典藏书目

Mujing Shi (Fructus Viticis)
Taste: bitter; Nature: warm. Non-toxic. It grows densely in high banks and fields. There are two types cultivated: Huangjing (Yellow Vitex) and Mujing, with the green variety being superior. Because the stems are tough and strong, it is called "Mu" (male). Villagers only call it Huangjing, and judicial officers often use it to make canes. The fruits are harvested in August and dried in the sun. When used in medicine, they must be stir-fried and ground. Fangfeng (Radix Saposhnikoviae) serves as a guiding herb; when used alone, it conflicts with Shigao (Gypsum Fibrosum). It descends Lung Qi, stops cough and counterflow of Qi in the throat; unblocks Stomach Qi, eliminates cold-heat sensations in the bone joints. It is also recorded in immortal prescriptions for its ability to communicate with spirits and see ghosts. Combined with Baishi (Semen Platycladi) and Qingxiangzi (Semen Celosiae), it is very effective for treating Toufeng (Head Wind). The leaves treat Hongjiangjiao (Charley Horse/Foot swelling) with fullness, and damp sores; they also treat Huoluan (Cholera-like disease) with muscle cramps, Xuelin (Hematuria), and Xueli (Dysentery with blood). The root releases the muscle layer; when roasted and smoked above, the dripping juice is collected for drinking (add two teaspoons of Jiangzhi [Fresh Ginger Juice] per cup of drip), eliminating phlegm froth miraculously. It treats elderly patients with Zhongfeng (Wind Stroke) causing aphonia and critical dizziness, and pediatric patients with fever, Jingxian (Convulsive disorders), and convulsions. Those with excess Qi and good appetite should take it; those with deficient Qi and poor appetite should avoid it. Therefore, Danxi (Zhu Zhenheng) said: For deficiency-phlegm, use Zhuli (Bamboo Sap); for excess-phlegm, use Jingli (Vitex Sap). Both are essential herbs for opening meridians and promoting the circulation of Qi and Blood.

Zhuling (Polyporus)
Taste: sweet, bitter, bland; Nature: neutral. Descending, Yang nature. Non-toxic. It is abundant in Hengshan, harvested in August. It forms lumps resembling pig dung, hence the name Zhuling. The black skin must be removed before use. It enters the Bladder and Kidney channels. It promotes urination to relieve edema and distension, removes dampness, and facilitates diuresis. This is because bitterness drains stagnation, sweetness assists Yang, and blandness opens orifices. *Yanyi* further states: Its water-moving efficacy is predominant, but it strongly dries up body fluids. If there is no dampness syndrome, do not use it lightly. Long decoction may damage the Kidneys and impair vision.

Ziwei (Caulis Campsis)
(Also known as Lingxiaohua / Trumpet Vine Flower) Taste: sour; Nature: slightly cold. Non-toxic. It grows mostly in valleys and is found everywhere. Initially growing as vines clinging to trees, it extends over years until reaching the treetops. It blooms yellow-red flowers in summer, earning the praise "Lingxiao" (Reaching the Sky). Harvested at the proper time and dried, it fears saline substances. Due to its property of maintaining independence and acting alone, it is used in gynecology to regulate menstruation. It is an essential herb for treating blood pain and a rapid formula for tonifying Yin deficiency. It stabilizes Bengdai (Metrorrhagia and Leukorrhea) immediately and resolves Zhengjia (Abdominal masses) and blood obstruction. It eliminates postpartum residual diseases and disperses wind from alcohol toxicity. Decocting the stems and leaves together (which have a bitter taste) can also generate Qi for Wei Ju (Atrophy syndrome) and supplement vitality.