1. Decoction apparatus When decocting Chinese medicine, it is best to use a casserole or sand pot. Avoid using iron, copper, aluminum and other metal utensils. 2. Soaking before decoction Before decocting, it is best to soak the Chinese herbal medicine in water, with the liquid surface flooding over the tablets for about 2cm. Most medicines should be soaked in cold water, usually for 20-30 minutes, and seed-based medicines can be soaked for 1 hour. 3, decoction fire decoction, before boiling with a large fire (martial fire), after boiling with a small fire (civil fire) to maintain a slight boiling state. Generally, the medicine should be boiled for about 30 minutes; for minerals, bones and horns, shells, etc., decoction is generally recommended first; for tonic medicine, decoction is generally recommended for a long time with a gentle fire so that the active ingredients can be fully dissolved. 4. Decoction times A dose of Chinese medicine is usually decocted twice, which is commonly known as “first decoction” and “second decoction”. Mix the “first decoction” and “second decoction” and take them several times, 150~200ml each time for adults. 5. The number of times to take the medicine Generally speaking, it is advisable to take the medicine one hour before meals to facilitate the absorption of the medicine as soon as possible. However, the prescriptions that stimulate the stomach and intestines should be taken after meals to prevent side effects; tonic prescriptions should be taken on an empty stomach; tranquilizing prescriptions should be taken before bedtime; acute and serious diseases can be taken at any time; chronic diseases should be taken at regular intervals so that they can have lasting medicinal effects. For male patients who visit our office, I personally suggest that you can take one half hour before each meal and one at about 9:30 p.m.; 150ml in the morning and 150ml in the evening; and 200ml before lunch and dinner. In addition: there are electric automatic decoction pots on the market, which are more convenient and can be used, and you can refer to the instructions for the specific decoction method.