The source is from the viscerated and dried body of Agkistrodon acutus (Guenther), family Grotalidae. The medicinal material is mainly produced in the areas of Hubei, Jiangxi, and Zhejiang, etc. caught in summer and autumn. The viscerated and dried body is prepared with millet wine (with skin and bone removed), being cut into pieces for being used. Medicinal Properties Sweet and salty in flavor, warm in nature, toxic and attributive to the liver meridian. Actions Expel wind, dredge the channels, relieve convulsion. Application 1. For obstinate Bi-syndrome of wind-dampness type manifested as numbness of the extremities and muscular spasm, it is usually combined with Fangfeng (Radix Saposhnikoviae ), Qianghuo ( Rhizoma et Radix Notopterygii), and Danggui (Radix Angelicae Sinensis ), etc. so as to expel wind and promote blood circulation. 2. For deviation of the eyes and mouth resulting from apoplexy, hemiplegia, paralysis of limbs, it can be combined with Huangqi (RadixAstragali), Danggui (Radix Angelicae Sinensis ), and Guizhi (Ramutus Cinnamomi), etc.. 3. For leprosy, numbness of the extremities and itching of skin, it is usually combined with Wushaoshe (Zaocys), Xionghuang ( Realgar ), and Shengdahuang (Radix et Rhizoma Rhei ), etc., such as Oufeng San (Powder). 4. For acute or chronic infantile convulsion and tetanus, it is usually combined with Wushaoshe (Zaocys) and Wugong (Scolopendra) which are powdered together, the powder being mixed with wine that is boiled for being used. Usage and Dodge 3 - 9 g is used in decoction for oral use, 1 - 1.5 g in the powder and just right amount for external use.
