Library

Yuzhu (Polygonati Odorati Rhizoma)
Tonifies the Spleen and moistens the Lungs, capable of filling Yin. It possesses the dignified appearance of gold and jade. [Commentary: Yuzhu's rhizome has many nodes and roots, resembling hanging tassels, thus appearing dignified; hence it is also named Weirui (Herba Polygonati Odorati). Its color is white with a slight yellow tint, its taste is sweet with a hint of bitterness, its nature is neutral, and its texture is moist. It is excellent for cultivating the Yin of the Spleen and Lungs. While its efficacy in dispelling wind and clearing heat might seem inconsistent with its moist and sweet nature, it can be used for deficiency-type Wind-Heat or Wind-Warmth conditions. Its properties and functions are similar to Huangjing (Rhizoma Polygonati), from which one can infer that since Wind-Warmth and Wind-Heat easily injure Yin, and Yin-nourishing herbs may hinder pathogenic factors, only Yuzhu, being sweet, neutral, and moistening, nourishes without obstructing pathogens, which is why ancient physicians included it in prescriptions.]

Zhimu (Anemarrhenae Rhizoma)
Subdues the excess Yang in the Kidney and strengthens Water to clear Metal (Lung). Sweet, bitter, and slightly acrid, with a dense and slippery texture. Clears the excessive Heat in the Yangming channel and treats dry cough caused by Wind. It is heavy, Yin, descending, and purely Cold. [Commentary: Zhimu tastes bitter, with slight sweet and acrid notes, and is cold in nature with a moist texture. Its aroma and flavor are strong. Being heavy and Yin, it enters the Foot-Shaoyin Kidney Meridian to clear exuberant Minister Fire. Due to its white color and sweet taste, it also clears Lung Fire and removes Stomach Heat. However, such Yin-cold and lubricating substances may impair the Spleen and Stomach if overused. Zhimu is indicated for conditions where Fire is exuberant and Yin is deficient in the Lung, Stomach, and Kidney meridians, or for internal heat with thirst (Xiao Ke). One must not focus solely on its Yin-nourishing effects while ignoring its potential to damage Yang.]

Beimu (Fritillariae Bulbus)
Sweet and cold, moistens the Lungs and eliminates phlegm; Sichuan varieties should be sought. Resolves stagnation, expands the chest, and dissipates nodules; this refers to the efficacy of Xiangbei (Zhejiang Fritillaria). Treats cough and can also release the exterior; this refers to Zhebei (Zhejiang Fritillaria). Disperses phlegm and can eliminate carbuncles. It is a miraculous pill for Lung dryness, clears the Heart and washes away Heat, but is contraindicated for Spleen dampness. Slightly bitter and acrid. [Commentary: Wild Beimu from Sichuan is superior. It is sweet, cold, and slightly bitter, white and moist, specifically entering the Heart and Lung meridians to resolve Qi stagnation in the chest. Stagnation generates Heat, and Heat generates Phlegm; thus, Beimu is effective for Fire-Phlegm and Dry-Phlegm. Once stagnation resolves, Heat subsides, Phlegm disappears, and Lung cough calms. Cultivated Beimu in Zhejiang resembles the wild type but is larger, slightly more bitter and inferior in quality, with slightly different uses. Furthermore, due to its ability to resolve stagnation, dissipate nodules, transform phlegm, and clear Heat, it is effective for external sores and ulcers. "Toxicity" here refers to Fire accumulation and Qi stagnation; once Fire resolves and Qi flows freely, what toxicity remains?]