奉天一人得此证，七八日，其脉浮而有力，知其因风束生热
也。亦先用阿斯匹林瓦许汗之。汗后，其鼻中浊涕即减，亦投以前方，连服三剂全愈。
《神农本草经》谓石膏能治腹痛，诚有效验。曾治奉天刘××腹疼，三年不愈。其脉洪长有力，右部尤甚，
舌心红而无皮，时觉头疼眩晕，大便干燥，小便黄涩，此乃伏气化热，阻塞奇经之经络，故作疼也。为疏方∶
生石膏两半，知母、花粉、玄参、生杭芍、川楝子各五钱，乳香、没药各四钱，甘草二钱，一剂疼愈强半。即
原方略为加减，又服数剂全愈。
愚弱冠，有本村刘氏少年，因腹疼卧病月余，昼夜号呼，势极危险。延医数人，皆束手无策。闻愚归，求
为诊视，其脉洪长有力，盖从前之疼犹不至如斯，为屡次为热药所误，故疼益加剧耳。亦投以前方，惟生石膏
重用二两，一剂病大轻减。后又加鲜茅根数钱，连服两剂全愈。盖此等证，大抵皆由外感伏邪窜入奇经，久而
生热。其热无由宣散，遂郁而作疼。医者为其腹疼，不敢投以凉药，甚或以热治热，是以益治益剧。然证之凉
热，脉自有分，即病患细心体验，亦必自觉。临证者尽心询问考究，自能得其实际也。
石膏之性，又最宜与西药阿斯匹林并用。盖石膏清热之力虽大，而发表之力稍轻。阿斯匹林味酸性凉，最
善达表，使内郁之热由表解散，与石膏相助为理，实有相得益彰之妙也。如外感之热，已入阳明胃腑，其人头
疼舌苔犹白者，是仍带表证。愚恒用阿斯匹林一瓦，白蔗糖化水送服以汗之。迨其汗出遍体之时，复用生石膏
两许，煎汤乘热饮之（宜当汗正出时饮之），在表之热解，在里之热亦随汗而解矣。若其头已不疼，舌苔微黄，
似无表证矣，而脉象犹浮，虽洪滑而按之不实者，仍可用阿斯匹林汗之。然宜先用生石膏七八钱，或两许，煮
汤服之，俾热势少衰，然后投以阿斯匹林，则汗既易出，汗后病亦易解也。若其热未随汗全解，仍可
徐饮以生石膏汤，清其余热。不但此也，若斑疹之毒，郁而未发，其人表里俱热，大便不滑泻者，可用生石膏
五六钱，煎汤冲服阿斯匹林半瓦许，俾服后，微似有汗，内毒透彻，斑疹可全然托出。若出后壮热不退，胃腑
燥实，大便燥结者，又可多用生石膏至二三两许，煎汤一大碗（约有三四茶杯），冲阿斯匹林一瓦，或一瓦
强，一次温饮数羹匙。初饮略促其期，迨热见退，或大便通下，尤宜徐徐少饮，以壮热全消，仍不至滑泻为度。
如此斟酌适宜，斑疹无难愈之证矣。石膏与阿斯匹林，或前后互用，或一时并用，通变化裁，存乎其人，果能
息息与病机相赴，功效岂有穷哉！
用阿斯匹林治关节肿疼之挟有外感实热者，又必与石膏并用，方能立见奇效。奉天赵××之侄，年六岁。
脑后生疮，漫肿作疼，继而头面皆肿，若赤游丹毒。继而作抽掣，日甚一日。浸至周身僵直，目不能合，亦不
能瞬，气息若断若续，呻吟全无。其家人以为无药可治，待时而已。阅两昼夜，形状如故，试灌以勺水，似犹
知下咽。因转念或犹可治，而彼处医者，咸皆从前延请而屡次服药无效者也。来院求为延医。其脉洪数而实，
肌肤发热，知其夹杂温病，阳明腑证已实，势虽垂危，犹可挽回。遂用生石膏细末四两，以蒸汽水煎汤两茶杯，
徐徐温灌之。周十二时，剂尽，脉见和缓，微能作声。又用阿斯匹林瓦半，仍以汽水所煎石膏汤，分五次送下，
限一日夜服完。服至末二次，皆周身微见汗，其精神稍明了，肢体能微动。从先七八日不食，且不大便，至此
可少进茶汤，大便亦通下矣。继用生山药细末煮作稀粥，调以白蔗糖，送服阿斯匹林三分之一瓦，日两次，若
见有热，即间饮汽水所煮石膏汤。又以蜜调黄连末，少加薄荷冰，敷其头面肿处，生肌散敷其疮口破处，如此
调养数日，病势减退，可以能言。其左边手足仍不能动，试略为屈伸，则疼不能忍。细验
之，关节处皆微肿，按之觉疼，知其关节之间，因外感之热而生炎也。遂又用鲜茅根煎浓汤（无鲜茅根可代以
鲜芦根），调以白蔗糖，送服阿斯匹林半瓦，日两次。俾服药后周身微似有汗，亦间有不出汗之时，令其关节
中之炎热，徐徐随发表之药透出。又佐以健补脾胃之药，俾其多进饮食。如此旬余，左手足皆能运动，关节能
屈伸。以后饮食复常，停药勿服，静养半月，行动如常矣。此证共享生石膏三斤，阿斯匹林三十瓦，始能完全
治愈。愚用阿斯匹林治热性关节肿疼者多矣，为此证最险，故详记之。
丁仲祜《西药实验谈》载，东人用阿斯匹林，治愈关节急性偻麻质斯（即热性关节肿疼）之案甚伙，而其
证之险，皆远逊于此证。若遇此证，不能重用生石膏，尚有何药能与阿斯匹林并用，以挽回此极险之证乎？彼
欲废弃中药者，尚其详观此案也。
上所录诸案，其为证不同，然皆兼有外感实热者也。乃有其人纯系内伤，脏腑失和，而前哲具有特识，亦
有重用石膏者。徐灵胎曰∶“嘉兴朱宗臣，以阳盛阴亏之体，又兼痰凝气逆。医者以温补治之，胸膈痞塞，而
阳道痿。群医谓脾肾两亏，将恐无治，就余于山中。余视其体，丰而气旺，阳升而阴不降，诸窍皆闭。笑谓之
曰∶此为肝肾双实证，先用清润之药，加石膏以降其逆气，后以消痰开胃之药涤其中宫，更以滋肾强阴之药镇其
元气，阳事即通。五月后，外家即怀孕，得一女，又一年复得一男。”观此，石膏治外感兼治内伤，功用何其弘哉！
穷极石膏之功用，恒有令人获意外之效者。曾治奉天马姓叟，年近六旬，患痔疮，三十余年不愈。后因伤
寒证，热入阳明之府，投以大剂白虎汤数剂，其病遂愈，痔疮竟由此除根。
奉天吕姓幼童，年五六岁，每年患眼疾六七次，皆治于东人医院。东人谓此关于禀赋，不能除根。后患瘟
疹，毒热甚恣，投以托毒清火之品，每剂中用生石膏两半，病愈后，其眼疾亦从此
不再反复。
友人张××，曾治京都阎姓叟。年近七旬，素有劳疾，发则喘而且嗽。于冬日感冒风寒，上焦烦热，劳疾
大作，痰涎胶滞，喘促异常。其脉关前洪滑，按之有力。张××治以生石膏二两以清时气之热，因其劳疾，加
沉香五钱，以引气归肾。且以痰涎太盛，石膏能润痰之燥，不能行痰之滞，故又借其辛温之性，以为石膏之反
佐也。一日连服二剂，于第二剂加清竹沥二钱，病若失。劳疾亦从此除根永不反复。夫劳疾至年近七旬，本属
不治之证，而事出无心，竟以重用石膏治愈之，石膏之功用，何其神哉！愚因闻此案，心有会悟，拟得治肺劳
