Blacken Hair and Beard—Zhongshan Huan Tong Wine
Zhongshan Huan Tong Wine
[Drug Composition] Iris root, iris seed, iris flower
[Function and Indications] Blacken hair and beard.
[Usage and Dosage] Drink as much as desired.
[Preparation Method] Take one *sheng* of iris flower, bury in soil for three days, then remove; take one *sheng* of iris root, wash, slice, boil with two *dou* of yellow millet until mushy; crush two pieces of old yeast into powder, add two bowls of wine starter, mix all together and make wine until mature; separately, take one *sheng* of iris seeds and roots, boil in water ten times, add to wine and stir daily for three days, then remove roots.
[Source] Ming Dynasty·"Wanbing Hui Chun"
Comment: This formula is also recorded in "Dongyi Baodian" and "Gujin Tushu Jicheng·Yi Bu Quanlu". Iris seed tastes sweet, neutral in nature; according to "Shennong Bencao Jing", it "treats skin chills and fevers, stomach heat, wind-cold-damp arthralgia, strengthens tendons and bones, increases appetite, long-term use lightens body." Currently clinically used mainly as a heat-clearing and detoxifying herb. The root shares similar taste and properties. Therefore, caution is advised for those with qi deficiency and yang decline.