Many people are unfamiliar with Ai Pian and think it is made from Ai grass. However, this is not the case. Ai Pian is a processed product made from the leaves of the chrysanthemum plant. Let's take a closer look at Ai Pian.
【Morphology】
Ai Pian is a translucent crystal with a diameter of 5-15 millimeters and a thickness of about 2-3 millimeters. It is white in color and has a cool and strong spicy taste. When burned, it produces thick black smoke. The best quality Ai Pian is large, thin, white, crispy, and fragrant.
【Preparation Method】
In September to October, the leaves of the chrysanthemum plant are collected and heated in a steamer to sublimate. The resulting crystalline powder, which is grayish-white in color, is called "Ai Fen". After pressing and refining to remove the oil, it is processed into crystalline blocks which are then cut into granules or slices, known as Ai Pian.
【Effects and Indications】
"Compendium of Medicinal Materials": "Removes foul qi, prevents epidemics, kills insects, treats ringworm, and cures cholera."
"Guangxi Medicinal Plants": "Clears passages, dispels heat, brightens vision. Treats cholera, abdominal pain, wind-phlegm obstruction, and can be used externally for eye diseases, oral ulcers, etc. It can also be used as a topical medicine for bruises and injuries."
【Dosage and Administration】
Oral: 0.5-1 fen, usually taken in pill or powder form. External use: applied as a powder or in a paste.
Caution should be exercised by those with yin deficiency and blood heat. It is used for conditions such as shoulder periarthritis, lumbar muscle strain, leg and back pain, osteophyte formation, herniated discs, stomach pain, coughing, asthma, facial paralysis, and dysmenorrhea.
It should be avoided by those in a state of extreme drunkenness, anger, shock, or joy, as well as those who are overworked or overfed. It is not suitable for individuals with skin allergies.
