A Research on the Classification of Herbal Medicines based on the Sasang Constitution (Taeumin and Taeyangin Part)

사상(四象) 체질별(體質別) 약재(藥材) 분류(分類) 관한 연구(硏究)(태음인(太陰人) 및 태양인편(太陽人編)

We analyzed 44 and 16 types of herbal medicines for Taeumin and Taeyangin, 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 'Taeumin' are characterized by opening energetics that reinforce dispersing Qi. The 'Exterior cold disease' is treated with herbs that ventilate the lungs and disperse dampness in three ways: by moistening the lungs, by releasing exterior, and by resolving dampness. The 'Interior heat disease' is treated with herbs that clear the liver and disperse heat in two ways. One by clearing liver heat through dispersing damp-heat of the small intestine and the other by opening orifices. Herbal medicines for Taeyangin are characterized by those that gather energy inward. They include herbs that treat beriberi, dystrophy of the extremities and vomiting, as well as, fish, shellfish, fruits and vegetable.