The Structure of the Formula (jun-chen-zuo-shi)

pharmacology (formulas)

The classic formula is structured according to the hierarchy of “king—minister—assistant—guide.” The king (the primary herb) targets the main problem; the minister enhances its effect or treats a concomitant syndrome; the assistant supports, moderates the intensity, or treats secondary symptoms; the guide directs the formula to the right place and harmonizes the composition. This structure makes the formula not merely the sum of its herbs, but a coordinated “team” with assigned roles. Changing dosages or substituting ingredients shifts the focus, creating variations of the formula. Therefore, the roles of each ingredient are specified for every formula in the reference guide.