A Historical Study of Non-standard Weight and Measuring Units

Abstract

Objective : This study was done to clarify ambiguous non-standard weight and measuring units in medical classics. Methods :Using medical classics and research dissertations, we studied the basic definitions of weight and measuring units and the types of non-standard weight and measuring units. We compared non-standard weight and measuring units in the reference literatures, to determine the dose of herbs in the prescriptions.Results : There are three types of units in non-standard weight and measuring units. These are 'Quantity measuring unit', 'Resembrance measuring unit', and 'Eye measuring unit'. And we found historical efforts and progresses for proper ways to convert non-standard weight and measuring units to standard weight and measuring units. Conclusions :This research will be the basic data for the standardization of prescriptions. Additional study was still required for precise weighing and measuring in Korean medicine and pharmacy.