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I first interacted with Master Qin in the Youning Hall, observing that his medical principles were simple and unadorned, calm and comfortable, and his discussions were decisive, not striving to flatter or conform to trends. This filled me with awe and respect. As I delved deeper into his profound understanding, it seemed vast as autumn waters in flood, bursting from streams and pouring into rivers, reaching in all directions; and dissipating like spring ice melting, where those similar to him also recovered. Thus, I admired him and delighted in associating with him. A severe chronic illness (Chenji) had afflicted my household for two years, presenting nearly insurmountable difficulties. Master Qin prescribed a formula for me; upon administration, immediate efficacy was observed. However, symptoms recurred upon cessation of medication. Having consumed several jin of medicine now, the disease has been alleviated by eight or nine parts. Master Qin indeed possesses true insight, and I consider myself to have held exclusive faith in him.

Master Qin originally pursued Confucian studies; his eloquent wit occasionally surfaced in conversation, yet this compilation reflects his meticulous research and exhaustive thought, analyzed item by item, without any desire to display literary flair. Master Qin stated: "Although medicine can save lives, it is ultimately a 'minor art'; why use shock and awe?" This book allows beginners to understand clearly, as if pointing at their palm; even those who meditate deeply and align with the ancients, playing with the subtle words of Xuanyuan and Qibo but failing to return to practical application, though regarding classics merely as tools (like fish traps or rabbit snares), will inevitably find spiritual sustenance here. I know it serves practical utility, what need for embellishment? In the past, Scholar Xu possessed divine skill; when advised to write, he laughed and replied, "If books are truly useful, there are countless cases of returning the pearl while keeping the box." Sharing my unique methods with others yielded no benefit and caused loss. Hence, it is said that empty words are inferior to concrete actions; within moments, everything becomes history. Scholar Xu's argument is indeed profound. The climates of the five regions differ, and the Qi-Yun (vital energy and luck) of ancient and modern times vary greatly. The theories of the four schools—Zhu, Zhang, Liu, and Li—if applied well, each achieves its excellence; but rigid adherence leads to bias. All regard these as the great central and upright path, flawless for generations, yet fail to realize the principle of adapting to changing times. This book examines causes based on symptoms, pulses based on causes, and treatments based on pulses, seeking the root without preconceived notions. It essentially supplements predecessors; claiming to establish new doctrines would be presumptuous. Master Qin taught me thus, which I accepted silently. Reflecting later, I see he advances in technique without boasting of fame. Therefore, I wrote before and narrate after, truly honoring and loving him.

Inscribed by Gu Maochao, courtesy name Peisheng, humble younger brother and family friend, on the first day of the fifth lunar month (Ruibin朔日) of the Wuzi year, the 47th year of the Kangxi reign.