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Rizhuzi (Buckthorn Fruit)

It possesses the functions of killing parasites and resolving toxicity. It tastes pungent and is hot in nature. It is an essential herb for applying to tinea and sores. [Note: Rizhuzi is pungent, drying, and toxic. Although it has the efficacy of dispelling wind and killing parasites, its external application yields miraculous effects; it is generally not intended for internal use.]

Badou (Croton Seed)

It sweeps away yin-cold coagulated substances, sharp and fierce, difficult to withstand. It attacks and eliminates pathogenic factors of hard accumulations, advancing forward without obstruction. For conditions of deep-seated cold and chronic chill, it relies on its pungent-hot nature to promote circulation and unblock. For conditions involving putrefaction and muscle damage, it is employed in the form of plasters or pills. It enters the Spleen, Stomach, and Large Intestine. Due to its rigid, heroic, and toxic nature, it should not be tasted lightly. [Note: Badou is pungent, hot, and toxic. It sweeps the viscera, eliminating deep-seated cold, chronic chill, and latent hard accumulations, possessing a brave and direct momentum akin to breaking through gates. It breaks blood and aborts fetuses, leaving no stone unturned. When used raw, its action is rapid; when stir-fried until black, its action is mild. Alternatively, a method of small-dose slow purgation can be used to avoid damaging healthy Qi; this depends on the practitioner's skillful application. For instance, when combined with Dahuang (Rhei Radix et Rhizoma), the purgative effect becomes slower because Badou fears Dahuang. In summary, if applied appropriately, the efficacy is as easy as turning over one's hand; if misapplied, even tonics like Renshen (Ginseng Radix) and Baizhu (Atractylodis Macrocephalae Rhizoma) can cause harm, let alone Badou. There are also cases where Badou is used to induce vomiting, such as in Zhang Zhongjing's Sanbai San. The principle is that for diseases located above the diaphragm, vomiting is induced; for those below, purgation is used. Another method involves dipping paper in Badou oil, igniting it, blowing it out, and using the smoke to fumigate the nose to expel phlegm obstructing the throat due to wind-phlegm closure. These all reflect the flexible adaptation by the practitioner.]

Zonglupi (Livistona Chinensis Leaf Petiole Cortex)

It treats hematemesis and intestinal bleeding (hematochezia), reaching the Liver and Lung meridians, entering the Ying (Nutritive) level to stop bleeding and arrest metrorrhagia and leukorrhea. It tastes bitter and is neutral in nature, with an astringent quality; stir-frying until black enhances its efficacy. [Note: The fibers of Zonglupi crisscross like weaving, resembling the collateral vessels of the human body. It tastes bitter and astringent and is neutral in nature, entering the Liver and reaching the Lungs. When stir-fried until black, it enters the Blood level and stops various types of bleeding. It can be used for epistaxis, hematemesis, intestinal wind bleeding, metrorrhagia, and leukorrhea, provided there is no pathogenic heat internally. However, bitterness can drain heat and descend downward; it is also used in acute conditions, depending entirely on the skillful application.]