西门张巷张仲若长媳怀妊六月，夏日多啖西瓜，至九月重九前寒热交作，未得畅汗，湿遏热郁，已服开泄芳香表散等剂并不见退，反谵语风动，痉厥胸闷，循衣摸床。两旬后延先生诊治，脉左弦数右尺不应，舌苔掯黑润，面带青灰语蹇而不能抵齿，神情时迷，呼之目微张，顷又似睡，面色胱白淡黄稍有齿垢，先生曰：此邪热遏伏，痰浊蒙闭，内陷之象也。幸脉不沉细，有娠用药，殊形棘手，若因碍胎而不用，恐难保其生命。方用皂荚子，制胆星、省头草、竹黄、川贝母、煅石决明、钩钩、郁金、藿梗、苏梗、荷蒂，另制胆星、石菖蒲、礞石、伽楠香，研末，服后下转矢气，胸膈顿宽，神情清楚，不似前日之似睡。苔亦稍化，略能分瞩家务。明日加茅术、川朴、生熟薏米、鲜佩兰，而舌苔更化，惟仍潮而浮黑，更觉蔓延。先生以为湿松热欲外达，仍为湿遏之象也。再加重制茅术，佐以芳香泄化渗湿等品，渠翁亦知医，调理而愈。
西门申新纱厂工人妇，素有肝气，烦躁呕恶，南门王君以为气膈症，延先生诊之，先生曰：此非膈症，是伏邪晚发，胃火冲逆而上。用姜炒川连及豆卷、藿梗、黑山栀、连翘、枳实、竹茹、芦根，呕逆减而寒热起伏烦躁，脉象细郁，脘腹板硬。先生以为积阻气滞，用生大黄、元明粉、花槟等，便黑色宿粪，呕止热轻。略用达邪，得微汗而退。
江阴巷陶氏妇病湿温，始延龚医，用茅术、川朴燥药』艮二十四剂不效，神情委顿，气息奄奄。先生诊之，舌苔厚白而干，曰：此胃阴伤也，阴伤则苔无以化。方中用鲜石斛一两，大养其阴，苔顿化，病转机能，食稀粥，调理而愈。
米业某有嗜好，病暑湿。龚医诊之，屡燥无效，乃延先生诊，见其形瘦骨立，面色毗白无华，此系中阳已衰，故舌苔浊腻不化也。用干姜等温剂，舌苔渐化，效验神速。
周师季梅长孙病后狂食，神色自若。某医谓是佳兆，与食可也。西医亦云无妨。先生诊其脉沉细欲绝，谓为除中，决其不起。后果然。其母因痛子情切，时时抑郁，于甲子五月身热胸闷，两耳发尖遍体肌肤皆痛，请先生诊视，曰：此气郁化火生风也，并有伏热挟湿挟积。用开郁化湿之品，藿香、佩兰、枳实、槟榔、玉枢、丹石、菖蒲等，一剂而气机畅达，二剂热退积下，再诊诸恙均退，而遍体肉（目闰）。先生曰：古书论肉（目闰）血虚者多，此非也，乃气火流行于肌肤之间耳。仍用解郁清热而愈。
太湖滨乡某年疫疠盛行，请先生诊视，家族邻里以为最危险者，先生药之立愈。有少年病最轻，群以为无虑者，先生一见即断不治。盖见悬晒病者之衣及病人口鼻眼角均有蝇蚋纷集，挥之不去，脏腑先败之征兆，药不可为矣。后果不起。
相国之裔嵇某，蜷卧舌干唇焦，发热不语，脉细欲绝，医用寒凉不应。先生以其踌卧知寒格于外，以附桂等进，至夜半病者暴躁，跃床而起。明晨遂改用白虎汤，病良已后，询知友人，病者私吸阿芙蓉膏，值瘾发，故踌卧云。
书院弄摇车湾童姓妇与夫口角，服火柴头两匣，已服西药呕吐不效。适其夫至先生家，先生藏有金汁一小瓶，嘱其回家灌服，胸中暴躁烦灼顿除，再服绿豆、银花、犀角解毒之品，应手取效。又有洛社某妇服火柴头，先生亦用犀角、人中黄、银花、甘草、绿豆等大剂，肌肤发出红点累累，前方加大黄、丹皮、大青、川连等而愈。
南门外窦仲卿年三十余，甲子秋行房，之明日食面一碗，陡然腹痛脐极收引，汗出如雨，误以为痧也。延针科刺之，屡针无效，三日痛仍如故，汗亦不止。用炒热麸皮熨之，仍不见松，且便泄如蟹沫，诊其脉沉细，舌苔白腻，先生决其为寒也，阳气不足，中下焦阴寒凝结不散。方用醋炒高良姜、酒炒制香附、制附子、煨木香、神曲、郁金、吴萸、炒白芍、法半夏、沉香、老桂木，外用白胡椒、肉桂、麝香少许，研末贴脐，嘱其勿用鹁鸽伤害生命，一剂已。
西门内太平巷某媪年七十三，每值夜半子时，气逆喘促，起坐至天明其气稍平，汗出不止，微咳稍有痰，不得吐。诊脉细软，舌上少苔，其孙问先生曰：此何故耶?曰，子时者阴静阳动之时，高年阴分已亏，阴不敛阳，故气促汗出。仿高鼓峰用六味地黄丸一两五钱，坎气、青铅、小麦、白芍、牡蛎等，同煎服数剂而安。
光复门外王文魁年四十余，面色觥白浮肿，少腹坚硬，气逆喘急，彻夜不寐，咳嗽痰多，两脉沉细，舌质淡白。始用旋覆、代赭、坎气及冬瓜皮、鸡金散等，而喘急如故。先生曰：此系肾阳不足，气不摄纳，脾不温运故也。因用细辛四分、制附子五分、炒枣仁三钱、带皮苓五钱、炒苏子二钱、老桂木四分、青铅一两、制半夏三钱、甜杏仁连皮三钱、枇杷叶去毛三片、沉香三分，服后气喘大平，夜得安卧，面肿亦退，舌质转红，右脉似觉有力，惟咳嗽未止。前方去枣仁、枇杷叶、沉香，加巴戟肉三钱、姜皮七分、坎气一条，三剂喘平肿退。
西门外陈打鼓弄口嘉太米行高君，甲子七月吐泻交作，转筋不止，名曰霍乱。此系清浊不分，挥霍撩乱也。两日后吐泻虽止，不寒独热，胸痞烦躁，频频哕恶，呃忒音底，阳缩溲少而酸臭，神识时清时迷，脉来至数糊小，舌苔中心干黄，两边微润，四肢厥冷，过节汗出如雨，风动抽搐，清阳之气窒痹，暑热浊痰交滞于中，种种叠见，无非险象。兹拟熄风化痰，升清降浊之法，用磨羚羊角五分、石决明二两、川贝母三钱、晚蚕沙荷叶包五钱、藿梗三钱、宣木瓜七钱、柿蒂七个、刀豆子三钱、郁金三钱、枇杷叶去毛五斤、另雄精二分、血珀三分、猪牙皂五厘、制胆星三分、石菖蒲三分，研末，用荷花露二两温热调服。再诊风定神清，呃止汗减，且能安眠，醒后胸闷烦躁如故，四肢虽属转温，有时发冷，午后稍觉倦迷，所吐稠痰如脓，况易动怒，一怒起呃，四肢稍搐，片时即定，脉象右手弦数，左手觉软，舌苔糙黄，体虽丰腴，实则外强中虚，浊痰弥漫三焦，清气不能流利，暑热引动肝火也。病情尚险，风动神糊犹恐不免。再拟熄风化痰，清泄暑热，磨羚羊角四分、至宝丹一粒，二味同荷花露先调服。川雅连、吴萸汤炒一钱、川贝母三钱、天竹黄三钱、柿蒂十个、郁金三钱、竹茹四钱、珍珠母二酣、枳实二钱、海浮石一两、瓜蒌皮五钱、九节菖蒲七分、枇杷叶去毛五斤、西瓜翠衣一两，竹沥二两冲，另煎羊羚角七分，煎一炷香，频频与服。因症急而羚羊角久煎出味，恐不及待，故先服，磨后服煎也。三诊病机已转佳象，脉象大起，舌苔亦化，惟胸脘尚闷，还是痰浊交蒸，清阳之气失于舒展，肺主一身之气，可以通调水道，下输膀胱，肺气热郁，膀胱气化不宣，小溲故不爽利，时欲起坐，胃不和则卧不安也，饮食宜慎。用黄芩黄连泻心汤，复以芳香化浊略参熄风法，川连盐水炒一钱、淡芩二钱、川贝母三钱、石决明二两、玄精石四钱、盐半夏二钱、竹茹三钱、辰滑石七钱、赤猪苓各三钱、竹叶卷心三十片、通草二钱、另犀角尖三分、西月石二分、雄精一分半、石菖蒲三分、郁金三分、血珀三分，研细，用竹沥一两、荷花露一两和匀，温热调服。病势日退，用芳香化浊调理而痊。
徐君渐吉先生侄倩也，甲子中秋后病寒热，骨节疼痛，头昏不止，始服疏散之药，继则壮热胸闷，时时太息，热甚昏糊如醉如痴，终日言语不休。先生曰：此因劳倦乏力，外感邪热，痰热扰乱，蒙闭清阳。方用枇杷叶、郁金、胆星 、枳实、法半夏、海浮石、薄荷、秦艽、竹茹、陈皮、石菖蒲、黑山栀、连翘，另三石丸(即月石、矾石、礞石)一钱。服后至天明神情爽，寒热皆退，下午恣食鸡肉馄饨荤油等物，又见四肢微寒，咳嗽频吐黄痰，再用清肃肺金，清化痰热，如神曲、山查以消鸡面之积而愈。
