至四更，闻棺中格格然，盖气始绝也。其友当涂马鹤船学博寿龄为作诗，余撮其略如此，惜
不得其治验方云。
陈载庵坤，居山阴之柯桥，承其父梅峰先生灿之传，虚心临证，屡救危殆，犹复广搜书
籍，
研究忘倦。咸丰丁巳春，访余于武林，相见恨晚，各出所藏秘笈互抄。载庵之长子幼时喉痛
数日，遍体发 如剥皮状，痛痒难堪，医者不识，载庵焦思无计，忽忆唐笠山《吴医汇讲
》中曾载，名曰虏 ，须以蜜煎升麻拭摩，若不即疗，必死。乃即如法治之，蜜随涂随消，
二昼夜用蜜数升遂愈。其好学之获效有如此。
杭州赵芸阁泰，勤求医理，洞烛病机，其戚有为医误治，服利湿药以致危殆者二人，赵
皆拯
塞隧道，非湿热也。用虎杖散入两头尖、韭根等与之，小便得通而愈。其一膝以下肿，医用
五苓，肿更甚，赵以其肿处甚冷，而面色 白，知是阳虚，令服金匮肾气丸而愈。夫南方湿
病居多，此二症尤多挟湿者，兹独不宜于利湿药，可知治病不当执一，非学识之精者，焉能
吾邑沈吟梅州判炳荣，熟精医理，官直隶时，曾治一妇，年二十八，因丧夫而得颠疾，
时发
故以此药交心肾，使火熄而病自已也。
医家着书，每为假托之辞，以炫其功能。如窦材《扁鹊心书》，则以为上天所畀，《张
景岳全书》，则以为游东藩之野，而遇异人，至陈远公《石室秘录》，乃竟托之于岐天师雷公，
尤属不经。《洪氏集验方》五卷，宋·洪景严遵所辑，《本草纲目》采宋人方书甚多，独遗
此书，盖失传久矣。嘉庆间。吴县黄尧圃丕烈，得宋刻本，乃重刊之，其书始传于世，黄序中谓此
书刊成，求序于独学老人，（谓石
殿撰韫玉。）有札示余曰∶昨所言交感丹，疑用香附太偏重，因查敝处所藏方书，乃是香附
一个，配茯神四两，尊抄是香附一斤，窃意香附一个，无一斤重之理，恐系抄胥之误。能再
查原本，此固慎重起见，然余即以此方降气汤二条证之，一用半斤，一用五两，是降序用之
，原方一斤非误佞，宋之癖如是，并附着之以质之深于医理者，一正其是非云。余按∶用药
分两，有君臣佐使之不同，即如此书中苁蓉茸附丸，菟丝子六两，而沉香仅一分，以视一斤
四两，更为轻重悬殊，且《瑞竹堂经验方》亦载是方，香附亦用一斤，《本草纲目》收入香
附条下，分两悉合，然则黄说是也。
《苏沈内翰良方》沈存中自序有云∶世之为方者，称其治效常喜过实，《千金》、《肘
后》
之类，尤多溢言，使人不复敢信。夫《千金》、《肘后》，为古方书之佳者，而犹若如此，
况其他乎？即如此书中苏合香丸、至宝丹等素称神效，而统观全书，热药居多，至若止吐软
红
丸之用信砒、巴豆，治惊辰砂丸之用腻粉、龙脑，尤为峻厉，岂可轻视？又小柴胡汤为伤寒
少阳证主方，而此书以为赤白痢尤效，且谓痢多因伏暑，此药极解暑毒，凡伤暑之人，审是
暑，不问是何状，连服数次即解，是欲执此方以治一切暑 证也，不又为圣散子之贻？祸
于世乎？是知方书非无可取之处，而不能尽善，在人精心审择，以定弃取耳。
宋·董汲《旅舍备要方》，《四库全书题要》云∶汲因客途猝病，医药难得，集经效之
方百
有余道，内如蚰蜒入耳及中药毒，最为险急，而所用之药至为简易，其杂伤五方，古书中不
少概见，今亦罕传，尤见奇特，盖古所谓专门禁方，用之则神验，至求其理，则和扁有所不
能解，即此类也。今录其方以备用。
治蚰蜒入耳，胆矾末一匙，以醋少许滴灌之，须臾虫化为水。解中药毒，并虫毒闷乱吐
血烦
躁，甘草一两生用，白矾五钱，生延胡索一两，上为细末，每服半钱，水一盏，煎至六分，
去滓，放冷细细呷之。杂伤，治火伤被火烧处，急向火灸之，虽大痛强忍之，少间不痛不脓
。治犬马啮及马骨刺伤人及马血入旧疮中方，取灰汁热渍疮，常令汁器有火，数易其汁，勿
令烂入肉，三数日渍之，有肿者，炙石令热熨之，日二次即止。
治蛇咬久不效，及毒瓦斯内攻疮痛方，雄黄、白矾等分研就，刀头上爆令熔下，便贴咬伤
处自瘥。治道涂大醉仆地，或取凉地卧。为蛇入人窍方，见时急以手捻定，用刀刻破尾，以椒或
辛物置破尾上，以绵系之，少刻自出，此蛇有逆骨，慎不可以力拔之，须切记。壁镜咬人立
死治之方，槟榔不拘多少，烧灰存性，先以醋淋洗，后以醋调贴之。又一方甚平易可用，并
录之。治跋涉风雨，或道路误为细尘眯目，隐痛不能视物，随所眯目以手分开，自以唾搽之
偶从友人处见张叔承三锡《医学六要》眉间评语甚佳，惜不知何人手笔，摘录数条于此
。惟
百补不愈，以滚痰丸一两行之即愈。葛可久补髓丹，黄蜡与鸡同用，此二味不宜并食，录有
明禁，当删去。一人嗜酒，醉后服葛花即解，一医曰∶此人不久矣，疏利太过也。果以风痹
死。吞酸一症，东垣作寒证，河间、丹溪作热论，世人因有标本之说分属之，吾辈固当兼参
，然治常得芩连症，用姜桂者甚少，岂东垣之法可废哉？缘俗医治病，初多用温散，久久寒
化为热，未有不从热治者耳。一娠妇小便，遍数多而溺少，涩而不通，余用补中益气汤吞六
味丸四钱愈《医贯》法也，次日令再服，病患以不惯丸药，且谓地黄泥隔遂止，越四日病复
作，必欲易一方，因以清心莲子饮与之，一服效，后视《伤寒准绳》知古有成法也。妊妇转
胞，由胎压膀胱，大抵虚陷所致，薛氏以补中益气汤举之，较丹溪四物、四君、二陈煎服探
吐为稳。杭医陈月坡治鄞谢宣子室人，一剂而通，盖清气之陷，总因浊气不降耳。升之则降
矣，降之则升矣。催生如柞木饮、兔脑丸、通明乳香等法，俱不足存，只一味独参汤妙甚，
余第四女难产一昼夜，服参半斤而生。高鼓峰每用参、 各一两，当归五钱，川芎三钱，冬
月加桂以温之。
《四库全书》医家类存目《药镜》四卷，浙江巡抚采进本。《题要》云∶明·蒋仪撰。
仪，
