Library

The method of wiping the mouth must use *Yanzhi* (Cochineal), cleaning it thoroughly to prevent oral diseases. Ancient texts say to remove impurities before the infant cries, merely because they failed to investigate the truth within.

[Note] When an infant is first born, one must wrap a soft cotton cloth around a finger to wipe clean any unclean substances in the mouth. Then, dip *Yanzhi* (Cochineal) in tea water and rub the inside of the lips, tongue, teeth, and cheeks. This will prevent all kinds of oral diseases! The ancient saying "remove foul blood before the infant cries" stems from the ancients' lack of detailed observation. Generally, while the fetus is in the amniotic sac, it nourishes itself via the umbilical cord. The interior of the sac contains only ethereal vital qi, undergoing growth and transformation, without actual blood vessels. Where would the blood in the infant's mouth come from? This theory is absurd and should not be taken as a standard.

The method using *Gancao* (Licorice Root) has been praised since ancient times for its ability to resolve various toxins with a neutral flavor. Decoct it strongly and let the infant suck on it frequently to prevent fetal toxins from accumulating in the abdomen.

[Note] *Gancao* (Licorice Root) is sweet in taste and neutral in nature; it harmonizes the five Zang organs and is a herb that resolves hundreds of toxins. It can be used in all four seasons and is suitable for both deficiency and excess patterns. Take a segment of *Gancao* (Licorice Root) about the length of one middle finger joint, decoct it in water until strong. Wrap cotton around a finger, dip it in the liquid, and let the infant suck on it; the toxin will naturally resolve.

If the constitution predisposes one to fetal heat accumulating in the middle, the method using *Huanglian* (Coptis Rhizome) is most effective. Soak it in water to extract a strong juice and drip it into the mouth; with the passage of meconium, the fetal toxin is cleared.

[Note] *Huanglian* (Coptis Rhizome) is a key herb for clearing heat and resolving toxicity. Whenever an infant exhibits signs of fetal heat during summer or any season, fearing that heat accumulation in the middle may cause other illnesses, this herb is appropriate. Take several pieces of *Huanglian* (Coptis Rhizome), crush them, soak them in hot water to extract the juice, and drip it into the infant's mouth occasionally. Continue until the meconium is passed, at which point the toxin will naturally resolve.

*Cinnabar* mixed with honey calms the spirit and benefits the intestines and stomach; it is highly effective in clearing heat and preventing convulsions. It is applicable for fetal heat and constipation, but should be used with caution in infants with weak constitutions.

[Note] *Zhusha* (Cinnabar) settles the heart and calms fright, and also dispels evil pathogens. *Fengmi* (Honey) resolves toxicity and moistens the intestines, and further clears heat. One settles, the other moistens; their efficacy is extraordinary. For cases of fetal heat and constipation, it can be used in all four seasons. Take an amount the size of a soybean, grind it finely, process it by water flotation (*shui fei*), mix with refined honey, and administer best when dissolved in breast milk. However, it is not suitable for infants with extremely weak fetal endowment.

For infants with weak constitutions, the method using *Douchi* (Fermented Soybean) is best for venting fetal toxins. Even if the infant is born in winter, this method is suitable: decoct a strong juice and let the infant sip it like milk.

[Note] *Dan Douchi* (Lightly Fermented Soybean) is a light, fermented herb that vents and releases. For infants with weak constitutions, or those needing to resolve fetal toxins in winter, simply decoct this herb into a strong juice and give the infant three or five sips; the toxin will naturally disperse.