Donguibogam

Traditional Korean medical text

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A page from the Donguibogam

The Donguibogam (Korean: 동의보감) is a comprehensive medical encyclopedia compiled during the Joseon Dynasty of Korea. It is one of the most significant texts in the history of Korean medicine and has been recognized by UNESCO as part of the Memory of the World Programme.

History

The Donguibogam was compiled by the royal physician Heo Jun and his team, under the orders of King Seonjo of Joseon. The compilation began in 1596 and was completed in 1610. The text was intended to be a comprehensive guide to traditional Korean medicine, drawing on both Korean and Chinese medical knowledge.

Structure

The Donguibogam is divided into 25 volumes, organized into five main sections:

Internal Medicine (Naegyeong)

This section covers the theory of internal medicine, including the yin and yang principles, the five elements, and the meridian system. It provides detailed descriptions of various internal diseases and their treatments.

External Medicine (Oehyeong)

The external medicine section deals with diseases affecting the skin, muscles, and bones. It includes treatments for wounds, fractures, and skin diseases.

Miscellaneous Diseases (Japbyeong)

This section addresses a variety of diseases that do not fit neatly into the categories of internal or external medicine. It includes discussions on infectious diseases, mental disorders, and pediatric diseases.

Herbal Medicine (Hanyak)

The herbal medicine section is a comprehensive guide to the use of herbs in treatment. It lists numerous medicinal plants, their properties, and their uses in treating different ailments.

Acupuncture and Moxibustion (Chimjeong)

This section covers the practice of acupuncture and moxibustion, detailing the techniques and points used in these traditional therapies.

Significance

The Donguibogam is considered a masterpiece of East Asian medicine. It synthesizes a wide range of medical knowledge and practices, making it an invaluable resource for practitioners of traditional medicine. Its influence extends beyond Korea, having been used in China and Japan as well.

Preservation and Legacy

The original copies of the Donguibogam have been preserved in various libraries and institutions. In 2009, it was inscribed on the UNESCO Memory of the World Register, highlighting its cultural and historical importance.

Related pages

• Heo Jun
• Traditional Korean medicine
• Acupuncture
• Herbal medicine