黄膏方，其中亦用生石膏，服者颇有功效。
寒温阳明府病，原宜治以白虎汤。医者畏不敢用，恒以甘寒之药清之，遇病之轻者，亦可治愈，而恒至稽
留余热（甘寒药滞泥，故能闭塞外感热邪），变生他证。迨至病久不愈，其脉之有力者，仍可用白虎汤治之，
其脉之有力而不甚实者，可用白虎加人参汤治之。曾治奉天一学徒。年十四五，得劳热喘嗽证。初原甚轻，医
治数月，病势浸增，医者诿谓不治。遂来院求为诊视，其人羸弱已甚，而脉象有力，数近六至，疑其有外感伏
热，询之果数月之前，曾患温病，经医治愈。乃知其决系外感留邪，问其心中时觉发热，大便干燥，小便黄涩，
遂投以白虎加人参汤，去粳米加生怀山药一两，连服数剂，病若失。见者讶为奇异，不知此乃治其外感，非治
其内伤，而能若是之速效也。
《内经》谓“冬伤于寒，春必病温”，是言伏气为病也。乃有伏气伏于膈膜之下（《内经》所谓横连膜
原也），逼近胃口，久而化热，不外发为温病，转上透膈膜，熏蒸肺脏，致成肺病者。若其脉有力，亦宜重用
生石膏治之。曾治奉天赵某年四十许。始则发热懒食，继则咳嗽吐痰腥臭，医治三月，浸至不能起床。脉象滑
实，右脉
尤甚（伏邪之热，亦如寒温之脉，多右盛于左），舌有黄苔，大便数日一行。知系伏气为病，投以大剂白虎汤，
以生山药代粳米，又加利痰解毒之品，三剂后病愈强半。又即其方加减，服至十余剂全愈。
有伏气下陷于奇经诸脉中，久而化热，其热亦不能外发为温。有时随奇经之脉上升者。在女子又有热入血
室而子宫溃烂者，爰录两案于下以证之。
安东尉××，年二十余。时觉有热，起自下焦，上冲脑部。其脑部为热冲激，头巅有似肿胀，时作眩晕，
心中亦时发热，大便干燥，小便黄涩。经医调治，年余无效。求其处医士李××寄函来问治法，其开来病案如此。
曰∶“其脉象洪实，饮食照常，身体亦不软弱。”知其伏有外感热邪，因其身体不弱，俾日用生石膏细末四两，
煮水当茶饮之，若觉凉时即停服。后二十余日，其人忽来奉，言遵示服石膏六七斤，上冲之热见轻，而大便微
溏，因停药不服。诊其脉仍然有力，问其心中仍然发热，大便自停药后即不溏矣。为开白虎加人参汤，方中生
石膏重用三两，以生怀山药代粳米，连服六七剂，上冲之热大减，因出院还家。嘱其至家，按原方服五六剂，
病当除根矣。
南皮张××妻年三十余。十年前，恒觉少腹切疼。英女医谓系子宫炎证，用药数次无效。继乃谓此病如欲除
根，须用手术剖割，将生炎之处其腐烂者去净，然后敷药能愈。病患惧而辞之。后至奉，又延东女医治疗，用
坐药兼内服药，数年稍愈，至壬戌夏令，病浸增剧，时时疼痛，间下脓血。癸亥正初，延愚延医。其脉弦而有
力，尺脉尤甚。自言疼处觉热，以凉手熨之稍愈，上焦亦时觉烦躁。恍悟此证，当系曾受外感热入血室，医者
不知，治以小柴胡汤加石膏，外感虽解，而血室之热未清。或伏气下陷入于血室，阻塞气化，久而生热，以致
子宫生炎，浸至溃烂，脓血下注。为疏方，用金银花、乳香、没药、甘草以解其
毒，天花粉，知母、玄参以清其热，复本小柴胡汤之义，少加柴胡提其下陷之热上出，诸药煎汤，送服三七细
末二钱，以化腐生新。连服三剂病似稍轻，其热仍不少退。因思此证，原系外感稽留之热，非石膏不能解也。
遂于原方中加生石膏一两，后渐加至二两，连服数剂，热退强半，疼亦大减。遂去石膏，服数剂渐将凉药减少，
复少加健胃之品，共服药三十剂全愈。后在天津治冯氏妇此证，亦用此方。中有柴胡，即觉脓血不下行，后减
去柴胡，为之治愈。
《神农本草经》谓石膏治金疮，是外用以止其血也。愚尝用 石膏细末，敷金疮出血者甚效。盖多年壁上
锻石，善止金疮出血，石膏经 与锻石相近，益见 石膏之不可内服也。
石膏生用之功效，不但能治病，且善于治疮，且善于解毒。奉天赵××之父，年过六旬，在脐旁生痈，大径
三寸，五六日间烦躁异常，自觉屋隘莫容。其脉左关弦硬，右关洪实，知系伏气之热与疮毒俱发也。问其大便
数日未行，投以大剂白虎汤加金银花、连翘、龙胆草，煎汤一大碗，徐徐温饮下，连服三剂，烦躁与疮皆愈。
又∶在籍时，本村张氏女因家庭勃 ，怒吞砒石，未移时，作呕吐。其兄疑其偷食毒物，诡言无他，惟服
皂矾少许耳。其兄闻其言，急来询解救之方。愚曰皂矾原系硫氧与铁化合，分毫无毒，呕吐数次即愈，断无闪
失，但恐未必是皂矾耳。须再切问之。其兄去后，迟约三点钟复来，言此时腹中绞疼，危急万分，始实言所吞
者是砒石，非皂矾也。急令买生石膏细末二两，用凉水送下。乃村中无药铺，遂至做豆腐家买得生石膏，轧细
末，凉水送下，腹疼顿止。犹觉腹中烧热，再用生石膏细末半斤，煮汤两大碗，徐徐饮之，尽剂而愈。后又遇
吞火柴中毒者，治以生石膏亦愈，然以其毒缓，但煎汤饮之，无用送服其细末也。
附录∶
直隶盐山孙××来函∶
一九二四年八月，友人张××之女，发热甚剧，来询方。为开生石膏一两半，煎汤饮之。其热仍不稍退，
又来询方。答以多煎石膏水饮之，必能见愈。张××购石膏数两，煮汤若干，渴则饮之，数日而愈。
直隶盐山李××来函∶
丁卯中秋，曾治天津傅姓少年，患温证，胃热气逆，无论饮食药物下咽即吐出。延医治疗，皆因此束手。
弟忽忆《衷中参西录》石膏解载治毛姓媪医案，曾用此方以止呕吐，即以清胃府之大热，遂仿而用之。食梨一
颗，蘸生石膏细末七钱余，其吐顿止，可以进食。然心中犹觉热，再投以白虎加人参汤，一剂全愈。
江苏崇明县刁××来函∶
近治一伏温病，壮热烦渴，脉来洪实兼数，大解十日未行。欲透其邪，则津液已衰，恐有汗脱之虞，欲通
其便，则并无承气确征。细思此证，乃阳明热久，真阴铄耗。遵先生重用生石膏之训，即用生石膏二两，合增
液汤，加鲜金钗石斛、香青蒿各三钱。病家疑忌，见者皆以为药性过寒凉。余愤然曰∶“择医宜慎，任医宜专。
奉天有一人得了这种病证，经过七八天，他的脉象浮而有力，由此推断是因为风邪束缚导致体内生热。于是先用阿斯匹林一瓦让他发汗。出汗后，他鼻中浑浊的鼻涕随即减少，接着投用之前的方剂（指前文提到的含石膏等药的方子），连续服用三剂后完全痊愈。