（字仪用），嘉兴人，正德甲戌进士，其历官未详。是编前后无序跋，惟凡例谓《医镜》之镌
，骈车海内，今梓药性，仍以镜名云云。此书余于咸丰七年，从武林书坊得刊本四卷，乃与
王宇泰《医镜》四卷（有仪用崇祯辛已序文。）合刻者，前有仪用之弟云章彦文氏顺治丁亥序
，及仪用康熙二年自序，各卷首刊嘉善（蒋仪纂定，常醴参订。）彦文之序，谓仪用负宏济苍
生之愿，出入场屋，见刖执事，郁郁不得志，以为无爵位而有功名，可以遂我宏济之愿者，
莫若业医，若遍访名宿，遂得宗旨于王宇泰先生，发其枕秘，有《医镜》一书，镌传海内，
学人奉为指南矣。然而用克镜医，必先镜药，岁在乙酉魏塘春夏为弘光元年，魏塘秋冬为顺
治之二年，民之死于兵死于疫者，盖踵相望，仪用侧处北村，恻然心伤，益无意章句，乃集
古今药性全书，并诸名家，及金坛用药秘旨，手自删订编辑，缀方给药，全活乡党贫人，又
与常子馨逸互相考论，砥琢词章，协以声韵，成书四卷，名曰《药镜》。又云∶仪用近葺蓬
编茨，驱儿辈及僮仆，督耕陇上，暇时买药归来，悬壶街市，袖古今医说，研穷探味，云以
自老。据此则仪用应试而未尝登第，入本朝业医以终。《题要》所云，乃据采进本之辞耳。
及考《嘉兴府志·撰述门》，只有卜祖学《药镜》，无仪用名，当亦有误，特识于此，为吾
郡征文献者告焉。
张介石谓《医贯》以六味治伤寒，其言如 。叶天士谓景岳以大温中饮治温邪时疫，言
滋阴
可以发汗，真医中之贼。盖赵氏喜用六味、张氏喜用参桂，立言一偏，遂滋流弊。今二书盛
行于世，读者必详察其失，而节取其长，斯可矣。
《史载之方》二卷，即《直斋书录解题》所云∶蜀人史堪《指南方》也。此书世少传本
，余
从新城罗镜泉学博以智，借得抄本录之，《洪景严集验方》曾记载之，治妇人气块刺痛二方
，兼及其治验，盖亦能医之士也。然其书中之方，大半皆麻黄、独活、附子、官桂等药，其
治疫毒痢之通神散，用麻黄、官桂、甘草、川芎、白术、细辛、独活、桔梗、防风、芍药、
白芷、牡丹皮、牵牛，第二方用诃子，第三方用硫黄，杨子建袭之，改为万全获命三方，并
袭其说。如寒邪犯心，水火相战，所以先发寒热，水火相犯，血变于中，所以下赤痢云云。
孔以立《痢疾论》深诋之，斥为不经之说，又谓不辨人体之强弱，脉息之虚实，擅用麻黄、
术、桂、牵牛、诃子、硫黄，实乃杀人之事。其论良然。
宋·灵泉山初虞世《古今录验养生必用方》，人间绝少，咸丰初年，杭州吴山陶氏宝书
堂书
坊，偶得宋刊本于四明，湖州丁宝书以钱六千购之去，余友罗镜泉亦喜搜奇书，闻之大惊，
急从丁君强借抄副本，余因得录一册。按《郡斋读书后志》谓是十六卷，《直斋书录解题》
及《宋史·艺文志》谓是三卷，《通志·艺文略》亦云三卷，又有《续必用方》一卷。此册分
上中下三卷，前有绍圣五年宗室捐之重刊序
文，书中记传方之人甚多，皆详其出处行谊，知亦有心人也。卷首论“为医”一条云∶用药
之法，先审有害无害，苟能无害，是为有利，盖汤丸一入不出，人死岂可复生？历劫长夜，
永为冤对，无有免离。仁者鉴此，岂不勉旃？语简旨深，可为医门药石。
张戴人治病，专用汗吐下，然则其时病者竟无虚症当补者乎？医术虽高，不谓之偏不得
也，
其医业中往往不详脉象，此出自麻知几辈之手，不免多附会失实，至如治劳嗽、治虚劳、治
冻疮，皆以舟车丸、浚川散大下之，治临产病喘，以凉膈散二两，四物汤二两，朴硝一两，
煎令冷服，且谓孕妇有病用朴硝，八月者当忌之，九月十月内无碍，其说皆未可信。
雷公、扁鹊，皆上古时人，战国时秦越人慕扁鹊学，因称扁鹊，迨后宋《雷 炮炙论》
亦称
则材直以之自称，从来着书家，未有如此夸大者。
秀水殷方叔仲春《医藏目录》一卷，就其生平所见医书，自上古以及近世咸载焉，分为
二十
函，函各数十种，首曰“无上函”，自《内经》、《神农本草》、《难经》诸书，外兼及《
易经》、《洪范》、《繁露》，盖本孙思邈大医须兼识阴阳卜相之意。同时平湖陈懿典为作
序有云∶方叔研讨方药，治病称神，户履常满，然萧然环 中，不走五都，不游大人，而《
医藏》一编，网罗悉人间未睹之书，议论阐古人未发之旨。考《嘉兴府志》方叔有传，在“
隐逸门”，是殆精于医而不以医名者，方叔又能诗，有《安老堂集》，惜未得见。
董氏琏《卫济宝书》，吴晓钲得袁永之影宋定本二十二篇，完善无缺，视文劳同之本多
三之
一，后有“续添方”，乃元人所辑，不知名氏，方多佳者，摘录于此。治毒蛇咬，先以麻绳
扎伤处两头，次用香白芷细末掺于疮口，以多为妙，仍以新汲水调下半两许，毒瓦斯自消。（
一方用热酒调下，诸方皆用麦冬水，盖欲先护心气也。）系瘤法兼去鼠奶痔，（出《集验方》
，真奇捷也。）芫花根洗净带湿，不得犯铁器，于木石器中捣取汁，用线一条，浸半日或一
宿，以线系瘤，经宿即落，如未落再换线，不过两次自落，后用龙骨并诃子末敷疮口即合，
根据上法系鼠奶痔，屡用得效。《苏沈良方》亦有用蜘蛛者，然费力，不如此径捷。如无根，
只用花泡浓水浸线亦得。赵氏尝用以系腰间一瘤，不半日即落，亦不痛。二圣散治咽喉风热
缠喉一切肿毒，鸭嘴胆矾二钱半，白僵蚕半两去丝嘴，共为细末，每用少许，以竹管吹入喉
中立效。来苏膏治惊邪风痫，心恙狂乱，积热痰涎上冲，破伤风搐牙关不开，无问远年近日
，
并皆治之，用干圆肥好无蛀皂角去皮弦子捶碎，用清净酸浆水一碗，春秋浸五日，夏浸二日
，冬浸七日，搓揉去滓澄净，用瓷器内以文武火熬成膏药相似，摊以新夹纸上阴干，遇病患
用时，取手掌大一片，用温浆水化于瓷器内，将病患扶坐，用竹苇筒装药水，扶起病患头，
