365 medicinal substances, corresponding to the number of days in a year—a reflection of the philosophical concept of "correspondence between humanity and nature." Its classification system was groundbreaking:
Superior Grade (120 substances): These "nourish life in accordance with Heaven." They are generally non-toxic, tonic substances suitable for long-term consumption to promote health and longevity (e.g., Ginseng, Goji Berry, Reishi Mushroom).
Medium Grade (120 substances): These "nourish nature in accordance with Humanity." They possess both tonic and therapeutic properties, may have mild toxicity, and require careful consideration in use (e.g., Chinese Angelica, Ephedra, Peony).
Inferior Grade (125 substances): These "treat illness in accordance with Earth." They are often toxic or potent substances with strong disease-targeting effects and are not for prolonged use (e.g., Aconite, Rhubarb, Croton Seed).
Core Theoretical Contributions
Establishing Herb Property Theory: It was the first text to systematically propose the concepts of "Four Qi" (寒, 热, 温, 凉—cold, hot, warm, cool) and "Five Flavors" (酸, 苦, 甘, 辛, 咸—sour, bitter, sweet, acrid, salty), defining the essential nature of a substance's action.
Defining Combination Principles: It introduced the theory of the "Seven Interactions" (single effect, mutual enhancement, mutual assistance, mutual restraint, mutual suppression, mutual antagonism, mutual incompatibility), laying the cornerstone for herbal formula composition.
Documenting Functions & Indications: For each substance, it clearly records its habitat, properties & flavors, therapeutic effects, primary indications, and alternative names. The efficacy of most herbs listed has been validated through millennia of clinical practice and remains relevant today.
Embodying Preventive Philosophy: Descriptions of superior-grade herbs promoting "lightness of body, boosting qi, preventing aging, and extending life" reflect early Chinese medicine's emphasis on preventive health and "treating disease before it arises."
Historical Impact & Modern Relevance
Shen Nong Ben Cao Jing served as the foundational source for all later officially compiled pharmacopoeias (e.g., Tang Materia Medica, Compendium of Materia Medica). Its theories remain central to guiding clinical herbal practice. Modern research and development in Chinese herbalism often return to this text to trace origins and validate traditional knowledge. The documented effects of many herbs, such as Coptis (黄连), Astragalus (黄芪), and Licorice (甘草), have been partially confirmed by contemporary pharmacological studies. More than a medical text, it is a cultural treasure embodying the ancient Chinese worldview, perspective on life, and philosophical wisdom.
1.Is it an official original copy?
This is a compiled digital version of electronic materials, not a traditional physical book.
2.Publisher / ISBN?
This product is compiled electronic content and does not correspond to a single printed ISBN.
3.Is the content complete?
It is a fully compiled version, including core theories and routine explanations (no omissions).
4.Original language or translated?
The original version is in Chinese. You may order your preferred language version; we will include both the original Chinese version and your chosen language version as a bonus.
5.Is it authorized?
Based on traditional Chinese original documents: publicly circulated (no authorization required).
6.Who is it suitable for?
Beginners: suitable for getting started
Those with foundation: can deepen understanding
7.Brand new or second-hand?
E-book (not second-hand, no condition issues).
8.What format is it?
PDF electronic document.
9.Is it high-definition?
High-definition layout, suitable for reading on mobile phones and computers.
10.How many pages?
The complete collection has a total of 312 pages.
11.Why this price?
The content has been organized and summarized (saving a lot of screening time), allowing you to obtain the complete system in one purchase.
12.Are there any discounts?
Yes.
13.Are there any hidden fees?
No extra charges. One-time purchase, lifetime access.
14.How is it delivered?
How long does it take?Automatic delivery / instant download.
15.Is refund supported?
Refund available if not downloaded; not supported if already downloaded.
16.How to ensure the file is intact?
The file has been tested and is identical to the original. Unlimited re-deliveries are supported after one purchase.
17. How can I check if it is the version I want to buy?
You can refer to the product images, which provide previews of the original content. If the previews in the product images do not meet your requirements, you may contact customer service for a more comprehensive sample preview.
18. If I purchase a non-Chinese version, is the entire book translated into my desired language, or only part of it?
Our multilingual versions are full translations of the Chinese original, including translations of relevant image captions. All translated versions are localized naturally in accordance with the language customs of each country.
19. Do these e-books have copyright? Will there be any copyright disputes?
All books we offer are traditional Chinese classics with a history of hundreds or even thousands of years, so there are no copyright disputes whatsoever.
20. Why are your prices so low?
This is because we provide e-books in downloadable PDF format, which greatly reduces various costs, allowing us to offer them at such affordable prices.
