III. Chronic Pancreatitis Often Associated with Retroperitoneal Adhesions

Chronic pancreatitis, due to its prolonged course and frequent recurrent episodes, sometimes presents with pathological manifestations of acute pancreatitis, characterized by pancreatic tissue congestion, swelling, and inflammatory exudation. As the pancreas is located behind the stomach and the transverse colon, which possess two major physiological characteristics—gas filling and peristalsis—this makes the pancreas frequently subjected to pressure and positioned in close proximity to the retroperitoneum. When pancreatic tissue becomes swollen and congested, it comes into closer contact with the posterior abdominal region, where inflammatory exudate infiltrates the surrounding tissues. Repeated inflammation leads to adhesions between the pancreas and the retroperitoneum. In such cases, patients often experience not only left upper quadrant and left flank pain but also radiating pain down to the lower back and neck; in some cases, the severe pain can even radiate to the neck. Some patients have encountered chronic pancreatitis patients who presented with the aforementioned symptoms—particularly those experiencing severe lower back and neck pain that radiated to the neck—and who were often treated with traditional Chinese medicine formulas for chronic pancreatitis, adding 3g of Danshen, 6g of Tuo Bei Chong, 10g of Zilan, and 6g of Shui Zhi (all ground and taken in divided doses). These treatments frequently yielded significant therapeutic effects. Several patients with chronic pancreatitis had undergone surgical intervention due to acute exacerbations, during which they discovered that the pancreas was tightly adhered to the posterior abdominal wall, with extensive connective tissue proliferation present in the area. The typical pain pattern in these patients before surgery was intense lower back pain radiating to the left side of the neck, resulting in referred neck and back pain. During surgery, in addition to removing a small amount of necrotic tissue and performing drainage procedures, the adhesions in the lower back and the fibrous tissue proliferation in the posterior abdominal wall were appropriately addressed. After surgery, both lower back pain and neck strain were alleviated; however, after six months, the pain returned to its previous level, and the patients were forced to continue traditional Chinese medicine treatment.

After understanding the three key characteristics of chronic pancreatitis, clinical TCM diagnosis and treatment gained valuable insights. In the main formula used for treating chronic pancreatitis, if there was also significant bile reflux gastritis or esophagitis, then Gou Ying and Baisang were removed, and instead, Banxia, Fresh Ginger, and Raw Hematite were added; the dosage of Lactose should be reduced. If fatty liver was present, then Sichuan Pepper, Chuan Lian Zi, and Yuan Hu were avoided, and instead, San Ling, E Jue, Qing Pi, Turmeric, and Cinnamon were incorporated. If neck and back pain were present, then Qiang Du Hua, Fang Feng, Danshen, and Shui Zhi were added.

In addition to medication, dietary therapy is also crucial for the treatment of chronic pancreatitis. Patients are advised to consume light, low-fat, semi-liquid foods such as thin porridge, one-pot noodles, vegetable soup, and fruit juice over a long period of time. Meat, eggs, cheese, fish, shrimp, and seafood are not recommended, and overeating should be avoided. By consistently following these dietary habits, chronic pancreatitis may be completely cured.

Moreover, maintaining a regular daily routine and fostering a positive psychological state are also essential components in the recovery process. As the ancients said, “Great anger harms the liver,” and in this context, “liver” also refers to the pancreas.

Discussing Traditional Chinese Medicine Treatment for Vaginal Bleeding

Vaginal bleeding falls under the category of “Beng” and “Luo” conditions in TCM. “Beng” signifies a sudden collapse of the heavens and earth, while “Luo” refers to a house that has been breached and water leaks out—both describe the severity and duration of the bleeding. This condition differs significantly from menstrual irregularities: when menstruation occurs earlier than usual or is delayed by more than three days, it is considered menstrual irregularity. Normal menstruation may be accompanied by discomfort in the lower abdomen; if there is significant lower abdominal pain, it is referred to as dysmenorrhea. Menstrual periods typically last between three and seven days, with moderate blood flow. In cases of “Beng” or “Luo,” there is no clear menstrual cycle; rather, vaginal bleeding occurs frequently. Heavy bleeding is referred to as “Beng,” while lighter bleeding that does not stop easily is called “Luo.” TCM categorizes “Beng” and “Luo” into three main types: first, Qi not controlling blood; second, Blood Heat rushing outward; third, Blood Vein Stasis. Although these three conditions differ significantly in their underlying mechanisms, their root cause lies in the Chong and Ren meridians—the Chong represents the Blood Sea, while the Ren represents the Blood Chamber; both the Blood Sea and the Blood Chamber are primarily governed by the Liver. Therefore, TCM’s approach to regulating the Liver is a fundamental principle in treating “Beng” and “Luo.” “Si Wu Tang is not exclusively a remedy for activating blood circulation and replenishing blood, but rather a sacred formula for regulating the Liver”—this was famously stated by the renowned Qing Dynasty physician Ke Yunbo. In my clinical practice, I always use this formula as the primary treatment for “Beng” and “Luo” conditions caused by Qi not controlling blood. For patients with abdominal pain, I add Gui Zhi Fu Ling Wan; for those with severe Qi deficiency, I add Dang Shen, Huang Qi, and Gan Cao; for severe “Beng” cases, I add Shan Yu 20g, Yuan Rou 20g, Sheng Long Mu each 15g, and Wuchai Gu 15g; for patients with low blood pressure, I add Dang Shen 10g, Mai Dong 10g, and Wu Wei Zi 6g; for patients experiencing shock, I use 30g of Ginseng, along with 50g of Red Sugar, decocted in water for 10 minutes and administered immediately. This treatment method generally aligns with the principles of Qi not controlling blood treatment. From a modern medical perspective, such vaginal bleeding is often attributed to functional uterine bleeding rather than organic lesions. Another type of “Beng” is what TCM refers to as “Vein Stasis,” and the treatment of such cases is quite complex. It often involves modern medical conditions such as uterine fibroids, ovarian cysts, endometrial hyperplasia, endometrial cancer, cervical cancer, as well as obstetric conditions like ectopic pregnancy, miscarriage, and placenta previa. From a TCM perspective, vaginal bleeding of this type often shares the following characteristics: ① Vaginal bleeding accompanied by lower abdominal pain; ② Vaginal bleeding that does not respond effectively to conventional hemostatic medications; ③ Patients experience prolonged vaginal bleeding accompanied by anemia and purplish spots on the tongue. These three characteristics suggest that physicians should not make diagnoses without careful consideration; they should first consult with a Western medical specialist to confirm the diagnosis. Through years of clinical practice, I have found that severe obstetric hemorrhages and cervical cancer often require consultation with Western gynecologists; traditional Chinese medicine alone is often insufficient. However, for uterine fibroids, ovarian cysts, and endometrial hyperplasia, TCM treatment often yields excellent results. TCM’s pulse diagnosis cannot always accurately determine the precise diagnosis of these conditions; although it can at most indicate vein stasis and suggest methods to activate blood circulation and resolve blood stasis, there is still a risk of making overly broad generalizations. Nevertheless, when diagnosis is accurate, clinical outcomes are indeed satisfactory, and for patients who do not wish to undergo surgery or who are unwilling to have surgery, TCM can be a viable option. My commonly used formula is Gui Zhi Fu Ling Tang with additions. According to the “Jin Kui Yao Lü,” when a woman has a long-standing illness and her menstrual cycle has not yet resumed within three months, but she experiences continuous vaginal bleeding, and fetal movement occurs above the navel, this is considered a “fixed disease” that causes harm. If fetal movement occurs in the third month of pregnancy, it is considered a case where the fetus is already present during the early stages of the menstrual cycle. If bleeding persists beyond three months after the end of the menstrual cycle, it is regarded as a “non-healing condition,” and to address this issue, Gui Zhi Fu Ling Wan is used. The “disease” mentioned in the text refers to “scar-like lesions!” – accumulations! These conditions share similarities with modern medical uterine fibroids and ovarian cysts.

