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I have studied the method of variolation. Some advocate using the pus from pockmarks for inoculation; others suggest wearing clothes worn by an infant who has had smallpox. There are those who dry the scabs of smallpox and blow them into the nose, a method called "Dry Seedling" (Han Miao); and those who moisten the scabs and insert them into the nostrils, called "Wet Seedling" (Shui Miao). Comparing these four methods, the Wet Seedling is superior, followed by the Dry Seedling. The clothing method is mostly ineffective, and the pus method is excessively cruel. Therefore, ancient methods exclusively used the Wet Seedling, likely because it is considered balanced and appropriate. In recent times, the Dry Seedling began to be used; although this method is rapid, its action is slightly swift and intense. As for the theories regarding clothing and pus, they should absolutely not be followed.

The reason the Wet Seedling is excellent is that its momentum is very gentle, neither too fast nor too slow, entering gradually. After inoculation, the child suffers no injury, and the fetal toxin (Tai Du) has the opportunity to dissipate gradually. It is successful every time, effective as quickly as an echo, perfect in every way, worthy of emulation and transmission, making it the optimal method for variolation. Secondly, although the Dry Seedling is more intense, it is still similar to the Wet Seedling method; if the child's constitution is robust, it may perhaps be applied. Regarding how scabs constitute a favorable course, why seedlings must be stored properly, how to align with correct seasonal timing, how to select auspicious dates for inoculation, how to ensure care and nursing are appropriate, how to observe taboos correctly, what constitutes suitable physical constitution, and the drawbacks of clothing and pus, I will analyze them one by one in detail below. Scholars must carefully study and read this; then they will have clear insights and avoid confusion from divergent paths. Thus, with a good method, success is assured.

The term "Seedling" refers to the scab of smallpox. Variolation relies entirely on this to guide the fetal toxin, a matter of significant importance. When selecting seedlings, one must pay close attention and examine carefully, without negligence. Among them, some are usable, and some are not; this depends on distinguishing whether the smallpox eruption follows a favorable or unfavorable course. Unfavorable eruptions do not appear sharp and round, lack ruddy color, and have insufficient pus. The fallen scabs are dull and thin. This results from the combination of heavenly and human factors, and internal and external pathogens. Even if recovery occurs by chance, it is merely due to the skillful treatment by a competent physician, not natural perfection. Such scabs must absolutely not be used. Favorable eruptions have no mixed syndromes throughout their course; they emerge sharp and round, with ruddy colors and full pus. The fallen scabs are pale yellowish-white, glossy, large, thick, and substantial. These possess the righteous qi of heaven and earth yin and yang, representing the most favorable seedlings. Collected and used, their efficacy is immediate like an echo. However, such scabs are rare and encounters are infrequent. If one cannot handle the process personally but delegates to others, one must ensure they witness it with their own eyes. Otherwise, it is better to discard them than to use them indiscriminately. Practitioners must exercise caution.