《神农本草经》记载石膏能治疗腹痛，确实有显著疗效。我曾治疗奉天刘××的腹痛，三年未愈。他的脉象洪大、长且有力，右部尤为明显，舌中心红而无苔，时常感到头痛眩晕，大便干燥，小便黄而涩滞。这是伏气化为热邪，阻塞奇经的经络，从而引起疼痛。我为他开具处方：生石膏七钱半，知母、天花粉、玄参、生杭芍、川楝子各五钱，乳香、没药各四钱，甘草二钱。服用一剂后，疼痛减轻了一半以上。随后在原方基础上稍作加减，又服用数剂后完全痊愈。
我年轻时（弱冠之年），本村有一位刘姓少年，因腹痛卧床一个多月，日夜号哭呼痛，病情极其危险。请了几位医生诊治，都束手无策。听说我回乡，便请求为我诊视。他的脉象洪大、长且有力，大概从前的疼痛还没有这么严重，是因为屡次被误用热性药物，所以疼痛更加剧烈。我也投用之前的方剂，只是将生石膏重用至二两，服用一剂后，病情大幅减轻。后来又加入鲜茅根数钱，连续服用两剂后完全痊愈。像这类病证，大抵都是由外感伏邪窜入奇经，时间久了而生热。这股热邪没有途径宣散，于是郁结而引发疼痛。医生因为患者腹痛，不敢投用凉药，甚至有的以热治热，因此越治越重。然而，判断病证的寒热，脉象自有区分，即使病患细心体会，也必定自己有所感觉。临证时医生尽心询问考究，自然能掌握实际情况。
石膏的药性，最适合与西药阿斯匹林并用。因为石膏虽然清热力量很大，但发表（发散表邪）的力量稍轻。阿斯匹林味酸性凉，最善于达表，使内郁的热邪由体表解散，与石膏相互辅助，确实有相得益彰的奇妙效果。如果是外感的热邪，已经传入阳明胃腑，患者头疼、舌苔仍然发白，这说明仍带有表证。我常常用阿斯匹林一瓦，用白糖水化开送服，以使其发汗。等到全身出汗的时候，再用生石膏约一两，煎汤趁热饮用（应当在正在出汗时饮用），在表的热邪解除，在里的热邪也随着汗液一同排出。如果头部已经不疼，舌苔微黄，似乎没有表证了，但脉象仍然浮，虽然洪滑但按下去不实，仍然可以用阿斯匹林发汗。但是应当先用生石膏七八钱，或一两，煮汤服用，使热势稍微衰退，然后再投用阿斯匹林，这样汗就容易出来，汗后病也容易解除。如果热邪没有随着汗完全解除，仍然可以慢慢饮用生石膏汤，清除残余的热邪。不仅如此，如果是斑疹的毒邪，郁积而未发出，患者表里俱热，大便不滑泻的，可以用生石膏五六钱，煎汤冲服阿斯匹林半瓦左右，使得服药后微微似有汗出，内部毒邪透彻，斑疹就可以完全托出。如果斑疹发出后壮热不退，胃腑燥实，大便燥结的，又可以多用生石膏至二三两左右，煎成一大碗汤（大约有三四茶杯），冲服阿斯匹林一瓦，或一瓦多一点，一次温饮几羹匙。刚开始喝时稍微加快频率，等到热势减退，或者大便通畅后，尤其应该慢慢少量饮用，以壮热完全消除，且不再出现滑泻为度。如此斟酌适宜，斑疹就没有难以治愈的病证了。石膏与阿斯匹林，或前后交替使用，或同时并用，通晓变化裁断，取决于医生本人，如果能时刻与病机相契合，功效难道会有穷尽吗！
用阿斯匹林治疗关节肿痛且夹杂外感实热的病证，必须与石膏并用，才能立刻见到奇效。奉天赵××的侄子，年仅六岁。脑后生疮，漫肿疼痛，继而头面全部肿胀，像赤游丹毒一样。继而出现抽搐，一天比一天严重。逐渐发展到周身僵直，眼睛不能闭合，也不能眨眼，气息若断若续，呻吟声全无。他的家人认为无药可治，只能等待时日而已。过了两个昼夜，症状依旧，试着灌一勺水，似乎还能咽下。因此转念一想或许还可以治疗，而当地的医生，都是之前请过且多次服药无效的。家属来院请求我延医诊治。他的脉象洪数而实，肌肤发热，知道是夹杂温病，阳明腑实证已经确立，形势虽然危急，还可以挽回。于是用生石膏细末四两，用苏打水煎成两茶杯汤，慢慢温灌给他。十二个时辰内，药服完，脉象变得和缓，能稍微发出声音。又用阿斯匹林半瓦，仍然用苏打水煎的石膏汤，分五次送服，限定在一日一夜内服完。服到最后两次，全身微微出汗，精神稍微清醒，肢体能轻微活动。从先前的七八天不进食，且不大便，到这时可以少量进茶汤，大便也通畅了。继而又用生山药细末煮成稀粥，调以白糖，送服阿斯匹林三分之一瓦，每天两次，如果见有热，就间隔饮用苏打水煮的石膏汤。又用蜂蜜调和黄连末，少加薄荷冰，敷在他的头面肿胀处，用生肌散敷在疮口破损处，如此调养数日，病势减退，能够说话。他左边手足仍然不能动，试着稍微屈伸，则疼痛难忍。仔细检查，关节处都微肿，按之觉疼，知道关节之间，是因为外感的热邪而产生炎症。于是又用鲜茅根煎浓汤（如果没有鲜茅根可用鲜芦根代替），调以白糖，送服阿斯匹林半瓦，每天两次。使得服药后全身微微似有汗出，也有不出汗的时候，让关节中的炎热，慢慢随着发表的药物透出。又佐以健补脾胃的药物，使得他能多吃饮食。如此十几天后，左手足都能运动，关节能屈伸。以后饮食恢复正常，停药不服，静养半月，行动如常了。这个病证共用生石膏三斤，阿斯匹林三十瓦，才完全治愈。我用阿斯匹林治疗热性关节肿痛的病例很多了，为此病证最险，所以详细记录它。
丁仲祜在《西药实验谈》中记载，日本人用阿斯匹林治愈关节急性偻麻质斯（即热性关节肿痛）的案例很多，而且那些病证的危险性，都远远不如这个病证。如果遇到这个病证，不能重用生石膏，还有什么药能与阿斯匹林并用，来挽回这个极险的病证呢？那些想要废弃中药的人，还是仔细看看这个案例吧。
上面记录的各个案例，病证不同，但都兼有外感实热。然而有的人纯粹是内伤，脏腑失和，而前代名医具有独到见解，也有重用石膏的。徐灵胎说：“嘉兴朱宗臣，体质阳盛阴亏，又兼痰凝气逆。医生用温补治疗，导致胸膈痞塞，阳痿。众医说是脾肾两亏，恐怕无法治疗，就到山中找我。我看他的身体，丰满而气旺，阳气上升而阴气不降，各种窍道都闭塞。笑着对他说：这是肝肾双实证，先用清润的药物，加石膏以降其逆气，后用消痰开胃的药物涤荡中焦，再以滋肾强阴的药物镇守元气，性功能就恢复了。五个月后，岳母家就怀孕，生了一个女儿，又一年再生一个男孩。”看这个案例，石膏治疗外感兼治内伤，功用多么宏大啊！
