🌿 Folk Prescriptions

In his 61-year reign and living to the age of 69, Emperor Kangxi of the Qing Dynasty was China's longest-lived emperor. This wise ruler had a deep connection with medicine throughout his life, paying close attention to personal health care and mastering the art of health preservation. After surviving smallpox, he recovered his strength with "Poria Cake."
When young, Emperor Kangxi contracted smallpox. After recovery, he remained weak, especially with digestive issues such as indigestion and diarrhea. The imperial physicians concluded that medication and tonics were not advisable because he had already taken too many drugs during his illness. The young emperor cried and refused to take bitter herbal decoctions. The doctors were at a loss.
His grandmother, Empress Dowager Xiaozhuang, deeply concerned for her grandson, was about to reprimand the physicians when maid Sulamagun quietly suggested that a renowned doctor from Jiangnan was skilled in pediatric medicine. The empress immediately ordered the doctor summoned. Soon, the elderly physician arrived, examined young Kangxi through observation, listening, inquiry, and pulse-taking, then wrote only one ingredient on the prescription slip: "Poria," specifying it must be wild Poria from Yunnan. The physicians collaborated with the imperial chefs to create delicate pastries called "Poria Cakes" using refined flour, Poria powder, and honey. Young Kangxi loved this uniquely flavored, fragrant treat, and soon his complexion turned rosy, and he resumed studying and martial arts. The empress was delighted and rewarded the old physician generously, later retaining him in court to oversee the production of Poria Cakes. Thus, Poria Cakes became a famous delicacy in Beijing, remaining popular to this day.
The principles of health preservation are worth learning from today.
As an emperor, his diet was undoubtedly richer than most people’s, yet Emperor Kangxi ate simply. He said: “I eat twice daily; nothing else. Tobacco, alcohol, and betel nuts are useless.” He particularly warned: “Do not overindulge in what you like,” “Know what foods are unsuitable for you and avoid them,” and “Elderly people should eat light meals, including vegetables, which reduces illness and benefits the body.” These views align well with modern medical understanding, helping prevent hypertension, coronary artery hardening, and digestive diseases. He also said: “Fruits and other edible items should only be consumed when fully ripe—this is essential for health.” He advocated creating a joyful atmosphere after meals: “After eating, I always discuss good news or admire fine artworks. This aids digestion and benefits the body.” From a physiological perspective, this makes perfect sense. He paid great attention to water hygiene, stating: “Health depends primarily on food and drink, so clean water is crucial.”
Besides, Emperor Kangxi frequently criticized laziness and aversion to labor. He said: “People naturally love idleness and hate work. But I believe constant activity leads to true rest. If one becomes complacent in idleness, they will not know true rest and cannot endure labor. The sage regards labor as blessing and idleness as misfortune.”
Emperor Kangxi was highly skilled in health preservation. His insights and teachings remain valuable for us today.