先生之孙孕七月即生，生后七日顿时不能饮乳，牙龈肿硬，俗谓生黄。延挑黄者刺之，仍如故。时邻人赵姓之仆来诊病，先生偶告之，仆曰：得毋七星黄乎?近喉上腭必有白点，至七粒者不治。若四五粒犹可救，须用银针挑破即愈。邀其至家视上腭，果有白点五粒，用银针刺出恶血，顷刻间照常饮乳矣。世有初生小儿患此者，幸加之意焉。
老棚下茶肆小儿初生十日，两内股及褶衣缝小便红肿去皮，日夜啼哭，不能吮乳。先生曰：此胎火也，与徵毒猢狲疳有别。但芽童不禁受此痛楚，殊为可虑。先生用大黄、川连、银花煎汤与服，另以外科解毒丹加西黄渗之末满一时，小儿安卧如常，且能吮乳，两日全愈。因其效速故录之。
尤童患鸡肫疳，膀胱湿热下注也。滑石、车前子、赤芍、猪苓、广皮、黄柏、川萆薢。书院弄蔡姓妇，未病之前言语稍觉不伦，继则寒热大作，神识昏糊，狂呼有大大蛇来，两手环转，日夜不休，有时大呼三老爷具呈伸冤，两目翳封，甚至裸体奔匿桶中。延医诊之，足加医头与牛黄清心丸、至宝丹，口如龙喷，后请邓君诊视，以为痰火扰乱神明，大黄一两、元明粉五钱，数服无效，险象迭呈。或以为武痴也，不饮不食已五六日矣。其夫惶恐，欲备后事，时先生与蔡姓同居，适家人病，是时在五月，杪市上枇杷已少，先生命购一蒌与食，而分半与蔡姓，蔡妇食之味甘美，屡次索食，其夫又觅得数蒌，日夜与食，病转机，两目之翳亦退。谅系肝木太旺，枇杷属金，能润心肺，兼平肝木，故见效如是。十年后秋间又诊，始病伏邪寒热交作，舌苔浊腻质绛，有旬日矣。用芳香清暑之品，寒热减轻，其人饮食不慎，恣食各物，忽转为癫狂，两目失神，彻夜不寐，喃喃自言，有时谩骂，赤身裸体，不避亲疏。先生诊之曰：此痰火扰乱神明，心神不安也。用马宝一分、濂珠二分、辰砂三分、胆星三分、天竹黄三分、石菖蒲三分，研末，竹沥二两徐徐灌服，一剂神清，癫狂遂已。
光复门外某妇患异疾，每夜恍惚似有人与之交，六年有余矣。四肢乏力，腹中作痛，形神萎悴，据云与夫同寝辄有人击其夫两臀，夫寤后隐隐觉痛，现青色倦怠，七日方已。先生诊之曰：此阳气不足，阴邪乘之，当发越阳气以制阴邪。用当归二钱、青蒿三钱、雷丸三钱、鬼箭羽三钱、木香七分、香附二钱、石菖蒲五分、防风汤炒黄芪三钱，纯阳正气丸钱半，先服。另朱砂三分、雄精二分，研末调服，外用雄精研末涂阴处，并遍洒床帐，是夜又来，离床尺许不敢近，明日复来诊，用扶阳抑阴，遵大易之旨。人参须一钱、辰茯神五钱、青蒿二钱、雷丸三钱、酸枣仁三钱、辰砂拌灯心三尺、鬼箭羽三钱、龙齿四钱、朱砂安神丸三钱、另真獭肝一分、雄精二分、金箔一张，研末服。是夜与一妇人同来，劝解曰：与我银锭若干，则不来矣。病者见其从窗棂更换黑衣而去，从此遂绝。今已气体强壮矣。又乡间一妇亦患此疾，来时觉枕边呼呼有声，且有腥气，贴身冰冷。此系蛇精为祟，亦用前法而愈。
北乡四丫滨某姓，驾舟为业，其子八岁，病温邪咳嗽不扬，神识时糊时清，脉象闷郁，苔绛，延谢医诊治不效。一日其子忽高声曰；何不到城去请沈奉江先生，一剂可愈矣。父讶之曰：此先生不知在何处?子答曰：至崇安寺问讯是耳。吾乃西汉王也，尔家事可以历历言之。备述家事甚悉，合家毛发悚然，来寓请诊，且道其所以然。到乡则龚君锡春先生焉，遂拟辛凉宣泄，兼用至宝丹半粒，果一剂而愈。窃思此童素不相识，而此病未曾诊过，何由知先生之名，此理殊难索解。
西门陈午亭侧室病，先生诊之，脉细而郁，舌苔薄白，神情清楚，骤云余有泪流至颊，视之无也。忽云额上奇痒，忽云心中难过，顷刻不安。先生曰：此因夫亡忧思郁结，神志不宁，有鬼凭之也(即莫枚士《研经言》所云鬼魅之属)。用解郁镇心安神之品略效，不旬日闻人云自缢死矣。仅用腰带系壁间竹上作缢状，足未离地，带未束紧，眼不突舌不出，是月邻居缢死者有五人之多。观此则鬼神之道，不可不信，亦不可偏信也。
陈妇寄寓迎溪桥下，壬戌冬天初寒，大雪霏霏，檐际冰挂尺许，路少行人，陈妇至河边濯物，失足跌入河中，数十分钟载沉载浮，为行人所见，呼众援出，遍体皆是冰块，气息全无。用剪撕去衣服，以腹楞于笆斗底上，稍去积水，其邻居急来请先生。用干姜、附子、桂枝、吴萸大热之剂投之气，复稍回，明晨又去诊视，满口吐血。先生曰：此非服热药之故，系笆斗楞伤所致。仍用大热药频服，稍能米饮，气机条达，面有色泽矣。旬日后来寓诊视，咳嗽气促，先生曰：此受大寒之后，寒嗽病成矣，治之不易。用麻黄、附子、桂枝、细辛等，两剂而愈。年余迁居西门外，六月出收会款，黄昏时又至前堕河处溺死。从可知生死有定数，且有定处，非吾人所得知也，
The eldest daughter-in-law of Zhang Zhongruo from Ximen Zhangxiang was six months pregnant. In summer, she consumed a large amount of watermelon. By September, before the Double Ninth Festival, she experienced alternating chills and fever without profuse sweating. This indicated dampness restraining heat and heat stagnating. She had already taken decoctions for opening and draining, aromatic dispersing, and releasing the exterior, but the condition did not recede. Instead, she developed delirium, internal wind stirring, spasms, syncope, chest tightness, and finger-picking behavior (unconscious picking at clothes and bed). Twenty days later, Mr. [the physician] was consulted. The pulse was wiry and rapid on the left, while the right cun position was weak and unresponsive. The tongue coating was black, sticky, and moist. Her complexion was cyan-gray, speech was slurred with teeth clenched, and her spirit was occasionally confused; when called, her eyes opened slightly, then she seemed to sleep again. Her face was pale and yellowish