I have achieved remarkable therapeutic effects using this formula for large-scale uterine bleeding caused by fibroids, cysts, and endometrial hyperplasia. The basic formula consists of 10g of Gui Zhi, 20g of Bai Shao, 12g of Fu Ling, 10g of Dan Pi, 10g of Tao Ren, 10g of San Ling, 10g of E Jue, 10g of Hai Zao, 10g of Shui Zhi (ground and taken in divided doses), and 3g of Danshen (ground and taken in divided doses), all decocted and taken once daily. Among these ingredients, the Shui Zhi and Danshen possess powerful effects in breaking up blood stasis and promoting blood circulation; though they break up blood, they can help stop the bleeding quickly—this is an example of “using the root to treat the symptom.” For patients with severe weakness, I often add Dang Shen, Bai Zhu, and Huang Qi; for patients with heavy bleeding, I add Ejiao and Ai Ye; for abdominal pain, I add Pu Huang and Wu Ling Zhi; for lower back pain, I add Du Zhong, Yi Ren, and Yin Yang Shu. Using this formula to treat uterine fibroids, ovarian cysts, and endometrial hyperplasia has proven effective—beyond stopping heavy bleeding, the hyperplastic endometrium can be reversed, fibroids and cysts can shrink, and in some cases, they can even disappear entirely.

A Brief Discussion on San Qi

San Qi, also known as Can San Qi, Han San Qi, Jin Bu Huan, or Tian Qi, is the root of a perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the Araliaceae family. It is primarily produced in Yunnan, Guangdong, Guangxi, and Sichuan. Traditionally, this herb is believed to have hemostatic, blood-activating, and anti-inflammatory properties—but little is known about its powerful qi-tonifying effects. Professor Zhao Fen from Fujian College of Traditional Chinese Medicine once used San Qi to treat a patient suffering from severe anemia, whose hemoglobin levels increased from 7g/L to 11.2g/L within just one month. Taking 1g of San Qi after breakfast and dinner was sufficient. This demonstrates that San Qi possesses dual therapeutic effects—both activating blood circulation and tonifying qi. Due to its blood-activating and blood-resolving properties, this herb is often used to treat coronary heart disease, cerebral infarction, uterine fibroids, ovarian cysts, and old ectopic pregnancies. Experimental studies have shown that this herb has excellent lipid-lowering effects. Professor Chen Dingqi from the Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine took 2g of this herb daily, divided into two doses, and treated 85 cases of angina pectoris, achieving an efficacy rate of 82% and a lipid-lowering rate of 78%. Teacher Tao Yuansheng from Pingdingshan Medical School in Henan Province treated 100 cases of acute jaundice-type hepatitis with this herb, proving that it has notable choleretic, jaundice-reducing, enzyme-lowering, and liver-protecting effects. Moreover, long-term use of this herb by patients with chronic hepatitis B not only led to negative conversion of surface antigens but also helped reverse chronic liver inflammation. He also used a self-prepared formula called San Dan Tang (Danshen and Dan Shen), which often resulted in surface antigen negativity after a few months of use; after one year, the negative conversion rate could reach 40%. Dr. Lu Ji from the Zhejiang Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine accidentally discovered that San Qi has a pronounced diuretic effect and successfully treated multiple cases of hepatic, cardiac, and renal ascites.

Based on over 40 years of experience with Han San Qi, I believe this herb is a truly versatile remedy—a sacred formula that combines both activating and tonifying functions, and a cornerstone of traditional Chinese medicine. Alongside herbs like Da Huang, Shi Gao, Chai Hu, Gui Zhi, Dang Shen, and Huang Qi, San Qi is a key component in the formulation of traditional Chinese medicine formulas, contributing significantly to their therapeutic efficacy. I have used this herb to treat injuries from falls and bruises—whether taken internally or externally, it has proven highly effective. I have also used this herb in combination with Qiang Du Hua, Fang Feng, Sang Zhi, and Weiling Xian to treat rheumatic and rheumatoid pains, and I have seen remarkable results. Furthermore, I have combined this herb with 10g of Shui Zhi (taken in divided doses) to treat gynecological conditions such as uterine fibroids and ovarian cysts, achieving significant therapeutic effects. Over the past decade, I have used Han San Qi in combination with Formula No. 2 for Coronary Heart Disease (Chrysanthemum, Chuanxiong, Red Flower, Jiangxiang, Dan Shen) and the Guo Luo Peng Bai Xia Tang to treat coronary heart disease and angina pectoris, yielding remarkable therapeutic results. I have also combined this herb with Shui Zhi and made capsules called Kuang Xiong Wan, taking 2–4 capsules twice daily, dissolved in warm water, to treat chest tightness and shortness of breath associated with myocardial ischemia in coronary heart disease, a treatment that has earned me high praise in Gansu Province. I have also combined this herb with Dan Shen, Huang Qi, Dang Shen, Dang Gui, Bai Shao, Qin Tiao, and Ban Lan Gen to create a Hepatitis B Scan Granule, which has notable liver-protecting effects; long-term use can lead to surface antigen negativity, and patients with Hepatitis B who are positive for E antigen can see their E antigen turn negative.

