Li Genpi, also known as Gan Li Genbai Pi or Li Gen Bai Pi, is recorded in the book "Ming Yi Bie Lu". It is the root bark of the plant Prunus salicina Lindl., which belongs to the Rosaceae family. It can be harvested throughout the year by digging up the roots, washing them, peeling off the root bark, and drying them.
【Processing Method】According to the book "Shang Han Zong Bing Lun", "scrape off the rough skin." According to the book "Wei Sheng Jia Bao Chan Ke Bei Yao", "wash." According to the book "Tai Ping Sheng Hui Fang", "file." Currently, the raw medicinal material is taken, impurities are removed, any remaining rough skin is scraped off, washed, moistened, cut into small pieces, and dried.
【Appearance of Medicinal Slice】It is irregularly shaped. The outer surface is gray-brown and rough, while the inner surface is light reddish-yellow and smooth. The cross-section is light brownish-yellow. It has a slight aroma, bitter and astringent taste.
【Processing Effects】Li Genpi has a bitter and salty taste and a cold nature. It enters the heart, liver, and kidney meridians. It has the functions of descending rebellious Qi, drying dampness, and clearing heat and detoxification. It is used for conditions such as rebellious Qi rushing upwards, damp-heat dysentery, abnormal vaginal discharge, diabetes, foot qi, and carbuncles. For example, to treat rebellious Qi rushing upwards causing chest pain and abdominal pain with alternating chills and fever, the prescription is Ben Tun Tang from the book "Jin Kui Yao Lue Fang Lun". Processing the herb makes it clean and facilitates its use in compounding and the dissolution of its components.
