Library

[Herb 1: Radix Patriniae]
Bitter. Enters the Yangming channels of the hand and foot, and the Jueyin channel. Its action is specifically to break blood stasis and discharge pus. When combined with Siwu Tang (Four Substance Decoction), it treats lochia that does not stop. When combined with Danggui (Angelicae Sinensis Radix), Chuanxiong (Ligustici Chuanxiong Rhizoma), and Guixin (Cinnamomi Ramulus), it treats lower back pain after childbirth. Also known as Kucai (Bitter Vegetable). The root and seedling are used.

[Herb 2: Radix Ampelopsis]
Sweet and bland. Enters the Taiyin channels of the hand and foot, and the Taiyang channel. Its action is specifically to tonify the Heart and benefit the Spleen. When combined with Renshen (Ginseng Radix et Rhizoma), it can direct Qi downward. When combined with Banxia (Pinelliae Rhizoma), it can clear phlegm-fluids. For those with deficiency-cold causing enuresis or spermatorrhea, warming and tonifying agents should be used; this herb is not suitable. Externally applied, it treats edema and abdominal distension. The red variety is particularly effective in promoting urination. It is incompatible with Bailian (Radix Ampelopsis). It is opposed by Diyuyu (Sanguisorbae Radix), Qinjiao (Gentianae Macrophyllae Radix), Guijia (Testudinis Carapax et Plastrum), and Xionghuang (Realgar). Vinegar is contraindicated.

[Herb 3: Semen Platycladi]
Sweet and bland. Enters the Shaoyin channel of the hand. Its action is specifically to open the mind and benefit intelligence. It stops palpitations and fright. In deficient individuals with difficult urination from the Small Intestine, when combined with Zaoren (Ziziphi Spinosae Semen), it calms the Spirit. When combined with Rushen (Resina Frankincense) and Mugua (Chaenomelis Fructus) in wine, it treats spasmodic pain of the sinews and bones.

[Herb 4: Semen Platycladi - Preparation/Application]
Sweet and bland. Enters the blood aspect of the Shaoyin channel of the hand, Shaoyang channel of the hand, and Jueyin channel of the foot. Its action is specifically to resolve stasis and promote unobstructed urination. When combined with Heidou (Sojae Semen Nigrum), it treats postpartum mental confusion. When combined with Shexiang (Moschus), it treats dribbling urination. Use Semen Platycladi powder, boiled in a clay pot for half a day, then pounded into powder for use.

[Herb 5: Pinus Massoniana related parts]
Bitter and warm. Enters the Taiyin, Yangming, and Shaoyin channels of the hand, and the Jueyin channel of the foot. Its action is specifically to expel wind from the bones. It dries dampness in the blood. It resolves toxins and kills parasites. Brewing wine with it is beneficial. Those with blood deficiency should avoid taking it. Oil infused with Songmao (Pine needles) applied to the head promotes hair growth and treats frostbite. It treats damp-itching of the scrotum. Songhua (Pollen Pinii) powdered and applied stops bleeding, rubs on chickenpox lesions, and treats moist, non-scabbing sores. Songzhi (Colophony) relieves pain and generates flesh; boiled into an ointment and applied treats metrorrhagia, severe bi-syndrome, and toothache. Songzi (Pine nut) has the same efficacy as Baizi Ren (Semen Platycladi).

[Herb 6: Radix Rehmanniae Preparata]
Bitter, astringent, and slightly cold. Enters the Taiyin channels of the hand and foot, and the Yangming channel. Its action is specifically to nourish Yin, moisten Lung dryness, and dry Earth. It treats hematemesis, epistaxis, metrorrhagia, strangury. It treats intestinal wind, hematuria, and bloody dysentery. It treats cold-damp bi-syndrome. It may be stir-fried or used raw. Gui (Cinnamomi Ramulus) and Muli (Concha Ostreae) serve as guiding herbs. It is incompatible with Juhua (Chrysanthemi Flos). It is best used with wine.

[Herb 7: Polygoni Multiflori Preparata]
Sweet. Enters the Jueyin channel of the foot. Its action is specifically to nourish the Heart, calm the Liver, and moisten the Kidney. When combined with Yuanzhi (Polygalae Radix), it facilitates communication between the Heart and Kidney. When combined with Songzi (Pine nut) and Huma (Cannabis Semen), it treats constipation due to deficiency in the elderly. Stir-fry, grind, and remove the oil before use. Pounded and applied externally, it is very effective for treating impetigo. It fears Juhua (Chrysanthemi Flos).