In the spring of 2000 (the Year of the Dragon), a middle-aged man sought my treatment for erectile dysfunction. I prescribed Gui Fu Ba Wei, adding 3g of Lu Rong (taken in divided doses) and 3g of Han San Qi (taken in divided doses), and after ten doses, the patient reported significant improvement. At the second visit, I removed Han San Qi from the formula and continued with the original prescription for another ten doses. The patient remarked that these ten doses had not only failed to produce noticeable results but had actually caused the previously achieved therapeutic effects to disappear. I then re-prescribed Han San Qi (taken in divided doses) and continued with another ten doses, and the patient again noted significant improvements. I wondered: Could Han San Qi really possess such powerful male enhancement effects? So I removed Lu Rong and used Han San Qi alone in combination with Gui Fu Ba Wei, followed by another ten doses. The patient reported that the treatment was effective, though the efficacy was somewhat less than when Lu Rong was present!

These cases demonstrate that combining Han San Qi with Lu Rong can greatly enhance its male enhancement effects; while Han San Qi alone has certain male enhancement properties, its efficacy is still inferior to that achieved when combined with Lu Rong.

In conclusion, Han San Qi possesses multiple benefits, including qi-tonifying and blood-replenishing, essence-strengthening and male enhancement, activating blood circulation and resolving blood stasis, reducing swelling and relieving pain, promoting bile secretion and reducing jaundice, protecting the liver and lowering enzymes, and aiding in diuresis and reducing edema—all of which make it a truly valuable medicinal herb.

A Brief Discussion on Water Worm

Water worms are the dried bodies of members of the family Hirudinidae, possessing a salty taste, a neutral nature, and a mild toxicity. Traditionally, they were used to treat injuries from falls and bruises, scar formation, and blood stasis causing amenorrhea. In recent years, experimental studies have revealed that water worms possess powerful anti-fibrotic and anticoagulant properties. TCM regards water worms as a divine remedy for resolving blood stasis and eliminating scars; when used raw, their effects are particularly potent, and they can be used freely in cases of blood stasis. In gynecology, water worms are often used to treat tumors, vascular malformations, coronary heart disease, hypertension, emphysema, and pulmonary heart disease—especially when patients exhibit cyanosis, pain, or accumulation of fluid. Based on my experience, this herb can be used in conjunction with Formula No. 2 for Coronary Heart Disease (Chrysanthemum, Chuanxiong, Red Flower, Jiangxiang, Dan Shen) to treat coronary heart disease, where it not only alleviates subjective symptoms such as chest tightness, shortness of breath, and palpitations, but also helps correct the S-T segment and T wave on electrocardiograms. Importantly, consistent long-term use of this herb is required. Additionally, this herb can be combined with Gui Zhi Fu Ling Wan (Gui Zhi, Fu Ling, Bai Shao, Dan Pi, Tao Ren) to treat benign gynecological tumors such as uterine fibroids and ovarian cysts, with reliable therapeutic effects. The complete elimination rate of uterine fibroids reaches approximately 70%; among ovarian cysts, the complete elimination rate for serous or mucinous cysts can exceed 90%, while the complete elimination rate for corpus luteum cysts and chocolate cysts is relatively lower—but their impact on menstrual irregularities remains notably effective. This herb can also be used in combination with Purple Grass, San Ling, E Jue, Hai Zao, and Kombu to treat benign solid masses on the body surface. For cervical lymph node tuberculosis, I add Zhebei, Yuan Shen, and Oyster; for thyroid tumors, I add Xia Ku Cao, Tuo Bei Chong, Lu Feng Fang, and Quan Xie; for breast masses, I add Chuang Shan Jia, Zao Jiao Ci, Chai Hu, and Wang Bu Liu Xing; for vascular pain, I add Dang Gui Wei, Tao Ren, Red Flower, and Zilan.

Recently, Dr. Fang Xinsheng from the Workers’ Hospital of Zhuzhou Metallurgy Plant in Hunan Province reported that using water worms to treat chronic renal failure yielded remarkable therapeutic effects. The formula consisted of Da Huang, Fupian, Jin Yin Hua, Bai Hua She She Cao, Che Qian Zi, Yi Mu Cao, Dan Shen, Huang Qi, Shan Yu, Gou Qi Zi, Sang Gen, and Shui Zhi (ground and taken in divided doses), decocted and taken once daily, with the second decoction mixed and divided into three doses—after breakfast, lunch, and dinner. I observed the therapeutic effects of this formula in clinical practice: three patients with varying degrees of renal failure responded positively to the treatment. One patient with chronic nephritis-induced chronic renal failure saw his BUN drop from 11mmol/L to 9mmol/L after 20 doses of the formula; another patient with liver cirrhosis-induced chronic renal failure showed no change in BUN, but his Cr dropped from 122µmol/L to 96µmol/L; a third patient with chronic renal failure caused by purpuric nephritis experienced a slight improvement in BUN and Cr after treatment, though neither figure decreased significantly. However, the patient’s mental state improved compared to before, his appetite increased, and his nausea and vomiting were relatively alleviated. Given the remarkable therapeutic effects of this formula on renal failure, I reflected deeply on the formula. The Shui Zhi in the formula can be considered the main ingredient—it serves as the soul of the entire formula. This herb activates blood circulation, resolves blood stasis, and breaks up accumulations; since it has a certain vasodilatory and decongestant effect on vascular hardening and thrombosis in coronary heart disease and cerebral infarction, it should also have a similar effect on the basement epithelial tissue of the renal glomeruli. Renal failure is often characterized by the loss or partial loss of the glomerular filtration function, as well as the ability to excrete and reabsorb waste products. The glomeruli are formed by the interweaving of arterioles and venules, creating a pressure system; vascular wall hardening and luminal obstruction are the primary factors affecting glomerular filtration. Generally speaking, these conditions fall under the category of “blood stasis” in TCM. Since Shui Zhi is the main ingredient in this formula, it breaks up blood stasis and promotes blood circulation, and thus it can play an ideal role in treating these conditions. Currently, chronic renal failure is considered incurable; although modern medicine offers dialysis as an emergency treatment, it is only a symptomatic cure and not a long-term solution. Ultimately, patients often die from secondary infections. To date, medical professionals both domestically and internationally have conducted extensive practical research, proposing various approaches such as high-dose diuretics to induce rapid urination and the use of high-dose albumin infusion—but none of these approaches have shown encouraging therapeutic results. TCM has historically employed the principle of “raising clarity and lowering turbidity,” and according to historical records, this approach has shown certain efficacy. The “raising clarity and lowering turbidity” theory is based on the idea that the imbalance in the ascending and descending functions of the spleen and stomach is the underlying mechanism of the disease. TCM believes that the primary symptoms of chronic renal failure include nausea, vomiting, poor appetite, and loose stools; based on this diagnosis, it is concluded that dampness stagnates in the middle burner, obstructing the ascending function of the spleen and the descending function of the stomach. The Da Huang and Fupian in the formula are important components of the formula, aside from Shui Zhi: Da Huang lowers the spleen’s qi, while Fupian raises the spleen’s yang; through this process, the clear substances rise, and the turbid substances descend, allowing the dampness that had accumulated in the middle burner to be resolved! Modern pharmacology has proven that Da Huang has a strong laxative effect, similar to intestinal dialysis; Fupian strengthens the heart and promotes diuresis, helping to overcome the side effects of Da Huang’s harsh laxative action. The Jin Yin Hua and Bai Hua She She Cao in the formula aim to clear heat and detoxify, incorporating modern medical anti-infective effects, while Che Qian Zi and Yi Mu Cao promote blood circulation and diuresis, supporting kidney function and facilitating urination. Huang Qi and Dan Shen serve as qi-tonifying and blood-replenishing agents, working together to nourish both qi and blood, strengthening the body’s innate defenses and reinforcing the foundation of health—acting on multiple fronts, including immune regulation, metabolism, and the autonomic nervous system.

