Zhonghua Yi Shi Za Zhi. 1999 Apr; 29(2): 85-7.

Ben cao tu jing (Illustrated Canon of Herbology) and the origin of modern identification of Chinese materia medica.

Jiang D.

Changchun College of TCM, Jiling.

There is certain relation between the development of modern identification of Chinese materia medica and Ben cao tu jing. The purpose of Su Song's compilation of this book and the tasks of modern identification of Chinese materia medica, including the verification of genuineness, superiority of the drugs to ensure their qualities, are quite similar, and quite close in their contents. Suffice it to say that Ben cao tu jing made considerable contribution to modern identification of Chinese drugs, with a role of linking the past with the present.