A Research on the Classification of Herbal Medicines Based on the Sasang Constitution (Soyangin Part)

사상(四象) 체질별(體質別) 약재(藥材) 분류(分類)에 관한 연구(硏究) (소양인편(少陽人編))

We analyzed 45 types of herbal medicines for Soyangin, clinically applied in Dongyisoosebowon. In order to discover the standard of herbal classification for the Sasang constitutions, four concepts of Sasang Medicine were applied. These included 'Sadangron(theory of four groups)', 'Seungganggaehap(ascending-descending and gathering-dispersing)', 'Pyorihanyoul(exterior-interior and hot-cold)', and 'Hyungchiaekmi(fragrance, smell, bodily fluid and taste)'. According to these analyzing methods of herbal properties, we have reached the following conclusions: Herbal medicines for 'Soyangin' are characterized by descending energetics that reinforce the Yin Qi. The 'Exterior cold disease' is treated with herbs that descend the "Exterior Yin" in five ways: by releasing exterior, by resolving dampness, by clearing and transforming heat phlegm, by clearing heat, and by settling and calming the spirit. The 'Interior heat disease' is treated with herbs that raise the "Interior Yang" in three ways: by tonifying kidney Yin, by clearing heat, and by clearing heat and purging.