Library

Baihua She (White-spotted Snake) from Qizhou is of the best quality, while that from Huangzhou is secondary. The genuine species can be identified by the "Buddha's fingernail" feature on its tail; even after death, its eyes retain luster. It is highly effective in treating wind diseases (Zhang Wenqian, *Mingdao Zazhi*).

Zelan (Eupatorium fortunei) is produced in the Wuzhong region. It bears white flowers and has leaves resembling those of Huoma (Hemp). Its root is called Disun (Ground Bamboo Shoot) and can detoxify Banmao (Blister Beetle). It is regarded as a miraculous medicine for all ailments before and after childbirth in women (*Suzhou Zhi*).

Humax (Sesame) primarily treats emaciation and weakness in the intestines, tonifies the five zang organs, boosts qi and strength, promotes muscle growth, fills the marrow and brain, strengthens sinews and bones, and clears deficiency heat. Long-term consumption brightens the eyes, lightens the body, prevents aging, and prolongs life. Humax is also known as Jusheng. The variety with four ridges is Humax, while the one with eight ridges is Jusheng. Tao Hongjing stated: "Among the eight grains, only this one is excellent." He further noted that its flavor is sweet and it belongs to the category of rice and beans; this is precisely Wu Ma (Black Sesame). However, the Jusheng currently in use has small pods resembling sesame but large leaves with an extremely bitter taste and a very cold nature. Bitter flavors do not belong in grain categories, and cold natured substances are unsuitable for tonification. Furthermore, its leaves behave differently from hemp: they droop on cloudy days and rise under intense sun. This must be a different substance, not Jusheng or Humax. Lay physicians often use it without discrimination. The correct variety should be Wu You Ma (Black Oily Sesame), which has a sweet taste and four-ridged leaves (Humax) or eight-ridged leaves (Jusheng), conforming to the *Shennong Bencao Jing*. The bitter and cold variety should not be used.

On Mount Xi in Hongzhou, there is the Chenmu Guan (Chenmu Temple). Chenmu was the master who transmitted the Dao to Xu Jingyang. The temple contains Xian Mao (Curculigo rhizome) planted by Chenmu, which is similar to that found in mountains and fields today, though the aroma and flavor differ when decocted. If consumed by young people, it may cause bleeding from the mouth and nose due to its extreme heat property. This account comes from Wu Zeng’s *Nenggai Zhai Manlu*.

Wujia Pi (Acanthopanacis Cortex) has a slightly cold nature and is non-toxic. The tree trunk and branches are covered with thorns, and the leaves resemble those of the Catalpa tree; it is commonly called Ci Qiu (Thorny Catalpa). It is widespread. In spring, the buds can be harvested for food; they taste pungent and slightly bitter. Consumption greatly contributes to longevity. Ancients used it to brew wine. The *Bencao* states that it mainly treats wind-bi syndrome (wind-dampness obstruction) and spasms/contracture of the four limbs, tonifies the middle jiao and essence, strengthens sinews and bones, fortifies the will, and resolves blood stasis in the skin. Another saying goes: "Better to have a handful of Wujia Pi than a cart full of gold and jade." Because this herb benefits humans, it is so highly valued.