Development history & Modern applications
The development of Chinese patent medicines is rooted in the profound theory of traditional Chinese medicine, integrating the wisdom of generations of physicians and continuously rejuvenating through modern technology. It is a long evolutionary history that spans from practical experience to theory, from folk remedies to official standards, from handmade production to industrialized manufacturing, and from traditional use to modern research. Today, Chinese patent medicines have become an important part of China's medical system and hold a pivotal position in the global field of traditional medicine.
Formulation Development and Theoretical Advancement
Wei-Jin, Southern-Northern Dynasties to Sui-Tang
Formulation Development and Theoretical Advancement (Wei-Jin, Southern-Northern Dynasties to Sui-Tang)
During this period, the technology of drug preparation and preparation of dosage forms developed significantly.
· Wei, Jin, Southern and Northern Dynasties: Ge Hong's "Zhou Hou Bei Ji Fang" contains numerous simple, affordable, and effective prescriptions, mostly formulated as pills, powders, or ointments for emergency treatment and folk use.
· Tang Dynasty ：
Sun Simiao's Qianjin Yaofang and Qianjin Yifang are the culmination of medical prescriptions before the Tang Dynasty, which include thousands of prescriptions in various forms.
The New Revised Materia Medica promulgated by the government is the first pharmacopoeia promulgated by the state in the world, which plays an important role in the standardization of drugs.
Wang Tao's "Secret Essentials of the Outer Platform" contains a large number of folk prescriptions and prepared drug formulas.
Government-run pharmacies and the institutionalization
Government-run pharmacies and the institutionalization of prepared medicines (Song and Yuan Dynasties)
This is a crucial period in the history of the development of Chinese patent medicines, and the concept of "patent medicines" began to be institutionalized and popularized.
· Song Dynasty ：
The establishment of the Taiping Huimin Heji Bureau marked a milestone in medical history. As one of the world's earliest state-run pharmaceutical agencies, it oversaw drug production and distribution. The bureau's compilation of "Taiping Huimin Heji Bureau Formulas" became China's first officially promulgated manual of prepared medicinal formulas and preparation standards. This seminal work documented numerous clinically proven formulas—including Huoxiang Zhengqi Powder, Xiaoyao Powder, Zhibao Pill, and Zixue Pill. These formulas were standardized into fixed dosage forms for unified production and sales, significantly expanding the application of traditional Chinese patent medicines. The concept of "prepared medicines" (ready-to-use drugs) thus became deeply ingrained in public consciousness.
· The Jin-Yuan Period: The medical schools represented by the Four Great Masters of Jin-Yuan (Liu Wansu, Zhang Congzheng, Li Gao, Zhu Zhenheng) debated and enriched the theory of Traditional Chinese Medicine, and also gave birth to many new effective prescriptions, adding new content to the treasure house of Chinese patent medicines.
Theoretical Sublimation and Variety Expansion
Theoretical Sublimation and Variety Expansion (Ming and Qing Dynasties)
The theoretical system of Chinese patent medicines was further improved, the variety of medicines increased greatly, and famous old brand pharmacies appeared.
· Ming Dynasty ：
In Li Shizhen's monumental work, Compendium of Materia Medica, more than 40 types of prepared drugs and tens of thousands of prescriptions were included, greatly enriching the raw materials and formula resources of Chinese prepared drugs.
Famous doctor Zhang Jingyue proposed the classification of prescriptions "Eight formations" (supplement, harmony, attack, dispersion, cold, heat, consolidation, and cause), which has guiding significance for the clinical classification and application of Chinese patent medicines.
· Qing dynasty ：
The rise of the School of Warm Diseases gave birth to famous prepared medicines such as Angong Niuhuang Wan (Wu Jutong, Wenbing Tiaobian), Zhibao Dan and Zixue Dan for the treatment of acute febrile diseases.
Time-honored traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) pharmacies like Beijing's Tongrentang (founded in 1669) and Hangzhou's Huqingyutang (established in 1874) have emerged as industry leaders. Adhering to the ancient principle that "even with complex preparation methods, we never cut corners on labor; even with premium ingredients, we never compromise quality," these establishments have developed and preserved numerous classic TCM formulas through their exceptional products and reputation. Iconic creations such as Angong Niuhuang Pills, Wuji Baifeng Pills, and Liushen Pills have solidified their position as cornerstone players in the evolution of TCM.
Shenzhen Planet Health Industrial Co. Ltd. 深圳市博康源实业有限公司
Modern application of Chinese patent medicine
Chinese patent medicines are increasingly favored for their minimal side effects and holistic therapeutic benefits. They are widely used in chronic disease management, preventive healthcare, rehabilitation, minor illness treatment, and serious disease management.