with slight dental plaque. Mr. [the physician] said: "This is a sign of pathogenic heat being restrained and latent, phlegm-turbidity clouding the orifices, and the pathogen sinking inward. Fortunately, the pulse is not deep and fine. Given the pregnancy, medication is particularly tricky. If we avoid using pathogen-expelling drugs due to concern for the fetus, it may be difficult to preserve her life." The prescription used Gaojia Zi (Semen Luffae Fructus), Zhi Danning (Prepared Arisaema Cum Bile), Shengtoucao (Herba Pogostemonis Cablin), Zhuhuang (Bambusa Textilis Calamus), Chuanbeimu (Fritillariae Cirrhosae Bulbus), Duanshijueming (Concha Haliotidis Calcined), Gouteng (Uncariae Ramulus cum Uncis), Yujin (Curcumae Longae Radix), Huogeng (Stem and Leaf of Agastache rugosa), Sugeng (Stem and Leaf of Perilla frutescens), and Hedi (Peduncle of Nelumbinis Nucifera). Separately, Zhi Danning, Shichangpu (Rhizoma Acori Tatarinowii), Mengshi (Calamine), and Gan Nanxiang (Agarwood) were ground into powder and administered. After taking the medicine, the patient passed flatus, and the chest and diaphragm instantly felt relaxed. Her spirit became clear, no longer appearing sleepy as before. The tongue coating began to transform, and she could handle household affairs slightly. The next day, Cangzhu (Atractylodis Rhizoma), Houpo (Magnoliae Officinalis Cortex), raw and cooked Yimi (Coix Seed), and fresh Peilan (Herba Pogostemonis Cablin) were added. The tongue coating transformed further, though it remained moist with floating black patches, feeling more widespread. Mr. [the physician] believed that although the dampness loosened and heat desired to reach the exterior, it was still restrained by dampness. He increased the dosage of Cangzhu and assisted with aromatic damp-resolving and leaching-dampness agents. The patient's father, who also understood medicine, managed her recuperation until she recovered.
The wife of a worker at Shenxin Cotton Mill in Ximen suffered from chronic Liver Qi stagnation, manifesting as irritability, vomiting, and nausea. Mr. Wang from Nanmen diagnosed it as Qi Ge Syndrome (Qi Obstruction Syndrome) and consulted Mr. [the physician]. Mr. [the physician] said: "This is not Ge Syndrome; it is late-onset latent pathogen with Stomach Fire rushing upward." He prescribed Jiang Chao Chuanlian (Coptidis Rhizoma stir-fried with ginger), Doujuan (Sojae Semen Praeparatum), Huogeng (Stem and Leaf of Agastache rugosa), Heishanzhi (Gardeniae Fructus charred), Lianqiao (Forsythiae Fructus), Zhishi (Aurantii Fructus Immaturus), Zhuru (Bambusa Textilis Caulis), and Lugeng (Reed Rhizome). Vomiting and regurgitation decreased, but chills and fever fluctuated, irritability persisted, the pulse was fine and stagnant, and the epigastrium and abdomen felt board-like hard. Mr. [the physician] attributed this to accumulation obstruction and Qi stagnation, prescribing Sheng Dahuang (Rhei Radix et Rhizoma), Yuanmingfen (Natrii Sulfas), and Hua Binglang (Arecae Semen). After passing black old feces, vomiting stopped and heat subsided. Slightly using herbs to vent the pathogen, she achieved slight sweating and recovered.
