Li Shizhen

Authored the seminal 'Compendium of Materia Medica', reshaping traditional Chinese medicine

Li Shizhen (李时珍), a Ming Dynasty physician and pharmacologist, spent 27 years compiling the Bencao Gangmu (Compendium of Materia Medica), a monumental encyclopedia of herbal medicine completed in 1578. This 1.9-million-character work documented 1,892 substances, including plants, animals, and minerals, with detailed notes on their medicinal uses, preparation methods, and historical references.

Rejecting superstitions prevalent in earlier texts, Li Shizhen emphasized empirical observation and classification. He traveled extensively to collect specimens, interview practitioners, and verify claims. His systematic approach influenced not only traditional Chinese medicine but also later global botanical studies. The Bencao Gangmu was translated into multiple languages and remains a foundational text in pharmacology.

Li's work bridged ancient wisdom and scientific rigor, preserving endangered knowledge while advancing diagnostic accuracy. His emphasis on evidence-based practice predated modern scientific methods, making him a pioneer of medical research. Today, his legacy is celebrated in museums and academic institutions worldwide.