Huang Yuanyu—–The Imperial Physician

Introduction

Huang Yuanyu, a genius with a high IQ, lost the opportunity to become a government official due to disfiguration. However, his brilliance shone through in the field of herbal medicine. Despite being barred from the imperial examination, he achieved significant success in medical practice in his hometown, laying the foundation for his future role as an imperial physician.

The Standard Path to Becoming an Imperial Physician

In the Qing Dynasty, the path to becoming an imperial physician was rigorous. The Imperial Hospital recruits students every three years. After passing a written exam, students apprenticed under chief physicians, learning through hands-on experience. This training lasted three to five years, after which apprentices began treating low-ranking officials. Only after twenty to thirty years of practice could they become full-fledged imperial physicians, treating the emperor and other nobles.

Imperial physicians lived in isolation to prevent any external influence or bribery, ensuring the safety of the royal family. Unlike the portrayal in the Chinese drama “The Grand Mansion,” where a fourth-rank imperial physician lived at home and treated ordinary people, real imperial physicians were confined to their duties within the palace.

The Exceptional Path to Becoming an Imperial Physician

While the standard path was strict, exceptions existed. When a noble fell seriously ill and the Imperial Hospital’s physicians were helpless, skilled doctors from the common people were sought. If they succeeded, they could be directly appointed to the Imperial Hospital. Huang Yuanyu was one such exceptional case.

Huang Yuanyu traveled extensively, honing his medical skills and gaining a reputation. When he arrived in Beijing, Emperor Qianlong was gravely ill. A eunuch, confident in Huang’s abilities, recommended him to the court. This was a risky move, as failure could cost the eunuch his life. Fortunately, Huang Yuanyu cured the emperor, earning him a position as an imperial physician.

Cordial Relationship with the Emperor

Huang Yuanyu’s success brought him close to Emperor Qianlong, who praised his medical skills and promoted him. The emperor even played chess with him and gifted him a chessboard and jade pieces. Huang Yuanyu adopted the title “Yu Qiu Zi,” which he used in his medical works, such as “Yu Qiu Yao Jie” and “Yu Qiu Zi Tang Gao.”

However, the emperor’s praise also brought Huang Yuanyu trouble within the Imperial Hospital. What kind of troubles did he face?

Looking ahead

For more stories about Huang Yuanyu and his contributions to traditional herbal medicine, and how it helps in rejuvenating our health, stay tuned for the next episode.

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