Objective: To study on the relationship of herb pair of Rhei Radix et Rhizoma-Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma in dosage

ratio and efficacy. Method: Totally 2 361 prescriptions containing Rhei Radix et Rhizoma-Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma from traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) prescription database were retrieved by computerized algorithm. Statistics were made for the doses of Rhei Radix et Rhizoma and Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma

the ratio of their dosage and the efficacy. Mining analysis was made for the relationship between them through Apriori algorithm. Result: Rhei Radix et Rhizoma was often used at doses between 25.16-35.16 g

Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma was commonly used at doses between 0-5.16 g

15.16-35.16 g. The commonest use ratio was 1/1

accounting for 37.85%. These prescriptions can clear heat

relieve pain

clear damp and promote diuresis

disperse swelling and dissipate binds

and relieve internal heat or fever. The efficacy has a high correlation with the dosage and ratio. Conclusion: Apriori algorithm and other data analysis methods can be applied to find the application regularity of the herb pairs

and provide a new method for study on prescription compatibility

as well as a basis for clinical application and new drug development.