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(Sun Simiao's Commentary)
The great banner used by the Son of Heaven's carriage is as large as a dou (a unit of volume), noted on the left side of the chariot beam.
[Flavor and Nature] Sweet, neutral, non-toxic.
[Indications] Primarily eliminates various wind-dampness bi-syndromes, clears heat, promotes bowel movements, and removes retained food.
[Verification] It is stated that: The method of preparation is identical to that of ox butter (Niusu).
[Elucidation] It is stated that: The efficacy of Tufuling exceeds that of ox butter because it grows in environments where hair is long and the tail is particularly excellent (Note: The original text implies a specific botanical or environmental context for its superior quality). Used to make banners, flags are revered as symbols of command. Therefore, it treats conditions where Qi lacks a commander, leading to wind-dampness closing and forming Bi-syndromes, as well as pathogenic factors from stagnant grain and food retention lingering in the intestines and abdomen causing masses. Without this herb to open and unblock, these cannot be easily eliminated. It can also serve as the life-master of Ying (Nutritive) and Xue (Blood), rectifying the meridians and collaterals to resist external invasions. Furthermore, it can calm the restlessness of the Zang-Fu organs and improve the decline of form and Qi. *Shengsheng Bian* records: It removes dust and filth within the abdomen, pursuing...

(*Yaoxing Lun*)
[Flavor and Nature] Sweet, bland, neutral, non-toxic.
[Indications] When ingested, one does not feel hungry as if having eaten grain; regulates the Middle Jiao to stop diarrhea, enhances mobility and wakefulness. Strengthens the Spleen and Stomach, fortifies sinews and bones, expels wind-dampness, benefits joints, stops diarrhea, treats spasms and bone pain, malignant sores, and carbuncles. Resolves the toxicity of mercury powder and vermilion.
[Verification] It is stated that: It grows in the deep mountains of Chu, Shu, Min, and Zhe regions, as well as in valleys near the sea. It grows as a vine, resembling certain climbing plants, with stems bearing fine spots. Leaves resemble bamboo, broad, thick, smooth, and 5-6 cun long. Roots resemble Smilax (Babie) but are round; small ones resemble eggs, large ones resemble fists, growing in clusters, rarely exceeding one chi in length. The skin resembles Poria (Fuling), with colors ranging from red to white. The flesh resembles taro and sweet potato, with a taste combining sweetness and astringency; it can also be eaten raw. For medicinal use, white varieties are superior. *Dongshan Jing* records: On Mount Guzhen, there is a grass named Rongmo. Its leaves resemble willow and bamboo, its root resembles an egg or fist. Consuming it cures wind diseases; this is likely such a plant. Also known as Yuyuliang, Shi Yuliang, or Cold Rice Block. Contraindicated with tea and beans.
[Elucidation] It is stated that: Tufuling is the accumulation of the essence of the nine types of soil. Named "Shi" (Stone) due to its form; named "Yu" (Great Yu) because, like the legendary Emperor Yu who pacified the waters, its effects are miraculous; referred to as "Yuliang" (Surplus Grain) because consuming it prevents hunger as if eating grain. Its flavor is sweet and bland, its nature is peaceful, and it is non-toxic. Thus, it primarily regulates the Middle Jiao and stops diarrhea, utilizing its ability to harmonize the center and regulate internal mechanisms. Regarding enhancing mobility, strengthening sinews and bones, treating spasms, and benefiting joints, this represents Yin using Yang, responding to the boundless earth, striving for self-improvement without cease. If [improperly used or excessive], then Kidney Water may overflow.