Course Code: TCMA 2002
Academic Year: 2026-2027
Students extend and deepen their knowledge of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) herbal medicine through continued study of herbal categories, including herbs for topical and external application. Building on the foundations established in Materia Medica I, students strengthen their understanding of individual herbs by comparing substances across categories, examining nuanced differences in properties, functions, indications, and contraindications. Emphasis is placed on refining clinical reasoning through the exploration of empirical applications, herb comparisons, and modifications in complex presentations. Students further develop competency in herbal safety, including considerations related to pregnancy, breastfeeding, herbdrug interactions, and appropriate dosage. Study of Pao Zhi (herbal processing) is incorporated to contextualize how preparation methods influence therapeutic outcomes. Through case discussion and applied learning activities, students consolidate their herbal knowledge in preparation for clinical practice.