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*Changshan* (Dichroa Radix): Bitter and acrid in flavor, slightly cold in nature, toxic. Enters the Liver Meridian. It is most effective at resolving phlegm nodules and specifically treats malaria; its toxicity induces vomiting. Contraindicated with raw green onions, Chinese cabbage, and vinegar.
The seedling is named *Shuqi* (Dichroae Caulis), and those resembling chicken bones are considered superior.
Commentary: Zhu Danxi stated that Changshan belongs to Metal and is suitable for suppressing Liver pathogenic factors. However, its nature is harsh; upon ingestion, it causes severe vomiting, damaging the Spleen and Stomach. It is only suitable for individuals with robust constitution and excess phlegm. It should not be used by the elderly, children, or those suffering from chronic weakness and prolonged illness.
Leigong stated: When using Changshan, use the stems and leaves in spring, and the roots in summer, autumn, and winter. Soak in wine overnight, strain the next day, dry in the sun, then process by heating, pounding, or stir-frying. Do not allow the elderly or chronically ill to take it; this is a major contraindication.

*Cao Longdan* (Gentianae Scabrae Radix et Rhizoma): Bitter and astringent in flavor, cold in nature, non-toxic. Enters the Liver, Gallbladder, Kidney, and Bladder meridians. It clears pathogenic heat from the Liver meridian, eliminates dampness and swelling in the Lower Jiao, brightens the eyes, calms fright, treats jaundice, stops dysentery, and kills pinworms (*Ganchong*). Red bean (*Xiaodou*) and *Guanzhong* act as guides. Contraindicated with *Fang Kui* and Rehmanniae Radix (*Dihuang*).
Commentary: The *Tujing* records that Longdan flowers in autumn and bears fruit in winter, belonging to Metal and Water. Metal controls Wood; Water enters the Kidney, while the Gallbladder and Bladder are fu-organs associated with the Liver and Kidney. Therefore, it enters these meridians. The eyes rely on Liver Blood for vision, and the Liver is nourished by Kidney Water. By benefiting the Kidney and clearing the Liver, the eyes naturally receive brightness. Fright, *Gan* syndrome, jaundice, and dysentery are all Liver-Gallbladder patterns; why would they not be treated?
Leigong stated: After harvesting, dry in the shade. Before use, cut off the head and hard parts of the root hairs with a copper knife. Soak in Licorice Decoction (*Gancao Tang*) overnight, strain the next day, and dry in the sun before use. Do not consume on an empty stomach, as it may lead to urinary incontinence.

*Xuanshen* (Scrophulariae Radix): Bitter and salty in flavor, slightly cold in nature, non-toxic. Enters the Heart, Lung, and Kidney meridians. It primarily treats abdominal accumulations and masses due to cold and heat, various diseases such as breast abscesses in women, tonifies Kidney Qi, relieves mental restlessness, brightens the eyes, regulates wind affecting the head, treats throat conditions, dissipates goiters, disperses carbuncles and swellings, and resolves heat toxins. Contraindicated with *Huang Qin*, Dried Ginger (*Ganjiang*), Jujube (*Dazao*), and Cornus Fruit (*Shanzhuyu*). It is incompatible with Veratrum Root (*Lilu*). Avoid contact with copper vessels; ingestion causes throat obstruction and eye damage.
Commentary: Xuanshen has a light, clear, and bitter quality, allowing it to enter the Heart and Lungs to clear Fire in the Upper Jiao. Its substance is heavy, turbid, and salty, allowing it to enter the Kidney region to nourish the Yin of the Shaoyin. Thus, it treats various accumulation patterns effectively.
Leigong stated: Upon harvest, layers of cattail grass must separate the herbs. Steam in a steamer for two double-hours (four hours). Then remove and dry in the sun. During use, avoid contact with copper vessels, as it will cause choking and eye damage. Remove the cattail grass before use.