The origin of Chinese medicinal substances dates back early in human life. In the primitive society, people, while seeking for foods, inevitably took some poisonous substances causing toxic reactions, such as vomiting, coma or even death. But some foods helped relieve disorders or cure diseases. A legend goes that "Shen Nong tasted one hundred herbs...... experienced 70 kinds of poisonous herbs in one day", which vividly summarizes the early appearance of medicinal substances. Early pharmacotherapy appeared after repeated practice and constant summarization. For example, some plants caused diarrhea, some relieved pain fever, and some induced sweating. These plants turned into remedies when used purposefully to treat diseases. The discovery of medication of animal and mineral origin was similar to the herbal substances. Therefore, the development of Chinese medicinal substances had resulted from long-term production, living and medical practice of the Chinese people.

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