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[Caozhou Tingli]
Taste: Acrid, Bitter. Nature: Greatly Cold. Property: Sinking, Yin within Yin. Toxicity: Non-toxic. Another view states it has slight toxicity and should be processed by roasting. It is abundant in Shaanxi and Hebei, but the variety from Caozhou (in Shandong) is superior.
It grows in fields and is harvested in summer. The seeds are flat like millet grains, small, and slightly yellow. For processing, they should be lightly stir-fried over a gentle fire through paper. It is incompatible with Jiangcan (Bombyx Batryticatus) and Shilongrui (Ranunculus japonicus). It works well when combined with Yupi (Ulmus Pumila Bark) or prepared with wine. There are two types: sweet and bitter Tingli, used according to the severity of the condition. Bitter Tingli acts rapidly to promote urination and drain heat; it is particularly effective for clearing excess heat in patients with strong constitution and severe symptoms, providing immediate relief for edema of the face and eyes caused by water retention. It is difficult to cure lung abscess with wheezing and inability to lie down without this herb. (The primary formula is Tingli Dazao Xiefei Tang, from Zhang Zhongjing's works.) It facilitates recovery from persistent cough due to phlegm-fluids. It primarily treats masses and accumulations (Zhengjia Jiju) and qi stagnation, and manages itching and prickly heat caused by wind-heat. Long-term use may damage those with deficiency constitutions; this must be noted.

[Xuzhou Zelan]
Taste: Bitter, Sweet. Another view adds Acrid. Nature: Slightly Warm. Toxicity: Non-toxic. It grows abundantly in watery marshes and is also cultivated in gardens. The plant is about two to three chi tall, with purple nodes and square stems (having four edges). The leaves are opposite, pointed, hairy, and not smooth or glossy. Flowers are white in August, resembling those of Bohe (Mint). Freshly picked, it has a slight acrid taste, which is unique. When used medicinally, it pairs well with Fangji (Stephania Tetrandra). It regulates various lingering diseases postpartum and is essential in gynecology; it reduces edema of the body, face, and limbs, making it suitable for dampness conditions. It excels at breaking old blood and eliminating masses, and effectively treats contusions by promoting blood circulation. It disperses head wind and relieves eye pain, and draws out pus from carbuncles and sores. It promotes flesh regeneration, opens orifices, and benefits the bowels. The root is dark purple-black, known as Dishun. It is similar to Sugeng (Polygonatum Kingianum Rhizome) and treats all blood-related disorders. Postpartum women can consume it as a vegetable.
Additionally, Yinaicao (a type of herb promoting lactation) can be harvested; it is most effective for rectal prolapse. It should be roasted until fragrant and dry, then soaked in wine and drunk.