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(Recorded in the Middle Category of *Bencao Jing Jizhu* / *Supplement to the Materia Medica*)

**[Names]** Shilan (Stone Indigo) (*Xinxiu Bencao*), Souyao (Cough Medicine) (ibid.). Li Shizhen states: The origin of these names is unclear.

**[Collection and Explanation]** Tao Hongjing states: Baiqian grows in areas near populated regions. Its root resembles that of Xixin (Asari Radix et Rhizoma) but is larger, white in color, not flexible, and breaks easily. It is frequently used in prescriptions for treating qi-reversal coughs. Su Gong states: The plant is about one chi tall; its leaves resemble those of willow or Yuanhua (Genkwa Flos). The root is longer than that of Xixin and is white. It grows on river islets and sandy deserts, not along roadsides. Commonly known as Shilan, also called Souyao. The creeping variety currently in use has a bitter taste and is not the true Baiqian. Chen Zangqi states: The root resembles that of Baiwei (Cynanchi Atrati Radix) or Niuxi (Achyranthis Bidentatae Radix). It should be harvested in February and August and dried in the shade for use.

Zhao Jiamo states: The variety resembling Niuxi, which is thick, long, hard, straight, and breaks easily, is Baiqian. The variety resembling Niuxi, which is short, small, soft, and bendable, is Baiwei. Both grow in nearby regions and are quite similar in appearance and color; distinguishing them by these characteristics prevents errors.

**Root**

**[Processing]** Lei Xiao states: When using Baiqian, it should be soaked in water with raw Gancao (Licorice Root) for a full day and night (one fu period), then drained, removing the head and fibrous roots, before being baked dry and stored for use.

**[Flavor and Properties]** Sweet, slightly warm, non-toxic. Li Quan states: Pungent. Su Gong states: Slightly cold.

**[Indications]** Treats rebellious qi in the chest and hypochondrium, coughing with upward rushing qi, and breathing so rapid it seems about to cease (*Bencao Jing Jizhu*). Treats all types of qi disorders, lung qi irritability and stuffiness, Benpeng disease (fleeing pig syndrome), and rebellious kidney qi (*Shennong Bencao Jing*).

**[Innovation and Elucidation】** Zhang Zong states: Baiqian can stabilize lung qi and is widely used for treating coughs; it is particularly effective when assisted by warming herbs. Li Shizhen states: Baiqian is white in color and slightly pungent and sweet in taste; it enters the Hand-Taiyin Lung Meridian. It excels at descending qi and is suitable for patients with excess-type lung qi stagnation accompanied by phlegm. However, it should not be used for patients with deficiency patterns who experience frequent belching or sighing.

Zhang [Text incomplete/cut off]

**[Attached Prescriptions]** Two old prescriptions, one new prescription.

**Chronic Cough with Hemoptysis:** Baiqian, Jiegeng (Platycodonis Radix), Sangbaipi (Morus Cortex) each 3 liang (stir-fried); Gancao (Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma) 1 liang (honey-roasted). Boil in 6 sheng of water until reduced to 1 sheng. Divide into three doses. Avoid pork and Chinese cabbage (*Waitai Mi Yao*).

**Chronic Cough with Qi Reversal, Edema, Shortness of Breath, and Abdominal Distension:** For cases where the patient cannot lie down day or night, leaning against walls, and often making sounds like a water frog, treat with Baiqian Decoction. Baiqian 2 liang, Ziwan (Asteri Radix), Banxia (Pinelliae Rhizoma) each 3 liang, Daji (Euphorbiae Pekinensis Radix) 7 he. Soak in 1 dou of water overnight, boil to obtain 3 sheng. Divide into three doses. Strictly avoid mutton and maltose syrup for best results (*Shenshi Fang*).

**Chronic Asthma with Wheezing Sounds:** Characterized by coughing, wheezing sounds in the throat, and insomnia. Take Baiqian, bake it, and grind it into powder. Take 2 qian with warm wine per dose (*Meishi Fang*).