Mrs. Tao from Jiangyin Alley suffered from Wet-Warmth disease. Initially treated by Dr. Gong with Caosu (Atractylodis Rhizoma) and Houpo (Magnoliae Officinalis Cortex) drying agents, she took twenty-four doses with no effect. Her spirit was listless, and her breath was faint. Mr. [the physician] examined her: the tongue coating was thick, white, and dry. He said: "This is damage to Stomach Yin. When Yin is damaged, the tongue coating cannot transform." He prescribed one liang of Xian Shihu (Dendrobii Nobile Caulis) to greatly nourish Yin. The tongue coating instantly transformed, and the disease showed signs of recovery. She could eat thin congee and recovered after recuperative treatment.
A rice merchant with bad habits suffered from Summerheat-Dampness. Dr. Gong treated him, repeatedly using drying agents without success, so he consulted Mr. [the physician]. Seeing his emaciated frame, bony appearance, and pale, lusterless complexion, Mr. [the physician] determined that Middle Yang was depleted, causing the turbid and greasy tongue coating to fail to transform. He used Ganjiang (Zingiberis Rhizoma) and other warming agents. The tongue coating gradually transformed, and the efficacy was miraculous.
The great-grandson of Zhou Shimieil ate excessively after illness, with normal expression. A certain doctor considered this a good omen and allowed feeding. Western doctors also said it was harmless. Mr. [the physician] found the pulse deep, fine, and nearly imperceptible, diagnosing it as "Chuzhong" (a critical sign of failing Spleen and Stomach Qi), predicting death. It proved true. His mother, grieving deeply and depressed, developed fever, chest tightness, pain in both ear tips, and body-wide skin pain in May of the Jiazi year. Mr. [the physician] said: "This is Qi stagnation transforming into fire generating wind, accompanied by latent heat, dampness, and accumulation." He used herbs to open depression and resolve dampness, such as Huoxiang (Pogostemonis Herba), Peilan (Pogostemonis Cablinis Herba), Zhishi (Aurantii Fructus Immaturus), Binglang (Arecae Semen), Yushu Dan (Jade Pill), Danshi (Mineral drug), and Changpu (Acori Tatarinowii Rhizoma). After one dose, Qi mechanism flowed freely; after two doses, heat subsided and accumulation descended. On re-examination, all symptoms had receded, but muscle twitching appeared all over the body. Mr. [the physician] said: "Ancient texts often attribute muscle twitching to Blood deficiency, but this is incorrect. It is Qi and Fire circulating between the skin and muscles." He continued with depression-resolving and heat-clearing herbs until she recovered.
