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Scallion (Cong), with a pungent flavor and warm temperature, possesses ascending properties and belongs to Yang; it is non-toxic. It enters the Foot-Yangming Stomach Meridian and the Hand-Taiyin Lung Channel. It unblocks joints, expels Wind pathogenic factors, regulates convulsions associated with Huoluan (Cholera-like syndrome with muscle spasms), treats headaches caused by Shanghan (Cold Damage), neutralizes toxins from fish and meat, promotes the free flow of the Large and Small Intestines, dissipates edema of the face and eyes, stops acute pain in the heart and abdomen, removes Houbi (sore throat with obstruction), heals bleeding and pain from metallic wounds and fractures, and when mashed, heated, and applied externally, it stops bleeding. It calms pregnancy, stops Nosebleed (Nu Xue), eliminates pathogens of Hongxiangjiao (Beriberi) and Bentun (a condition characterized by gas rising from the lower abdomen to the chest and throat), and treats snakebites and earthworm toxicity. Its function is specialized in dispersing and diffusing; excessive consumption leads to mental confusion. In cases of Qi deficiency, one should especially avoid consuming it. It can serve as an Assistant or Guide herb, but also as a Sovereign or Minister herb. Generally, when used as an Assistant or Guide, it is for internal treatment; when used as a Sovereign or Minister, it is for external treatment. External treatment requires larger doses, while internal treatment requires smaller doses.

Scallion has both benefits and drawbacks. The benefit lies in promoting Qi circulation and dispersing pathogenic factors. The drawback is that it impairs vision and depletes Shen (Spirit). People in the North enjoy eating scallion, often damaging their eyesight; this is due to custom and cannot be strictly prohibited.

Scallion excels at unblocking vessels (Mai); therefore, Master Zhang Zhongjing formulated Tongmai Tang (Pulse-Unblocking Decoction). Since scallion is hollow inside, it excels at promoting Qi circulation; promoting Qi circulation is equivalent to unblocking vessels. It warms internal Cold and resolves exterior Heat, thus unblocking obstructed pulses. Those who doubt the use of scallion for dispersing pathogens misunderstand its intended purpose.

Chinese Chive (Jiu), with a pungent and slightly dispersing flavor, has a warm and urgent nature. It warms the Middle Jiao, directs rebellious Qi downward, enters the Heart, tonifies Yang, warms the knees and shins, harmonizes the Zang-Fu organs, eliminates fixed masses and stubborn cold in the chest and abdomen, stops white turbidity in the urethra and spermatorrhea, invigorates Blood, and detoxifies. Used in small amounts, it benefits the Kidney; used in large amounts, it damages the Heart. Consuming it with honey can be fatal; caution is essential.

The seed of Chinese chive (Jiu Zi) excels at stopping spermatorrhea and is more effective than the leaves, yet it should not be used in excessive amounts.

One might ask: "Shennong's Classic of Materia Medica states that patients can consume chives for a long time, yet you say they should not be eaten in excess. Is Shennong incorrect?" Alas! Due to the long history of transmission, errors have arisen in Shennong's Classic of Materia Medica. The nature of chive is pungent and warm, excelling in promoting free flow and urination. Although it is said to benefit the Kidney, it tends to drain more than it tonifies. Excessive consumption causes mental confusion, which is clear evidence of its damaging effect on the Heart. This is why I issue this warning.