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It grows in streams, mountain gullies, paddy fields, and ports in still water; it does not grow in flowing water. Its shape resembles the young fronds of ferns, with a single central stem and fine leaves gathered oppositely on both sides, resembling a centipede, hence the name.

The leaves are quite rough and astringent to the touch, unlike the glossy surface of *Lemna minor* (Duckweed). In the "Collection of Explanations" under "Aquatic Algae" in *Bencao Gangmu* (Compendium of Materia Medica), there is *Alisma plantago-aquatica* (Water-plantain/Ma Zao), which also has opposite leaves and a slightly similar shape, but is actually a different species.

Presumably, because algae are edible while this plant is not, their therapeutic indications differ. It is commonly known as Bianji Ping. *Qunfang Pu* states: It is a variant of Maping, growing about one finger's length long, with leaves connected oppositely, unlike the scattered, light nature of common duckweed.

Note: Maping refers to what is now known as Centipeda minima (Wugong Ping).

For treating lice: *Tongshou Lu* records: Dry Centipeda minima, burn it to produce smoke, and fumigate with it; all fleas and bedbugs will be eliminated.

Supplement from *Longbai Yaoxing Kao*: Originates from Shandong.

Taste: Bitter with a slight pungency. Actions: Dispels wind, unblocks meridians, invigorates blood, strengthens sinews and bones, and promotes circulation through collaterals. Indications: Trauma, bi-syndrome (painful obstruction), numbness, and skin wind conditions. Soaking it in wine for regular consumption yields significant effects. Alternatively, add Cinnamon Twig (*Guizhi*), Angelica Sinensis (*Danggui*), Safflower (*Honghua*), and White Peony Root (*Shaoyao*) to the formula. The stem tips are used medicinally.

From Wang Lianshi's *Herbal Formulas*: The variety of *Glochidion puberum* (Guixiangyou) with fine leaves is called Tianxiangyou. Crush the roots and leaves together to extract juice; its taste resembles sesame oil, hence the name.

From Li's *Grass Secrets*: The seedlings and leaves of Guixiangyou resemble Elsholtzia splendens (Xiangru).

Case: A man suffered from swelling and pain in his thigh for two or three months, with internal suppuration that could not drain, leaving him in critical condition. Applying this herb caused the pus to burst out; after several doses, he recovered. Apply the juice of this herb mixed externally to treat various boils, carbuncles, pumpkin abscesses (Donggua Yong), and osteomyelitis (Fugu Ju). According to Li's *Grass Secrets*: For pumpkin abscesses and osteomyelitis, combine this herb with one qian of Licorice Root (*Gancao*), add salt crystals from soy sauce boards, crush them together, and apply externally with effectiveness. It moistens the skin, nourishes complexion, and resolves toxic sores. Locals use it only for snake bites, bee stings, and thorn injuries by rubbing the leaves on the affected area. (Source: Wang Lianshi's *Herbal Formulas*.)

Supplement from *Longbai Yaoxing Kao*: Originates from Pingle County, Guangxi.

Indication: An essential medicine for treating various pediatric diseases and sha-distension (sand distension).

From Li's *Grass Secrets*: This herb has opposite round-stemmed leaves and grows near field ditches.

Indication: For trauma, contusions, swelling, and fractures, crush and take the juice internally; apply externally to various swellings and toxins.

From Wang Lianshi's *Herb Gathering Book*: Caoli Jinchai produces yellow flowers, with a single slender stem rising straight up, resembling Xingtou Cao. It treats traumatic injuries (Jin Chuang) by invigorating blood, and addresses cloudy urine (Baizhuo) and spermatorrhea (Yijing).

Kai Bai Chai Cao treats leukorrhea (Baidai) and excessive vaginal discharge (Baiyin) in women; decoct it with raw white liquor for administration.