Official Zhang Hancha from the Ministry of Works (an ancient institution similar to a modern construction ministry) was widely regarded as the most knowledgeable and virtuous scholar in our hometown. His younger brother Zhang Tiehua, who served as a county magistrate, had taken the imperial examinations (China’s ancient civil service exams) in the same year as me.
One year when Tiehua traveled to the capital for an important examination, Hancha accidentally entered the “Dragon Gate” (the formal entrance to examination grounds) while seeing his brother off. This violated exam regulations as he carried prohibited items. Compounded by their dwindling funds and mounting pressures, Hancha became severely overwhelmed with anxiety.
By late summer, he suddenly developed violent vomiting and chest pain so intense it felt like being crushed by stones – he couldn’t even swallow rice porridge. Multiple physicians offered conflicting diagnoses: some claimed heatstroke, others blamed cold exposure, and some suspected fluid retention. Despite daily medication changes, his condition showed no improvement.
As a last resort, Tiehua summoned me for consultation. Upon examination, I found:
All pulse points barely detectable
Visible swelling in the chest area
Severe constipation lasting days
I diagnosed this as qi stagnation caused by emotional suppression. Treatment involved:
Suzi Jiangqi Decoction (a traditional herbal formula to regulate qi) – Stopped vomiting after two doses
Fenxin Qi Beverage (another qi-regulating formula) – Restored normal bodily functions
Within five days, Hancha fully recovered and resumed his official duties.
The esteemed medical text Zui Hua Chuang Medical (Original: Ming Dynasty Clinical Archives) has been translated by timtcm.com. We welcome your valuable comments and feedback in the section below.
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