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The method of "Ya Nue" (suppressing malaria through psychological suggestion or ritual) is widely circulated and used in secular practice today. However, its efficacy varies; some cases are effective while others are not, leading people to often doubt it. Yet, the reasons behind these differing outcomes possess definite subtleties that have never been known before.

Generally, malaria arises from the struggle between pathogenic factors (Xie) and healthy qi (Zheng). When the infection is superficial, it constitutes a disease of the Shaoyang Gallbladder Meridian (Shaoyang Dan Jing Bing - a syndrome involving the Shaoyang channel characterized by alternating chills and fever). Since the pathogen is not severe, the pathogen and healthy qi contend for supremacy. At this stage, the situation resembles the standoff between Chu and Han forces; whichever side receives assistance will prevail. Therefore, any object can be used for "Ya" (suppression). As long as the patient follows the procedure without understanding the mechanism, they will rely on the perceived external support, causing their Gallbladder Qi (Dan Qi - governing courage and decision-making) to strengthen slightly, thereby defeating the pathogen. This aligns with the principle of "Yi Jing Bian Qi" (Shifting Spirit and Transforming Qi - altering mental focus to change physiological state) found in the *Neijing* (Inner Canon).

However, this method is only applicable when the pathogen and healthy qi are evenly matched, allowing a slight boost to tip the balance toward health. If the pathogen is strong and the body weak, making the situation uncontrollable, "Ya Nue" is useless. Thus, "Ya Nue" is suitable only for mild pathogens causing daily attacks, but ineffective for deep-seated pathogens causing every-other-day attacks. This is determined by natural laws and trends, requiring no confusion.

Regarding methods to "Jie Nue" (intercept/cut off malaria), although formulas exist, there is no single formula that guarantees effectiveness. Based on my insights and clinical experience, interception is not always necessary. Generally, if pathogens are present, removing them leads to recovery. Once the pathogen is dispersed thoroughly and exterior-releasing treatments have passed, one should merely consolidate and restore Yuan Qi (Primary Qi - the fundamental vital energy). By appropriately balancing attack (dispersing pathogens) and tonification (supporting healthy qi) during the interaction of pathogen and healthy qi, self-healing occurs naturally; this represents the best approach to intercepting malaria. While specific anti-malarial formulas should not be rigidly applied, they should not be absent either. Variations in efficacy among individuals arise because everyone's Qi, Blood, Yin, and Yang differ. Therefore, when using interceptive drugs, one must assess the patient's constitution to adjust usage accordingly. Only mild cases are easily intercepted; severe cases are difficult. The following formulas are recorded for reference:

- **Chanshan Yin** (Cordyceps/Mountain Herb Decoction): Suitable for those with strong Qi and Blood.
- **Jiemai Yin** (Malaria Intercepting Decoction): Suitable for those with insufficient Qi.
- **Niuxi Jian** (Achyranthes Decoction): Suitable for those with insufficient Blood.
- **Jiemai Dan** (Malaria Intercepting Pill): Suitable for epidemic diseases accompanied by dampness.
- **Muzei Jian** (Equisetum Decoction): Suitable for cases with damp-phlegm and excess pathogenic factors.
- **Heren Yin** (Mr. He Decoction) and **Xiumai Yin** (Malaria Resting Decoction): Suitable for those with severe Qi and Blood deficiency seeking rapid relief.
- **Xiao Chaihu Tang** (Minor Bupleurum Decoction) added with 2 qian of **Chanshan** (Dichroa Root): Highly effective for intercepting malaria.
- **Zhuimai Yin** (Malaria Pursuing Decoction): Most effective for those whose Qi and Blood are not yet depleted, or after multiple dispersing treatments.

Zhu Danxi stated: After several attacks, it is advisable to intercept and eliminate the pathogen promptly. Delaying causes middle-Jiao Qi deficiency, driving the pathogen deeper and making treatment difficult. Drugs like Pidans (Arsenic Pills) used for interception are highly toxic and should not be used lightly. Chanshan has a violent and aggressive nature; while good at expelling pathogens, it damages true Qi. It should not be used for patients who are slightly weak or timid.

Yang Renzhai stated: If the patient is constitutionally weak, one must strictly avoid using Chanshan and similar drugs.

Xue Lizhai stated: If the disease momentum is intense, during the first one or two attacks, one should not hastily intercept, lest the pathogen remain and healthy Qi be damaged. If Stomach Qi is weak, using cold-natured drugs to stop the malaria will further damage the Spleen and Stomach, leading to lingering illness. Without nourishing Yuan Qi, recovery is impossible. I often see patients consuming raw or cold foods; their symptoms may temporarily subside, but this usually results in Spleen deficiency and Stomach damage, making the condition harder to treat. If acid regurgitation or sour taste in the mouth occurs, diet should be regulated. During periodic flare-ups, even if extreme thirst exists, only warm Ginger Tea should be consumed hot; this is also an excellent method for intercepting malaria. For those wishing to intercept malaria where both Qi and Blood are deficient, decocting and administering 1 liang each of **Renshen** (Ginseng Root) and **Shengjiang** (Fresh Ginger Rhizome) can stop attacks immediately. This is effective regardless of whether the disease is new or chronic.