The Use of Herb Powders (San Ji) and the Draught (Zhu San) Method in Chinese Herbal Medicine

Herb powders (san ji - also known as dried or raw herb powders) and the draught (zhu san) method for delivering Chinese herbal medicine are not commonly used in modern clinical practice. The following article presents a literature review of English language sources that discuss the historical use of herb powders and the draught method, and documents the influence of Arabic medicine and the state-run imperial pharmacy during the Song dynasty in this regard. The article presents in detail the method of preparation for herb powders, and compares the draught method with other methods of delivery such as decoction and concentrated powder/granular extracts.