In a village by Lake Tai, an epidemic prevailed that year. Mr. [the physician] was consulted. Family and neighbors considered some patients most dangerous, whom he cured immediately with medication. A young boy had the mildest symptoms, which everyone thought was safe, but Mr. [the physician] declared him untreatable upon first sight. He observed flies and mosquitoes swarming around the hanging laundry of the sick person and around the patient's mouth, nose, and eyes, refusing to disperse. This was a sign of prior organ failure, making treatment impossible. The boy indeed died.
Ji, a descendant of a Grand Secretary, lay curled up with a dry tongue and scorched lips, feverish and mute, with a fine, nearly imperceptible pulse. Doctors using cooling herbs failed. Mr. [the physician] noted his curled posture indicated external cold rejection, so he administered Fuzi (Aconiti Lateralis Radix Praeparata) and Rougui (Cinnamomi Cortex). By midnight, the patient became irritable and jumped out of bed. The next morning, Baihu Tang (White Tiger Decoction) was switched to. After recovery, inquiry revealed the patient secretly smoked opium paste, and withdrawal symptoms caused the curled posture.
A woman surnamed Tong from Yaocewan, Shuyuan Nong, quarreled with her husband and swallowed two boxes of match heads. Western medicines induced vomiting without effect. Her husband happened to visit Mr. [the physician], who kept a small bottle of Jinzhi (Gold Juice). He instructed the husband to administer it orally. The chest irritation and burning heat vanished instantly. Subsequently, Lvdou (Phaseoli Semen), Yinhua (Lonicerae Japonicae Flos), and Xijiao (Rhinocerotis Cornu) were used for detoxification, yielding immediate results. Another woman from Luoshe who swallowed match heads was treated similarly with heavy doses of Xijiao (Rhinocerotis Cornu), Renzhonghuang (Hominis Excrement Carbonized), Yinhua (Lonicerae Japonicae Flos), Gancao (Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma), and Lvdou (Phaseoli Semen). Red spots erupted on the skin. Da Huang (Rhei Radix et Rhizoma), Danpi (Moutan Cortex), Daqingye (Isatidis Folium), and Chuanlian (Coptidis Rhizoma) were added to the formula, leading to recovery.
Dou Zhongqing from outside South Gate was in his thirties. In autumn of the Jiazi year, after sexual intercourse, he ate a bowl of noodles and suddenly developed abdominal pain with extreme umbilical contraction, profuse sweating like rain. Mistaken for Sha syndrome, acupuncture was performed repeatedly without effect. After three days, pain and sweating persisted. Hot wheat bran was applied externally without relief, and diarrhea resembling crab foam occurred. The pulse was deep and fine, and the tongue coating was white and greasy. Mr. [the physician] diagnosed Cold syndrome due to Yang Qi insufficiency and Yin-Cold coagulation in the Middle and Lower Jiao. The prescription included Cu Chao Gaoliangjiang (Alpiniae Officinarum Rhizoma stir-fried with vinegar), Jiu Chao Zhi Xiangfu (Cyperi Rhizoma stir-fried with wine), Zhi Fuzi (Aconiti Lateralis Radix Praeparata), Wei Muxiang (Aucklandiae Radix), Shenqu (Massa Medicata Fermentata), Yujin (Curcumae Longae Radix), Wuyu (Evodiae Fructus), Chao Baishao (Paeoniae Radix Alba stir-fried), Fa Banxia (Pinelliae Rhizoma Preparatum), Chenxiang (Aquilariae Lignum Resinatum), and Laogui Mu (Cinnamomi Ramulum). Externally, Baixiang (Piperis Nigrum Fructus), Rougui (Cinnamomi Cortex), and Shexiang (Moschus) were ground and applied to the navel. He advised against killing pigeons. One dose cured him.
An elderly woman from Taipingxiang inside West Gate, aged 73, experienced Qi rebellion and panting every night at Zi hour (11 PM-1 AM), sitting up until dawn when breathing eased. She sweated profusely, had mild cough with scanty sputum unable to expectorate. The pulse was fine and soft, and the tongue had little coating. Her grandson asked the cause. Mr. [the physician] said: "Zi hour is when Yin is quiet and Yang moves. In advanced age, Yin deficiency fails to anchor Yang, causing panting and sweating." Imitating Gao Gugeng, he prescribed Liuwei Dihuang Wan (Six-Ingredient Rehmannia Pill) 1.5 liang, plus Kanqi (Adrenalis Gland), Qingqian (Lead), Xiaomai (Tritici Caput), Baishao (Paeoniae Radix Alba), and Muli (Concha Ostreae), decocted together. Several doses brought peace.