In conclusion, the specialized formula proposed by Dr. Fang Xinsheng from Hunan for treating chronic renal failure is a clinically effective formula that deserves wider clinical application and further refinement of experience. When I used this formula in clinical practice, I often added Mu Xiang Shi, Cao Kou 6g, Ban Xia 6g, and Fresh Ginger 6g, which helped alleviate gastrointestinal nausea and discomfort to some extent. However, I found that traditional Chinese medicine formulations are often inconvenient for patients with severe renal failure; some patients refused to take herbal medicine due to nausea, vomiting, stomach discomfort, and pain. Especially the Shui Zhi itself has a strong, fishy, unpleasant odor, making it difficult for most patients to accept. I believe that we should begin to reform the formulation of this formula to create an effective drug that patients with chronic renal failure can take long-term without difficulty.

Clinical Experience in Treating Severe Hepatitis and Hepatic Encephalopathy

Wang Mou, a 72-year-old woman from Yuzhong County, Gansu Province, was a farmer. She had suffered from hepatitis for more than ten years. One month ago, due to excessive fatigue, her liver disease suddenly worsened, causing yellowing of her face and entire body, along with nausea, loss of appetite, abdominal distension, and discomfort in the liver region. She soon developed agitation, altered consciousness, lost coherent speech, and spoke incoherently. Physical examination revealed widespread jaundice, reduced liver dullness, and no palpable liver or spleen. Abdominal percussion elicited mobile dullness, and a few petechiae were visible on the lower limbs. Cardiac and pulmonary examinations were normal. Laboratory tests showed total bilirubin of 246 µmol/L, direct bilirubin of 128 µmol/L, alanine aminotransferase of 45 µmol/L, aspartate aminotransferase of 36 µmol/L, urea of 29 µmol/L, blood ammonia of 1600 µg/L, hemoglobin of 90 g/L, white blood cells of 20.8 × 10^9/L, with neutrophils accounting for 88%. Clinical diagnosis: acute severe hepatitis and hepatic encephalopathy. Given the severity of her condition, she was advised to be hospitalized for treatment, but due to financial difficulties, she could only receive outpatient care. Her pulse was tense and slippery, her tongue was red with a thick, greasy yellow coating, her consciousness was unclear, though she could still respond to questions. She had not had a bowel movement for four days. The treatment regimen included Da Chai Hu with additions: Chai Hu 10g, Da Huang 10g, Huang Lian 6g, Huang Qin 10g, Ban Xia 6g, Yin Chen 20g, Shan Zhi 10g, Ming Fan 3g, Yu Jin 6g, Zhi Shi 10g, Hou Pu 6g, Da Fu Pi 15g, Hu Lu Pi 15g, Che Qian Zi 10g, Jin Yin Hua 15g, Lian Qiao 15g, Gong Ying 15g, Baisang 15g, Dan Shen 10g, Mu Xiang 6g, Cao Kou 6g—decocted and taken once daily, with the first and second decoctions mixed and divided into three doses. Simultaneously, she took Gu Sheng I and Gu Sheng II capsules, three times a day, 2 capsules each time. These two medications were developed from my 40 years of clinical experience, with nitrate and stone powder as the main ingredients; Gu Sheng I protects the liver and reduces jaundice, while Gu Sheng II protects the liver and promotes diuresis, both showing significant efficacy in treating ascites and jaundice associated with liver disease. After three doses of the above herbal formula (along with Gu Sheng I and Gu Sheng II), her consciousness began to clear, and her abdominal fluid and jaundice also showed slight improvement. I thought: It was truly inspiring that such a severe condition could be treated with oral traditional Chinese medicine! I continued to use the same formula, and after three doses, her spirits improved, she began to show some appetite—but her diarrhea reached 4–5 times a day. I believed that the diarrhea was caused by the “three yellows,” and this was a method of addressing the root cause—this was why her consciousness cleared. However, if consciousness cleared and then diarrhea returned, it might weaken her vital energy. Therefore, I adjusted the formula as follows: I reduced the amount of Da Huang to 6g, removed Ming Fan, Yu Jin, Jin Yin Hua, and Lian Qiao, and added 30g of Dan Shen, 30g of Huang Qian, 10g of Dang Gui, 15g of Bai Shao, 10g of Qin Tiao, and 15g of Ban Lan Gen. I continued to take the formula, while also taking Gu Sheng I and Gu Sheng II. Task output rules: Translate this markdown block from Chinese to English. Preserve markdown markers, links, and formatting. Keep headings and list structure unchanged. Return only the translated block.

Input: Saint I and Saint II. After taking more than 30 doses of medication, the condition greatly improved; the patient claimed that the medication had taken effect, so he immediately stopped taking it himself.

The patient continued to take the medicine, finding that the more he took, the better his condition became, and he couldn’t bear to stop, so he decided to seek outpatient treatment in the future. Physical examination: The face was no longer jaundiced, the patient’s mental state was good, his appetite was good, the liver dullness boundary had returned to normal, the abdomen was flat and soft, and there was no ascites. Laboratory tests: Total bilirubin was 18.2 μmol/L, direct bilirubin was 5.2 μmol/L, alanine aminotransferase was 26 μmol/L, and aspartate aminotransferase was 42 μmol/L. Given that the patient’s liver function and jaundice had both returned to normal, the following formula was prescribed to support further recovery. Formula: Angelica sinensis 10 g, White Peony 15 g, Rehmannia root 12 g, Astragalus 20 g, Polygonum cuspidatum 20 g, Curcuma longa 6 g, Codonopsis pilosula 10 g, Alisma orientalis 10 g, Licorice root 6 g, Hawthorn fruit 10 g, Cornus officinalis 10 g, Isatis indigotis 10 g, decocted in water and taken as one dose per day; after 20 doses, the patient could discontinue the medication on his own.