穷尽石膏的功效，常常有令人获得意外效果的。曾治疗奉天马姓老人，年近六十，患痔疮，三十多年未愈。后来因为伤寒证，热邪进入阳明之府，投以大剂量的白虎汤数剂，那个病就好了，痔疮竟然由此除根。
奉天吕姓幼童，年五六岁，每年患眼疾六七次，都在东人医院治疗。东人说这关乎禀赋，不能除根。后来患瘟疹，毒热非常猖獗，投用托毒清火的药物，每剂中使用生石膏一两半，病愈后，他的眼疾也从此不再反复。
友人张××，曾治疗京都阎姓老人。年近七十，素有劳损疾病，发作时气喘且咳嗽。在冬天感冒风寒，上焦烦热，劳损疾病大作，痰涎胶滞，喘促异常。他的脉象关前洪滑，按之有力。张××用生石膏二两来清时令之气热，因为他是劳损疾病，加沉香五钱，以引气归肾。而且因为痰涎太盛，石膏能润痰之燥，不能行痰之滞，所以又借其辛温之性，作为石膏的反佐。一天连服两剂，在第二剂中加入清竹沥二钱，病若失。劳损疾病也从此除根永不反复。夫劳损疾病到了年近七十，本来属于不治之证，而事出无心，竟以重用石膏治愈，石膏的功效，多么神奇啊！我因为听到这个案例，心有领悟，拟定治疗肺劳的黄膏方，其中也用生石膏，服用者颇有功效。
寒温阳明腑病，原本宜用白虎汤治疗。医生害怕不敢用，常用甘寒的药物清解，遇到病轻的，也可以治愈，但常常遗留余热（甘寒药性质滞腻，所以能闭塞外感热邪），变生其他病证。等到病久不愈，脉象有力的，仍可用白虎汤治疗，脉象有力而不甚实的，可用白虎加人参汤治疗。曾治疗奉天一学徒。年十四五岁，得劳热喘嗽证。起初病情很轻，医生治疗数月，病势逐渐加重，医生推脱说无法治疗。于是来院请求我诊视，这个人羸弱已甚，而脉象有力，数近六至，怀疑他有外感伏热，询问果然几个月前，曾患温病，经医生治愈。才知道这绝对是外感留邪，问他心中时常觉得发热，大便干燥，小便黄涩，于是投用白虎加人参汤，去掉粳米加生怀山药一两，连续服用数剂，病若失。见到的人都惊讶为奇异，不知道这是治疗他的外感，而非治疗内伤，却能如此速效。
《内经》说“冬伤于寒，春必病温”，这是说伏气致病。然而有伏气伏于膈膜之下（《内经》所谓横连膜原），逼近胃口，久了化为热邪，不外发为温病，转而向上透膈膜，熏蒸肺脏，致使成为肺病的。如果脉象有力，也宜重用生石膏治疗。曾治疗奉天赵某年四十岁左右。开始发热懒食，继而咳嗽吐痰腥臭，医治三个月，逐渐至不能起床。脉象滑实，右脉尤其明显（伏邪之热，也像寒温之脉，多右盛于左），舌有黄苔，大便数日一行。知道是伏气致病，投以大剂量白虎汤，以生山药代粳米，又加利痰解毒之品，三剂后病减轻一半以上。又就在原方加减，服用至十余剂完全痊愈。
有伏气下陷于奇经诸脉中，久了化为热邪，这股热邪也不能外发为温病。有时随奇经之脉上升的。在女子又有热入血室而子宫溃烂的，于是记录两个案例在下面以证明它。
安东尉××，年二十多岁。时常觉得有热，起自下焦，上冲脑部。脑部被热邪冲激，头巅有似肿胀，时常眩晕，心中也时常发热，大便干燥，小便黄涩。经医生调治，一年多无效。求当地医生李××寄函来问治法，他开的病历如此写道：“脉象洪实，饮食照常，身体也不软弱。”知道他有伏藏的外感热邪，因为他身体不弱，让他日用生石膏细末四两，煮水当茶饮，如果觉得凉了即停服。后来二十多天，这人忽然来到奉天，说遵照指示服用石膏六七斤，上冲的热邪见轻，而大便微溏，因此停药不服。诊他的脉仍然有力，问他心中仍然发热，大便自从停药后就不溏了。为他开白虎加人参汤，方中生石膏重用三两，以生怀山药代粪米，连续服用六七剂，上冲的热邪大减，因此出院回家。嘱咐他到家，按原方服五六剂，病应当除根了。
南皮张××的妻子年三十多岁。十年前，恒觉少腹切疼。英国女医说是子宫炎症，用药数次无效。继而说这个病如果想除根，须用手术剖割，将发炎之处腐烂的去净，然后敷药能愈。病患恐惧而拒绝。后来到了奉天，又请日本女医治疗，用坐药兼内服药，几年稍愈，到壬戌年夏天，病逐渐加剧，时时疼痛，间或下脓血。癸亥年初，请我延医。脉弦而有力，尺脉尤其明显。自己说疼处觉热，用凉手熨之稍好，上焦也时常烦躁。恍悟这个病证，应当是曾受外感热入血室，医生不知，用小柴胡汤加石膏治疗，外感虽解，而血室之热未清。或是伏气下陷入于血室，阻塞气化，久了而生热，以致子宫生炎，逐渐至溃烂，脓血下注。为她开处方，用金银花、乳香、没药、甘草以解其毒，天花粉、知母、玄参以清其热，恢复小柴胡汤的本义，少加柴胡提其下陷之热上出，诸药煎汤，送服三七细末二钱，以化腐生新。连续服用三剂病似稍轻，其热仍不少退。因而想这个病证，原是外感稽留之热，非石膏不能解。于是在原方中加生石膏一两，后来渐加至二两，连续服用数剂，热退大半，疼也大减。于是去掉石膏，服数剂渐渐将凉药减少，复少加健胃之品，共服药三十剂完全痊愈。后来在天津治冯氏妇此病，也用此方。中有柴胡，就觉脓血不下行，后来减去柴胡，为之治愈。
《神农本草经》说石膏治金疮，是外用以止其血。我曾有用石膏细末，敷金疮出血者甚效。盖多年壁上锻石，善止金疮出血，石膏经煅与锻石相近，益见石膏之不可内服也。（注：此处原文逻辑似有矛盾或笔误，通常石膏生用清热，煅用收敛止血，原文意指外用煅石膏或类似物有效，反证内服需慎重或特定情况，结合上下文“愚尝用石膏细末...甚效”及后文“石膏之不可内服也”可能是指在此特定语境下强调外用或某种形态，但根据中医常识，石膏内服多用生品，外用可煅。此处忠实翻译原文意思：多年壁上的锻石善于止血，石膏经过煅制与锻石相近，更可见石膏[在此语境下]不可内服[或需谨慎]。*修正理解*：原文此处可能有误或特指某种情况，通常石膏生用内服清热，煅用外用止血。原文说“石膏经煅与锻石相近，益见石膏之不可内服也”这句话逻辑在中医常规理论中较奇怪，因为石膏内服多用生品。但作为翻译，需忠实原文。原文可能想表达的是：外用止血用煅石膏/锻石，故有此说。或者原文有误。此处按字面翻译。）
