• The Journal of Korean Medical History
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• v.25 no.1
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• pp.43-51
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• 2012

Smallpox and measles might be the typical epidemics through Choson Danasty. Especially Sookjong was the first king who suffered from smallpox during the period of his reign. This study was examined critically focused on the Clinical Records about Smallpox which occurred in the 9th year of Sookjong's reign. The clinical records in Seungjeongwon Ilgi("承政院日記") was the main source and the Annals of the Joseon Dynasty was reffered. It tells us that Sookjong caught infectious disease, smallpox spread in town and the whole process of smallpox. Seungmagalgeuntang(升麻葛根湯) and hwadoktang(火毒湯) were given at the early term for treating Sookjong's smallpox, but later on, Bowontang(補元湯) was given for the treatment of smallpox. It showed us the medical view which placed emphasis on the vital force of human body. A dermatologist, Yoo Sang had joined since the beginning of the treatment and Siyakchung(侍藥廳) was established for Sookjong. Sasunghoichuntang(四聖回天湯) which was Chunyoohyung(全有亨)'s prescription showed us enough clinical experience and the ways of treatments. At the same time, the medical culture at that time was well known through the fact that smallpox was taboo among the royal family.