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[Youba]
Mainly treats toxic swelling with heat accumulation.
Tao Hongjing stated: Youba originally originated from Shixing, and is now also cultivated in the capital region. Its appearance resembles Wu Yao (Aucklandiae Radix) spreading on the ground, with purple flowers and roots resembling Fuzi (Aconiti Lateralis Radix Praeparata). Rubbing it with vinegar and applying it to swellings is also effective. It is not used in combination with other medicines. The annotation of Xinxiu Bencao states: The so-called "root of Youba," upon checking Tao's annotation, refers to the root of Yuanwei (Iris Tectorum), which is also called Yuantou. Currently, people in the south mistake Youba for Banxia (Pinelliae Rhizoma), which is a significant error; this indicates not only ignorance of Banxia but also of Youba and Yuanwei. Current research based on Chen Cangqi's Bencao Shiyi records: Banxia grows about one or two chi high, producing in marshy fertile land, with roots like a small finger, perfectly round, known as Yangyan Banxia (Sheep-eye Pinellia). Youba seedlings grow one or two chi high, resembling Juma (Lactuca indica), with roots like chicken eggs, growing under forests; this is the true Youba. Ministers Yuxi et al. respectfully note according to the Shuben Tujing: In spring, a single stem emerges, with eight or nine leaves standing upright at the tip; the root is round, flat, and white-fleshed. The detailed illustrations are recorded under the entry for Banxia.
The above-mentioned Youba was present in ancient editions but omitted in the Zhenghe Imperial Edition; it is now supplemented here according to the Jiayou Imperial Edition.

[Yuanwei]
Taste: bitter; Nature: neutral; Toxicity: toxic.
Indications: Gu poison (parasitic disease), evil qi, Gui Zhu (ghostly transmission diseases), various toxins; breaks up masses and accumulations (Zhengjia); treats severe edema (Dashui); expels three types of intestinal parasites; treats dizziness; eliminates malevolent spirits.
Also known as Wuyuan. Grows in the valleys of Jiuyi Mountain. Harvested in May.
Tao Hongjing stated: Practitioners claim it is the seedling of Shegan (Belamcandae Rhizoma), without the name Yuanwei. Its therapeutic effects differ significantly, suggesting it should be a different substance. Formulas sometimes use Yuantou (Yuanwei root); thus, it should be its root. The therapeutic actions are similar, but the Bencao does not clearly distinguish them. The annotation of Xinxiu Bencao states: This herb's leaves resemble Shegan but are broader and shorter, without long stems; flowers are purple-blue. Roots resemble Gaoliangjiang (Alpiniae Officinarum Rhizoma), with yellow skin and white flesh, possessing slight toxicity. Chewing it irritates the throat, completely distinct from Shegan. It is also cultivated by households and found everywhere. Shegan has red flowers and long stems; its roots are yellow with hollows. Tao's description of Youba actually refers to the root and stem of Yuanwei. Ministers Yuxi et al. respectfully note according to the Shuben: The leaves of this herb are named Yuanwei, and the root is named Yuantou, also called Yuangen. Additionally, the Tujing states: Leaves resemble Shegan, growing close to the ground. Black roots resemble Gaoliangjiang but have larger nodes, connected in clusters. Found everywhere today. Harvest roots in September and October, dry in the sun. Detailed illustrations are recorded under the entry for Shegan.
Chen Cangqi stated: Yuanwei treats Feishi (flying corpse disease) and Yougu (wandering蛊) attaching to the throat, causing breathlessness. Peel the root, insert it into the throat, and massage the affected area until blood flows out, which is considered optimal.
The above-mentioned Yuanwei was present in ancient editions but omitted in the Zhenghe Imperial Edition; it is now supplemented here according to the Jiayou Imperial Edition.