‘A Study of Bi-Jeung in the Mid-Chosun Dynasty: Based on the Seungjeongwon Ilgi’

Abstract

Objectives Through the clinical records of Seungjeongwon Ilgi, we reviewed the usage of Bi-Jeung to know the concept of the word and studied therapeutic strategies for managing Bi-Jeung. Methods We investigated the clinical records of the mid-Chosun dynasty containing the key word "Bi" from electronic database (Seungjeongwon Ilgi). Results Of 4,039 records, 249 articles thought to have medicinal value were lastly selected. We subdivided the cases into 13 categories according to time, the connection of contents and the change of associated symptoms. "Bi" was not used alone but used in combination with body parts or other symptoms. Etiological causes of "Bi" involved dampness, phlegm, fire, heat and qi disorders. We suggested that "Bi" of the mid-Chosun dynasty meant a symptom group mainly of sensory impairment and additionally pain or motor disturbance. Among the 22 herbal medicine formulas used, 15 were based on internal medical pattern identifications and 7 were symptomatic treatments. Acupuncture and moxibustion therapy were primarily applied to adjacent acupoints. In addition, External therapies were used together, such as washing therapy, plaster therapy, cupping therapy and thermotherapy. Conclusions "Bi" principally indicated sensory impairment on limbs and the main etiological cause was considered to be dampness. Herbal medicine, acupuncture, moxibustion and external therapies were used to cure Bi-Jeung.