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Feizi (Torreya Seed), with a sweet taste and slightly astringent, is warm in nature. It enters the Stomach, Spleen, and Large Intestine meridians, and also the Lung meridian. It primarily treats five types of hemorrhoids, kills three kinds of parasites, strengthens bones and muscles, and harmonizes Ying and Wei (Nutritive and Defensive Qi). It is an indispensable item in the medicine cabinet. It kills Ascaris lumbricoides without damaging Qi and Blood, and its use can indeed achieve therapeutic effects. However, it is not suitable for those suffering from fire-pathogen diseases accompanied by loose stools; nevertheless, taking it temporarily once or twice causes no harm.

Note: Feizi is particularly effective in killing parasites, but there has never been a precedent for using it in decoctions. Slicing it for use is most excellent. This herb is most abundant in the Wu-Yue region. I have added it to decoctions, and patients suffering from parasitic pain are immediately relieved. Having tested it repeatedly with verified results, I dare to recommend its shared use.

Some may doubt that Feizi is too potent in killing parasites, arguing that no anthelmintic fails to consume Qi and Blood. I assert that while most substances that kill parasites tend to injure Qi and Blood, Feizi is an exception. This is because Feizi kills parasites invisibly. Its flavor possesses an invisible quality, embedding destruction within vitality; the parasites do not realize they are being killed but perish due to their greed for food, leaving the Zang-Fu organs unharmed. Since the Zang-Fu organs are not injured, how could Qi and Blood be harmed?

Pipaye (Loquat Leaf), with a bitter taste and neutral nature, is non-toxic. It enters the Lung meridian, stops coughing, directs rebellious Qi downward, eliminates persistent vomiting and hiccups, and also relieves thirst. When used, the hairs on the leaf must be removed. It should only be used to stop coughs caused by Yin deficiency; it is not suitable for other types of coughs.

Pipaye does not wither even in winter, making it a wonderful herb for benefiting Yin. However, if processed improperly, it may provoke coughing. This is largely because the leaves have many hairs, which must be washed off with water until absolutely none remain for optimal effect. Otherwise, if hairs enter the throat, they will be harmful rather than beneficial.

Yuliren (Prunus japonica Kernel), with a sour and bitter taste and neutral nature, is descending in action and represents Yang within Yin. It is non-toxic. It enters the Liver and Gallbladder meridians, relieving pain caused by Head Wind. It also enters the Spleen meridian, stopping nasal discharge associated with Bi Yuan (Nasal Sinusitis). It reduces edema, promotes urination, opens Guan Ge (a critical condition characterized by obstruction of both upper and lower orifices, typically manifesting as vomiting and constipation), breaks blood stasis, and moistens dryness; these are secondary functions. Although it is not an herb intended for routine use, it is truly necessary for resolving acute conditions.

The syndrome of Guan Ge is the most difficult to open up. Yuliren excels at entering the Liver meridian to regulate rebellious Qi, thereby facilitating communication between the upper and lower parts of the body. Therefore, it is an essential herb to keep in reserve.