Library

Ren Shen (Ginseng Radix), Huang Qi (Astragali Radix), Bai Zhu (Atractylodis Rhizoma), Bai Shao Yao (Paeoniae Radix Alba), Shu Di Huang (Rehmanniae Radix Praeparata), Fu Ling (Poria), Dang Gui (Angelicae Sinensis Radix), Chuan Xiong (Ligustici Chuanxiong Rhizoma), Gan Cao (Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma) [each in equal parts], Gui Xin (Cinnamomi Cortex) [a small amount].
The condition of *Rou Ji* (Muscle Extremity/Severe Muscle Wasting), characterized by emaciated muscles and withered skin, is primarily treated by this formula.
If *Rou Ji* results from prolonged burning by Yin Fire (Yin-deficiency heat), it is difficult to treat; instead, Liu Wei Di Huang Wan (Six-Ingredient Rehmannia Pill) should be used. If *Rou Ji* is caused by damage to the Spleen due to improper diet and overexertion, one should greatly tonify Qi and Blood to replenish the body. The Classics state: "Qi provides warmth, Blood provides nourishment." Therefore, Ren Shen, Bai Zhu, Huang Qi, Fu Ling, and Gan Cao—sweet and warm substances—are used to tonify Qi; when Qi is abundant, it can fill the muscles. Dang Gui, Chuan Xiong, Shao Yao, Di Huang, and Rou Gui—substances with rich flavors—are used to nourish Blood; when Blood is generated, it can moisten the withered tissues.

Ren Shen (Ginseng Radix), Mai Men Dong (Ophiopogonis Tuber) [heart removed], Wu Wei Zi (Schisandrae Fructus) [stir-fried, equal parts].
The condition of *Qi Ji* (Qi Extremity/Severe Qi Deficiency), characterized by deficiency of Righteous Qi (Zheng Qi) and excess of Pathogenic Qi, with frequent panting and few words, is primarily treated by this formula.
The Lung governs Qi; deficiency of Righteous Qi leads to few words. Excess of Pathogenic Qi leads to frequent panting. This is a manifestation akin to "the rise of petty men and the decline of gentlemen." Ren Shen tonifies Lung Qi, Mai Men Dong clears Lung Qi, and Wu Wei Zi astringes Lung Qi. One tonifies, one clears, and one astringes; thus, the method of nourishing Qi is complete. It is named "Sheng Mai San" (Generate Pulse Powder) because the pulse becomes full when supported by Qi, and weak when Qi is lost. Li Dongyuan stated: "In summer, taking Sheng Mai San with added Huang Qi and Gan Cao causes Qi and strength to surge forth." Someone like Li Dongyuan could treat the condition of *Qi Ji*.

Hu Gu (Tiger Bone) [one whole piece, thoroughly roasted until surface is scorched yellow and juices are exhausted, crushed like sparrow brain], Nuomi (Glutinous Rice) [three shi, mixed with tiger bone, using double the amount of Qu (ferment), brewed according to wine-making methods; after brewing, seal the head, and drink after fifty days].
The condition of *Gu Ji* (Bone Extremity/Severe Bone Depletion), characterized by soreness and wasting of the waist and spine, toothache, vexatious pain in the hands and feet, and reluctance to move, is primarily treated by this formula.
The Kidney governs bones; *Gu Ji* represents extreme emptiness within the bones, hence causing soreness and wasting of the waist and spine. Teeth are considered the surplus of bones, hence they also ache. Vexatious pain in the hands and feet and reluctance to move are all signs of extreme emptiness within the bones. Using bone to treat bone follows the principle of seeking similarity. Using Tiger Bone to treat bone diseases takes advantage of its strengthening properties. Brewing it in wine utilizes the wine's nature to permeate deeply, reaching straight into the bones. Chu Cheng said: "If a man engages in sexual activity before his Tian Gui (Heavenly Water/Primordial Essence) has arrived, there will be areas of incomplete development in the four limbs, and later he will surely suffer from inexplicable illnesses." This likely belongs to the category of *Gu Ji*.