Essence-Nourishing—Vigor-Preserving Wine
Vigor-Preserving Wine
[Herbal Composition] Aconite root (raw, skin and umbilicus removed) 3 taels, White Peony root 3 taels, Asarum (coarse stems removed) 1 tael, Sichuan pepper (eyes and closed seeds removed, stir-fried until sweat appears) ½ sheng, Stellera chamaejasme ½ sheng, Aconite root (raw, skin and umbilicus removed) 2 taels, Prepared Aconite root (raw, skin and umbilicus removed) 2 taels, Dried ginger 2 taels
[Function and Indications] Nourish essence and energy, promote blood circulation, remove wind-dampness, improve hearing and vision, enhance complexion. For elderly individuals, after taking this wine, strength doubles and energy increases within 50 days; mental clarity returns within 100 days, resembling the vigor of age thirty, capable of drawing a bow. All conditions affecting waist and knees can be treated by this wine.
[Dosage and Administration] Three times daily, each dose one square inch spoonful, adjust according to response.
[Preparation Method] Coarsely crush the eight herbs, soak in 3 dou of wine. Soak for 5 days in spring and summer, 7 days in autumn and winter, then filter out residue.
[Precautions] This formula contains highly toxic herbs such as Aconite, Prepared Aconite, Aconite root, Asarum, and Stellera chamaejasme, all pungent-warm and toxic. Therefore, it should only be taken under medical supervision and not in excess or over long periods.
[Source] Song Dynasty · "Complete Record of Medical Benefits from the Sacred Treasury"
Comment: Although named Vigor-Preserving Wine, this formula primarily targets lower-jiao kidney yang deficiency combined with wind-cold-damp arthralgia and joint pain. However, due to excessive use of strongly hot and toxic substances, it is not suitable for casual use. Ancient people praised its efficacy extensively, and clinical evidence shows that even though ingredients like Aconite and Aconite root are toxic, proper processing and correct usage yield effective results. Thus, it is included here for reference and research, awaiting future development of safer, specially processed new medicinal wines. Similar formulas in this book share comparable compositions.