In the last article, Functional Formulas Nomenclature: Letters = Organs, I discussed the organs systems represented by each letter (read that article first, also check out the course: Functional Formulas 515). I also defined Functional Formulas and Custom Formulas. In this article, I will focus on the numbers and what functions they refer to.
Keep in mind, that a Functional Formula is made up of more than one single herb. We will cover single herbs too in the Herb Academy, but it's important to understand that single herbs are rarely (if ever) used on traditional medicine by themselves. The use of a single herb to to address a symptom (e.g. "What's the natural thing for my headache?") is still based on conventional symptom focused thinking. To treat the root cause, we must understand the physiology and the systems related to the symptoms. The nomenclature used in the Herb Academy is itself a breakthrough in understanding and teaching herbal medicine.
Each Functional Formula is designed to work on one organ system. The letter in the Functional Formula refers to the organ being treated. The number refers to the function, or what is being done to the organ. For example, you can tonify (nourish/support) an organ for improved normal function but you can also, detoxify, move blood, and disinfect. These are examples of different functions that can be used for each organ.
1 = tonify
2 = dextoxify
Using the above key, L1 would refer to a Functional Formula that tonifies the liver (improves normal function). L2 would refer to a Functional Formula that detoxifies the liver (eliminates toxic elements). This should make sense as it is based on a simple key that holds instructions. The breakthrough is the mix of physiology combined with pathophysiology that leads to an effective prescription. A prescription of L1 would come from a functional diagnosis of a poorly functioning liver, one that needs to be restored back to normal healthy function. The functional diagnosis, based on signs and symptoms that will be covered in the Herb Academy, leads to the functional formula while following a cohesive thought process based on understanding the body, how it works, and what's not working.
Dr. Cassone's Holistic Approach to Patient Care:
What system is in trouble?
What's in the way of function?
How to improve function for that system?
What about this Functional Formula: L21
Well, "L" refers to liver, so we know it's a liver formula (which means there will be liver related signs and symptoms). We know "2" is detox and "1" is tonify. Based on our Functional Formulas key, L21 is a formula that primarily detoxifies the liver and secondarily tonifies it (based on the order of the numbers; "2" came before "1" and the number/functions are listed in priority within the functional formula).
There is no need to memorize. This will become more clear as you become familiar with the organs systems themselves and the single herbs. For now, just allow yourself to understand the concepts.
Here are the rest of the numbers and the functions they represent. The functions will be explained in detail in the Herb Academy.
Functions:
1 = Tonify/Nourish/Repair
2 = Detoxify/Drain
3 = Disinfection/Antimicrobial
4 = Moderate/Harmonize
5 = Mover/Promote Action
6 = Sedate
7 = Clear Obstructions
8 = Warming (+) OR Cooling (-)
9 = Nutrient Base
One of our most commonly prescribed functional formulas is L217. This functional formula detoxifies the liver, but also tonifies it and removes obstructions.
Once you understand more about the liver, you will see this as a beautiful formula.
Please join us in the Herb Academy for the course Functional Formulas 516.