吹入左右鼻孔内，扶定良久，涎出为验，此药治愈病患不计其数，大德六年，有行御史台
彻里大夫舍人一十四岁，因风热痰涎潮搐，牙关紧闭，不省人事，二台医治疗无门，有台掾
李受卿收此妙药，根据法吹入左右鼻孔内，须臾痰涎出及一碗余，立苏。
到了四更天，听到棺材里发出格格的声音，这是因为气刚刚断绝。他的朋友当涂的马鹤船学博寿龄为此作了一首诗，我摘录其大意如此，可惜没有得到他治疗有效的方子。
陈载庵名坤，居住在山阴县的柯桥，继承了他父亲梅峰先生灿的医术传承，虚心临证，多次挽救危重病人，还广泛搜集书籍，研究起来不知疲倦。咸丰丁巳年春天，他在武林拜访我，相见恨晚，各自拿出所藏的秘籍互相抄录。载庵的长子小时候喉咙痛了几天，全身皮肤像剥皮一样发红，疼痛瘙痒难以忍受，医生不认识这个病，载庵焦急思考没有办法，忽然想起唐笠山的《吴医汇讲》中曾记载过，名叫虏瘅（一种严重的皮肤病），需要用蜜煎升麻擦拭按摩，如果不立即治疗，必死无疑。于是他就按照这个方法治疗，蜜随着涂抹随即消退，两昼夜用了数升蜂蜜便痊愈了。他好学而获得疗效就像这样。
杭州赵芸阁名泰，勤奋探究医理，透彻洞察病机，他的亲戚中有两人被误治，服用利湿药导致病情危重，赵芸阁都通过疏通隧道（指通利小便）来治疗，认为不是湿热证。使用虎杖散加入两头尖、韭根等药物给他们服用，小便通畅后痊愈。其中一人膝盖以下肿胀，医生用五苓散，肿胀反而更严重，赵芸阁因为肿胀处非常冷，且面色㿠白，知道这是阳虚，命令服用金匮肾气丸而痊愈。南方湿病居多，这两个病症尤其多夹杂湿气，这里却不宜用利湿药，可知治病不能固执一端，如果不是学识精深的人，怎么能做到呢？
我邑沈吟梅名炳荣，是州判官，精通医理，在直隶做官时，曾治疗一位妇女，二十八岁，因丧夫而患上癫疾，时常发作……（此处原文似乎有缺漏或排版错误，根据上下文推测为：故以此药交心肾，使火熄而病自已也。）
医家著书，常常假托言辞，以炫耀其功效。如窦材的《扁鹊心书》，则说是上天赐予；《张景岳全书》，则说是游历东藩之野遇到异人传授；至于陈远公的《石室秘录》，竟然假托给岐天师和雷公，更是荒诞不经。《洪氏集验方》五卷，由宋代洪景严遵编纂，《本草纲目》采录宋人方书很多，唯独遗漏了这本书，大概是因为失传很久了。嘉庆年间，吴县黄尧圃丕烈得到宋刻本，于是重新刊印，这本书才开始流传于世。黄序中说此书刊成后，向独学老人（指石殿撰韫玉）求序，有书信指示我说：“昨天所说的交感丹，怀疑香附用量太偏重，于是查考我处所藏的方书，乃是香附一个，配茯神四两，你抄的是香附一斤，我猜想香附一个，没有一斤重的道理，恐怕是抄写书吏的错误。如果能再查原本，这固然是出于慎重起见，然而我就用此方的降气汤两条来验证，一条用半斤，一条用五两，可见原方用一斤并非错误。宋朝的风俗癖好就是这样，一并记录下来以请教深谙医理的人，以纠正是非。”我按语道：用药分量，有君臣佐使之不同，就如此书中的苁蓉茸附丸，菟丝子六两，而沉香仅一分，比起一斤四两，轻重悬殊更大，而且《瑞竹堂经验方》也记载此方，香附也用一斤，《本草纲目》收入香附条下，分量完全符合，那么黄说的观点是正确的。
《苏沈内翰良方》沈存中的自序中说：“世上开处方的人，称述治疗效果常常喜欢夸大不实，《千金方》、《肘后备急方》之类，尤其多有溢美之词，使人不再敢相信。”《千金方》、《肘后备急方》是古方书中好的，尚且如此，何况其他的呢？就如此书中苏合香丸、至宝丹等素称神效，但统观全书，热药居多。至于止吐软红丸使用信砒、巴豆，治惊辰砂丸使用腻粉、龙脑，尤为峻猛严厉，岂可轻视？另外小柴胡汤是伤寒少阳证的主方，而此书认为对赤白痢疾特别有效，并且说痢疾多因伏暑引起，此药极能解暑毒，凡是伤暑的人，审察确实是暑邪，不问是什么症状，连服几次就能解除，这是想执守此方来治疗一切暑证啊，不又会给后世带来圣散子的祸患吗？由此可知方书并非无可取之处，但不能尽善尽美，在于人精心审慎选择，来决定取舍罢了。
宋代董汲的《旅舍备要方》，《四库全书提要》说：董汲因为在旅途中突然生病，医药难得，收集经效的方子一百多个，其中如蚰蜒入耳及中药中毒，最为险急，而所用的药极为简易。其杂伤五方，古书中不少概见，现在也很少流传，尤其显得奇特，大概是古代所谓的专门禁方，用起来神验，至于探求其原理，即使是和缓、扁鹊也不能解释，就是这类情况。现在记录其方以备选用。
治疗蚰蜒入耳，用胆矾末一匙，加少许醋滴灌，一会儿虫子化为水。解中药毒，以及虫毒闷乱吐血烦躁，生甘草一两，生白矾五钱，生延胡索一两，上药研为细末，每次服半钱，用水一盏，煎至六分，去渣，放冷细细呷服。杂伤，治疗火烧烫伤处，急忙向火灸烤它，虽然大痛强忍着，过一会儿就不痛也不化脓。治疗犬马咬伤及马骨刺伤人及马血进入旧疮中的方子，取灰汁热敷疮口，常令汁器有热气，多次更换汁液，不要让肉腐烂，三几天浸泡，有肿的，烧石头让它热熨烫，每天两次即止。
治疗蛇咬久不愈，及毒瓦斯内攻疮痛的方子，雄黄、白矾等分研碎，在刀头上爆炒令熔化，立刻贴在咬伤处自然痊愈。治疗道路旁大醉倒地，或躺在凉地，防止蛇进入人体窍道的方子，见到蛇时急忙用手捏住，用刀刻破尾巴，将花椒或辛辣物放在破尾上，用绵线系住，一会儿自己出来，这种蛇有逆骨，千万不要用力拔，必须切记。壁镜（一种毒蛇）咬人立死的治疗方子，槟榔不拘多少，烧灰存性，先用醋淋洗，后用醋调敷。又一方很平易可用，一并记录。治疗跋涉风雨，或道路误为细尘眯眼，隐痛不能视物，随所眯之眼用手分开，用自己的唾液涂抹。
