Library

(Compendium of Materia Medica)

[Collected Explanations] Li Shizhen stated: Paicao Xiang (Sedge Fragrance) originates from Jiaozhi, and is now also cultivated in the Lingnan region. It is a root, white in color, resembling the roots of fine willow, which people often use as a counterfeit or admixture. According to research: Fan Chengda in *Guanghai Zhi* states that Paicao Xiang resembles Baomao Xiang (White Cogon Grass Fragrance), with an intense aroma similar to Moschus (Musk). People also use it to compound incense; no other fragrance can compare with it. There is also Muxiangmu (Musk-scented Wood), produced in Gucheng, which consists of the heartwood nodes of old, decayed trees, having an odor quite similar to Musk.

Root

[Properties and Flavor] Acrid, warm, non-toxic.

[Indications] Repels odors, removes evil and turbid qi (Li Shizhen).

[Appendix] Pingxiang (Bottle Fragrance) Chen Cangqi stated: Research indicates that Chen Cangqi recorded: It grows in the valleys of the South Sea and is a herbaceous plant. Its flavor is cold and non-toxic. It treats diseases caused by ghosts, malevolent spirits, and epidemic seasonal pathogens, all of which are suitable for burning. Boiled in water, it washes away edematous and floating qi. Decocted with Ginger Rhizome (Shengjiang) and Mustard Seed (Jiezi) for bathing, it is highly effective for treating wind-type malaria.

Gengxiang (Plowed Fragrance) Chen Cangqi stated: It grows in Wuhu State, with slender leaves growing on the stem. Its flavor is acrid and warm, non-toxic. It treats ghostly qi, regulates the middle jiao, and eliminates foul odors.

Li Shizhen stated: Both fragrances are herbaceous in nature and likely belong to the category of Paicao Xiang, hence they are appended here.

(Enhancements to the Compendium)

[Collected Explanations] Chen Cangqi stated: *Guang Zhi* records that it comes from the Western Sea. *Wei Lue* records that it comes from Daqin (Rome).

Li Shizhen stated: During the reign of Emperor Wen of Wei, it was transplanted from the Western Regions into imperial courtyards, where Cao Zhi and others composed poems about it. The general description is that the plant has long stalks and tender stems, fine branches and weak roots. It bears abundant flowers and fruit, remaining unfaded even under severe frost. Upon harvesting, it should be kept in seclusion to fix its scent, removing branches and leaves. When placed in bags for wearing, its fragrance is very intense. Its qi is identical to that of modern Paixiang (Paicao Xiang).

[Properties and Flavor] Acrid, warm, non-toxic.

[Indications] Eliminates foul qi, makes clothing fragrant, and burning it repels ghosts (Chen Cangqi).

Anonymous scholar stated: Its nature is neutral and not warm. Combined with Notopterygii Rhizoma et Radix (Qianghuo) into pills and burned, it repels mosquitoes and flies.

(Enhancements to the Compendium)

[Collected Explanations] Chen Cangqi stated: *Guang Zhi* records that Che Xiang grows in Xuzhou, reaching several feet in height, with yellow leaves and white flowers. *Erya* states: "Che" refers to Qi Yu. Guo Pu said: It is a fragrant herb.

Anonymous scholar stated: It grows in the valleys of Hainan. *Qimin Yaoshu* records: For any trees infested by insects, decocting this fragrance and applying it cold after cooling effectively repels pests.

Li Shizhen stated: *Chu Ci* mentions: "Plotting Liuyi and Jieche." Thus, ancients frequently cultivated it, resembling modern Lanxiang (Orchid Fragrance) and Lingling Xiang (Lingling Fragrance).

[Properties and Flavor] Acrid, warm, non-toxic. Anonymous scholar stated: Slightly cold.

[Indications] Treats ghostly qi, removes odors, and prevents insect and fish damage (Chen Cangqi). Treats Huoluan (Cholera-like syndrome), repels foul qi, and is excellent for fumigating clothes (Anonymous).