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(Huain) Xiangzi (Fennel Seed)

Pungent in flavor, neutral in nature, non-toxic. It primarily treats various hernias (Shan Qi), cholera-like disorders (Huoluan), and snakebites.
The *Tang Bencao* annotation states: The leaves resemble old Coriander (Lao Huxui), extremely fine; the stem is thick, growing five to six chi tall, in clumps. Current annotations state it is also known as Huixiangzi (Fennel Seed). It can also treat cold qi in the bladder and kidneys, as well as blind intestine qi (Mangchang Qi), harmonize the middle jiao, relieve pain, and treat vomiting. (Originally attached to *Tang Bencao*). Minister Yuxi et al. carefully note according to *Yaoxing Lun*: Fennel (Huixiang) can also be used alone, with bitter and pungent flavors. It is very fragrant when mixed into foods and breaks all foul odors. For sudden nausea and abdominal discomfort, taking the stems and leaves boiled for consumption will cure it. It is widely consumed in Sichuan.
Rihua Zi states: It works well with wine, treating dry and damp Jiaogqi (Foot Distress) along with Kidney Lao (Kidney Exhaustion), Shan Qi (Hernia), opening the stomach to promote appetite, treating bladder pain, and genital pain. For medicinal use, stir-fry before use.
*Tujing* states: Huixiangzi is also named Huixiang. The *Benjing* does not record its origin; currently, it grows in Jiaozhou, Guangzhou, various foreign tribes, and neighboring commanderies. Medicinal use mostly employs those from foreign ships; some say they are more potent than locally grown ones. In March, leaves emerge resembling old Coriander, very sparse and fine, growing in clumps. By May, they reach three to four chi in height. Flowers appear in July, with umbels that are yellow. The fruit resembles wheat but is smaller and green. People in the north call it Tu Huixiang (Local Fennel). "Rui" and "Hui" sound similar, hence the name. Collect the fruits in August and September, and dry them in the shade. Currently, many households in nearby areas plant them in gardens. Ancient formulas treat malignant carbuncles and swellings, or pain and spasms extending from the groin and thighs to the lower abdomen which is unbearable and fatal within a night. Use Fennel seedlings and leaves, crush to extract one sheng of juice, take orally three to four times a day, and apply the dregs to the swelling. Roots in winter can also be used. This is a foreign prescription, used since the Yongjia era, with miraculous efficacy in reviving the dying.
*Shiliao* states: The people value it, claiming it aids Yang function, though the method of use is often incorrect. Crush fresh stems and leaves to obtain one he of juice, mix with one he of hot wine, and take orally. It treats sudden Kidney Qi rushing to the hypochondrium causing stabbing pain like a knife, and inability to breathe. It is also very effective for Xiao Chang Qi (Intestinal Hernia). Sun Taizhen states: To treat Zhang Nue (Malarial Fevers) with whole-body heat extending to the back and neck, crush Rui and Huixiangzi to extract juice and take orally. Empirical Later Formula: Treats Spleen and Stomach issues affecting digestion. Take two liang of Huixiang (Fennel) and four liang of Shengjiang (Fresh Ginger), crush together evenly, cover with wet paper in a clean vessel overnight. Then stir-fry in silver or ceramic vessels using alternating mild and strong fire until yellow and scorched, grind into powder, and form pills the size of Wuzi (Pharbitis seeds) with wine. Take ten to fifteen pills each time, washed down with tea or wine.
*Shiyi Xinjing* states: Huixiang treats Huoluan (Cholera), dispels heat, removes foul breath odor; boiling into soup or eating raw is both acceptable.
*Yanyi* states: Huixiangzi, now commonly called Huixiang, treats cold qi in the bladder and Shan Tong (Hernia Pain). It also harmonizes Stomach Qi. The *Tang Bencao* annotation says it resembles old Coriander, which is an error. Coriander leaves resemble Shechuangzi (Cnidium Fruit); Huixiang only has the name of leaves, but disperses like silk hairs, distinctly different from other herbs. Large green caterpillars resembling silkworms sometimes appear on the branches; it is very effective for treating Xiao Chang Qi (Intestinal Hernia).