石膏生用的功效，不但能治病，且善于治疮，且善于解毒。奉天赵××的父亲，年过六十，在脐旁生痈，直径三寸，五六日间烦躁异常，自觉屋子狭隘容不下。他的脉左关弦硬，右关洪实，知道是伏气之热与疮毒俱发。问他大便数日未行，投以大剂量白虎汤加金银花、连翘、龙胆草，煎汤一大碗，慢慢温饮下，连续服用三剂，烦躁与疮皆愈。
又：在籍贯家乡时，本村张氏女孩因家庭勃谿（争吵），愤怒吞下砒石，没过多久，作呕吐。她的哥哥怀疑她偷吃毒物，诡辩说没事，只吃了少许皂矾。她哥哥听她这么说，急忙来询问解救的方法。我说皂矾原是硫氧与铁化合，分毫无毒，呕吐几次就好了，断无闪失，但恐怕未必是皂矾。须再仔细问问。她哥哥走后，过了约三个钟头又回来，说此时腹中绞痛，危急万分，才说实话所吞的是砒石，不是皂矾。急忙令买生石膏细末二两，用凉水送下。可是村中没有药店，于是去豆腐坊买得生石膏，轧成细末，凉水送下，腹痛顿止。还觉得腹中烧热，再用生石膏细末半斤，煮汤两大碗，慢慢饮之，喝完药剂而愈。后来又遇到吞火柴中毒者，用生石膏治疗也好了，但因为它的毒性缓，只煎汤饮之，不用送服其细末。
附录：
直隶盐山孙××来函：
一九二四年八月，友人张××的女儿，发热很厉害，来询问方子。我开了生石膏一两半，煎汤饮用。她的热仍不稍退，又来询问方子。回答说要多煎石膏水饮用，一定能痊愈。张××购买石膏数两，煮汤若干，渴了就饮用，数日后痊愈。
直隶盐山李××来函：
丁卯年中秋，曾治疗天津傅姓少年，患温证，胃热气逆，无论饮食药物下咽即吐出。延请医生治疗，都因此束手。我突然想起《衷中参西录》石膏解中记载的治疗毛姓老妇的医案，曾用此方以止呕吐，即以清胃府的大热，于是模仿而使用。吃梨一颗，蘸生石膏细末七钱余，呕吐顿时停止，可以进食。然而心中仍然觉得热，再投以白虎加人参汤，一剂完全痊愈。
江苏崇明县刁××来函：
最近治疗一个伏温病，壮热烦渴，脉来洪实兼数，大便十日未行。想要透发邪气，则津液已衰，恐有汗脱的危险，想要通便，则并无承气汤的确切征象。仔细思考这个病证，乃是阳明热久，真阴耗损。遵循先生重用生石膏的训示，即用生石膏二两，合增液汤，加鲜金钗石斛、香青蒿各三钱。病家疑忌，见到的人都以为药性过寒凉。我愤然说：“选择医生应谨慎，任用医生应专一。”
Tianjin (Fengtian) had a person who contracted this syndrome. After seven or eight days, his pulse was floating and forceful, indicating that the heat was generated due to wind constraint. Initially, Aspirin (one grain) was administered to induce sweating. After sweating, the turbid nasal discharge immediately decreased. Subsequently, the previous prescription was given, and after taking three doses consecutively, he was completely cured.
The *Shennong Bencao Jing* (Divine Farmer's Materia Medica) states that Shigao (Gypsum Fibrosum) can treat abdominal pain, which indeed has proven efficacy. I once treated Liu XX from Fengtian for abdominal pain that had persisted for three years without cure. His pulse was surging, long, and forceful, especially in the right position. The center of his tongue was red and devoid of coating. He frequently experienced headache and dizziness, dry stool, and yellow, difficult urination. This was caused by latent qi transforming into heat, blocking the collaterals of the extraordinary vessels, thus causing pain. I prescribed: Sheng Shigao (Raw Gypsum Fibrosum) 1.5 liang, Zhimu (Anemarrhenae Rhizoma), Huafen (Trichosanthis Radix), Xuanshen (Scrophulariae Radix), Sheng Hangshao (Raw Paeoniae Radix Alba), Chuanlianzi (Toosendan Fructus) each 5 qian, Ruxiang (Boswelliae Resina), Moyao (Myrrhae Resina) each 4 qian, Gancao (Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma) 2 qian. After one dose, the pain reduced by more than half. The formula was slightly modified based on the original, and after several more doses, he was completely cured.
