Library

Ophiopogonis Radix (Mendong, 麦门冬), grows in the valleys of Jigu River and on fertile soil and stones along dikes in long-abandoned places; it is now available everywhere. The leaves are green like Cyperi Rhizoma (Cao Ben Cao, 莎草), growing over a chi (approx. 30-33 cm) long, remaining evergreen throughout the four seasons. The roots are yellowish-white with fibrous roots, forming a beaded chain-like structure resembling wheat grains, hence the name Ophiopogonis Radix (Mendong, 麦门冬). In April, it blooms pale red flowers similar to Polygoni Multiflori Caulis et Folium (Hong Liao Hua, 红蓼花); the fruits are green, round, and pearl-like. Those from Jiangnan: the larger-leaved varieties have seedlings resembling thick scallions, while smaller ones resemble chives. There are three or four types varying in size, with similar medicinal functions; some claim that those from Wu region are superior. Harvested in February, March, August, and October, dried in shade. It can also be prepared as a single-ingredient decoction or paste. Take fresh roots, remove the heart, pound thoroughly, squeeze out the juice, mix with white honey, and boil in a silver vessel over double-boiling heat, stirring constantly until it reaches the consistency of maltose syrup. Take warm with wine. It benefits the middle jiao and the Heart, enhances complexion, calms the spirit (Shen, 神), tonifies Qi, promotes robustness and strength, acting rapidly. It also treats toxicity induced by mineral drugs. Formula: Ophiopogonis Radix (Mendong, 麦门冬) removed of heart 6 liang, Ren Shen (Ginseng Root) 4 liang, Zhi Gan Cao (Honey-fried Licorice Root) 2 liang. Sift these three ingredients into fine powder, form pills with honey the size of Wuzi (Pharbitidis Semen, 牵牛子/梧子 - here referring to pill size similar to Pharbitidis Semen). Take twice daily with warm water. Additionally, Cui Yuanliang's "Haishang Fang" records a pill for treating Xiao Ke (Wasting-Thirst Syndrome, 消渴): Obtained accidentally from a rustic source, its efficacy is indescribable. Use two large liang of fresh, plump Ophiopogonis Radix (Mendong, 麦门冬) from Banqiao, Shangyuan, and two large liang of Jiujie Huanglian (Nine-joint Coptis Rhizome) from Xuanzhou. Remove the two pointed ends and 3-5 joints. Slice thinly with a small knife, remove skin and hairs, clean thoroughly, blow off dust, rub with raw cloth, weigh, then pound into powder. Soak Ophiopogonis Radix (Mendong, 麦门冬) in juice from large, bitter Hu Gua (Bitter Melon/Fruit, 瓠瓜) overnight. Then remove the heart, pound in a mortar until pasty, add Huanglian powder, mix and pound further until suitable for pill formation. Roll into pills the size of Wuzi (Pharbitidis Semen, 牵牛子/梧子). Take 50 pills after meals with warm water, twice daily. Within two days, thirst will surely cease. For severe cases: initial dose 150 pills per administration; reduce to 120 pills every two days thereafter; 100 pills on the third day; 80 pills every four days; resume original dosage on the fifth day. When preparing this medicine, choose clear sunny weather for soaking overnight. Ensure a clean environment, prohibiting women, chickens, and dogs from seeing or knowing about the process. If feasible, take only 25 pills daily. After finishing the course, if feeling weak, take one sheep head, clean hair, wash well, boil in three dou (approx. 30-40 liters) of water until tender. Remove the head, collect about one dou of broth, drink slowly without adding salt. Recovery usually occurs within three doses.