偶然从友人处看到张叔承三锡《医学六要》眉间评语甚佳，可惜不知何人手笔，摘录数条于此。惟百补不愈，用滚痰丸一两行之即愈。葛可久的补髓丹，黄蜡与鸡同用，这两味不宜并食，录有明禁，应当删去。一人嗜酒，醉后服葛花即解，一医生说：“此人不久矣，疏利太过也。”果然因风痹而死。吞酸一症，李东垣作寒证论，刘河间、朱丹溪作热证论，世人因此有标本之说分别归属，我们固然应当兼参，然而治疗常得芩连症，用姜桂者很少，难道李东垣的方法可以废除吗？因为俗医治病，初多用温散，久久寒化为热，没有不从热治的。一孕妇小便，遍数多而溺少，涩而不通，我用补中益气汤吞服六味丸四钱治愈，这是《医贯》的方法，次日令再服，病患因为不习惯丸药，且谓地黄泥隔遂止，过了四天病复发，一定要换一方，于是用清心莲子饮给她，一服见效，后来查看《伤寒准绳》知道古人有成法。妊妇转胞，由胎压膀胱，大抵虚陷所致，薛氏用补中益气汤举之，比丹溪的四物、四君、二陈煎服探吐为稳。杭州医生陈月坡治疗鄞县谢宣子的妻子，一剂而通，大概是清气之陷，总因浊气不降耳。升之则降矣，降之则升矣。催生如柞木饮、兔脑丸、通明乳香等法，都不足存，只一味独参汤妙甚，我的第四女难产一昼夜，服参半斤而生。高鼓峰每用人参、 各一两，当归五钱，川芎三钱，冬天加桂以温之。
《四库全书》医家类存目《药镜》四卷，浙江巡抚采进本。《提要》说：明代蒋仪撰。蒋仪，字仪用，嘉兴人，正德甲戌进士，其历任官职不详。此书前后无序跋，只有凡例说《医镜》的镌刻，骈车海内，现在梓行药性，仍以镜命名云云。此书我在咸丰七年，从武林书坊得到刊本四卷，乃是与王宇泰《医镜》四卷（有仪用崇祯辛巳序文。）合刻的，前有仪用的弟弟云章彦文氏顺治丁亥序，及仪用康熙二年自序，各卷首刊嘉善（蒋仪纂定，常醴参订。）彦文的序，说仪用怀有宏济苍生的愿望，出入考场，见刖执事，郁郁不得志，认为无爵位而有功名，可以实现我宏济愿望的，莫过于业医，于是遍访名宿，遂得宗旨于王宇泰先生，发其枕秘，有《医镜》一书，镌传海内，学人奉为指南了。然而要用镜子照医，必须先照药，岁在乙酉魏塘春夏为弘光元年，魏塘秋冬为顺治之二年，百姓死于兵灾死于疫病的，接连不断，仪用住在北村，恻然心伤，更加无意章句，于是集古今药性全书，并诸名家，及金坛用药秘旨，手自删订编辑，缀方给药，全活乡党贫人，又与常子馨逸互相考论，砥琢词章，协以声韵，成书四卷，名叫《药镜》。又说：仪用最近修缮蓬编茨，驱赶儿辈及僮仆，督促耕陇上，闲暇时买药归来，悬壶街市，袖藏古今医说，研穷探味，云以自老。据此则仪用应试而未尝登第，入本朝业医以终。《提要》所说，乃是根据采进本的辞藻罢了。等到考证《嘉兴府志·撰述门》，只有卜祖学的《药镜》，没有仪用的名字，应当也有误，特识于此，为我郡征文献者告焉。
张介石说《医贯》用六味地黄丸治伤寒，其言如 。叶天士说张景岳用大温中饮治温邪时疫，说滋阴可以发汗，真是医中之贼。大概赵氏喜用六味，张氏喜用参桂，立言一偏，遂滋流弊。如今两书盛行于世，读者必详察其失，而节取其长，就可以了。
《史载之方》二卷，即《直斋书录解题》所说的：蜀人史堪《指南方》也。此书世少传本，我从新城罗镜泉学博以智处，借得抄本录之，《洪景严集验方》曾记载之，治疗妇人气块刺痛二方，兼及其治验，大概也是能医之士。然而其书中的方，大半皆麻黄、独活、附子、官桂等药，其治疫毒痢的通神散，用麻黄、官桂、甘草、川芎、白术、细辛、独活、桔梗、防风、芍药、白芷、牡丹皮、牵牛，第二方用诃子，第三方用硫黄，杨子建袭之，改为万全获命三方，并袭其说。如寒邪犯心，水火相战，所以先发寒热，水火相犯，血变于中，所以下赤痢云云。孔以立的《痢疾论》深诋之，斥为不经之说，又说不辨人体之强弱，脉息之虚实，擅用麻黄、术、桂、牵牛、诃子、硫黄，实乃杀人之事。其论良然。
宋代灵泉山初虞世的《古今录验养生必用方》，人间绝少，咸丰初年，杭州吴山陶氏宝书堂书坊，偶然得到宋刊本于四明，湖州丁宝书以钱六千购之去，我的朋友罗镜泉也喜欢搜奇书，闻之大惊，急忙从丁君处强借抄副本，我因此得以录一册。按《郡斋读书后志》说是十六卷，《直斋书录解题》及《宋史·艺文志》说是三卷，《通志·艺文略》也说三卷，又有《续必用方》一卷。此册分上中下三卷，前有绍圣五年宗室捐之重刊序文，书中记传方之人甚多，皆详其出处行谊，知亦有心人也。卷首论“为医”一条说：用药之法，先审有害无害，苟能无害，是为有利，盖汤丸一入不出，人死岂可复生？历劫长夜，永为冤对，无有免离。仁者鉴此，岂不勉旃？语简旨深，可为医门药石。
张戴人治病，专用汗吐下，然而那时病人竟无虚症当补者乎？医术虽高，不谓之偏不得也，其医案中往往不详脉象，这出自麻知几辈之手，不免多附会失实，至于如治劳嗽、治虚劳、治冻疮，都用舟车丸、浚川散大下之，治临产病喘，用凉膈散二两，四物汤二两，朴硝一两，煎令冷服，并且说孕妇有病用朴硝，八月者当忌之，九月十月内无碍，其说皆未可信。
雷公、扁鹊，都是上古时人，战国时秦越人慕扁鹊学，因称扁鹊，迨后宋《雷公炮炙论》也称雷公，则材直以之自称，从来着书家，未有如此夸大者。
秀水殷方叔仲春的《医藏目录》一卷，就其生平所见医书，自上古以及近世咸载焉，分为二十函，函各数十种，首曰“无上函”，自《内经》、《神农本草》、《难经》诸书，外兼及《易经》、《洪范》、《繁露》，盖本孙思邈大医须兼识阴阳卜相之意。同时平湖陈懿典为作序有云：方叔研讨方药，治病称神，户履常满，然萧然环堵中，不走五都，不游大人，而《医藏》一编，网罗悉人间未睹之书，议论阐古人未发之旨。考《嘉兴府志》方叔有传，在“隐逸门”，是殆精于医而不以医名者，方叔又能诗，有《安老堂集》，惜未得见。
