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(Fupenzi, *Rubus chingii* Fruit) Sweet in taste, neutral in nature, non-toxic. Primarily benefits qi, lightens the body, and prevents hair from turning white. Harvested in May.

(Dazao, *Jujubae Fructus*) Sweet in taste, neutral in nature, non-toxic. Primarily expels evil qi from the heart and abdomen, stabilizes the middle jiao, nourishes the spleen, assists the twelve meridians, harmonizes stomach qi, unblocks the nine orifices, supplements deficiency of qi and fluids, treats constitutional weakness, severe fright, heaviness of the four limbs, and harmonizes various herbs. It tonifies the middle and benefits qi, strengthens physical power, eliminates irritability, and treats epigastric hanging pain and intestinal dysentery (Changpi). Long-term consumption lightens the body, prolongs life, prevents hunger, and is akin to immortality. Also known as Gan Zao (Dried Jujube), Mei Zao (Beautiful Jujube), and Liang Zao (Good Jujube). Harvested in August and sun-dried.

When calcined (burnt to charcoal), it becomes bitter in taste and primarily treats abdominal pain and evil qi.

Dazao is sweet and pungent; excessive consumption causes abdominal distension and predisposes one to alternating cold and heat syndromes; emaciated individuals should avoid consuming it.

(Mahuang, *Ephedrae Herba*) Pungent and slightly bitter, possesses strong diaphoretic properties, growing in the plains and marshes of Hedong.

(Lianzi, *Nelumbinis Semen*) Sweet in taste, neutral and cool in nature, non-toxic. Primarily tonifies the middle jiao, nourishes the spirit, benefits qi and strength, and eliminates myriad diseases. Long-term consumption lightens the body, enhances resistance to aging, prevents hunger, and prolongs longevity. Also known as Shui Zhi Dan (Water Lotus Pill) and Lian (Lotus). Grows in the ponds and marshes of Runan; harvested in August.

(Qianshi, *Euryales Semen*) Sweet in taste, neutral in nature, non-toxic. Primarily treats damp-bi syndrome, pain in the lower back, spine, and knees, tonifies the middle jiao, eliminates acute diseases, benefits essence and qi, strengthens willpower, and clarifies the ears and eyes. Long-term consumption lightens the body, prevents hunger, enhances resistance to aging, and is akin to immortality. Also known as Yan Hui Shi (Goose Beak Seed) and Qian. Grows in the ponds and marshes of Leize; harvested in August.

(Lingjiao, *Trapa Natans Fruit*) Sweet in taste, neutral in nature, non-toxic. Primarily stabilizes the middle jiao, tonifies the five zang organs, prevents hunger, and lightens the body. Also known as Ling.

(Shanyao, *Dioscoreae Rhizoma*) Salty in taste, warm in nature, non-toxic. Primarily benefits qi, thickens the intestines and stomach, tonifies kidney qi, and enables endurance of hunger. Grows on the shady slopes of mountains; harvested in September.

(Gouqi/Wuzaoyu etc., unnamed in text) Sweet in taste. Primarily harmonizes the middle jiao, benefits spleen qi, improves complexion, and elevates one's aspirations.

(Wumei etc., unnamed in text) Sour in taste, neutral in nature, non-toxic. Primarily directs qi downward, eliminates irritability and fullness, calms the mind, treats limb pain, hemiplegia with numbness, necrotic tissue, removes dark pigmented nevi, treats malignant diseases, stops diarrhea, and regulates excessive salivation or dry mouth. Grows in the valleys of Hanzhong; harvested in May and dried by fire.

(Huanglian etc., unnamed in text) Bitter in taste, neutral in nature, non-toxic. Primarily treats sudden onset of bleeding that does not stop and directs qi downward.

(Xinyi etc., unnamed in text) Sweet in taste, cold in nature, non-toxic. Primarily unblocks qi in the nose and ears and treats insufficiency of intestinal fluids.

(Wuzhuyu etc., unnamed in text) Sour in taste, warm in nature, non-toxic. Primarily treats damp-bi syndrome, evil qi, cholera-like disease (Huoluan), severe vomiting and diarrhea, and persistent muscle cramps (Zhuanjin). Its branches: can also be used for decoction.