1. Two Winter Medicines Paste from “Zhang’s Medical Compendium”

1. Two Winter Medicines Paste (from “Zhang’s Medical Compendium”)

Indications: Lung and stomach dryness with heat, phlegm-damp cough.

Take one jin each of Asparagus cochinchinensis (core removed) and Ophiopogon japonicus (core removed). Boil to extract juice, mix with white honey to form a paste, take two to three tablespoons on an empty stomach, mixed with warm water.

This formula clears heart and moistens lungs, reduces fire and eliminates phlegm. Zhang Lu said: “Ophiopogon japonicus inherits water essence and connects upward to Yangming, while Asparagus cochinchinensis inherits water essence and connects upward to Taiyang. Winter represents closure, while door represents opening and transformation; hence the name ‘door winter,’ meaning both open and close, and connect upward. Combining the two winters to make a paste eliminates phlegm and moistens lungs, restores pulse and clears heart. Long-term use stabilizes qi, makes the body lighter and healthier, prevents aging and hunger—truly beneficial.” Thus, this formula can also serve as a wellness remedy.