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(Mao, pronounced "mao". From *Bencao Gangmu* [Compendium of Materia Medica])

[Names] Maoniu (Mao, pronounced "lie"; from *Erya*), Yema (Wild Horse)
Li Shizhen stated: "Mao" is identical to the character for plume. Some write it as "Mao". The *Book of Later Han* records that the Ranmang barbarians produce Maoniu, also known as Litniu, weighing up to a thousand jin, whose tail hair can be used for ceremonial plumes. Observing this, the name Maoniu likely derives from this usage. Yan Shigu stated: Maoniu is Litniu. However, Ye Sheng in *Shuidong Riji* said: When Mao Niu mates with Feng Niu, the offspring is called Litniu. This is similar to Mao Niu, resulting from a specific qi nature, hence called Litniu. Then, is Litniu a remnant breed of Mao Niu?

[Collected Explanations] Li Shizhen stated: Maoniu originates from Lintao in Gansu and beyond the southwestern borders; it is a type of wild ox, which people often domesticate. It resembles a water buffalo, has a long body and great strength, can carry heavy loads, runs swiftly like flying, and has a very rough and stiff temperament. Black hair grows on its thighs, knees, tail, back, and under the chin, about one chi long. Its tail is the longest, large as a dou, and it protects it carefully; if hooked by grass or trees, it stops and does not move. In ancient times, its tail hair was collected for banner decorations; nowadays, it is used for hat tassels. Hair mixed with white is dyed red using Qian Cao (Rubia cordifolia). The *Classic of Mountains and Seas* states: On Panhou Mountain there are Maoniu, resembling cattle but with hair growing at the joints of all four legs. This refers to such animals. Its meat tastes delicious, so the *Lüshi Chunqiu* states: Among fine meats are those of Maoniu and elephant.

Throat Cartilage/Yanye
[Indications] Goiter in the neck (Li Shizhen).

[Elucidations] Li Shizhen stated: Maoniu was not used in ancient prescriptions. In recent times, it is used based on analogical reasoning. The method involves taking a segment of cartilage from the throat of a Maoniu, approximately two cun long, including the fan-like cartilages on both sides. It may be boiled or roasted, taken in one dose while lying supine. Additionally, take the Qiaoshe (i.e., Yanye/throat pouch), chew it thoroughly, hold it in the mouth, and swallow after a short while. The patient's appearance will surely become thinner, and the goiter will dissolve internally. Recovery occurs within no more than two doses, described as extraordinarily miraculous.

(From *Bencao Gangmu*)

[Collected Explanations] Li Shizhen stated: According to Guo Pu: The Wild Horse resembles a horse but is smaller, originating beyond the Great Wall. Currently, they are found in Western Xia, Gansu, and the mountains of Liaodong. Their skins are harvested for fur coats. Their meat is eaten, said to resemble domestic horse meat, except that it does not stick to sand when dropped. The *Erya* states: The Wild Horse resembles a horse and has one horn (similar to deer antler). Those without horns are called Qi. The *Classic of Mountains and Seas* states: In the North Sea, there is a beast resembling a horse, green in color, named Wild Horse.

Meat
[Flavor and Nature] Sweet, neutral, slightly toxic.
[Indications] Equine epilepsy in humans, where sinews and vessels cannot contract voluntarily, and generalized bi-syndrome with muscle insensitivity (Sun Simiao. *Xinjing* treats these conditions using one jin of meat, cooked in soybean paste juice, added with five flavors, scallion whites, made into cured meats, soups, or porridges, consumed frequently. Boiled plain is also acceptable).

Penis
[Flavor and Nature] Sour, salty, warm, non-toxic.
[Indications] Male impotence and penile retraction, scanty sperm (Sun Simiao).

[Elucidations] Li Shizhen stated: Sun Simiao's *Qianjin Fang* records the efficacy of the Wild Horse, but it was not included in earlier materia medica texts. I now collect and supplement it here.