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To treat this disease, although the *Mingtang* (Classic of Acupoints) lacks explicit text, simply applying moxibustion thoroughly to the area of suffering will cause the pain to dissipate; this is self-evident. (Note: The Cheng Yandao edition adds the character "bu" [not] here.)

Furthermore, observe that after the moxa blisters heal, if the scar color becomes red and white and the skin returns to its original state, the wind-toxin has been completely exhausted. If the color is blue-black, the wind-toxin is not yet exhausted; continue moxibustion without stopping until the limbs feel light, then cease.

Su Gong stated: When Hongjiaojiao (Gouty Arthritis/Edema of the lower limbs) flares up severely, acupuncture and moxibustion are forbidden on the upper body from the waist upwards, as drawing wind qi upward can be fatal. After the qi settles, if residual symptoms remain, moxibustion is permissible. Moxibustion should only be performed in winter, not in spring or summer; it is suitable for areas below the Fengshi acupoint.

Additionally, if the qi in the chest is scattered, but there is a surging, beating pulse under the heart that extends downward into the inner thighs, causing mental anxiety and palpitations, one should use the hand to press and knead the lower abdomen on both sides, connecting to the oblique lines on the outer thighs where the pulse beats. Apply moxibustion above this line for seven moxa cones (zhu), which will stabilize the condition. Afterward, moxibustion must also be applied to Zusanli (ST36) for twenty cones to guide the qi downward.

The *Tang Lun* further states: If there is fullness in the chest and heart, and even after moxibustion on various points of the body and shins and taking herbal decoctions, the qi still cannot descend, leading to extreme irritability and a desire to die, apply seven moxa cones to the central depression below each sole. This point is particularly crucial and should not be frequently moxibusted; only apply seven cones in extreme emergencies. In all cases of moxibustion, do not abandon herbal medicine. Herbs attack internally, while moxibustion vents externally; this is like opening the door to drive out thieves, making it easy for them to exit; if the door is closed while chasing, the thieves have no way out and may harm the owner instead.

Regulation Methods: Patients with Hongjiaojiao must strictly abstain from sexual activity. Foods such as mutton, beef, fish, garlic, Houttuynia (Jicai), Chinese cabbage, turnip (Manjinging), bottle gourd (Huzi), alcohol, wheat noodles, butter/ghee, milk porridge, pork, chicken, goose, and duck are strictly prohibited, although some formulas use carp heads. One must also avoid extreme anger. Suitable foods include japonica rice, sorghum, millet, soy sauce, fermented beans, green onion, leek, wild garlic (Xie), pepper, ginger, and tangerine peel. Do not consume raw fruits or sour/vinegar-based foods; violating these prohibitions prevents recovery. It is highly beneficial to consume raw cow's milk and raw chestnuts. (*Qianjin Fang*) (Note: Additionally, the *Food Therapy* section cites Bian Que stating that patients with Hongjiaojiao deficiency bloating must not eat sweet bottle gourd, otherwise the condition will never resolve.)

Su Jing stated: Ginger, garlic, and fermented soybeans are excellent to eat; however, wheat noodles, mutton, radish, turnip, and leeks should be avoided. Drunkenness, sexual intercourse, prolonged standing in cold/damp places, boat travel moisture, summer indoor heat/humidity, overexertion, crying, and worry/confusion all trigger the onset of qi disturbances. (*Waitai Miyao*)

First, avoid anger; anger causes heart/abdominal irritation, which triggers Hongjiaojiao. Second, avoid loud talking; loud talking damages the Lungs, and Lung damage also induces the disease. Do not expose the feet to wind or enter water, nor wash feet with cold water; the calves are especially susceptible to cold.

Do not sleep excessively during the day; engage in physical activity and leisure to soothe the temperament and avoid lethargy.

Patients with Hongjiaojiao should eat freely and fully at breakfast, eat less at lunch, and refrain from eating dinner, which is optimal. (*Baojian* adds: Fear of damaging the Spleen and Stomach's transportive qi, losing normal rhythm. Moreover, night eating causes blood and qi stagnation moving along yin meridians, increasing swelling and pain.)

Tang physicians stated: If slight heat rises to the head, face, and neck, expose the back to cool down, ensuring the kidneys/lower back do not get cold. If the back feels cold, wear very thick clothing. Such care will lead to gradual recovery. Without proper care, danger and severe illness will appear immediately, worsening rapidly and potentially endangering life. Wash face and feet with hot water, adding a little cold water. Do not eat sour food or ride horses. Walking and exercising muscles/tendons will naturally help Hongjiaojiao gradually improve.

Generally, Hongjiaojiao patients do not achieve permanent cure and relapse in spring/summer. In summer, when pores open, lying down/sleeping is inadvisable; upon waking, massage and knead to prevent pathogenic qi retention. Frequently move joints to keep them unobstructed; this is key to health preservation and resisting wind-pathogens. Those with strength should walk 500 steps after meals, stopping when tired; this disperses evil qi downward in the legs, preventing qi from rising even if edema exists.

Hongjiaojiao patients should not eat crucian carp; this is highly effective. (*Suosui Lu*)