Wang Wenkui from outside Guangfu Gate, aged 40+, had a pale, puffy face, hard lower abdomen, Qi rebellion with panting, insomnia all night, cough with copious sputum. Both pulses were deep and fine, tongue pale. Initially, Xuanfu (Inulae Flos), Daihzhe (Oolithum), Kanqi (Adrenalis Gland), Dongguapi (Benincasae Exocarpium), and Jijin San (Chicken Gizzard Membrane Powder) were used, but panting persisted. Mr. [the physician] said: "This is Kidney Yang insufficiency failing to grasp Qi, and Spleen failing to warm and transport." He prescribed Xixin (Asari Radix et Rhizoma) 4 fen, Zhi Fuzi (Aconiti Lateralis Radix Praeparata) 5 fen, Chao Zaoren (Ziziphi Spinosae Semen stir-fried) 3 qian, Daipi Ling (Poria Cocos with peel) 5 qian, Chao Suzi (Perillae Fructus stir-fried) 2 qian, Laogui Mu (Cinnamomi Ramulum) 4 fen, Qingqian (Lead) 1 liang, Zhi Banxia (Pinelliae Rhizoma Preparatum) 3 qian, Tian Xingren (Pruni Armeniaci Semen with skin) 3 qian, Pipaye (Eriobotryae Folium de-haired) 3 pieces, and Chenxiang (Aquilariae Lignum Resinatum) 3 fen. After administration, panting greatly stabilized, allowing sleep, facial swelling receded, tongue turned red, and the right pulse felt stronger, though cough persisted. Zaoren, Pipaye, and Chenxiang were removed from the previous formula; Bajirou (Morindae Officinalis Radix) 3 qian, Jiangpi (Zingiberis Pericarpium) 7 fen, and Kanqi (Adrenalis Gland) 1 strip were added. Three doses resolved panting and swelling.
Mr. Gao from Jiat Rice Shop outside Ximen, in July of the Jiazi year, suffered simultaneous vomiting and diarrhea with continuous muscle cramps, named Huoluan (Cholera). This was confusion of Clear and Turbid, chaotic vomiting and diarrhea. Two days later, vomiting and diarrhea stopped, but isolated heat remained, with chest fullness, irritability, frequent hiccups, low-tone eructation, penile retraction, scanty sour-smelling urine, and fluctuating consciousness. The pulse was blurred and small, tongue center dry yellow with moist sides, limbs cold, sweating like rain during festivals, wind-stirring convulsions. Clear Yang was obstructed, Summerheat-Turbid Phlegm stagnated internally. Many dangerous signs appeared. The method proposed was extinguishing wind, resolving phlegm, raising Clear, and descending Turbid. Lingyangjiao (Capricornis Cornu) 5 fen, Shijueming (Concha Haliotidis) 2 liang, Chuanbeimu (Fritillariae Cirrhosae Bulbus) 3 qian, Wancansha (Bombyx Batryticatus wrapped in Lotus Leaf) 5 qian, Huogeng (Agastache stem) 3 qian, Xuan Mugua (Chaenomelis Fructus) 7 qian, Shidi (Diospyri Fructus Pedunculus) 7 pieces, Dao Douzi (Canavaliae Semen) 3 qian, Yujin (Curcumae Longae Radix) 3 qian, Pipaye (Eriobotryae Folium de-haired) 5 jin; separately, Xiongjing (Borax) 2 fen, Xuepo (Electuari Amber) 3 fen, Zhuya Zao (Toxicodendron fruit) 5 li, Zhi Danning (Arisaema cum Bile) 3 fen, Shichangpu (Acori Rhizoma) 3 fen, ground into powder, mixed with 2 liang Lotus Dew and taken warm. Re-examination: wind settled, spirit clear, hiccups stopped, sweating reduced, able to sleep. Upon waking, chest fullness and irritability persisted. Limbs warmed but sometimes cold, afternoon fatigue/dizziness, thick pus-like sputum, irritability triggering hiccups and slight limb tremors. Right pulse wiry-rapid, left soft, tongue rough yellow. Though plump, internally deficient. Turbid phlegm filled the Triple Burner, Clear Qi not flowing, Summerheat stirring Liver Fire. Condition still dangerous. Proposed again: extinguish wind, resolve phlegm, clear Summerheat. Lingyangjiao (Capricornis Cornu) 4 fen, Zhibao Dan (Precious Treasure Pill) 1 pill, mixed with Lotus Dew first. Chuan Yalian (Coptidis Rhizoma), Wuyu (Evodiae Fructus stir-fried with Wu Zhu Yu decoction) 1 qian, Chuanbeimu (Fritillariae Cirrhosae Bulbus) 3 qian, Tianzhuhuang (Textilinae Calamus) 3 qian, Shidi (Diospyri Fructus Pedunculus) 10 pieces, Yujin (Curcumae Longae Radix) 3 qian, Zhuru (Bambusa Textilis Caulis) 4 qian, Zhenzhumu (Margarita) 2 qian, Zhishi (Aurantii Fructus Immaturus) 2 qian, Haifushi (Pumex) 1 liang, Gualoupi (Trichosanthis Pericarpium) 5 qian, Jiujie Changpu (Acori Tatarinowii Rhizoma) 7 fen, Pipaye (Eriobotryae Folium de-haired) 5 jin, Xigua Cuiyi (Citrulli Lanati Exocarpium) 1 liang, Zhuli (Bambusa Textilis Caulis juice) 2 liang沖, Lingyangjiao (Capricornis Cornu) 7 fen decocted for one incense stick time, taken frequently. Due to urgency, powdered Lingyangjiao was taken first before decoction. Third examination: condition improved, pulse rose, tongue coating transformed, but chest/epigastrium still full due to phlegm-heat steaming, Clear Qi not expanding. Lung governs Qi and water passages; Lung heat stagnation prevents Bladder Qi transformation, causing difficult urination and restlessness. "Stomach disharmony leads to restless sleep." Diet should be cautious. Huangqin Huanglian Xiexin Tang (Scutellariae Rhizoma and Coptidis Rhizoma Heart-Draining Decoction) used, combined with aromatic turbidity-resolving and slight wind-extinguishing methods. Chuanlian (Coptidis Rhizoma salt-fried) 1 qian, Dan Qin (Scutellariae Radix) 2 qian, Chuanbeimu (Fritillariae Cirrhosae Bulbus) 3 qian, Shijueming (Concha Haliotidis) 2 liang, Xuanjingshi (Nephrite) 4 qian, Yan Banxia (Pinelliae Rhizoma salt-prepared) 2 qian, Zhuru (Bambusa Textilis Caulis) 3 qian, Chen Huashi (Talcum) 7 qian, Chi Zhuling (Polyporus with red color) each 3 qian, Zhuye Juanxin (Bambusa Textilis Folium rolled heart) 30 pieces, Tongcao (Tetrapanacis Medulla) 2 qian; separately, Xijiao Jian (Rhinocerotis Cornu tip) 3 fen, Xiyueshi (Natrii Sulfas) 2 fen, Xiongjing (Borax) 1.5 fen, Shichangpu (Acori Rhizoma) 3 fen, Yujin (Curcumae Longae Radix) 3 fen, Xuepo (Electuari Amber) 3 fen, ground fine, mixed with 1 liang Zhuli (Bambusa Textilis Caulis juice) and 1 liang Helu (Lotus Dew), taken warm. Disease receded daily, recovering with aromatic turbidity-resolving recuperation.