Note: The patient’s recovery was due to financial difficulties—his family lacked the means to be hospitalized—and he was forced to receive outpatient treatment with oral traditional Chinese medicine decoctions and traditional Chinese medicine capsules. The results were remarkably positive, which came as quite a surprise.

Among the herbal formulas the patient took, in addition to rhubarb, coptis, and scutellaria for clearing heat and eliminating toxins, the formula also included Da Chai Hu Tang, Wu Wei Xiao Du Yin, Bai Jin San, and Dan Shen Yin—formulas that combined liver regulation, detoxification, heat-clearing, and stomach harmony into a single formula. The Bai Jin San formula (made with alum and curcuma longa) originated from “Xue Ke Quan Sheng Ji – Ma Shi’s Family Secret Recipe,” primarily used to treat phlegm obstructing the heart’s orifices, speech disorders, and epilepsy; here, it played a crucial role in adding the finishing touch to the treatment.

A Brief Discussion on “Spleen Primarily Responsible for Postnatal Development”

Traditional Chinese Medicine posits that the kidneys are responsible for innate development, while the spleen is responsible for postnatal development, forming the core framework of TCM’s traditional theories. Since the Jin and Yuan dynasties, Li Dongyuan developed the theory of spleen and stomach, arguing that the spleen is the foundation of postnatal life; by regulating the spleen and stomach and ensuring that the middle qi is abundant, diseases cannot arise. He proposed the Bu Zhong Yi Qi Decoction, which gained widespread acclaim among physicians throughout history for its remarkable efficacy. With the advancement of integrated Chinese and Western medicine, researchers have recently explored the nature of the spleen from a microscopic perspective, employing experimental research methods to conduct extensive studies. Some researchers measured salivary amylase activity, urinary amylase activity, and trypsin activity in patients with spleen deficiency, finding that all values were lower than normal levels; others examined gastric juice secretion in patients with spleen deficiency, discovering that gastric juice secretion was lower than in healthy individuals. These findings indicate that the digestive capacity of patients with spleen deficiency is poorer than that of healthy individuals. Some researchers performed gastric mucosal biopsies on patients with spleen deficiency, revealing that the villi in their gastric mucosa were flattened, the small villi were sparse, and many had shed, suggesting impaired absorption in these patients. Others measured the activity of isocitrate dehydrogenase in patients with spleen deficiency, finding that this activity was significantly lower than in healthy individuals. However, after taking the Xiang Sha Liu Jun Zi Decoction—known for strengthening the spleen and benefiting qi—the activity returned to normal levels. This demonstrates that spleen deficiency not only affects the body’s digestive and absorptive functions but also influences metabolic processes. In the 1980s, the author published an article titled “Supporting Vitality and Strengthening the Foundation: Immunity” in the Journal of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine (Vol. 2, 1982), summarizing research findings both domestically and internationally. The article highlighted that the “middle qi” (the qi of the spleen and stomach) represents both the body’s humoral immunity and cellular immunity, as well as both specific immunity and non-specific immunity—essentially, it embodies the human immune system. It’s no wonder ancient scholars believed that “when righteous qi resides within, evil cannot invade.”

In summary, the spleen plays a pivotal role in the digestion, absorption, and metabolism of nutrients in the human body; at the same time, it provides selfless protection for the body’s postnatal development through the immune system—this concept of “spleen as the foundation of postnatal life” is truly insightful and well-founded.

Recently, I read an article titled “The Role of the Gastrointestinal-Liver Axis” by Professor Xu Jun from the Emergency Department of Peking Union Medical College Hospital, published in China Medical Forum on February 5, 2004. The article proposed that the gastrointestinal-liver axis is another critical barrier system in the human body, alongside the blood-brain barrier, the blood-organ barrier, and the skin-mucous membrane barrier. The decline of this barrier system is often the root cause of multi-organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS). The barrier functions of the gastrointestinal-liver axis include the mechanical barrier of the gastrointestinal mucosa, the peristaltic barrier, the secretory barrier, the lymphatic barrier, and the endothelial barrier within liver tissue. When the body experiences trauma, burns, infections, shock, or receives radiation or chemotherapy, this system comes into action, halting various emergencies in their infancy and guiding them toward recovery. The Kupffer cells in the liver play an extremely important role in this barrier system. Kupffer cells can be divided into large cells and small cells; when pathogenic factors begin to stimulate them, the phagocytic activity of large cells increases, releasing large amounts of TNF-α (tumor necrosis factor); small cells, on the other hand, produce large quantities of IL-6 (interleukin-6), both of which contribute to the onset of MODS. In recent years, people have increasingly recognized the barrier role of the gastrointestinal-liver axis: if the liver’s Kupffer cells can increase their phagocytic activity while simultaneously shutting down the functions of large and small cells, the production of TNF-α can be reduced, thereby preventing the occurrence of MODS.

In conclusion, the functions of the gastrointestinal and liver organs—such as digestion—are the most significant factors determining a person’s postnatal health; they serve as the key to acquiring, digesting, and absorbing essential nutrients for the body, while also acting as a protective barrier against external and internal pathogens. As such, the spleen is indeed the “foundation of postnatal life,” and this understanding is deeply rooted in practice, offering broad clinical guidance.

