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Sweet in taste, slightly warm in nature. Enters the Taiyin meridians of the hand and foot. Its function is specifically to tonify Qi. When combined with Danggui (Angelica sinensis), it invigorates blood; when combined with Baizhu (Atractylodes macrocephala), it tonifies Qi; when combined with Fangfeng (Saposhnikovia divaricata), its efficacy is greatly enhanced. When decocted with Huashi (Talcum) and Baitang (White sugar), it is miraculously effective for treating Dongxie (severe diarrhea with undigested food). Combined with Renshen (Ginseng), Gancao (Licorice), and Shengjiang (Fresh Ginger) to form Baoyuan Tang (Protective Origin Decoction), it treats acneiform eruptions that fail to erupt due to deficiency. Alternatively, Xiong (Ligusticum chuanxiong), Guongui (Cinnamon twig), and Nuomi (Glutinous rice) may be added to assist. Raw use is cooling, roasted use is warming. Raw use or wine-fried use reaches the exterior; honey-roasted use tonifies the Middle Jiao; salt-water fried use tonifies the Kidney. Fuling (Poria) serves as a guiding herb. It is incompatible with Guijia (Tartar Testudinis Carapax et Plastrum) and Baixianpi (Dictamni Cortex). It fears Fangfeng (Saposhnikovia divaricata). Contraindicated in cases of excess Qi. Should be used sparingly in Yin deficiency.

Sweet in taste, neutral in nature. Enters the Yangming meridian of the foot. It circulates through all twelve meridians. Its function is specifically to resolve toxicity. Raw use clears heat and purges fire, while cooked use is mild. Sweet and harmonious, it has warming and tonifying properties. When combined with Jiegeng (Platycodon root), it clears the throat. When combined with Dadou (Soybean) to form Gandou Tang (Sweet Bean Decoction), it resolves various drug poisonings with remarkable efficacy. Roasted use tonifies the Middle Jiao. Raw use clears heat. Using the tips reaches the urethra, stopping pain in the penis and treating Lin syndrome (dysuria). Baizhu (Atractylodes macrocephala), Kushen (Sophora flavescens), and Ganxi (Drynaria rhizome) serve as guiding herbs. It is incompatible with Yuanzhi (Polygalae Radix). It is contrary to Daji (Euphorbia pekinensis), Yuanhua (Kadsurae Flos), Gansui (Kansui Radix), and Haizao (Sargassum). However, there are instances where they are used together. Contraindicated in cases of Zhongman (abdominal fullness). Only when combined with Fuling (Poria) does it not contribute to fullness but instead drains it. If there is excess Qi in the Spleen and Stomach, or at the onset of dysentery, it is contraindicated.

Sweet and bitter in taste. Enters the Taiyin meridian of the hand. It circulates through all twelve meridians. Its function is specifically to tonify the Yang of the five Zang organs. When combined with Lamb meat, it tonifies the body structure. It is used in ancient formulas for cold-heat, attacking-tonifying treatments to establish righteous Qi, truly being a superior grade. Fuling (Poria) serves as a guiding herb. It fears Wulingzhi (Trogopteri Dung). It is incompatible with Zaojiao (Gleditsiae Spina), Heidou (Black Soybean), Zhiwushiqing (Fluorite), Renxiao (Human Urine), Xianlu (Salt brine), and is contrary to Lilü (Veratrum nigrum). Iron is contraindicated. Shenlu (Ginseng stem base) can induce vomiting of phlegm-saliva. It is used by those with weak constitutions to replace Goudi (Melon seed).

Sweet in taste. Enters the Taiyin meridians of the hand and foot. Its function is specifically to tonify the Yin of the five Zang organs. It stops cough and treats hernia. When combined with Maidong (Ophiopogon tuber), it clears Lung heat; when combined with Nuomi (Glutinous rice), it tonifies Spleen Yin. Do not take if cough is caused by cold invading the Lungs. Those produced in sandy soil are of good quality. It fears Fangji (Stephania tetrandra). It is contrary to Lilü (Veratrum nigrum). Also known as Yangru (Sheep Milk).

Bitter in taste. Enters the Shaoyin meridian of the hand. Its function is specifically to regulate women's menstruation. It achieves the efficacy of Siwu Tang (Four Substances Decoction). When combined with Shanzha Tan (Charred Hawthorn fruit) and Yimucao (Leonurus japonicus), it clears postpartum blood stasis and fever. It fears salty water. Vinegar is contraindicated, and it is contrary to Lilü (Veratrum nigrum).