Mr. Xu Jianji's nephew-in-law suffered chills and fever, joint pain, and persistent dizziness after Mid-Autumn Festival of the Jiazi year. Initial dispersing herbs failed, followed by high fever, chest tightness, frequent sighing, severe heat causing drunken-like confusion, and incessant talking. Mr. [the physician] said: "Due to fatigue and weakness, external pathogenic heat invaded, Phlegm-Heat disturbed, clouding Clear Yang." Prescription: Pipaye (Eriobotryae Folium), Yujin (Curcumae Longae Radix), Danning (Arisaema cum Bile), Zhishi (Aurantii Fructus Immaturus), Fa Banxia (Pinelliae Rhizoma Preparatum), Haifushi (Pumex), Bohe (Menthae Haplocalycis Herba), Qinjiao (Gentiana Macrophyllae Radix), Zhuru (Bambusa Textilis Caulis), Chenpi (Citri Reticulatae Pericarpium), Shichangpu (Acori Tatarinowii Rhizoma), Heishanzhi (Gardeniae Fructus charred), Lianqiao (Forsythiae Fructus); separately, Sanshi Wan (Three Stones Pill: Yueshi, Fanshi, Mengshi) 1 qian. By dawn, spirit refreshed, chills and fever resolved. In the afternoon, he greedily ate chicken wontons and animal fat, leading to slightly cold limbs, frequent cough with yellow sputum. Clearing Lung Metal and Phlegm-Heat with Shenqu (Massa Medicata Fermentata) and Shanzha (Crataegi Fructus) to digest food accumulation led to recovery.
Mr.'s grandson was born at seven months gestation. Seven days postpartum, he could not suckle, gums swollen and hard, known as "Shenghuang" (Neonatal Jaundice/Yellowing). Pricking treatment failed. Neighbor Zhao's servant, visiting for illness, mentioned "Qixinghuang" (Seven-Star Yellow), noting white spots near the throat/palate. Seven spots meant incurable; four or five were treatable by pricking with silver needle. Inspection confirmed five white spots. Pricking released evil blood, and normal suckling resumed immediately. Attention is urged for newborns with this condition.
A ten-day-old infant at Laopengxia teahouse had swollen, red, peeled skin on inner thighs and clothing folds, crying day and night, unable to suckle. Mr. [the physician] said: "This is Fetal Fire, distinct from toxic monkey rickets." Considering the infant cannot endure pain, he prescribed Dahuang (Rhei Radix et Rhizoma), Chuanlian (Coptidis Rhizoma), and Yinhua (Lonicerae Japonicae Flos) decoction orally, plus Waike Jiedu Dan (External Medicine Detoxification Pill) mixed with Xihuang (Bovis Calculus) applied for one hour. The infant slept peacefully, suckled, and recovered fully in two days. Recorded for its speed.
You Tong suffered "Jizhun Gan" (Chicken Gizzard Malnutrition), caused by Damp-Heat pouring downward from the Bladder. Prescription: Huashi (Talcum), Cheqianzi (Plantaginis Semen), Chishao (Paeoniae Radix Rubra), Zhuling (Polyporus), Guangpi (Citri Reticulatae Pericarpium), Huangbai (Phellodendri Cortex), Chuanbixie (Smilacis Glabrae Rhizoma).
Mrs. Cai from Shuyuan Nong spoke incoherently before illness, then developed severe chills and fever, confusion, screaming about a large snake, rotating hands day and night, shouting for the Third Master to file a complaint, eyes covered with film, even running naked hiding in barrels. Doctors used Niuhuang Qingxin Wan (Cow-bezoar Heart-Clearing Pill) and Zhibao Dan (Precious Treasure Pill) with dragon-spray mouthwash. Dr. Deng diagnosed Phlegm-Fire disturbing Spirit, prescribed Dahuang (Rhei Radix et Rhizoma) 1 liang, Yuanmingfen (Natrii Sulfas) 5 qian, ineffective, danger signs multiplied. Some thought it martial madness; no food/water for 5-6 days. Husband prepared funeral arrangements. Mr. [the physician], living nearby, bought a loquat for his own family illness in May, gave half to Mrs. Cai. She liked the taste, requested more. Husband found more, fed her day and night. Condition improved, eye film receded. Likely Liver Wood too strong; Loquat (Metal) moistens Lung/Heart and calms Liver. Ten years later, autumn re-examination: latent pathogen chills/fever, turbid greasy crimson tongue for ten days. Aromatic Summerheat-clearing reduced symptoms. Dietary indiscretion led to sudden mania, vacant eyes, insomnia, muttering, cursing, nakedness ignoring propriety. Mr. [the physician] diagnosed Phlegm-Fire disturbing Spirit. Ma Bao (Equine Bezoar) 1 fen, Lianzhu (Pearl) 2 fen, Chensha (Cinnabar) 3 fen, Danning (Arisaema cum Bile) 3 fen, Tianzhuhuang (Textilinae Calamus) 3 fen, Shichangpu (Acori Rhizoma) 3 fen, ground, mixed with 2 liang Zhuli (Bambusa Textilis Caulis juice), slowly administered. One dose cleared spirit, mania ceased.