My Views on the Treatment of Interstitial Lung Disease

In 1995 (Year of the Pig), I treated numerous cases of interstitial lung disease. This condition is characterized by dyspnea, wheezing, chest tightness, shortness of breath, and gasping; it is often more severe than common lung and bronchial diseases. Western medicine typically uses corticosteroids in combination with antibiotics, but the therapeutic effects are limited, recurrences are frequent, and the prognosis is often poor. When treating interstitial lung disease, I often used the following three formulas as primary treatments: ① During acute episodes: The onset is sudden, accompanied by high fever, severe dyspnea, chest tightness, palpitations, dry and moist rales throughout both lungs, a slippery and rapid pulse, a red-purple tongue, and a yellowish-greasy coating. The formula used was Ma Xing Shi Gan Tang with additions: 10 g of Ephedra, 10 g of Apricot Kernel, 30 g of Raw Gypsum, 6 g of Licorice, 10 g of Mulberry Bark, 10 g of Dendrobium Cortex, 12 g of Herba Lysimachiae, 10 g of Jujube, 6 g of Dry Ginger, 3 g of Asarum, 3 g of Schisandra, 6 g of Pinellia, 10 g of Scutellaria Root, and 25 g of Houttuynia Cordata. The formula was decocted in water and taken as one dose per day. While using this formula, antibiotic therapy was also administered. ② During remission: The condition is chronic, with chest tightness, shortness of breath, and occasional scattered dry or moist rales in both lungs; the pulse is slippery and rapid, the tongue is red with a purple hue. The formula used was Gui Zhi Shao Yao Zhi Mu Tang with additions: 10 g of Cinnamon Twig, 10 g of White Peony, 10 g of Anemarrhena Rhizome, 6 g of Dry Ginger, 6 g of Licorice, 12 g of Fang Feng, 10 g of Atractylodes Macrocephala, 6 g of Aconite, 10 g of Apricot Kernel, 30 g of Raw Gypsum, 20 g of Coix Seed, 10 g of Perilla Seed, 10 g of Mustard Seed, and 10 g of Black Mustard Seed. The formula was decocted in water and taken as one dose per day; when using this formula, antibiotic therapy was not required. ③ In the stage of pulmonary fibrosis: This is the late stage of interstitial lung disease; patients experience shortness of breath with even minimal movement, lose their ability to engage in physical activities, suffer from severe hypoxia, and their faces turn bluish-purple, especially around the lips. Widespread tubular breath sounds are heard in both lungs, occasionally with a few moist rales; some patients develop clubbed fingers. The pulse is deep and tense, the radial pulse is weak, the tongue is reddened, swollen, and purplish-blue. The formula used was Du Qi Wan combined with Tao Hong Si Wu Tang with additions: 12 g of Rehmannia Root, 6 g of Eucommia Bark, 10 g of Dioscorea, 10 g of Paeonia Root, 10 g of Poria, 10 g of Alisma Root, 10 g of Ophiopogon, 3 g of Schisandra, 10 g of Codonopsis Pilosula, 10 g of Angelica Sinensis, 15 g of White Peony, 6 g of Ligusticum Chuanxiong, 10 g of Peach Kernel, 3 g of Safflower, 3 g of Panax Notoginseng (split and taken separately), and 10 g of Leech (split and taken separately). The formula was decocted in water and taken as one dose per day. This formula should be taken over a long period; those experiencing stomach pain may add 10 g of Salvia Miltiorrhiza, 6 g of Agarwood, and 6 g of Cardamom to the formula. When necessary, the above formula can be doubled in dosage, ground into powder, and taken 6 g each time, three times daily, mixed with warm boiled water.

The use of these three formulas, in conjunction with Western antibiotics, often helps alleviate pulmonary interstitial fibrosis. Intersitial lung disease is commonly referred to as idiopathic pulmonary interstitial fibrosis, and its causes remain unclear to this day—hence the term “idiopathic.” Its pathological changes are characterized by interstitial pneumonia, fibrosis, and pulmonary fibrosis in both lungs; X-rays reveal diverse features such as interstitial pneumonia, nodules, interstitial changes, fibrous hyperplasia, emphysema, bullae, and fibrotic cysts. The condition frequently recurs due to colds, fatigue, emotional stress, and other factors, eventually leading to pulmonary arterial hypertension and right heart failure, resulting in hepatomegaly, ascites, lower limb edema, and jugular vein distension. Given the obvious and severe pathological changes in the lungs, along with their irreversible nature, the clinical manifestations are primarily marked by severe dyspnea, systemic hypoxia, accompanied by dry cough and cyanosis. In 1935, French scholars Hamann and Rich first proposed the name for this disease; at the time, they reported four patients who exhibited three key characteristics: sudden onset, dyspnea, and generalized cyanosis. All four patients died within three months, and pathological examination revealed diffuse alveolar wall inflammation and interstitial fibrosis in the lungs of all four patients. They named the disease Hamann–Rich disease.

Laboratory diagnosis of this disease includes elevated serum immunoglobulins and the presence of autoantibodies, though these are non-specific—such as anti-nuclear antibodies, anti-mitochondrial antibodies, anti-smooth muscle antibodies, anti-fibroblast antibodies, and anti-rheumatoid factors. Over 90% of patients showed an increased erythrocyte sedimentation rate, while 66% had elevated serum lactate dehydrogenase levels. Some patients experienced decreased serum complement levels, and a small number of patients showed increased eosinophils and secondary erythrocytosis. In addition to the aforementioned diagnostic tests, the diagnosis of this disease also involved bronchoalveolar lavage; the lavage fluid contained neutrophils and macrophages, sometimes also eosinophils, and in a few patients, lymphocytes were observed.

Since the cause of this disease remains unclear, it is known to be an autoimmune disorder. Currently, hormone therapy remains the primary treatment option, with antibiotics added as needed. Among the three formulas mentioned earlier, one formula—Ma Xing Shi Gan Tang, Xie Bai San, Herba Lysimachiae and Jujube Decoction, Xiao Qing Long Tang—was designed to relieve cough, clear heat, eliminate phlegm, and calm asthma; it is indeed a method of treating symptoms in acute conditions. Another formula—Gui Zhi Shao Yao Zhi Mu Tang, Ma Xing Yin Gan Tang—was formulated to address both the symptoms and the root cause of the disease. Gui Zhi Shao Yao Zhi Mu Tang and Ma Xing Yin Gan Tang are classic formulas for dispelling wind and eliminating dampness; modern research in integrated Chinese and Western medicine suggests that these two formulas indeed help regulate the body’s immune response, making them suitable for clinical applications in autoimmune disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus erythematosus, and chronic nephritis, where adjustments can be made based on individual circumstances. The third formula—Mai Wei Di Huang Tang, Tao Hong Si Wu Tang—was designed to treat the root cause of the disease; in cases where breathing is severely difficult, the kidney fails to retain qi, and Mai Wei Di Huang is the preferred choice for tonifying the kidney and restoring qi. For patients with pulmonary interstitial fibrosis and hardening, it is not appropriate to use heavy formulas that promote blood circulation and remove stasis; therefore, Tao Hong Si Wu Tang was supplemented with Panax Notoginseng and Leech.

A Casual Talk on Sheng Yu Dan

The creation of Sheng Yu Dan brought relief to tuberculosis patients. This formula treats various types of tuberculosis, particularly chronic fibrosing cavitated pulmonary tuberculosis and bone tuberculosis, and has proven highly effective over the past three years. I’ve tried and tested this formula many times—I’m getting old! This formula should be passed down to future generations for the benefit of society.

