Catalog of Benevolent Items: A Curated Introduction to the Ben Cao Gang Mu

Compiled and written by Li Shizhen (1518–1593), the Ben Cao Gang Mu is the world’s most comprehensive encyclopedia of traditional Chinese medicine and natural history. Catalog of Benevolent Items distills that massive 52-chapter masterpiece into a thematic, reader-friendly anthology. Edited and translated by Paul U. Unschuld, this volume offers carefully selected passages that highlight medicinal plants, animals, minerals, and cultural knowledge from Ming-era China. It’s an ideal choice for readers who want to explore Li Shizhen’s wisdom without committing to the full multi-volume translation.

Why It’s Tough Enough for Tough Kraut
• Curated & Accessible: A thoughtful selection of texts from the Ben Cao Gang Mu, making Li Shizhen’s work approachable for newcomers.
• Cultural & Medical Insight: Covers not just medicine but also social, philosophical, and practical aspects of Ming Dynasty life.
• Affordable Alternative: Provides the essence of 1,800 years of medical and natural history knowledge in one volume — perfect for readers not ready to purchase multiple volumes.
• Trusted Scholarship: Edited and translated by Paul U. Unschuld, the leading scholar behind the full annotated translation.

Proven Finishing Touches
• Condensed Wisdom: Draws from 10 books, 4 dictionaries, and 1,800 years of accumulated knowledge.
• Praised for Readability: Reviewers highlight its balance between scholarly authority and approachable style.
• Gateway to the Classics: A great starting point for readers who may later wish to dive into the full 9-volume series.

Why We Love It
At Tough Kraut, we value resources that make big ideas accessible. While the full Ben Cao Gang Mu is a scholarly treasure, Catalog of Benevolent Items brings its heart into reach for everyday readers. It’s a reminder that even the most monumental works can be shared in ways that spark curiosity and understanding — much like how we strive to share homestead and permaculture knowledge with our community.

Get Yours Now
Curious about the Ben Cao Gang Mu but not ready for the full translation? Catalog of Benevolent Items is available on Amazon in your region or directly at University of California Press.

Specifications
• Title: Catalog of Benevolent Items: Li Shizhen’s Compendium of Classical Chinese Knowledge
• Author: Li Shizhen
• Editor/Translator: Paul U. Unschuld
• Publisher: University of California Press
• Publication Year: 2023
• ISBN: 978-0520404243 (Paperback)
• Pages: 410
Series Relation: Companion/anthology to Ben Cao Gang Mu