original: Zhìwù Míngshí Túkǎo. Compiled by the Qing Dynasty scholar Wu Qijun and published posthumously in 1848, this is one of the most significant pre-modern botanical works in China, prized for its accurate illustrations.

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Climbing Plants, Volume 21

Xun Gu Feng

Xun Gu Feng: Aristolochia mollissima, commonly known as the Woolly Dutchmanspipe. The name literally translates to "Wind-Searching Bone," a reference to its medicinal function.

In traditional Chinese medicine, "wind" is an environmental factor that can penetrate the body, causing pain and numbness. This plant is named for its ability to "search out" or expel this wind from deep within the bones and joints to relieve rheumatism.

The accompanying woodcut illustration shows a vigorous climbing vine. It features large, heart-shaped leaves with distinct, prominent veins and a single, textured seed pod characteristic of the Aristolochia genus.