The original formula of Sheng Yu Dan included ginger, centipede, centipede, gecko, cordyceps, and realgar. First, cut a large radish in half, hollow out the center, fill it with realgar powder, tie the radish with string, steam it until cooked, remove the realgar, and let it dry in the shade. Grind all the herbs into powder, sift through a sieve, mix thoroughly with the realgar, then package into 0.25 g capsules. Take 3–4 capsules per dose, three times daily, mixed with warm boiled water after meals.

In the early 1960s, I served as the head of the Internal Medicine Department at Tian Shui Regional Hospital, overseeing the tuberculosis ward. At that time, many patients suffered from chronic fibrosing cavitated pulmonary tuberculosis, often presenting with high fevers, frequent hemoptysis, extreme weight loss, and malnutrition. Most lesions were scattered, affecting both lungs; surgical treatment was not ideal, and long-term use of analgesics and artificial pneumothorax did not yield satisfactory results. I prescribed this formula to my patients; after six months, most patients saw noticeable improvements, and some even achieved complete recovery.

In the 1970s, I moved to the Ganquan Commune Health Center in Tian Shui County. Tuberculosis was prevalent in the area, and many patients suffered from chronic fibrosing cavitated pulmonary tuberculosis and bone tuberculosis. However, due to the rural economy’s hardships, patients often could not use pain medications systematically or properly, and their conditions remained uncontrolled. In villages like Mengjia Shan and Shile Gou, there were over 50 tuberculosis patients. Besides prescribing the relatively inexpensive isoniazid, I encouraged patients to find their own remedies—no need to go to pharmacies to purchase them. I instructed them to collect silkworms, scorpions, centipedes, and geckos, as these animals were abundant in the local small mountain forests, where temperatures were low and humidity high. The four herbs were locally sourced, as the region was part of the Xiaolong Mountains, a cold, humid area where these herbs were readily available.

Local villagers had a tradition of raising silkworms; silkworms were easy to obtain. Geckos were locally known as “wall lizards,” found everywhere. Only cordyceps was a rare and precious commodity—though it was hard to come by. I only used realgar as a single ingredient; it wasn’t expensive, and villagers could easily prepare a batch of Sheng Yu Dan for regular consumption. After a year, when I traveled to Lanzhou, a few days before my departure, I visited Mengjia Shan and Shile Gou to check on the patients. I found that most of the tuberculosis patients in these two villages were now in good health, with strong physiques. The once pale, frail, and weak figures of the past were gone—though unfortunately, due to limited resources, I didn’t perform any examinations on the patients or leave behind any records. It was during the height of the Cultural Revolution, when China was in chaos, and scientific research and cultural journals were largely suspended. I myself was labeled a “reactionary scholar” and one of the “black five categories,” and I was assigned to undergo reform—what was there to think about?

In the 1980s, I tasked the Lanzhou Chinese Medicine Factory with producing Sheng Yu Dan capsules through strict manufacturing processes. The formula was widely used in outpatient and inpatient settings, yielding excellent results. Below are some typical case reports:

1. Wang, a 26-year-old woman from Tongwei County, Gansu Province, had been suffering from tuberculosis for over ten years. She had experienced recurrent hemoptysis, weight loss, anemia, and extreme thinness. X-rays showed scattered patchy shadows in the upper lobes of both lungs, with several thick-walled, round cavities visible in the left upper lung. Her ESR was 26 mm/h, and her Hb level was 8 g/10. After taking 3 capsules of Sheng Yu Dan three times daily for two months, her symptoms eased; her face began to regain color, her appetite improved, and her energy returned. X-rays showed that the lesions in the upper lobes of both lungs had begun to absorb and calcify, with most of the large lesions in the left upper lung having resolved, leaving no cavities visible.

2. Li, a 32-year-old woman from Gangu County, Gansu Province, had previously suffered from tuberculosis but had recovered after undergoing pain management treatment. In the past six months, she began experiencing lower back pain, which was confirmed by X-ray as lumbar tuberculosis. Over the past three months, a lump appeared in her left lower back, soft to the touch, with a fluctuating sensation. Diagnosis: lumbar tuberculosis complicated by a cold abscess. She took 3 capsules of Sheng Yu Dan each time, three times daily, mixed with warm boiled water after meals. Half a month later, during her second visit, she reported that after taking the medication, the abscess had ruptured the previous day, draining about 100 ml of rice-like pus. She felt her lower back pain subside, and her overall sense of well-being improved, as if a heavy burden had been lifted. She continued taking the medication, and the amount of pus drained daily. I asked her to undress and examine the area, and discovered a 2 cm × 2 cm sinus tract in her lower back, with a small amount of purulent discharge. Using a probe to open the tract, we could see that the sinus tract extended directly to the lumbar vertebrae, and the white vertebrae were clearly visible. I increased the dosage of Sheng Yu Dan to 4 capsules per dose, three times daily, and also prescribed a decoction: 10 g of Ephedra, 10 g of Deer Antler Gelatin (from foreign sources), 10 g of Black Mustard Seed, 12 g of Rehmannia Root, 3 g of Cinnamon, 30 g of Astragalus, 10 g of Angelica Sinensis, 3 g of Prepared Milkweed, 10 g of Acacia Thorn, 10 g of Pangolin, decocted in water and taken as one dose per day. After 10 doses of the medicine, the patient returned for a third visit: her spirits were good, her face was rosy, and the sinus tract was nearly healed, with no further discharge. I advised her to continue taking Sheng Yu Dan. Six months later, when she returned for a follow-up exam, everything was normal—X-rays showed that the lumbar tuberculosis had healed.

Hemiplegia and Aphasia Caused by Cerebral Infarction

The term “cerebral thrombosis” has been replaced by “cerebral infarction” since the advent of computed tomography (CT) in clinical practice. This condition is an inevitable consequence of cerebral arteriosclerosis. Clinically, it is characterized by slow onset, hemiplegia, and systolic pressure exceeding 12 kPa (90 mmHg). The condition typically develops in the later stages of cerebral arteriosclerosis, when the arteries gradually narrow due to atherosclerosis, leading to insufficient blood supply to brain tissue. Over time, brain tissue begins to atrophy; in severe cases, the blood vessels become completely blocked, resulting in cerebral infarction.

