Collected Illustrations of the Three Realms: Plants and Trees

Half-Sky Return

Half-Sky Returnoriginal: "Bantianhui" (半天回). This name likely refers to its growth habit or its potent restorative properties. In traditional herbals, it is often associated with species of Arisaema or other tuberous mountain plants. grows in Shi Prefectureoriginal: "Shizhou" (施州). A historical administrative region located in what is now Enshi, Hubei Province, China—a mountainous area known for its diverse medicinal flora.. In the spring, its sprouts emerge to a height of one or two feet; they are reddish-mottled in color. By winter, the sprouts and leaves all wither away. Its root is bitter and astringent in taste, warm in nature, and non-toxic.

The local people harvest it during the summer months. It is combined with Chicken-Cock Vineoriginal: "Jiongteng" (雞翁藤). Likely a regional name for a climbing vine used in folk medicine., Wild Orchid Rootoriginal: "Yelan gen" (野蘭根), and Cliff Cherryoriginal: "Yaying" (崖櫻). These four ingredients are ground into a fine powder to treat women’s blood and qiA traditional concept referring to the vital energies and circulatory health, specifically regarding gynecological wellness. ailments, as well as the Five Labors and Seven Injuriesoriginal: "Wulao Qishang" (五勞七傷). A classical medical category referring to various forms of physical and emotional exhaustion or internal damage to the organs..