董氏琏的《卫济宝书》，吴晓钲得到袁永之影宋定本二十二篇，完善无缺，比文劳同之本多三分之一，后有“续添方”，乃元人所辑，不知名氏，方多佳者，摘录于此。治疗毒蛇咬，先用麻绳扎伤处两头，次用香白芷细末掺于疮口，以多为妙，仍用新汲水调下半两许，毒瓦斯自消。（一方用热酒调下，诸方皆用麦冬水，盖欲先护心气也。）系瘤法兼去鼠奶痔，（出《集验方》，真奇捷也。）芫花根洗净带湿，不得犯铁器，于木石器中捣取汁，用线一条，浸半日或一宿，用线系瘤，经宿即落，如未落再换线，不过两次自落，后用龙骨并诃子末敷疮口即合，根据上法系鼠奶痔，屡用得效。《苏沈良方》也有用蜘蛛的，然费力，不如此径捷。如无根，只用花泡浓水浸线亦得。赵氏尝用以系腰间一瘤，不半日即落，亦不痛。二圣散治咽喉风热缠喉一切肿毒，鸭嘴胆矾二钱半，白僵蚕半两去丝嘴，共为细末，每用少许，以竹管吹入喉中立效。来苏膏治惊邪风痫，心恙狂乱，积热痰涎上冲，破伤风搐牙关不开，无问远年近日，并皆治之，用干圆肥好无蛀皂角去皮弦子捶碎，用清净酸浆水一碗，春秋浸五日，夏浸二日，冬浸七日，搓揉去滓澄净，用瓷器内以文武火熬成膏药相似，摊以新夹纸上阴干，遇病患用时，取手掌大一片，用温浆水化于瓷器内，将病患扶坐，用竹苇筒装药水，扶起病患头，吹入左右鼻孔内，扶定良久，涎出为验，此药治愈病患不计其数，大德六年，有行御史台彻里大夫舍人一十四岁，因风热痰涎潮搐，牙关紧闭，不省人事，二台医治疗无门，有台掾李受卿收此妙药，根据法吹入左右鼻孔内，须臾痰涎出及一碗余，立苏。
By the fourth watch (1 a.m. to 3 a.m.), sounds of cracking were heard from within the coffin, indicating that the vital energy (Qi) had just ceased. His friend, Ma Hechuan, a learned scholar from Dangtu named Shouling, composed a poem for this occasion. I have summarized its gist here; unfortunately, the effective prescription used in his treatment was not obtained.
Chen Zaian, whose given name was Kun, resided at Keqiao in Shanyin County. Inheriting the medical lineage from his father, Mr. Meifeng (Cui Can), he practiced with humility and frequently saved critically ill patients. He also extensively collected books, studying them tirelessly. In the spring of the Ding-Si year of the Xianfeng era, he visited me in Wulin. We felt we had known each other too late and exchanged secret manuscripts for copying. Zaian's eldest son had suffered from throat pain for several days in his childhood, followed by whole-body skin eruptions resembling peeled skin, accompanied by unbearable pain and itching. Physicians could not identify the condition. Anxious and at a loss, Zaian suddenly recalled a record in Tang Lishan's *Wu Yi Hui Jiang* (Collected Lectures of Wu Physicians). The disease was called "Lu Dan" (a severe dermatological condition), which required application of boiled honey mixed with Cimicifugae Rhizoma (Shengma) via rubbing. If not treated immediately, death was inevitable. He immediately applied this method; the honey dissipated as it was applied. After two days and nights using several sheng (a unit of volume) of honey, the boy recovered. Such was the efficacy gained through diligent study.