The clinical manifestations of cerebral infarction vary depending on the location of the infarction. Common sites include the carotid artery siphon and the middle cerebral artery, accounting for approximately 70% of all cerebral infarctions. Other common locations include the anterior cerebral artery, the basilar artery, the vertebral artery, and the posterior cerebral artery. Infarctions in the carotid artery siphon often present with contralateral hemiplegia; if there is damage to the left hemisphere, language impairment and aphasia are common; damage to the right hemisphere may result in diplopia. Infarctions in the basilar artery trunk can lead to quadriplegia, medullary paralysis, and even deep coma—a serious condition requiring immediate medical attention. Vertebral artery infarctions often cause dizziness and episodic ear-related vertigo. In the autumn of 1995, Zhao Yangting, Director of the Gansu Provincial Science and Technology Commission, introduced a patient who had suffered a left-sided cerebral infarction and aphasia for half a month—despite multiple attempts at treatment. That same winter, Mr. Gong, former principal of Wushan County Middle School, also suffered from left-sided cerebral infarction and aphasia for several months, despite trying various medications. After treating these two patients, I prescribed a traditional Chinese medicine formula called “Yin Cui,” modified with Dihuang Yinzi: 12 g of Rehmannia Root, 6 g of Eucommia Bark, 10 g of Dioscorea, 10 g of Ophiopogon, 6 g of Schisandra, 10 g of Cinnamon Twig, 6 g of Aconite, 10 g of Dendrobium, 6 g of Acorus, 6 g of Polygona, 6 g of Atractylodes Macrocephala, 10 g of Ligusticum Chuanxiong, 6 g of Safflower, 10 g of Dragon's Blood, 20 g of Dan Shen, 3 g of Panax Notoginseng (split and taken separately), and 10 g of Leech. The formula was taken as one dose per day, decocted in water.

After 10 doses, both patients showed certain improvement. Those who continued taking the medicine were able to recover to the point where they could speak simply; one patient fully recovered, and their speech was almost normal.

Note: Dihuang Yinzi is a formula from Liu Wansu’s “Xuan Ming Lun,” originally designed specifically for “Yin Cui.” What is “Yin Cui”? It refers to aphasia caused by wind-induced stroke. Patients with stroke who lose control of their tongue and cannot speak, or who are unable to walk due to paralysis of the limbs, are often diagnosed with “wind-induced stroke.” Recent reports have shown that this formula can be used to treat hypertension, arteriosclerosis, diabetes, central retinal inflammation, cerebral infarction, sequelae of cerebral hemorrhage, senile dementia, and infertility.

The ingredients in the formula—Rehmannia Root and Eucommia Bark—have dual effects on regulating cortical function, and they can also increase the activity of superoxide dismutase, thereby clearing free radicals in brain tissue. Free radicals are harmful byproducts of oxidative metabolism in the body; they are closely linked to immune enhancement, anti-aging, and increased cellular nutrition, as well as the clearance of free radicals. Cinnamon, Aconite, Dendrobium, and Epimedium are potent tonics for yang and kidney; according to research by Professors Yin Ziyun and Wang Wenjian of Shanghai, the true essence of these tonics lies in their ability to regulate the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis. Based on the regulation of cortical function, the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and adrenal glands, I added Red Peony, Ligusticum Chuanxiong, Safflower, Dragon's Blood, Dan Shen, Panax Notoginseng, and Leech to the formula—all of which work to improve blood flow and promote circulation in the brain’s blood vessels. The composition of the medicine focuses on regulating brain tissue function while also promoting local blood flow; long-term use often yields fairly satisfactory therapeutic results.

Patients with cerebral infarction often experience hemiplegia, diplopia, numbness in the limbs—but only infarctions in the left internal carotid artery and the middle cerebral artery can cause aphasia, making it difficult for patients to speak, which places a great psychological burden on them. Task output rules: Translate this markdown block from Chinese to English. Preserve markdown markers, links, and formatting. Keep headings and list structure unchanged. Return only the translated block.

Input: Big, it should be given priority treatment; otherwise, it may lead to rapid progression of atherosclerosis.

Premature Aging in Women and Erectile Dysfunction in Men

Premature aging in women refers to a decrease in menstrual cycles or early menopause in women of childbearing age, at which time estrogen levels fall below normal levels; erectile dysfunction in men refers to low sexual function in men of childbearing age, where the genitals fail to achieve an erection and difficulty in achieving normal sexual intercourse occurs, with testosterone levels also lower than normal. A common characteristic of both conditions is the premature decline in sexual function. According to "Suwen: The Theory of Heavenly Truth in Ancient Times," "In women, when the second seven years have passed and the Tian Gui arrives, the Ren Mai becomes unblocked, the Tai Chong Mai becomes prosperous, and menstruation begins on schedule... By the seventh seven years, the Ren Mai becomes deficient, the Tai Chong Mai declines, and the Tian Gui is exhausted." This passage indicates that women between the ages of 14 and 49 are in the childbearing period, and if their menstrual cycles gradually decrease or stop, it signifies ovarian insufficiency. Typically, women over 40 experience a gradual reduction in menstrual flow, but many do not consider this as premature aging; instead, they refer to it as perimenopause. In recent years, however, due to factors such as induced abortions, medical abortions, late marriage, late childbirth, and other similar reasons, many women of childbearing age before the age of 40 experience a gradual reduction in menstrual flow, even to the point of menopause. These women are considered key candidates for premature aging treatment and should undergo appropriate therapy. Erectile dysfunction in men can occur in any married man of childbearing age; frequent sexual activity, masturbation, psychological stress, heavy physical labor, hunger, severe illnesses, and other factors can all lead to erectile dysfunction. The essence of male erectile dysfunction is sexual dysfunction—mild cases may result in premature ejaculation, while severe cases may lead to complete impotence. Those who suffer from erectile dysfunction often struggle to achieve an erection during sexual intercourse. According to "Suwen: The Theory of Heavenly Truth in Ancient Times," "In men, when the second eight years have passed and the kidney qi becomes abundant, the Tian Gui arrives..." However, by the age of 56, kidney qi begins to decline. This passage suggests that the period from 16 to 56 years old is the male childbearing period, during which erectile dysfunction is often considered a form of erectile dysfunction. However, for those diagnosed with erectile dysfunction, especially men under 50 who are already married, prompt treatment is essential.

The Western medical and pharmaceutical treatments for these conditions often involve hormone replacement therapy, which provides only temporary relief. Estrogen and progesterone hormone replacement therapies, once popular in countries around the world, have recently come under scrutiny from many scholars. Numerous evidence-based studies have shown that this therapy can lead to cardiovascular complications and various long-term side effects in patients. Similarly, numerous medications used for male erectile dysfunction, such as Viagra, have also been associated with numerous complications. Given this, medical professionals still maintain a cautious stance toward Western medical treatments for this condition. I have been engaged in clinical practice for a long time and have accumulated considerable experience in treating this condition.