Library

Puhuang (Lygodii Spora): Sweet, slightly cold, non-toxic. When used, remove the veins, sift out the coarse fibers, and use only the powder.
*Shennong Bencao Jing* states it treats cold-heat in the heart, abdomen, and bladder, promotes urination, stops bleeding, and resolves blood stasis.
[Invention] Puhuang is a herb for the blood aspect of the Hand and Foot Jueyin meridians. Therefore, it can treat blood disorders and pain. The statement in *Shennong Bencao Jing* regarding the treatment of cold-heat in the heart, abdomen, and bladder is indeed due to blood accumulation in these areas, causing disharmony of Ying (Nutritive) and Wei (Defensive) Qi. It also states that it stops bleeding and resolves stasis because raw Puhuang promotes blood circulation, while processed Puhuang stops bleeding. When used together with Wulingzhi (Trogopteri Dung), it is named Shixiao San (Laughter Powder), which treats all kinds of heart and abdominal pain. It can break up blood stasis accumulations, dissipate carbuncles and swellings, and relieve postpartum abdominal pain caused by retained fetal remnants (Erzhen Tong). However, individuals with deficient Stomach Qi will vomit upon ingestion and suffer diarrhea after swallowing, due to the turbid and foul nature of Wulingzhi. Emperor Duzong of Song once suddenly experienced tongue swelling filling his mouth; he was cured by applying a mixture of powdered Puhuang and Ganjiang (Dried Ginger) directly to the area. This utilized the cooling and blood-invigorating properties of Puhuang and the ability of Ganjiang to draw fire outward, deeply embodying the subtle application of combining contrary and compliant treatments. Nevertheless, swelling and pain at the root of the tongue may also belong to Yin deficiency with hyperactive Fire. Misusing the aforementioned method would further damage body fluids, often leading to increased dryness and stiffness, so careful examination is indispensable.

Kugao (Bitter Grass): Bitter, warm, non-toxic.
[Invention] Kugao has an aromatic and penetrating scent, entering the Foot Jueyin Liver Meridian, regulating blood within the Qi aspect. Decocted and taken after childbirth, it expels lochia (Elu). However, its bitter taste damages Stomach Qi, and its penetrating Qi movement harms the brain. For those with delicate constitutions accustomed to rich foods, taking it reduces appetite and causes diarrhea; excessive consumption leads to frequent headaches (Toufeng) in later years. In the past, people feared multiple births and used three qian of Kugao seedlings, prepared with Qu wine after menstruation, to prevent conception, revealing its blood-damaging nature. Decoction treats leukorrhea in women. It is also used to treat yellow complexion and weakness caused by excessive consumption of strong tea: grind into powder, mix with roasted sesame seeds, and chew occasionally.

Fuping (Mare's Tail / Floating Duckweed): Pungent, cold, non-toxic. Those floating on the water surface, small in size with purple backs are authentic.
*Shennong Bencao Jing* states it treats sudden fever with body itching, promotes water metabolism more effectively than wine, promotes hair growth, and stops Xiao Ke (Wasting and Thirsting syndrome).
[Invention] Fuping’s diaphoretic effect surpasses that of Mahuang (Ephedrae Herba), and its diuretic action is faster than Tongcao (Akebiae Caulis). For severe diseases like Leprosy covering the whole body, thick decoction baths for half a day are often effective. Its nature is light and floating, entering the Lung Meridian and reaching the skin, thus able to disperse pathogenic sweat. The statement in *Shennong Bencao Jing* regarding treating sudden fever and itching specifically disperses Wind-Heat from the muscle layer. Promoting water metabolism involves unblocking the flesh layers of the Yangming Meridian. Overcoming alcohol toxicity occurs because Yangming Meridian patency allows for the removal of alcohol toxins. Promoting hair growth happens because hair follicles become open and blood vessels flourish. Stopping Xiao Ke occurs because meridian Qi harmonizes and body fluids restore. Fuping is a specialized herb for dispelling Wind. "Qufeng Dan" uses powdered Zibei Fuping (Purple-backed Floating Duckweed), formed into pills the size of bullet seeds with honey, taken one pill with Doulin Wine (wine soaked with soybeans). It is effective for severe Wind-Leprosy, all excess syndromes, Wind-Damp Bi syndrome affecting the legs, and thirty-six types of Wind disorders. However, for those with originally deficient Yuan Qi, taking it invariably worsens the condition. For individuals with exterior deficiency and spontaneous sweating, it is particularly harmful, akin to being attacked by halberds.