Library

Matxianhao (Pedicularis), detailed in the entry for Baihao (Artemisia argyi) in Volume 6.

Jiaohao (Acanthophyllum squarrosum), detailed in the entry for Baihao (Artemisia argyi).

Roucongrong (Cistanche), grows in the valleys of Hexi and Yanmen of Dai Commandery. It is now widely available in various prefectures of Shaanxi, yet those from the Western Qiang border region are superior, being fleshy and potent.
Old theories suggest it grows where wild horse semen drips to the ground. Currently, people in the west say it grows abundantly among large trees or in earth trenches and walls. Since this is not a place for mating mares, it is known that it has its own species and reproduction method. Some suspect it initially sprouts from horse urine and later proliferates, similar to how Qian Gen (Qiancao root) grows in human blood. Its skin resembles pine nuts with scale-like armor; beneath the seedling lies a thin, flat root over one chi long. Roots are harvested in March; during collection, the central high-quality parts are dug out, strung on ropes, and dried in the shade. They are ready for use by August. The *Shennong Bencao Jing* states: "Harvest on the fifth day of the fifth month." However, by May, the plant may be too old and unsuitable, hence most harvest in March. People in the west often consume it as food. After scraping off the scales and washing away black juices with wine, it is sliced thinly and cooked in soup with Shanyu (Dioscorea opposita) and mutton. It is extremely delicious, beneficial to the body, and eating it surpasses taking tonic medicines. Another variety, Caorongrong (Grass Cistanche), looks very similar but has shorter roots and round, purple stems. Recently, people often collect this variety, scrape off the flowers, press them flat, and use them to substitute for Roucongrong, though their efficacy is significantly inferior. Additionally, the lower grade section of the *Bencao* contains an entry for Lidang (Orobanche), stating it grows on rocks in southern mountains, resembling lotus roots. When newly sprouted, it is dug up and dried in the shade; it is also called Caorongrong. It is warm in nature and tonifies men; it is suspected to be this same substance. Nowadays, few people use it, so few distinguish it; thus, it is mentioned here for reference.

Lidang (Orobanche), detailed in the entry for Roucongrong (Cistanche).

Difuzi (Kochiae Fructus), grows in the plains, marshes, and fields of Jingzhou. It is now found in Shuchuan and nearby areas of Guanzhong. Initially growing in poor soil, it reaches five or six cun in height; its root resembles Hao grass, the stem is red, leaves are green and similar in size to Jingjie (Perilla frutescens); it blooms yellow-white flowers in March. Fruits are harvested in August and September and dried in the shade. The *Shenxian Qijing San* states: Difuzi is the essence of stars. Others say its seedlings are Dusaoye (Koeleria macrantha), also known as Yashécao (Duck-tongue grass). Tao Hongjing stated: Stems and seedlings can be made into brooms. Su Gong said: The seedlings are very weak and cannot bear weight. These two views differ. Modern physicians identify it as Dusaoye. The submission from Mizhou clarifies this further: The root grows in clumps, with twenty to thirty stems per clump; stems vary from red to yellow; it blooms yellow flowers in July, and its fruit is Difuzi. By August, the stalks mature and can be harvested, resembling the local Dusaoye. If so, perhaps the varieties from the northwest are short and weak, leading to Su Gong's note. The leaves of Difuzi are bitter, cold, and non-toxic. They treat large intestine diarrhea, stop dysentery (red and white), harmonize Qi, astringe the intestines and stomach, and resolve toxic sores. Harvested in March, April, and May.