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Chishizhi (Red Halloysite) is extracted from between two stones. Zou stated: "These two stones must grow out from the same root, branching and lying side by side. The 'zhi' (grease/glue) refers to the substance that binds these two stones together. Therefore, the diseases treated by Chishizhi are all those where the pathological paths are distinct and do not interpenetrate; with this medicine, they can be gathered into one place and concentrated efforts used to resolve them." Zhang Zhongjing's use of four formulas containing Shizhi indeed aligns with Zou's theory.

Liu Qianjiang disagreed with Li Dongyuan, Zhang Congzheng (Haicang), Li Shizhen (Binhu), and Wang Haogu (Zhongchun), who exclusively emphasized the astringent properties of Chishizhi. Instead, Liu elaborated on its meaning based on the *Shennong Bencao Jing*'s description of tonifying marrow and benefiting Qi. Although his explanation lacked the direct evidence provided by Zou, his insights were naturally superior. I would like to further elaborate: The *Mingyi Bielu* states that Chishizhi "tonifies marrow and improves complexion." Thus, the "marrow" it tonifies specifically refers to brain marrow, which differs from the bone marrow tonified by Baishizhi (White Halloysite). Furthermore, the *Shennong Bencao Jing* mentions it treats head ulcers; why did Li Dongyuan merely consider its nature as descending?

Marrows are generated from Essence (Jing), and Essence is generated from Grain (food). When grain enters the body, Qi becomes abundant, transforming into a thick, moistening fluid that pours into the bones. Bones govern flexion and extension, excreting moisture to supplement brain marrow. This indicates that the Middle Jiao (Spleen and Stomach) is the source of generating Essence and transforming Marrow. Chishizhi has a sweet taste and a great warm nature; it tonifies the Spleen and Stomach. Its sticky texture harmonizes Stomach Yin, while its dry nature supports Spleen Yang. It reaches the upper region because Pungent flavors enter the Lung. It reaches the brain because Sour flavors enter the Liver. (*Waitai Miyao*, in its discussion on the deficiency and excess of marrow, states that marrow conditions are primarily governed by the Liver and Gallbladder). Chishizhi indeed possesses the rationale for tonifying brain marrow. In *Qianjin Fang*, the Chishizhi San formula treats excessive consumption of cold drinks, which weakens Spleen and Stomach Qi, leading to Phlegm-Fluid retention and frequent vomiting of clear water. *Ben Shi Fang* notes that trials show this to be very effective. This corresponds to what Zou described as uniting scattered pathogens. Can we say Chishizhi is a medicine for the Stomach rather than the Spleen?

When Essence is secured at the lower part, Marrow fills at the upper part. Chishizhi's ability to tonify marrow is partly due to its ability to secure Essence. Securing Essence is easier than tonifying Marrow; therefore, both the *Shennong Bencao Jing* and *Mingyi Bielu* precede the mention of tonifying marrow with the phrase "long-term administration." The Qianghuo Buisui Wan in *Qianjin Fang* does not include Chishizhi, whereas the Wubi Shanyao Wan states: "This medicine penetrates the middle and enters the brain; nasal pain will occur, do not be surprised." Here, "entering the brain" refers to Chishizhi. Since Chishizhi was not used alone, it reveals that treating deficiency injuries is difficult and yields no immediate results.