10 Compendium of Materia Medica once a day has no direct effect on thinness. Compendium of Materia Medica is a classic of Chinese medicine, which has no direct effect on losing weight. Losing weight is a complex process, which requires comprehensive consideration of diet, exercise, metabolism and other factors. Reading Compendium of Materia Medica every day has no real impact. Losing weight requires reasonable diet control, moderate exercise and good living habits. This includes taking proper calories, eating a balanced diet, increasing physical activity and improving metabolic rate.