138 most effective and commonly used formulas in Chinese medicine are introduced in this book. It does not merely list each formula's functions, indications, applications and herbs to be used, but also provides charts and detailed analyses of the causes and physical manifestations of the symptoms each formula is effective for and the curative contribution of each individual herb.

Formula modifications are included to account for symptoms variation. The Formulas in this book do not appear therefore as incomprehensible combinations of individual herbs rather as models of perfect integration between basic TCM theories and knowledge of medicinal herbs. In illustrating the internal working relationship of the herbs in each formula, this book enables the reader to learn how to make prescriptions on their own.

A study of the formulas presented here will yield a better understanding of the theories and how to apply them in terms of mapping out treatment strategies and identifying herbal prescriptions for a particular disease. Formulas are grouped by malady. Within each group, the various formulas are introduced. The following organization is adhered to throughout the book in order to facilitate reference.