Zhao Yunge, whose given name was Tai, from Hangzhou, diligently sought medical principles and thoroughly comprehended pathological mechanisms. Two of his relatives had been critically endangered due to misdiagnosis and treatment with damp-draining herbs. Zhao treated both by unblocking the water passages (promoting urination), determining that the conditions were not due to damp-heat. He prescribed Hu Zhang San (Polygonum cuspidatum Powder) augmented with Liang Tou Jian (Aconitum coreanum root) and Jiu Gen (Imperata rhizome). Their urination became unobstructed, and they recovered. In another case, a patient presented with swelling below the knee. A physician had administered Wu Ling San (Five-Ingredient Powder with Poria), causing the swelling to worsen. Zhao observed that the swollen area was very cold and the complexion was pale, diagnosing Yang deficiency. He prescribed Jin Gui Shen Qi Wan (Kidney Qi Pill from the Golden Cabinet), resulting in recovery. Damp diseases are prevalent in the South, and these two cases particularly involved dampness, yet damp-draining herbs were contraindicated. This illustrates that one must not adhere rigidly to a single method in treating diseases. Only those with profound knowledge and learning can achieve such precision.
Shen Yinmei, whose given name was Bingrong, a Prefectural Judge from my county, was well-versed in medical theory. While serving in Zhili, he treated a twenty-eight-year-old woman who developed epilepsy following the death of her husband. [The text contains a gap here, but implies:] ...therefore, this medicine was used to harmonize the Heart and Kidney, extinguishing the fire so that the disease resolved spontaneously.
Physicians writing books often use fictitious claims to boast of their efficacy. For instance, Dou Cai's *Bian Que Xin Shu* (New Book of the Mind of Bian Que) claims it was bestowed by Heaven; *Zhang Jingyue Quan Shu* (Complete Works of Zhang Jingyue) claims it was received from an extraordinary person met while traveling in the eastern frontier; and Chen Yuan Gong's *Shi Shi Mi Lu* (Secret Records of the Stone Chamber) is even falsely attributed to the Heavenly Master Qi and Lei Gong, which is absurd. *Hong Shi Ji Yan Fang* (Collected Verified Prescriptions of the Hong Family), five volumes, was compiled by Hong Jingyan Zun during the Song Dynasty. Although *Ben Cao Gang Mu* (Compendium of Materia Medica) cites many Song dynasty prescriptions, it omitted this book, likely because it had been lost for a long time. During the Jiaqing era, Huang Yaopu Pieilie from Wu County obtained a Song dynasty printed edition and republished it, allowing the book to circulate. In his preface, Huang stated that after printing, he sought a preface from Du Xue Lao Ren (referring to Shi Dianzhuan Yunyu). A letter indicated: "Regarding the Jiao Gan Dan (Interacting Cinnabar Pill) mentioned yesterday, I suspect the dosage of Cyperi Rhizoma (Xiangfu) is excessively heavy. Checking my collection, the formula uses one piece of Cyperi Rhizoma paired with four liang of Poria (Fushen). Your copy lists one jin of Cyperi Rhizoma. I conjecture that one piece of Cyperi Rhizoma cannot weigh one jin; it is likely a scribe's error. If you can check the original, this is indeed prudent. However, I will verify this using the Jiang Qi Tang (Descending Qi Decoction) entries in this work: one entry uses half a jin, another uses five liang. Thus, the original prescription using one jin was not erroneous. Such were the customs of the Song Dynasty. I record this to consult experts in medical theory to correct right and wrong." I note: Dosages vary according to the roles of Sovereign, Minister, Assistant, and Courier in a formula. For example, in the Cong Rong Rong Fu Wan (Cistanche and Prepared Rehmannia Pill) in this book, Semen Cuscutae (Tusizi) is six liang, while Chensxiang (Aquilaria wood) is only one fen, showing a greater disparity than one jin versus four liang. Furthermore, *Rui Zhu Tang Jing Yan Fang* (Experienced Prescriptions of Rui Zhu Hall) also records this formula using one jin of Cyperi Rhizoma, and *Ben Cao Gang Mu* confirms this dosage under the entry for Cyperi Rhizoma. Therefore, Huang's assertion is correct.
In the self-preface of *Su Shen Nei Han Liang Fang* (Good Prescriptions of Su and Shen, Inner Scholars), Shen Cunzhong wrote: "Prescribers today often exaggerate therapeutic effects. Works like *Qian Jin Fang* (Thousand Gold Formulas) and *Zhou Hou Bei Ji Fang* (Emergency Prescriptions Behind the Elbow) contain much hyperbole, making people distrustful." Even these excellent ancient texts are subject to such criticism, let alone others. For instance, Su He Xiang Wan (Styrax Pill) and Zhi Bao Dan (Precious Cinnabar Pill) are renowned for miraculous effects, yet the book contains mostly hot herbs. Zhi Tu Ruan Hong Wan (Stop-Vomiting Soft Red Pill) uses Xin Pi (Realgar processed with vinegar and garlic) and Ba Dou (Croton seed); Zhi Jing Chen Sha Wan (Calming Fright Cinnabar Sand Pill) uses Ni Fen (Calomel) and Long Nao (Borneol). These are extremely harsh and dangerous; how can they be disregarded? Xiao Chai Hu Tang (Minor Bupleurum Decoction) is the main formula for Shaoyang syndrome in Cold Damage. Yet this book claims it is especially effective for dysentery with red and white discharge, stating that dysentery is often caused by latent summerheat, and this formula resolves summerheat toxicity well. It suggests that for any heatstroke victim, regardless of symptoms, repeated doses will resolve the condition. This attempts to apply one formula to all summerheat patterns, potentially repeating the disaster caused by Sheng San Zi (Holy Scattered Substances). Thus, while prescriptions have value, they are not perfect. One must carefully select and discard based on sound judgment.
Dong Ji's *Lv She Bei Yao Fang* (Essential Prescriptions for Travelers' Lodges) from the Song Dynasty is noted in the *Siku Quanshu Tiyao* (Synopsis of the Complete Library of Four Treasuries): Dong Ji collected over a hundred effective formulas because he fell ill suddenly while traveling and lacked access to medicine. Formulas for centipede entering the ear and herbal poisoning are particularly urgent and dangerous, yet the remedies are simple. The miscellaneous trauma formulas are rarely seen in ancient books now, appearing unique. These are what ancients called specialized secret formulas, efficacious when used, though their mechanisms might elude even He Huan and Bian Que. I record them for reference.
For centipede entering the ear: Use one spoonful of Chalcanthite powder (Danfan), add a little vinegar, and drip into the ear. The centipede will dissolve into water shortly.
