Library

Taste: Sweet; Nature: Cold. Indications: Wind-cold-dampness Bi syndrome (painful obstruction caused by wind, cold, and dampness pathogens). It can eliminate all diseases complicated with water qi (abnormal fluid metabolism). For difficulty in lactation (breastfeeding difficulty), since milk is also a fluid, its diuretic action promotes the flow of milk.

Eliminates water retention, directing fluids to the Bladder. Nourishes the five Zang organs, boosts Qi and strength; when water qi is removed, the Zang organs are stabilized and Qi is generated. Promotes robust physique. The Spleen dislikes dampness; when Spleen Qi is dry (indicating normal transportive function without damp encumbrance), muscles become full and the body appears robust. Long-term use brings clarity to the ears and eyes, reduces hunger, prolongs life, lightens the body, and brightens the complexion; these are all effects of cleansing water and removing dampness. It enables one to walk on water. When water qi is exhausted, the body becomes light and does not sink in water.

Alisma Rhizoma (Zexie) is a herb that unblocks and benefits the Stomach and Spleen. Due to its bland and seeping nature, it drains water from the earth (Spleen); once water is removed, the earth becomes dry and Qi fills it, addressing the Spleen's aversion to dampness. However, Qi and dampness must exit via the Bladder; Alisma Rhizoma descends to the Bladder, thus it is also a herb for the Bladder channel.

Gentian Root (Longdan): Taste: Bitter; Nature: Warm. Indications: Cough with rebellious Qi, caused by Qi stagnation. Damages the Middle Jiao, but tonifies deficiency; the Heart governs Ying (Nutritive) Qi; when Ying Qi flows smoothly, the Middle Jiao becomes sufficient. Expels pathogenic factors, unblocks the nine orifices; due to its pungent and aromatic dispersing nature, it dispels turbidity and opens the orifices. Enhances wisdom, brings clarity to the ears and eyes, improves memory, strengthens willpower; this occurs because clear Heart Qi leads to abundant Essence and complete Spirit. Increases strength. When Heart Qi is vigorous, Spleen Qi also strengthens, generating strength. Long-term use lightens the body and delays aging; this is the effect of harmonizing Qi.

Polygala Root (Yuanzhi): Taste and odor are bitter and pungent, aromatic and clear/intense, penetrating everywhere; thus, it is a herb for regulating Qi in the Heart house. Heart Fire generates Spleen Earth; when Heart Qi is vigorous, Spleen Qi is harmonized; therefore, it also tonifies Qi in the Middle Jiao.

Gentian Root (Longdan): Taste: Bitter, Astringent. Indications: Cold-heat alternating in the bones, treating cold-heat caused by Liver pathogen invading the Kidney. Convulsions, epilepsy, and pathogenic factors, which are evils caused by Liver Fire invading the Heart. Heals severe injuries, consolidates Qi of tendons and bones. Stabilizes the five Zang organs, consolidates Qi within the Zang organs. Kills gu poison (parasitic toxins). Clears heat accumulation. Long-term use enhances intelligence and memory, consolidates Shen (Spirit) in the heart. Lightens the body and promotes longevity. This effect occurs because heat pathogens are expelled and righteous Qi returns.

Astringent herbs are rare; the efficacy of Gentian Root lies primarily in its astringency, emphasizing its taste. "Astringency" is a variation of sour and pungent tastes, combining the properties of Metal (astringent) and Wood (dispersing/growing); thus, it clears and consolidates evil fire in the Liver. Among humans, Liver Fire is the most rampant; it can downwardly carry wandering fire from the Kidneys and upwardly draw ministerial fire from the Pericardium, causing harm through mutual persistence. Once Liver Fire is cleared, various fires gradually subside, and the whole body achieves tranquility.