When I was young (around twenty years old), a young man surnamed Liu from my village suffered from abdominal pain and lay ill for over a month, crying out day and night in extreme danger. Several doctors were consulted but were helpless. Upon hearing of my return, they sought my diagnosis. His pulse was surging, long, and forceful. Presumably, the pain was not previously this severe; it worsened because he had been repeatedly misdiagnosed and treated with hot-natured medicines. I also used the previous formula, but increased the dosage of Sheng Shigao (Raw Gypsum Fibrosum) to 2 liang. After one dose, the illness significantly improved. Later, fresh Maogen (Imperatae Rhizoma) was added, and after two consecutive doses, he was completely cured. Such syndromes are generally caused by latent pathogenic factors from external contraction invading the extraordinary vessels, generating heat over time. Since this heat has no outlet to dissipate, it stagnates and causes pain. Doctors, seeing abdominal pain, dare not administer cooling medicines, and some even treat heat with heat, thereby exacerbating the condition. However, the differentiation of cold and heat in syndromes is evident in the pulse. Even if the patient carefully observes their own body, they will likely feel it themselves. If the clinician inquires and investigates diligently, they can grasp the reality.
The nature of Shigao (Gypsum Fibrosum) is most suitable for concurrent use with the Western medicine Aspirin. Although Shigao has strong heat-clearing power, its ability to release the exterior is relatively mild. Aspirin is sour, cool in nature, and excels at reaching the exterior, allowing internally stagnant heat to be resolved through the surface. Together with Shigao, they assist each other, producing a synergistic effect. For example, when external contraction heat has entered the Yangming Stomach organ, and the patient still has headache and a white tongue coating, it indicates that an exterior syndrome persists. I often use one grain of Aspirin dissolved in water with white sugar to induce sweating. When the patient sweats profusely, I then administer Sheng Shigao (Raw Gypsum Fibrosum) approximately 1 liang, decocted in water and drunk while hot (ideally during active sweating). This resolves the exterior heat, and the interior heat is also discharged along with the sweat. If the headache ceases and the tongue coating becomes slightly yellow, suggesting no exterior syndrome, but the pulse remains floating (surging and slippery but empty upon pressure), Aspirin can still be used to induce sweating. However, one should first administer Sheng Shigao (Raw Gypsum Fibrosum) 7-8 qian or 1 liang, decocted in water, to reduce the heat intensity slightly before giving Aspirin. This makes sweating easier and facilitates recovery afterward. If the heat does not fully resolve with sweating, Sheng Shigao Tang (Gypsum Decoction) can be slowly drunk to clear residual heat. Furthermore, if there is toxicity from macules and papules that is stagnant and unexposed, and the patient has both exterior and interior heat with non-loose stools, Sheng Shigao (Raw Gypsum Fibrosum) 5-6 qian can be decocted to mix with half a grain of Aspirin. This induces slight sweating, thoroughly expelling internal toxins, allowing macules and papules to emerge completely. If high fever persists after eruption, and the stomach organ is dry and full with hard stools, a larger dose of Sheng Shigao (Raw Gypsum Fibrosum), up to 2-3 liang, can be decocted into a large bowl (approx. 3-4 teacups) mixed with one grain or slightly more of Aspirin. Drink a few spoonfuls warm at a time. Initially, drink slightly faster; once the fever subsides or stool passes, drink slowly and sparingly until the high fever completely disappears and loose stools do not recur. With such appropriate adjustment, macules and papulas are rarely incurable. Shigao (Gypsum Fibrosum) and Aspirin may be used sequentially or concurrently. Mastery lies in the physician’s flexibility. As long as the treatment aligns closely with the disease mechanism, the efficacy will be boundless.
Using Aspirin to treat joint swelling and pain complicated by external contraction excess heat must be combined with Shigao (Gypsum Fibrosum) to achieve miraculous results. The nephew of Zhao XX from Fengtian, aged six, developed a sore on the back of his head, which became diffusely swollen and painful. Subsequently, his head and face swelled entirely, resembling erysipelas (Chi You Dan Du). He then developed convulsions, worsening daily. Eventually, his whole body became rigid, eyes unable to close or blink, breathing intermittent, and no moaning sounds. His family thought he was incurable and waited for death. After two days and nights, the condition remained unchanged. Trying to give him a spoonful of water, he seemed able to swallow. Thinking he might still be treatable, and since local doctors had failed multiple times, they came to my clinic. His pulse was surging, rapid, and solid; skin was hot. This indicated a complication with Warm Disease, and the Yangming Fu syndrome was established. Although critical, it could be saved. I used 4 liang of fine powder of Sheng Shigao (Raw Gypsum Fibrosum), decocted in soda water to make two teacups of liquid, administered slowly and warm. Over twelve hours, the dose was finished. The pulse became harmonious and slow, and he could make slight sounds. Then, half a grain of Aspirin was given, divided into five doses, using the same Shigao soda-water decoction, to be completed within one day and night. By the last two doses, he sweated slightly all over, his spirit became clearer, and limbs moved slightly. Having not eaten or passed stool for seven to eight days, he could now take small amounts of tea/soup, and stool passed. Subsequently, fine powder of Sheng Shanyao (Dioscoreae Rhizoma) was boiled into thin porridge, mixed with white sugar, and taken with one-third grain of Aspirin twice daily. If fever appeared, Shigao soda-water decoction was given intermittently. Honey-mixed Huanglian (Coptidis Rhizoma) powder with a little Menthae Haplocalycis Herba ice was applied to the swollen head/face area, and Shengji San (Flesh-Regenerating Powder) was applied to broken sores. After several days of care, the condition improved, and he could speak. His left hand and foot still could not move; slight flexion/extension caused unbearable pain. Careful examination revealed slight swelling and tenderness at joints, indicating inflammation due to external heat. I then used fresh Maogen (Imperatae Rhizoma) decocted into thick soup (fresh Lugen (Phragmitis Rhizoma) as substitute if unavailable), mixed with white sugar, to deliver half a grain of Aspirin twice daily. This induced slight sweating, sometimes absent, allowing joint heat to gradually exit via exterior-releasing herbs. Spleen-strengthening and tonifying herbs were added to encourage food intake. After ten-plus days, left hand/foot moved, joints flexed/extented. Diet normalized, medication stopped, rested quietly for half a month, and movement returned to normal. This case consumed 3 jin of Sheng Shigao (Raw Gypsum Fibrosum) and 30 grains of Aspirin for complete cure. I have used Aspirin for many cases of heat-type joint swelling/pain, but this was the most critical, hence recorded in detail.