To antidote herbal or insect poison causing suffocation, vomiting blood, and restlessness: Raw Licorice Root (Gancao) 1 liang, raw Alum (Baifan) 5 qian, raw Corydalis Rhizome (Yanhusuo) 1 liang. Grind to fine powder. Take 0.5 qian per dose, decoct in one cup of water until reduced to 0.6 cups, strain, cool, and sip slowly.
For miscellaneous injuries/burns: Immediately moxa the burned area. Endure the intense pain; soon it will cease hurting and not suppurate.
For dog/horse bites, horse bone splinters, or horse blood entering old wounds: Apply hot ash lye to the wound, keeping the container warm. Change the lye frequently to prevent tissue rot. Soak for three to several days. If swelling occurs, heat a stone and apply as a compress twice daily to stop it.
For chronic snakebites or internal venom attack causing pain: Equal parts Realgar (Xionghuang) and Alum (Baifan), ground together. Heat on a knife tip until melted, then apply directly to the bite site for healing.
For preventing snakes from entering body orifices when someone falls drunk or lies on cool ground: Upon seeing a snake, grasp it firmly, cut the tail with a knife, place pepper or spicy substance on the cut, and tie with cotton thread. The snake will exit itself. This snake has a reverse bone; do not pull forcibly. Remember this.
For death by Wall Mirror Snake (Bi Jing) bite: Burn Areca Nut (Binglang) to charcoal. Wash the wound with vinegar first, then apply paste made with vinegar.
Another mild and effective formula: For eye irritation from dust after traveling in wind/rain: Separate the eyelid with fingers and apply saliva to the affected eye.
I occasionally saw excellent marginal comments in Zhang Shucheng's *Yi Xue Liu Yao* (Six Essentials of Medicine) from a friend, though the author is unknown. I excerpt a few items here.
If hundreds of tonics fail, administering one liang of Gun Tan Wan (Rolling Phlegm Pill) cures it.
Ge Kejii's Bu Sui Dan (Marrow Tonifying Pill) uses yellow wax and chicken; these two should not be taken together, as explicitly prohibited in records, so this should be deleted.
A man addicted to alcohol would recover from drunkenness by taking Ge Hua (Flos Desmodii). A doctor said, "This man will not live long; the purgative action is too strong." He indeed died of wind-bi (painful obstruction syndrome).
Acidity regurgitation: Li Dongyuan classified it as cold; Liu Wanhe and Zhu Danxi as heat. People distinguish it by root and branch. We should consider both, but treatments often use Huang Qin and Huang Lian (clearing heat), rarely Ginger and Cinnamon (warming). Can Li Dongyuan's method be discarded? Because common physicians initially use warming dispersants, cold transforms into heat over time, leading to heat-based treatments.
A pregnant woman had frequent, scanty, difficult urination. I cured her by swallowing Liu Wei Wan (Six-Ingredient Pill with Rehmannia) with Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang (Tonify the Middle and Augment the Qi Decoction), following the method of *Yi Guan*. The next day she refused pills, citing difficulty with Rehmannia, and stopped. Four days later, symptoms recurred. She insisted on a new prescription, so I gave Qing Xin Lian Zi Yin (Clear Heart Lotus Seed Decoction), effective after one dose. Later, checking *Shang Han Zhun Sheng*, I found this was an established ancient method.
Fetal malposition (Zhuan Bao) in pregnancy, caused by the fetus pressing on the bladder, is generally due to deficiency and sinking. Xue's use of Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang to lift the qi is more stable than Danxi's method of decocting Si Wu, Si Jun, Er Chen and inducing vomiting. Doctor Chen Yuepo from Hangzhou treated the wife of Xie Xuanzi from Yin; one dose restored flow. This is because sinking of clear qi is due to failure of turbid qi to descend. Lifting causes descent; descending causes lifting.
Methods for inducing labor like Zha Mu Yin, Tu Nao Wan, Tong Ming Ru Xiang are insufficient. Only Du Shen Tang (Single Ginseng Decoction) is excellent. My fourth daughter had dystocia for a day and night; after consuming half a jin of Ginseng, she delivered. Gao Gufeng often used Ginseng and [missing herb] 1 liang each, Angelica Sinensis 5 qian, Ligusticum 3 qian, adding Cinnamon Twig in winter to warm.
*Yao Jing* (Medicine Mirror), four volumes, listed in the Medical Category of *Siku Quanshu* as submitted by the Zhejiang Governor. The Synopsis states it was written by Jiang Yi of the Ming Dynasty. Jiang Yi, courtesy name Yi Yong, was from Jiaxing, a Jinshi degree holder in the Zhengde era; his official career is unspecified. The book lacks prefaces or colophons, except for凡例 (General Rules) stating that while *Yi Jing* (Medical Mirror) circulated widely, this new book on drug properties retains the name "Mirror." I obtained a four-volume printed edition from a Wulin bookstore in the seventh year of Xianfeng. It was combined-printed with Wang Yutai's *Yi Jing* (with a preface by Yi Yong dated Xinsi of Chongzhen). It includes a preface by Yi Yong's brother, Yunzhang Yanwen, dated Dinghai of Shunzhi, and Yi Yong's own preface dated Kangxi Year 2. The preface by Yanwen states Yi Yong desired to save the people but failed in officialdom, deciding that medicine was the best way to fulfill his wish without high rank. He studied under Wang Yutai, published *Yi Jing*, and became a guide for students. However, to mirror medicine, one must first mirror drugs. In the year Yihou (Spring/Summer Hongguang Year 1, Autumn/Winter Shunzhi Year 2), amidst war and plague, Yi Yong lived in Beicun, feeling sorrowful. Losing interest in literary exams, he compiled ancient and modern drug properties, edited formulas, and saved poor villagers. He collaborated with Chang Zixin, refined the language, and produced *Yao Jing*. He later retired to farming and selling medicine. The *Synopsis* reflects the submission report. However, *Jiaxing Prefecture Gazetteer* lists only Bu Zuxue's *Yao Jing*, omitting Yi Yong, suggesting an error. I record this for local historians.
Zhang Jieshi criticized *Yi Guan* for using Liu Wei Di Huang Wan for Cold Damage, calling it nonsensical. Ye Tianshi criticized Zhang Jingyue for using Da Wen Zhong Yin for Warm Pathogens, arguing that nourishing yin to induce sweating is treacherous. Zhao Xuecheng favored Liu Wei, while Zhang Jingyue favored Ginseng and Cinnamon. Their biased statements led to harmful trends. Readers must scrutinize their flaws and adopt their strengths.
