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Snake-Holding Grass (Shehan Cao)

Taste: Bitter. Nature: Slightly Cold. Toxicity: Non-toxic. Another view holds it is toxic. It grows on rocks and soil, found everywhere. Some stems have five leaves, others seven; among these two types, the variety with fine leaves and yellow flowers should be used, as this specimen possesses superior efficacy.

In ancient times, a farmer observed a snake holding this grass in its mouth; applying it to an injured snake revived it. It has been used to treat carbuncles and swellings, removing internal malignant toxins, epilepsy, cold-heat pathogenic factors, and pathogenic qi in the heart and abdomen; eliminating damp-bi, ulcers, hemorrhoids, malignant sores, and malignant sores associated with rat bites. It shows remarkable efficacy against the dryness and toxicity caused by various mineral drugs (Dan-Shi), and is also fully effective for injuries from snakes, scorpions, and bee stings. Many households plant it extensively, which also keeps snakes away. Additionally, when pounded into a paste, it can be used to reattach severed fingers.

The harvested root is named Nüqing (Female Green). When ground into fine powder and carried on the person, it prevents epidemic diseases. It governs Gu poison (parasitic disease) and drives out evil qi, kills ghosts and demons to ward off inauspicious omens.

Water Hong Grass (Shuihong Cao)

(Also known as Tianliao / Heavenly Smartweed) Taste: Salty. Nature: Slightly Cold. Toxicity: Non-toxic. Another view holds it tastes pungent and is toxic. Although it grows in various places, it is mostly found near water. The seedlings and stems are over a chi tall, with large leaves that are red and white. The fruits are harvested in May, but their use is rare. It removes bi qi (obstruction syndrome), eliminates malignant sores, directs downward water qi, and resolves Xiao Ke (wasting-thirst syndrome). It clears heat, brightens the eyes, and achieves various miraculous effects. Ma Liao (Horse Smartweed) leaves are largely similar to the above, also produced in low and damp areas. Harvested in summer and sun-dried for decoctions, it governs intestinal parasites/leeches and lightens the body.

Shui Liao (Water Smartweed) grows in shallow water, with large leaves bearing black spots. Both roots and stems are harvested and can be used to prepare decoctions. Rubbing the feet stops Huoluan (cholera-like disorder) with muscle cramps and reduces swelling of Xianggangjiao (podagra/gouty foot); swallowing it stops internal attack by snake venom and removes Pi accumulation (masses), distension, and pain. For Shui Gu (water distension) causing yellow edema and abdominal bloating, steaming induces sweating and leads to immediate recovery. Do not consume it in the second lunar month, as it damages the kidneys and weakens Yang. If consumed with fish, it causes severe cold pain in the yin region.

Mao Liao (Hairy Smartweed) does not die in winter at the root level, and its leaves have hairs; it also governs Luoli (scrofula) and carbuncles, drawing out pus and promoting flesh growth. Bai Liao (White Smartweed) and Hong Liao (Red Smartweed) are both excellent for brewing wine.

Mountain Arum Root (Shancigu Gen)

Taste: Pungent, Bitter. Toxicity: Slightly toxic. Commonly called Jin Denglong (Golden Lantern), it grows mostly in sandy wetlands. In early spring, new shoots emerge; the leaves resemble chive leaves and remain green. Flowers bloom in February, resembling lanterns with white petals. The petals have black spots, and the seeds form three angles. By Lixia (Start of Summer), the sprouts wither. It can be obtained by digging according to the season; if delayed, it rots and becomes hard to find. It is slightly similar to Laoya Suan (Crow Garlic), distinguishable by the covering. Laoya Suan is hairless and bare, whereas the covering of Cigu (Arum) has hairs. After peeling, it is roasted raw and used to dissipate carbuncles, ulcers, unnamed Ding swellings (furuncles), disperse Yingzhen (urticaria), and toxic malignant sores. It is spiritually effective when taken for bites from poisonous snakes.