Library

The root of *Cyperus rotundus* (Sha Cao), also known as Xiangfu Zi, was not originally recorded with specific provinces or lands of origin in ancient texts, merely stating it grows in fields and wastelands. It is now found everywhere. Some claim that those from Jiaozhou are superior, being as large as dates. Those from areas near trade routes (Jin Dao) are only the size of apricot kernels. Its seedlings, stems, and leaves resemble those of *Burren's sedge* (San Leng). The root resembles *Aconitum carmichaelii* (Fuzi) and is covered with fine hairs. Those growing near trade routes currently have seedlings and leaves resembling *Allium fistulosum* var. *giganteum* (Xie) but thinner, with roots about the thickness of a chopstick head. Harvested in February and August.

According to the *Tianbao Danfang Tu*, there is a herb called "Shui Xiang Leng," whose efficacy and characteristics are quite similar to this one, though the taste differs slightly. The text states: Shui Xiang Leng is acrid (Xin), slightly cold (Wei Han), non-toxic, and has an astringent nature. It originally grew in the ponds and marshes of Boping Commandery. Its seedling is named Xiang Leng, its root is named Sha Jie, also called Cao Fuzi. It is found in the low-lying wetlands of Henan and Huainan, where it is called Shui Sha. In Longxi, it is called Di [missing character] Gen; in Shu Commandery, it is called Xu Gen Cao, also known as Shui Bajie. Currently, Fudu produces the most abundant supply, calling it San Leng Cao. People use its stems to make footwear, which is common everywhere.

Taking it alone treats Lung Wind. It is also said to treat deficiency-wind and external heat in the heart and lungs of men, qi obstruction connecting the bladder region to the hypochondrium, skin itching with urticaria (Yin Zhen), poor appetite, gradual emaciation, chronic sorrow, palpitations (Xin Song), and shortness of breath. These herbs are harvested in spring (seedlings and flowers), dried in the shade, and roots are harvested in winter, sliced, and stored in cool, ventilated places.

For those suffering from the aforementioned conditions, take over twenty jin of the seedlings, chop them, and boil in 25 dou of water until reduced to 15 dou. Soak the body in a bathtub containing this decoction, inducing sweating five or six times. This combination of soaking and bathing stops skin itching caused by wind in the lungs. Regular use throughout the four seasons ensures permanent cure of urticaria and wind pathogens.

For cases involving internal heat in the heart, qi obstruction connecting the bladder to the hypochondrium, chronic sorrow and unhappiness, and palpitations, take two large jin of the root, slice it, and stir-fry until fragrant. Place it in a raw silk bag and soak it in three dou of unadulterated clear wine. In the spring months, soak for one day before consumption; after October in winter, soak for seven days, preferably in a warm place. Take one cup on an empty stomach, three to four times a day, maintaining a continuous mild intoxication, stopping when therapeutic effects are perceived.

If alcohol is not consumed, take ten liang of the root, add five liang of Gui Xin (Cinnamon Twig Heart), and three liang of Wuyi (Long Pepper Fruit). Pound them together into a powder, mix with honey to form pills, pounded for one thousand strokes, shaped like wu-tzu (large sesame seeds). On an empty stomach, administer twenty pills using wine, ginger juice, or honey-water as the vehicle. Take twice daily, gradually increasing to thirty pills, until the disease is cured.