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The viscera of the elderly lack sufficient body fluids (Jinye), leading to constipation. If Da Huang (Rhei Radix et Rhizoma) is administered to purge, it will further deplete these fluids, inevitably causing recurrent constipation that is more severe than before. One should only administer herbs that moisten and lubricate the large intestine, such as Er Ren Wan (Two Seeds Pill) from *Yangsheng Biyong Fang*. Additionally, washing the anus with a decoction of Huai Hua (Flos Sophorae) is also effective. Wind-dispelling herbs are drying and damaging to the intestines and are therefore unsuitable.

There is another type known as "Wind Constipation," for which Bing Lang Qi Sheng Wan (Areca Seed Seven-Sages Pill) should be used. Although this formula contains Da Huang, the dosage must be carefully adjusted to avoid causing diarrhea.

Another scenario involves postpartum women suffering from severe constipation lasting four to seven days. This results from excessive blood loss and subsequent deficiency of body fluids. Drinking one or two cups of a strong decoction of Zi Su (Perilla Fructus) can naturally promote bowel movement. If constipation persists for another day, 30 pills of Da Ma Ren Wan (Hemp Seed Pill) from *Ju Fang* may be taken. (From *Yiyu*)

When heat pathogens flow through the stomach and intestines, sudden swelling of the anal opening occurs. Applying finely ground Snail (Concha Haliotidis) to the affected area will resolve the swelling.

Hemorrhoids (Zhi), Intestinal Wind (Chang Feng), and Visceral Toxin (Zang Du) are essentially manifestations of the same disease. It is extremely difficult to find a universal remedy because the etiologies differ. Even potent medicines cannot guarantee efficacy if they do not target the specific cause. For common people, hemorrhaging due to immoderate consumption of alcohol, sexual activity, and diet is termed "Wind Toxin." In contrast, for monks and nuns, this condition often arises from overeating, prolonged sitting, and stagnant qi, which is classified as "Spleen Toxin."

Wang Huanzhi, while serving as the Prefect of Shuzhou, suffered from persistent rectal bleeding. Chen Yifu, a Councilor of State from the local gentry, advised him to collect Cei Ye (Cacumen Platycladi) according to the seasons—for example, taking branches from the east in spring—char them into ash, and take two qian mixed with water, which resulted in a cure. I obtained this prescription and later used it while serving in Ganshang to treat Wu Lingheng, the magistrate of Che, who recovered immediately. Chen Yi, an official under the Surveillance Commission, visited me asking about his illness. Wu Lingheng told him he had been cured by Mr. Chen's prescription. Chen Yi frowned and said, "This was a secret formula of my ancestors; one must specifically use Ce Bai Ye (Cacumen Platycladi) for best results." Master Hui of Daochang stated, "For monastics, using this herbal method might be difficult; moxibustion is superior. Measure the point level with the umbilicus on the spinal column and apply seven moxa cones directly on the vertebra. If the condition is chronic, apply moxa cones at each side, one cun lateral to the vertebra, in the same manner. This will eradicate the root cause."

Furthermore, my maternal cousin Liu Xiang served as a clerk in Yanzhou. When I visited and invited him to drink, I was surprised by his emaciation. Upon inquiry, he replied, "Last year I suffered from Zang Du for half a month and believed I would certainly die. However, after taking a certain medicine, I have had no discomfort since." When asked what medicine it was, he initially refused to say but eventually revealed, "It is on this table." It was dried Persimmon (Fructus Diospyri) charred into ash, taken with water, two qian per dose. The *Bencao* records that Persimmon treats intestinal dysentery, clears heat toxins, and resolves old blood stasis. Those with such ailments should seek it out. (From *Bozhai Bian*)