Zhang Zhongjing was known for his book "Cold-induced and Miscellaneous Diseases", which was the most influential and impactful medical book in the development of Chinese medicine. It was also the first monumental work on clinical medical treatment in China. "Cold-induced and Miscellaneous Diseases" effectively developed and established the theoretical framework for Chinese medical diagnoses and treatment.
Background
Zhang Zhongjing (AD 150-219) was born in Nieyang of Nan County. While still a young man, after reading the story of Bian Que treating the Qi Duke of Huan, Zhang Zhongjing took a special interest in medicine. He studied medicine under Zhang Bozu in the same county building a firm foundation for his knowledge of Chinese medicine.
Zhang Zhongjing was also the first physician to employ artificial respration to save lives.
He was a rare talent in Chinese medicine. His book "Cold-induced and Miscellaneous Diseases", established the principles and theoretical frameworks for syndrome differentiation and treatment. His book is highly regarded by doctors of all ages, and he is admired as the Saint of Medicine.
Career
When Zhang Zhongjing was a prefect of Changsha, desease prevailed in the country. As a medicine was not very developed then, many people, especially the poor, turned to witchcraft when they sick, only to be cheated by shamans and priests. Zhang Zhongjing was truly upset with what he observed. He hated the shamans, who brought death upon the people for money.
Once he saw a woman suffering because of her illness. She was crying and laughing, obviously under some form of stimulation. Zhang Zhongjing took a closer look at the patient and pointed out that she was in fact suffering from internal heat in her blood chamber, which could be cured. He applied acupuncture to the patient, who healed after a few days.
One day Zhang Zhongjing, while working as physician, saw a group of people gathered in front of a house. He went forward to examine situation. A man was lying on the floor with a few women crying next to him. Zhang Zhongjing was told that the man had hanged himself because he was too poor to continue living. Zhang kept man warm by covering him with a blanket. Then he asked two men to press on the man's chest while moving his two hands. Zhang Zhongjing then exerted pressure with his palms on the man's abdomen and waist a few times. After a while. the man came around.