Exposed-Vein Herb

The Exposed-Vein Herb original: "Lujincao" (露筋草). Likely referring to a species of Lycopodium or similar ground-cover herb with prominent structural lines. grows in Shizhou a historical prefecture located in modern-day Enshi, Hubei Province. The plant reaches a height of approximately three feet. In the spring, the sprouts emerge and are immediately followed by the appearance of flowers and the setting of seeds. It is evergreen and does not wither throughout the four seasons. Its seeds are a jade-green color.

The flavor refers to the "Five Flavors" in Chinese medicine which dictate how a substance moves energy in the body is acrid and astringent; its nature the temperature profile of the herb is cool and non-toxic. The roots may be harvested at any time of the year. To prepare it, wash the roots clean, roast them until dry, and grind them into a fine powder. Mix this powder with white alum potassium aluminum sulfate, used traditionally as an astringent and antiseptic water and apply it topically as a poultice to treat wounds and sores caused by the bites of spiders or centipedes.