Chinese Materia Dietetica, Ming: Frigid spring water

Illustration of rigid spring water from Shiwu bencao (Materia dietetica), a dietetic herbal in four volumes dating from the Ming period (1368-1644). The identity of the author and artists is unknown. It contains entries on over 300 medicinal substances and is illustrated by almost 500 paintings in colour. Hanquan shui (frigid spring water) refers to the clear, ice-cold water of mountain springs. In this illustration, the artist conveys the idea that the spring is high in the mountains by depicting peaks enveloped in mist and cloud. Two gentlemen, one standing and one squatting on either side of the spring, are apparently engaged in discussion on the virtues of frigid spring water. The text states: Frigid spring water is sweet in sapor, neutral in thermostatic character, and non-poisonous. It is effective against xiaoke (wasting thirst, diabetes), fanwei (regurgitation, gastric reflux), relin (heat stranguria) and shuli (summer-heat dysentery, i.e. dysentery or diarrhoea considered to be caused by damage to the digestive tract by summer heat). Used externally to bathe abscesses and swellings, it disperses heat. When drunk, it promotes diuresis.

Hanquan shui (Frigid spring water)