Ding Zhonghu, in *Xi Yao Shi Yan Tan*, records many cases where Japanese physicians cured acute rheumatism (Lou Ma Zhi Si / Heat-type Joint Swelling/Pain) with Aspirin, yet their severity was far less than this case. If one cannot heavily use Sheng Shigao (Raw Gypsum Fibrosum) for such cases, what other herb can be combined with Aspirin to save such critical conditions? Those wishing to discard Chinese medicine should study this case carefully.
The aforementioned cases differ in presentation but all involve external contraction excess heat. However, some patients suffer purely from internal injury and organ disharmony, yet past masters with unique insight have also heavily used Shigao (Gypsum Fibrosum). Xu Lingtai said: "Zhu Zongchen from Jiaxing had a constitution of excessive Yang and deficient Yin, compounded by phlegm stagnation and rebellious Qi. Doctors treated him with warming tonics, resulting in chest oppression and impotence. Physicians claimed spleen/kidney deficiency deemed it incurable. He sought me in the mountains. His body was plump with vigorous Qi; Yang rose but Yin did not descend, closing all orifices. I laughed and said: This is a double excess of Liver and Kidney. First, use clearing/moistening herbs plus Shigao (Gypsum Fibrosum) to direct rebellious Qi downward. Then, use phlegm-resolving/appetite-stimulating herbs to cleanse the middle jiao. Finally, use kidney-nourishing/Yin-strengthening herbs to stabilize Yuan Qi. Sexual function recovered. Five months later, his wife became pregnant, bearing a daughter. A year later, a son." This shows Shigao (Gypsum Fibrosum) treats both external contraction and internal injury, demonstrating its vast utility.
Exploring the full efficacy of Shigao (Gypsum Fibrosum) often yields unexpected results. I once treated an elderly man surnamed Ma from Fengtian, nearly sixty, suffering from hemorrhoids for thirty years. Later, due to Cold Damage syndrome, heat entered the Yangming Fu. Large doses of Baihu Tang (White Tiger Decoction) for several doses cured the main illness, and the hemorrhoids were eradicated.
A young child surnamed Lv from Fengtian, aged five or six, suffered eye diseases six to seven times yearly, treated at a Japanese hospital. They claimed it was congenital and incurable. Later, he contracted epidemic rash with intense toxic heat. Treatment included detoxification and fire-clearing herbs, with 1.5 liang of Sheng Shigao (Raw Gypsum Fibrosum) per dose. After recovery, his eye diseases never recurred.
Friend Zhang XX once treated an elderly man surnamed Yan in Beijing. Nearly seventy, he had chronic consumption disease, presenting with wheezing and coughing. In winter, catching wind-cold caused upper jiao irritant heat, exacerbating the consumption disease with sticky phlegm and severe panting. Pulse at Guan position was surging, slippery, and forceful. Zhang XX used 2 liang of Sheng Shigao (Raw Gypsum Fibrosum) to clear seasonal heat. Due to consumption, he added 5 qian of Chenxiang (Aquilariae Lignum) to guide Qi to the Kidney. Since phlegm was excessive, and Shigao moistens dryness but does not move stagnation, he borrowed its acrid-warm nature as a counter-agent to Shigao. Two doses in one day; in the second dose, 2 qian of Qing Zhuli (Bambusa Tarsata Succus) was added. The illness vanished. Consumption disease was also eradicated. Consumption at nearly seventy is usually incurable, yet unexpectedly cured by heavy Shigao (Gypsum Fibrosum). Its efficacy is miraculous! Inspired by this case, I devised a Huang Gao (Yellow Ointment) for Lung Consumption, containing Sheng Shigao (Raw Gypsum Fibrosum), which proved effective.
Cold/Warm Yangming Fu diseases should originally be treated with Baihu Tang (White Tiger Decoction). Doctors fear using it, opting instead for sweet-cold herbs to clear heat. Mild cases may heal, but residual heat often lingers (sweet-cold herbs are cloying/stagnant, blocking exterior heat pathogens), leading to other syndromes. If the illness persists and the pulse is forceful, Baihu Tang (White Tiger Decoction) can still be used. If the pulse is forceful but not very solid, Baihu Jia Renshen Tang (White Tiger Decoction plus Ginseng) is appropriate. I once treated a student from Fengtian, aged fourteen/fifteen, with consumption-fever wheezing/coughing. Initially mild, months of treatment worsened it; doctors gave up. He came to my clinic, extremely emaciated, yet pulse forceful, rapid (nearly six beats per breath). Suspecting latent external heat, I asked and confirmed he had Warm Disease months prior, cured by others. It was clearly lingering external pathogen. He reported frequent heart heat, dry stool, yellow difficult urine. I prescribed Baihu Jia Renshen Tang (White Tiger Decoction plus Ginseng), removing Jingmi (Oryza Sativa Semen) and adding 1 liang of Sheng Huai Shanyao (Raw Dioscorea opposita Rhizoma). After several doses, the illness vanished. Observers marveled, unaware this treated external contraction, not internal injury, achieving such speed.
*Neijing* states "Winter injury by Cold leads to Warm Disease in Spring," referring to latent Qi pathology. Latent Qi may lodge below the diaphragm (Heng Lian Mo Yuan mentioned in *Neijing*), near the stomach opening, transforming into heat over time. Instead of emerging as Warm Disease, it penetrates upward through the diaphragm, steaming the Lungs, causing Lung disease. If the pulse is forceful, heavy Sheng Shigao (Raw Gypsum Fibrosum) is suitable. I treated Mr. Zhao from Fengtian, around forty. Initially feverish and anorexic, then coughing foul-smelling sputum. Three months of treatment led to bedridden state. Pulse slippery and solid, right side stronger (latent heat often presents stronger on the right, like Cold/Warm pulses). Yellow tongue coating, infrequent bowel movements. Diagnosed as latent Qi disease, prescribed large-dose Baihu Tang (White Tiger Decoction), replacing Jingmi (Oryza Sativa Semen) with Sheng Shanyao (Dioscoreae Rhizoma), plus phlegm-resolving/detoxifying herbs. After three doses, improved by half. Modified formula continued for over ten doses for full cure.
Latent Qi sinking into extraordinary vessels transforms into heat, unable to emerge as Warm Disease. Sometimes rising with these vessels. In women, heat entering the Blood Chamber causing uterine ulceration occurs. Two cases follow as proof.
Wei XX from Andong, over twenty, felt heat rising from lower jiao to the brain. Brain irritation caused head vertex swelling sensation and dizziness. Heart felt hot, stool dry, urine yellow/difficult. Medical treatment for over a year failed. Local doctor Li XX sent a case record asking for advice: "Pulse surging and solid, diet normal, body not weak." Recognizing latent external heat, and noting his robust constitution, I advised him to boil 4 liang of fine Sheng Shigao (Raw Gypsum Fibrosum) powder in water as daily tea, stopping if it felt too cold. After twenty-plus days, he visited Fengtian, reporting taking 6-7 jin of Shigao (Gypsum Fibrosum). Rising heat lightened, but stool became slightly loose, so he stopped. Pulse remained forceful; heart heat persisted; stool normalized after stopping. I prescribed Baihu Jia Renshen Tang (White Tiger Decoction plus Ginseng), with Sheng Shigao (Raw Gypsum Fibrosum) 3 liang, replacing Jingmi (Oryza Sativa Semen) with Sheng Shanyao (Dioscoreae Rhizoma). After 6-7 doses, rising heat greatly reduced, and he discharged home. Advised continuing original formula 5-6 doses at home to eradicate the root.
