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(Recorded in the *Shennong Bencao Jing* as a Superior Grade herb)
The characteristic of Shengma is to ascend upwards, symbolizing the rising of future vitality; Zhenqi (True Qi) symbolizes the descending of successful storage.

[Flavor and Nature] Bitter, neutral, slightly cold, non-toxic.

[Indications] Primarily resolves various toxins, kills hundred spirits, old objects, and malevolent ghosts, wards off epidemics and miasmas, dispels pathogenic qi, gu poison; any toxic substance entering the mouth will be vomited out; treats sudden evil abdominal pain, seasonal toxic plagues, headache, alternating chills and fever, wind-induced swelling, various toxic conditions, sore throat, and mouth pain. Long-term consumption prevents premature death, lightens the body, and prolongs life.

[Verification] It is stated: Shengma grows in Shuhan, Shaanxi, and Huainan commanderies, with those from Sichuan being the best. Sprouts emerge in spring, reaching three chi in height. The leaves resemble hemp leaves and are green. Flowers appear in April, resembling millet grains, with white spikes. Black fruits mature in June. The root resembles mugwort, with many fibrous roots, appearing purple-black. Those that are small, fine, and extremely hard, turning green after peeling, are called "Jigu Shengma" (Chicken Bone Shengma), possessing superior efficacy. Those that are hollow, large, and yellowish-white are unsuitable for use. Another variety is black on the outside and white inside, firm in texture, called "Guilian Shengma" (Ghost Face Shengma). A variety from Songshan is purely green and also hard, but its efficacy is not as potent as the green Shengma from Sichuan. Another root, *Astilbe chinensis*, resembles it in shape but differs in color; people now call it "Xiao Shengma" (Small Shengma), which can also resolve toxins. Its leaves boiled in water for bathing children treat fright and convulsions. Other herbs differ in potency and size, so they must not be confused. Processing method: Scrape off the rough skin, soak overnight in the natural juice of Huangjing (*Polygonatum sibiricum*), sun-dry, cut into pieces, steam, then sun-dry again for use.

My ancestors said: The mechanism of Qi in the human body ascends outward and descends inward, forming one cycle. If it can ascend properly, the Qi mechanism will flow without obstruction. It is also said: When the generating Yang Qi flourishes, evil Yin naturally perishes. "Substances entering the mouth are vomited out" is an external manifestation of this action. It is further said: Continuous ascending leads to longevity; using lifting methods for sinking conditions makes it a key herb. Extracting the subtle essence from turbidity and dispersion, it truly acts as a pivot-regulating formula. However, upward movement requires True Qi as a foundation; otherwise, it is like boiling rice porridge without rice (futile effort). It is also said: Lei Gong's processing method involves soaking in Huangjing juice overnight, which constitutes refining the self and building the foundation, greatly benefiting both substance and function, providing a basis for the ascending power of the herb.

[Discussion] It is stated: Ascension is the precursor of the four seasons' climate changes and the primary omen of the solar terms. The Classics state: "The three months of spring are called Fa Chen (releasing the old to make way for the new)," referring to this principle. Without the descending of successful storage, there would be no ascending of future generation. As stated, softness ascends according to time, accumulating smallness to achieve greatness; this is indeed not comparable to sudden abrupt changes. Therefore, "ten yue" is called Sheng (ascend), representing the measure of climbing; "Da" is called Ma (hemp), representing the leader of Yin. Thus, allowing ascent, heaven and earth grow together, and all things flourish. Nourishing rather than killing, giving rather than taking, rewarding rather than punishing—this corresponds to the Spring Qi and is the Way of nourishing life. It treats various diseases and their transformations, ascending silently during evening rest. Its function reveals brightness through obscurity, remaining beneficial to unceasing rectitude.

(The world regards sudden enlightenment as ascending, whereas here ascending is viewed as gradual progress; sudden and gradual paths differ, each requiring personal realization. Shengma is born from the clear Yang Qi of Heaven and Earth, thus capable of raising Yang Qi...)