Abstract: Interpretation of TCM classical prescription which is a very important link is the first step in R&D work. This paper discusses several key issues in R&D， such as the species and medical parts of chinese herbs， resources， processing， dosage， function and so on. It is suggested that R&D should follow the principle of "following classics and conforming to Pharmacopoeia". We should not only interpret the appearance of the original， but also clarify its changes in circulation. Only when it conforms to the standards of Pharmacopoeia and combines with today's reality can the clinical efficacy of TCM classical prescription be guaranteed.