Library

Damp-toxin sores (Shidu Chuang) occur between the feet and shins, resembling ox eyes in shape, with colors varying from purple to black. Pus and exudate drip continuously, and where the flow stops, ulceration occurs; they fail to heal for a long time. This condition arises from the deficiency of the Spleen and Stomach, causing damp-heat to sink downward, resulting in insensibility of the muscles. It may also be caused by the invasion of cold-dampness or summer-heat into the skin due to violent winds and heavy rains. Externally, it involves the Foot-Taiyang and Foot-Shaoyang meridians; internally, it involves the Foot-Jueyin and Foot-Taiyin meridians. At the initial stage, when urgency is felt, one should immediately administer Jingfang Tongsheng San (Jingfang Tongsheng Powder), adding Chaenomelis Fructus (Mu Gua), Achyranthis Bidentatae Radix (Niu Xi), Stephaniae Tetrandrae Radix (Fang Ji), and Atractylodis Rhizoma (Cang Zhu). If the condition persists without healing, one should take Buzhong Yiqi Tang (Tonify the Middle and Augment the Qi Decoction) combined with Ermiao San (Two Marvels Powder), applying externally Zhibai San (Processed Phellodendron Powder) or Jinhuang San (Golden Yellow Powder).

Kidney wind (Shen Zang Feng) belongs to Kidney deficiency, where wind pathogens attack the shins, causing the skin to resemble tinea, or gradually spreading up the thighs. In prolonged cases, it spreads over the whole body. External symptoms include itching leading to sores, dripping pus and water, and blurred vision; internal symptoms include dry mouth and tongue, fatigue in the waist and legs, expectoration of phlegm with fever, night sweats, and general debility. The treatment method uses Liuwei Wan (Six-Ingredient Pill with Rehmannia) as the principal formula, assisted by Sisheng San (Four Generations Powder). For those with weak Spleen and Stomach, Buzhong Yiqi Tang should be used as the principal formula, assisted by Liuwei Wan and Sisheng San, which is advisable. Externally, apply Huangla Gao (Yellow Beeswax Ointment).

Spider sores (Zhizhu Chuang) arise from clothing touching spider urine or from insects crawling, becoming infected with toxins. The appearance resembles Shuike Chuang (Water Vesicle Sores); it is pale red, itchy and painful, appearing in clusters of five to seven, spreading day by day, and in severe cases causing aversion to cold and fever. Immediately rubbing the area with rhinoceros horn juice will cure it; otherwise, rub ramie on the sore until fluid appears, then apply Jinhuang San; or mix realgar and calcined alum in equal parts, grind finely, and sprinkle dry powder directly.

Lacquer dermatitis (Qichuang) is caused by lacquer, which has a pungent and hot nature and is a toxic fire-like substance. If the pores and interstices of the skin are not dense, one becomes infected by its toxin, leading to this condition. Initially, blisters form, causing itching and turning into sores; severely, it spreads to the limbs, with broken skin, spots, flowing fluid, pain, and alternating chills and fever. One must avoid bathing in hot water and refrain from strong flavors; otherwise, it may transform into stubborn wind-tinea or leprosy-like conditions. Wash with decoction of Cunninghamia Flower (Shanmu Hua); apply a mixture of Hangfen (prepared starch), Gypsum Fibrosum (Shigao), Calomelas (Qingfen), and Allii Tuberosi Juice (Jiu Zhi); or apply raw egg yolk, changing frequently.

Chilblains (Dongchuang) are formed due to severe cold weather causing the freezing and coagulation of Qi and Blood. Initially, purple spots appear; later, they turn black, rot, and suppurate. They occur on hands, feet, ears, and surrounding areas. Wash with decoction of Melia Toosendan Fruit (Lianshu Guo). Grind Raw Aconite Root (Sheng Fuzi) into powder, mix with Melia Toosendan pulp, and apply as a paste using flour and water; or melt one liang of yellow beeswax, add three fen of rosin, stir well, and apply.