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KMID : 1149220170250010103
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Korean Journal of Oriental Medical Prescription
2017 Volume.25 No. 1 p.103 ~ p.113
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Historical Changes in Weights and Measures of Herbal Formulas in Medical Classics
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Han Cheon-Hee
Lee Soo-Yeon
Kim Ji-Hoon
Kim Yun-Kyung
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Abstract
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Objectives : Korea and China are applying different conversion standards for weight in traditional medicine books. This study aims to research and suggest how to convert the units of weight in old traditional medicine classics into the contemporary unit of grams.
Methods : Historical documents of Korea and China were used to review the process in which weights and measures changed in each country and the manners in which the Chinese units of weight were introduced to Korea.
Results : Weights and measures changed with time. They became almost standardized by the period of Song in China, when coins played the most crucial role, and it was introduced to Korea. Donggaryang, the standard container for weights and measures in ancient China, Gaewontongbo, a coin in Tang, Sangpyeongtongbo, a coin in Joseon, and a scale in Joseon were used as strong foundations for conclusion from literature review. Weight of a 1-don(coin) in the time a traditional medicine books were written was used as a unit of weight in those books. Sangpyeongtongbo, a 1-don coin in Joseon, weighs 4 grams on average.
Conclusions : Since the current conversion of 1-don coin into 3.75 grams is not supported by literature review, it is suggested that 1-don(coin) as a unit of weight in traditional medicine books of Joseon, may be better converted into 4 grams, while that of China is converted to 3.73 grams.
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KEYWORD
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Medical classics , Standardization , Herbal formulas , Weights and measures
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Listed journal information
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