The Superior Herbs can be categorized as Jing tonics, Qi tonics and Shen tonics by virtue of which Treasure(s) they tend to nourish and develop. As a result of the principle of Yin and Yang, the superior herbs can be further divided into five main categories:

Jing tonics are subdivided into Yin tonics and Yang tonics.
Qi tonics are subdivided into Energy (Qi) tonics and Blood tonics.
Shen tonics

Applying the principle of the Three Treasures is the highest form of herbalism. In the Orient it is called 'the Superior Herbalism.'

Jing tonics are used to replace the spent energy and to build up large reserves for future use. They can also provide primal power and the fire of life. Jing Treasure is closely associated with our genetic material and is considered to be responsible for cellular replication. Thus Jing is associated with regeneration, rejuvenation and the preservation of life. There are special tonic herbs that fortify Jing, and these are found among the Yin and Yang tonic herbs. Yin and Yang are the opposing forces within all systems.

Yin tonics provide the 'deep substance of life,' and nourish the fluids of the body. Yin is defined as the accumulation and storage of energy. Yin energy is generally condensed and stored in all of the tissues of the body, but most extensively in the major solid organs, and most particularly in the organs associated with the 'Kidney.' The 'Kidney,' as described in Chinese herbalism actually encompasses the structures and functions of the reproductive system, the brain, the adrenal glands (especially the hormone-producing cortex), the ears, the hair on the head, the skeleton, the teeth and the bone marrow. Yin tonics nurture these organs and functions.

Yang Tonics are the power herbs of Chinese herbalism, and like the Yin tonic herbs, are said to affect primarily the 'Kidney' function. 'Yang' is the utilization of the 'Yin,' the stored energy. Yang tonics are generally said to have a 'warm or 'hot' energy. Yang tonics are believed in China to help build will power and courage. Yang energy is also associated with mental creativity and the ability to manifest one's ideas. Certain Yang tonic herbs are believed in Asia to strengthen sexual functions and Yang energy is said to control sexual drive. All Yang tonics build strength and are thus favorites of athletes. Yang herbs are also used to stimulate metabolism, build muscle and reduce the levels of fat in the system. Yang tonics strengthen bone and are often used to strengthen the skeleton, and are especially renowned for helping to strengthen the back (especially the lower back), knees and joints.

Qi Tonics increase the amount, and improve the quality, of the energy and blood flowing through our system. This increase in energy and blood results in an overall increase in physical and mental vitality. Qi tonics are divided into two categories: Energy Tonics (also called Qi tonics) and Xue tonics which build blood (and are thus often called 'Blood tonics'). There is a general principle in Chinese herbalism that 'men are governed by Qi and women are governed by blood.' Therefore many men consume extra amounts of Qi tonics and women consume larger amounts of Xue tonics to build blood and to regulate blood production.

Shen Tonics allow for the development of Shen, our Spirit. Shen tonics encourage the opening up of Shen. There are two qualities of Shen tonic herbs in the Superior Herb system: Shen 'stabilizing' and Shen 'developing'. The Shen stabilizing quality helps calm and stabilize the emotions so that Shen (our higher self) can develop and rule our lives. The Shen 'developing' quality causes Shen to rise up and to become prominent in our experience. The emotions are thus allowed to play themselves out, but not to dominate our lives and become obsessions or even addictions. In general all Shen tonics have both Shen stabilizing and Shen developing qualities, to varying degrees. So usually they are not distinguished in herbal practice