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(Shangpin, High Grade, from *Shennong Bencao Jing*)

[Correction] According to *Wu Shi Bencao*, "Shixia Changqing" is merged into this entry.

[Names] Guiduyou (from *Shennong Bencao Jing*), Bixianzong (Su Song).
Li Shizhen said: Xuchangqing is a person's name. He frequently used this herb to treat diseases caused by evil pathogens, and people named it after him. *Mingyi Bielu* repeats the entry for "Shixia Changqing" under the category of "Named but Unused," stating that its alias is Xuchangqing. Tao Hongjing annotated: This is an error. Physicians do not use it, nor do they recognize it anymore. Current research shows that the efficacy and therapeutic effects of these two entries are similar. Consulting *Wu Pu Bencao*, it states: Xuchangqing is also known as Shixia Changqing. It is very clear that they are the same substance, but those growing among stones are of superior quality. The characteristics of predecessors are also similar. In the current Gouji San, Guiduyou is used for its robust nature suitable for the waist and legs; thus, we know it is Xuchangqing, not Guijianyu or Chijian.

[Collection and Explanation] *Mingyi Bielu* states: Xuchangqing grows in the valleys of Mount Tai and Longxi, harvested in the third lunar month. It also states: Shixia Changqing grows in the valleys and marshes of Longxi, harvested in the third lunar month. Zhen Quan said: It is found in rivers and marshes everywhere. The leaves resemble willow leaves, with two leaves opposite each other, possessing a glossy surface. The root resembles Xixin, slightly thicker and longer, yellowish in color with a fishy odor. Currently, folk usage substitutes it for Guiduyou, which is incorrect. Guiduyou has its own separate entry. Baosheng said: It grows between damp rivers and marshes. The seedlings resemble small mulberry trees, with two leaves opposite each other. In the third lunar month, the seedlings are green; in the seventh and eighth months, they bear fruit, resembling Luomuo seeds but smaller. In the ninth lunar month, the seedlings turn yellow, and in the tenth month, they wither. The roots are harvested in the eighth lunar month and sun-dried. Su Song said: It is now found in the regions of Zizhou, Qizhou, Huai River, and Si River, harvested in the third and fourth lunar months, called Bixianzong. Li Shizhen said: Guiduyou confuses with Ducheng; their efficacies differ, and their seedlings differ. Xuchangqing confuses with Guiduyou; their seedlings differ, but their efficacies are the same. Ducheng confuses with Xixin; both roots and seedlings have similar functions, which is a greater confusion despite being closer. One must be careful not to mistake them.

[Processing] Lei Xiao said: Upon collection, crush coarsely, mix evenly with a small amount of honey, place in a porcelain vessel, steam during the Three Dog Days (Sanfu), then sun-dry for use.

[Flavor and Toxicity] Acrid, Warm, Non-toxic. *Mingyi Bielu* states: Shixia Changqing: Salty, Neutral, Toxic. Wu Pu said: Xuchangqing is also known as Shixia Changqing. Shennong, Lei Gong: Acrid. Li Shizhen said: Herbs treating ghostly evils are mostly toxic; one should follow the statement in *Mingyi Bielu*.

[Indications] Ghostly entities, hundred spirits, Gu poison, epidemic evil qi, warm malaria. Long-term consumption makes the body robust and light (*Shennong Bencao Jing*). Benefits Qi and prolongs life. Also states: Shixia Changqing: Treats Gui Zhu spirit entities and evil qi, kills hundred spirits and Gu poison, old demons infesting and changing places, running away crying, sadness, and trance (*Mingyi Bielu*).

[Elucidation] Li Shizhen said: *Baopuzi* mentions: In ancient times, there was Xuchangqing San for warding off plagues, which was highly effective. People today do not know to use it.

[Attached Prescriptions] Two new prescriptions.
Xiao Bian Guan Ge (Obstruction of Urination): Xuchangqing Tang: Treats Qi stagnation causing obstruction and blockage, dysuria with accumulation, and discomfort/fullness below the umbilicus. Xuchangqing (roasted) 1.5 liang, Maogen 0.9 liang, Mutong and Dongkuizi 3 liang each, Huashi 6 liang, Binglang 0.3 liang, Qumai Sui 1.5 liang. Take 15 g per dose, decoct in water, add Poxiao 3 g, take warm, twice daily. (*Shenghui Fang*)
Zhu Che Zhu Chuan (Infestation of Carriages and Boats): For anyone who feels stifled and dizzy upon entering carriages or boats, with headache and nausea. It is appropriate to use equal parts of Xuchangqing, Shichangsheng, Cheqianzi, and Chexia Ligenpi. Crush them, place in a square pouch, hang half a sheng weight on the belt and head, to avoid this affliction. (*Zhouhou Fang*)