Library

Wei Huang (Withered Yellow), akin to trees lacking sufficient essence and nourishment, thus becoming withered and yellow. In humans, this disease originates from damage to the Spleen and Stomach, hence the color of Earth (yellow) manifests naturally. If caused by dampness steaming, symptoms include abdominal distension, edema of the hands and feet, a yellow complexion with blackish tints, dry lips, and foul breath; it is suitable to administer herbs such as Cangzhu (Atractylodis Rhizoma), Banxia (Pinelliae Tuber), and Zexie (Alismatis Rhizoma). If resulting from prolonged illness, manifestations include scorched hair, body heat, a shiny scrotum, yellow eyes with swollen eyelids, frequent hunger despite eating, and a yellow complexion resembling smallpox; it is appropriate to use Fuling (Poria), Bohe (Menthae Haplocalycis Herba), Guizhi (Cinnamomi Ramulus), and Houpo (Magnoliae Officinalis Cortex). Another type occurs after contracting wind-heat, presenting with shortness of breath, mental fatigue, a yellow complexion with white tints, resembling the down of a newly hatched goose (commonly known as "Goose White"); in this case, pricking the fingertips of the hands and feet is indicated. This is because the index finger belongs to the Large Intestine Meridian, aiming to unblock congestion and guide out obstruction. Internal treatment primarily focuses on herbs that support the Spleen, open the stomach, and drain water. If caused by food injury, symptoms include hiccuping, acid regurgitation, swelling of the chin, everted lips, a yellow complexion with reddish tints, irritability, and foul breath; it is suitable to use Ezhu (Curcumae Longae Rhizoma), Zhike (Aurantii Fructus Immaturus), Lubozi (Raphani Semen), and Shanzha (Crataegi Fructus).

Gui Xiong (Turtle Chest) refers to a chest that is high, swollen, and full, shaped like an inverted palm. It is often caused by the wet nurse consuming excessive alcohol, wheat products, and the "Five Pungents" (spicy aromatics), or by feeding hot milk or leftover milk to the infant during summer when the child is irritable. Lung Qi is the purest among all organs and serves as the "Canopy" (protective cover) for the five zang organs. When water qi overflows, the Lung floats upward; over time, phlegm stagnates, generating wind-heat. Upon contact with pungent foods, Lung Qi becomes chaotic, leading to red lips, flushed face, coughing, wheezing, loose stools, and steaming fever. Thus, it develops into Gan Syndrome (Infantile Malnutrition), which then progresses to Gui Xiong. If, after medication, the condition recurs and transmits, presenting with fixed staring eyes, phlegm-saliva obstructing the upper jiao, or convulsions, it is difficult to treat. Gui Bei (Turtle Back) is often caused by forcing an infant under six months old to sit too early, neglecting protection of the spine, allowing external pathogenic factors to blow in and penetrate the marrow. Cold causes body withering, leading to this transformation. It is also said that the five zang organs are connected to the back; if the five zang organs suffer and form the five types of Gan, long-term infestation by parasites may erode the spinal cord, making the backbones appear fractured and protruding like a turtle shell. The medical text states: "Swollen cheeks indicate Gan is still vigorous; a high spine indicates strength has declined. With no vital energy in the Kidney and bones lacking firm growth, it becomes a malignant condition."