Wife of Zhang XX from Nanpi, over thirty, had sharp lower abdominal pain for ten years. British female doctor diagnosed uteritis; medications failed. Surgery was suggested to remove inflamed/rotten tissue. Patient refused. Later in Fengtian, Japanese female doctor treated with sitz baths and internal meds; slightly improved for years. In Renxu summer, worsened with frequent pain and pus/blood discharge. In Guihai early spring, I was consulted. Pulse wiry and forceful, Chi position stronger. Pain felt hot, relieved by cool hands; upper jiao irritable. Realized this was likely heat entering Blood Chamber from external contraction. Previous doctors used Xiaochaihu Tang (Minor Bupleurum Decoction) plus Shigao (Gypsum Fibrosum); exterior resolved but Blood Chamber heat remained. Or latent Qi sank into Blood Chamber, blocking Qi transformation, generating heat, causing uteritis and ulceration with pus/blood. Prescribed: Jinyinhua (Lonicerae Japonicae Flos), Ruxiang (Boswelliae Resina), Moyao (Myrrhae Resina), Gancao (Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma) to detoxify; Tianhuafen (Trichosanthis Radix), Zhimu (Anemarrhenae Rhizoma), Xuanshen (Scrophulariae Radix) to clear heat. Following Xiaochaihu Tang (Minor Bupleurum Decoction) principle, added small amount of Chaihu (Bupleuri Radix) to lift sunken heat. Decocted and taken with 2 qian of Sanqi (Notoginseng Radix et Rhizoma) fine powder to resolve rot and generate new tissue. After three doses, slightly lighter, but heat didn't drop much. Realized lingering external heat required Shigao (Gypsum Fibrosum). Added 1 liang Sheng Shigao (Raw Gypsum Fibrosum) to original formula, gradually increasing to 2 liang. After several doses, heat dropped significantly, pain reduced. Removed Shigao (Gypsum Fibrosum), continued reducing cooling herbs, adding stomach-strengthening agents. Total 30 doses for cure. Later treated Mrs. Feng in Tianjin with same formula. Chaihu (Bupleuri Radix) blocked pus/blood flow; removing it cured her.
*Shennong Bencao Jing* states Shigao (Gypsum Fibrosum) treats metal wounds, implying topical use for hemostasis. I have found fine Shigao (Gypsum Fibrosum) powder highly effective topically for bleeding metal wounds. Duan Shi (Calcined Iron Ore) on walls for years stops bleeding well. Calcined Shigao (Gypsum Fibrosum) is similar to Duan Shi, further proving [in this context] Shigao (Gypsum Fibrosum) [should be used cautiously or specifically] for internal use. *(Note: Original text logic here is complex/contradictory regarding internal vs external use norms, translated faithfully).*
Raw Shigao (Gypsum Fibrosum) efficacy not only treats disease but excels in treating sores and detoxifying. Father of Zhao XX from Fengtian, over sixty, developed a carbuncle beside navel, 3 cun diameter. Irritable for 5-6 days, feeling confined. Left Guan pulse wiry/hard, Right Guan surging/solid. Indicated latent heat and toxin erupting together. Asked about stool (none for days). Prescribed large-dose Baihu Tang (White Tiger Decoction) plus Jinyinhua (Lonicerae Japonicae Flos), Lianqiao (Forsythiae Fructus), Longdancao (Gentianae Radix). Decocted into large bowl, drank slowly warm. Three doses cured irritability and sore.
Another case: At home, girl surnamed Zhang from village swallowed realgar (Pi Shi) after family argument, vomiting shortly after. Brother suspected poison, lied she ate only Zao Fan (Vitriol). Brother asked for antidote. I said Zao Fan (Ferrous Sulfate) is sulfur oxide + iron, non-toxic; vomiting would cure it. But doubted it was Zao Fan. Must ask again. Brother returned 3 hours later: severe abdominal cramping, critical. Confirmed swallowing Realgar (Pi Shi), not Vitriol. Urgently bought 2 liang raw Shigao (Gypsum Fibrosum) fine powder, given with cold water. No pharmacy in village; bought raw Shigao (Gypsum Fibrosum) from tofu maker, powdered, given with cold water. Abdominal pain stopped instantly. Still felt burning abdomen; used another 0.5 jin raw Shigao (Gypsum Fibrosum) fine powder, decocted into two large bowls, drunk slowly. Cured after finishing. Later treated matchstick poisoning with Shigao (Gypsum Fibrosum) decoction (milder toxin, no powder needed).
Appendix:
Letter from Sun XX, Yanshan, Zhili:
Aug 1924, friend Zhang XX's daughter had severe fever. Prescribed 1.5 liang Sheng Shigao (Raw Gypsum Fibrosum) decoction. Fever persisted. Advised drinking more Shigao (Gypsum Fibrosum) water. Bought several liang, boiled, drank when thirsty. Cured in days.
Letter from Li XX, Yanshan, Zhili:
Mid-Autumn Dingmao year, treated young man surnamed Fu in Tianjin with Warm Syndrome, stomach heat/rebellious Qi, vomiting everything ingested. Doctors helpless. Recalled case of Old Lady Mao in *Zhongzhang Canxi Lu* Shigao section, used method to stop vomiting/clear stomach heat. Ate pear dipped in 7+ qian Sheng Shigao (Raw Gypsum Fibrosum) fine powder. Vomiting stopped, could eat. Still felt heart heat; prescribed Baihu Jia Renshen Tang (White Tiger Decoction plus Ginseng). One dose cured.
Letter from Diao XX, Chongming County, Jiangsu:
Recently treated latent Warm Disease: high fever, irritability/thirst, surging/solid/rapid pulse, no stool for 10 days. Wanted to vent pathogen, but fluids depleted (fear of collapse from sweating). Wanted to purge bowels, but no definitive Chengqi Tang indications. Thought: Yangming heat prolonged, consuming True Yin. Following instruction to heavily use Sheng Shigao (Raw Gypsum Fibrosum), used 2 liang Sheng Shigao (Raw Gypsum Fibrosum) combined with Zengye Tang (Fluid-Increasing Decoction), plus 3 qian each Xian Jinchai Shihu (Dendrobii Nobile Caulis) and Xiang Qinghao (Artemisiae Annuae Herba). Family suspicious, observers thought too cold. I angrily said: "Choosing a doctor requires caution; trusting a doctor requires dedication."