This important text provides an accurate presentation of the concepts of Chinese medicine in an English terminology that closely matches the Chinese. It is the ideal text for students who are beginning to learn Chinese medicine and who have established a working knowledge of the Chinese language, as well as for those who wish to master the English terminology for the purposes of clinical application or translation. Because it renders the traditional Chinese medical concepts accurately, without using Western medical terms that reflect the Western medical understanding and obscure the Chinese medical understanding, it is highly useful for English-speaking students who want to establish a clear understanding of the original concepts of Chinese medicine.

In the authors’ view, knowledge of medical Chinese is inestimably valuable for understanding Chinese medicine with clarity and precision. While a good deal of work is required from students to attain perfect comprehension of medical Chinese, each step along the way has its own rewards.

Further, a growing body of translated literature that reflects terminology consistent with this text will support students’ efforts to learn Chinese, and thereby enable students, practitioners, and researchers to refine their knowledge and contribute to the westward transmission of Chinese medicine.