*Shi Zai Zhi Fang* (Formulas of Shi Zai), two volumes, is the same as Shi Kan's *Zhi Nan Fang* (Guide Formulas) from Shu, mentioned in *Zhi Zhai Shu Lu Ti Jie*. Rare copies exist. I copied it from Luo Jingquan. *Hong Shi Ji Yan Fang* recorded two formulas for female abdominal masses and stabbing pain, along with case records, showing Shi Kan was a capable physician. However, most formulas in his book use Ephedra (Mahuang), Angelica Pubescens (Duhuo), Aconite (Fuzi), and Cassia Bark (Guirui). His Tong Shen San for epidemic toxic dysentery uses Mahuang, Guirui, Gancao, Chuanxiong, Atractylodes (Baizhu), Asarum (Xixin), Duhuo, Platycodon (Jiegeng), Saposhnikovia (Fangfeng), Peony (Shaoyao), Angelica Dahurica (Baizhi), Moutan (Mudanpi), and Morning Glory Seed (Qianniu). The second formula uses Chebula (Hezi), the third uses Sulfur (Liuhuang). Yang Zijian plagiarized these as Wan Quan Huo Ming San. Shi Kan claimed cold pathogen attacking the heart causes water-fire conflict, leading to chills/fever and bloody dysentery due to blood transformation. Kong Yili's *Li Ji Lun* (Dysentery Treatise) severely criticized this as baseless, noting that failing to differentiate constitution and pulse before using harsh herbs like Mahuang, Atractylodes, Cinnamon, Qianniu, Hezi, and Sulfur is murderous. His critique is valid.
Chu Yushi's *Gu Jin Lu Yan Yang Sheng Bi Yong Fang* (Must-Use Formulas for Health Preservation from Ancient and Modern Records) by Lingquan Mountain is rare. In early Xianfeng, Baoshu Tang bookstore in Hangzhou obtained a Song edition from Siming. Ding Baoshu bought it for 6,000 coins. My friend Luo Jingquan, a collector, borrowed a copy for me. *Junzhai Dushu Hou Zhi* says 16 volumes; *Zhi Zhai Shu Lu Ti Jie*, *Song Shi Yi Wen Zhi*, and *Tong Zhi Yi Wen Lue* say 3 volumes, plus *Xu Bi Yong Fang* (1 volume). This copy has upper, middle, lower scrolls. It includes a preface by Imperial Clan member Juanzhi from Shaoping Year 5. It details the origins of many formulas, showing the compiler's care. The scroll opening discusses "Being a Physician": "First assess if a drug is harmful. If harmless, it is beneficial. Once decoctions or pills enter, they cannot be retrieved. Death is irreversible, creating eternal enmity. Benevolent people should heed this." Concise and profound, it serves as a warning for physicians.
Zhang Dairen used only sweating, vomiting, and purging methods. Were there no deficient patients needing tonification then? Even with high skill, this is biased. His cases, likely written by Ma Zhiji et al., often lack pulse descriptions, containing fabrications. Using Zhou Che Wan and Jun Chuan San for severe purging in consumption, deficiency fatigue, and frostbite is questionable. Using Liang Ge San, Si Wu Tang, and Mirabilite for asthma in labor is unsafe. Claiming Mirabilite is safe in months 9-10 of pregnancy is unreliable.
Lei Gong and Bian Que are ancient figures. Qin Yueren of the Warring States admired Bian Que and took the name. Later, Song dynasty *Lei Gong Pao Zhi Lun* referred to Lei Gong. Dou Cai claimed direct transmission, an unprecedented exaggeration.
Yin Fangshu's *Yi Cang Mu Lu* (Catalog of Medical Treasures), one volume, covers medical books from antiquity to recent times, divided into 20 boxes. The first is "Supreme Box," including *Nei Jing*, *Shen Nong Ben Cao Jing*, *Nan Jing*, plus *I Ching*, *Hong Fan*, *Fan Lu*, following Sun Simiao's idea that great doctors must understand Yin-Yang and divination. Chen Yidian's preface praises Fangshu's clinical skill and humble life, compiling unseen books and elucidating ancient wisdom. *Jiaxing Gazetteer* places him in the "Recluses" section, a skilled doctor not seeking fame. He was also a poet (*An Lao Tang Ji*), which I have not seen.
Dong Lian's *Wei Ji Bao Shu* (Precious Book for Protecting Life), obtained by Wu Xiaozheng from Yuan Yongzhi's Song facsimile, has 22 complete chapters, one-third more than the Wen Laotong version. It includes "Additional Formulas" by an anonymous Yuan author.
For venomous snakebite: Tie rope tightly above and below the wound. Apply fragrant Angelica powder (Baizhi) to the wound. Drink half liang mixed with fresh water to eliminate toxin. (Alternative: Hot wine. Most use Ophiopogon water to protect Heart Qi.)
For removing tumors and rat-nipple hemorrhoids: Wash Spurge root (Yuanhua) while wet, avoid iron, grind in stone mortar. Soak a thread in the juice for half a day or overnight. Tie the tumor with the thread. It falls off overnight. Repeat if necessary. Apply Dragon Bone and Chebula powder to the wound. This method works repeatedly. *Su Shen Liang Fang* uses spiders, but it is laborious. Without roots, soaking thread in Spurge flower water works. Zhao used it for a waist tumor; it fell off in half a day without pain.
Er Sheng San for wind-heat sore throat and swelling: Duck-mouth Chalcanthite 2.5 qian, White Silkworm (Jiangcan) 0.5 liang (cleaned). Grind to powder. Blow small amount into throat with bamboo tube for immediate effect.
Lai Su Gao for fright, wind-epilepsy, mental disturbance, phlegm-heat rushing up, tetanus with locked jaw. Use good, worm-free Soap Fruit (Zaojiao), remove skin and seeds, crush. Steep in sour plum water: 5 days (spring/autumn), 2 days (summer), 7 days (winter). Rub, strain, clarify. Boil in porcelain vessel over gentle fire to form a paste. Spread on paper to dry. To use, take palm-sized piece, dissolve in warm sour plum water. Sit patient up, insert bamboo tube into nostrils, blow solution in. Wait for phlegm discharge. This cured countless cases. In Daye Year 6, a 14-year-old official's son suffered from wind-heat phlegm convulsions and locked jaw. Doctors failed. Official Li Souqing used this method, blowing into nostrils. Over a bowl of phlegm was discharged, and he revived instantly.