A woman from outside Guangfu Gate suffered a strange ailment for over six years: nightly hallucinations of sexual intercourse. Weak limbs, abdominal pain, withered form/spirit. Claimed someone hit her husband's buttocks during sleep, leaving bruises lasting seven days. Mr. [the physician] diagnosed Yang insufficiency allowing Yin Evil invasion, requiring Yang expansion to control Yin. Danggui (Angelicae Sinensis Radix) 2 qian, Qinghao (Artemisiae Annuae Herba) 3 qian, Leiwan (Wormia) 3 qian, Guijianyu (Euodi Ramulus Uncinatus) 3 qian, Muxiang (Aucklandiae Radix) 7 fen, Xiangfu (Cyperi Rhizoma) 2 qian, Shichangpu (Acori Rhizoma) 5 fen, Fangfeng (Saposhnikoviae Radix) stir-fried with Huangqi (Astragali Radix) 3 qian, Chunyang Zhengqi Wan (Pure Yang Upright Qi Pill) 1.5 qian taken first. Separately, Zhusha (Cinnabar) 3 fen, Xiongjing (Borax) 2 fen, ground, taken. Externally, Xiongjing powder applied to genitals and sprinkled on bed curtains. The entity returned but stayed a foot away. Next day, Fu Yang Yi Yin (Support Yang Suppress Yin) method per Great Changes principles: Renshen Xu (Ginseng Radix et Rhizoma tendril) 1 qian, Chen Fushen (Polyporus with Cinnabar) 5 qian, Qinghao (Artemisiae Annuae Herba) 2 qian, Leiwan (Wormia) 3 qian, Suanzaoren (Ziziphi Spinosae Semen) 3 qian, Zhusha Ban Dengxin (Cinnabar-coated Juncus Effusus) 3 chi, Guijianyu (Euodi Ramulus Uncinatus) 3 qian, Longchi (Os Draconis) 4 qian, Zhusha Anshen Wan (Cinnabar Calming Spirit Pill) 3 qian; separately, Zhen Ta Gan (True Otter Liver) 1 fen, Xiongjing (Borax) 2 fen, Jinbo (Gold Foil) 1 sheet, ground, taken. That night, a woman appeared asking for silver coins to leave. Patient saw her change into black clothes through window and depart. Never returned. Now healthy. Another rural woman with similar symptoms (snoring sound, fishy smell, cold pillow) attributed to Snake Spirit, cured by same method.
A boatman's son in Beixiang Siyabin, aged 8, suffered Warm-Evil cough, fluctuating consciousness, stifled pulse, crimson tongue. Dr. Xie failed. Suddenly, the boy shouted: "Why not invite Mr. Shen Fengjiang from the city? One dose will cure!" Father surprised, asked where he was. Boy replied: "Ask at Chong'an Temple. I am a Western Han King, can recount your family history." Detailed family secrets, terrifying the family. They invited Mr. [the physician] to consult. Arriving in village, they met Gong Xichun. Prescribed Xinliang Xuanxie (Acrid-Cool Ventilation) with half a Zhibao Dan (Precious Treasure Pill). Indeed cured in one dose. Puzzling how the child knew Mr. [the physician]'s name without prior contact.
Side consort of Chen Wuting in Ximen, pulse fine and stagnant, thin white coating, clear spirit. Suddenly claimed tears flowed to cheeks (none visible). Complained of forehead itching, heart distress, restlessness. Mr. [the physician] said: "Due to grief over husband's death, worry/thought stagnation, spirit unsettled, possessed by ghosts (as described in Mo Meishi's 'Yanjing Yan')." Depression-resolving, heart-calming, spirit-anchoring herbs provided slight effect. Within ten days, news came she hanged herself. Used only a belt tied to bamboo on wall, feet off ground, belt loose, eyes/tongue normal. Five neighbors hanged that month. Ghosts/Gods: do not disbelieve, but do not blindly believe.
Mrs. Chen lodging under Yingxi Bridge, early winter of Renxu year, heavy snow, icicles. Washing by river, fell in, sank/floated for tens of minutes, rescued by passersby. Body covered in ice, no breath. Clothes cut off, abdomen pressed on bamboo basket bottom to drain water. Neighbor summoned Mr. [the physician]. Ganjiang (Zingiberis Rhizoma), Fuzi (Aconiti Lateralis Radix Praeparata), Guizhi (Cinnamomi Ramulum), Wuyu (Evodiae Fructus) strong heating agents restored slight breath. Next morning, massive hematemesis. Mr. [the physician] said: "Not due to hot medicine, but injury from bamboo basket." Continued strong heating agents. Able to take rice drink, Qi flow smoothed, complexion returned. Ten days later, cough and panting. Mr. [the physician] said: "Cold cough formed after severe cold, hard to treat." Mahuang (Ephedrae Herba), Fuzi (Aconiti Lateralis Radix Praeparata), Guizhi (Cinnamomi Ramulum), Xixin (Asari Radix et Rhizoma) cured in two doses. Over a year later, moved outside West Gate. June, went to collect funds, drowned at same river spot at dusk. Life/death have fixed destiny and place, unknown to humans.