105 Aniseed Tree Roo

Wang Yao had a formula that could ease pain; however, this was not something obtained from the system, which implied that the efficacy was not as good. In order to improve the efficacy, he would need to conduct further research.

"This won't do. Although this could dispel the cold and ease the pain, it is too heaty and not gentle enough. This won't do either; the location of the effect is inaccurate," Wang Yao muttered to himself.

Up until dusk, even though Wang Yao had researched a few prescriptions, he was unable to find a suitable formula.

"Look into it further. If unable to find a suitable formula, then use the gentlest formula and alter it later," he said to himself.

Wang Yao's knowledge of medicine had accumulated quite substantially. He had read several books relating to the medicinal use of herbs. Coupled with the massive body of knowledge indoctrinated by the system, he could actually combine various herbs to create his own formula. Essentially, this would be his unique creation. However, in order for a prescription to be approved, the process would be drawn-out, requiring multiple tests, clinical validation and the certainty of no errors before it could be used.

As a result, Wang Yao could only make do with the second best alternative, which was to use a tried and tested prescription, and make slight amendments without changing the pharmacology and main ingredients of the formula. Basically, this meant that the big framework was unchanged; only a branch was altered, thus minimizing the risk.

Wang Yao retrieved the two manuals of Catalogue of Magic Herbs from the system and started flipping through them, hoping to find a panacea that could relieve pain. Upon closer inspection, there was more than a type—there were actually two types and Wang Yao chose one of them.

Aniseed tree root: Relieves internal heat and detoxifies; removes blood stasis and relieves pain. This herb's leaves are octagonal in shape. They are similar to a lotus and are terrestrial in nature.

In reality, there were many other herbs in the pharmacist system that were able to relieve pain and achieve greater efficacy. Unfortunately based on the points he had, he was only able to afford the Aniseed tree root.

Apart from pain relief, ideally it should be combined with another herb that could stabilize the intestines. Such a combination would target the child's issues other than the illness affecting his left arm. After those were treated, the difficult-to-treat left arm could then be treated.

"The tranquilizer and pain reliever should not conflict each other. I need to reconsider."

Apart from his usual tending of the herbs and breathing exercises, Wang Yao was exceptionally busy during those two days.

Having arranged time with Zhou Xiong, Wang Yao made his way to Lianshan County again. This time, he took with him a formula of the Anshensan.

Seeing Zhou Wukang, Wang Yao took his pulse. This time, from the pulse condition, he could tell that the child's body had improved from a few days ago. This was proof that the Regather soup had continued to wield its effects and there was a need to continue taking it. The child's breathing was deeper, the odor had changed, and the intestinal health had improved. However, his energy was flagging and he had heavy eye bags. It was evident that his quality of sleep was still poor.

"His condition has improved from a few days earlier," Wang Yao diagnosed.

"Yes, Kang felt better than before," Zhou Xiong commented. In those few days, he was able to see his son's health improve; it excited and made him happy.

"Is he still not sleeping well at night?"

"Yes, he is still unable to sleep peacefully," Zhou Xiong replied.

Usually, his son did not sleep for longer than half an hour, he would wake and then sleep again. This would persist throughout the night – it could not be considered as sleep at all.

"This formula can alleviate depression and regulate Qi; it is tranquilizing and can help him sleep. Take it the same way as the previous formula." Wang Yao passed him the decoction.

"Yes." Zhou Xiong took the formula. Having taken the previous formula and having seen his son's health take a dramatic change for the better, he realized the extent of this young man's medical skills. He was both astounded and impressed. He was confident that this formula would also display extraordinary efficacy.

Zhou Xiong let his son take a cup.

"This formula will need some time to take effect. I shall take my leave. It will be good if you could both stay put in the area; I will come treat Kang anytime," Wang Yao said.

Having done the necessary, Wang Yao left.

The weather outside was nice. A warm spring breeze was blowing and he was not in a hurry to leave. He drove around the county, walked in the park and took the opportunity to visit Wang Mingbao at his shop to chat with him.

"How come you're free today?"

"I treated a patient earlier," Wang Yao said.

"Patient? You're doing house calls now? Without a certification, won't you get into trouble?" Wang Mingbao was shocked.

"Shouldn't be a problem." Wang Yao lowered his head and looked at his teacup.

"What's the patient's illness?"

"A strange illness, the arm is as dry and thin as a twig."

"What?" Wang Mingbao was shocked.

"The patient is just a child," Wang Yao murmured.

"He must have suffered great pain..." Wang Mingbao's voice was somber.

"Yes, in two ways: on one hand, his body suffered greatly due to the illness. On the other hand, his torment is mental—for years the illness had not improved, causing him great stress. He is, after all, a child no older than ten-years-old. I feel that the latter is a scarier point. Fortunately, the boy is strong and able to persevere till now," Wang Yao commented.

Based on Wang Yao's interaction with the child, although the child did not talk much and was introverted, he observed that the child's eyes showed mental strength. All those years of illness had not beaten him into submission. Adults might not necessarily have the same courage and strong will when faced with the same situation. If the child pulled through this ordeal, he would be able to accomplish great things.

After seeing the child, Wang Yao pitied him and wanted to help him. Having seen his mental strength, he felt a greater desire to help him and change his circumstance. 

"Oh, by the way, this is my friend's medical report, have a look." Wang Mingbao took a folder from his desk and gave it to Wang Yao.

Wang Yao opened it.

"Skin disease, festered skin?"

Wang Mingbao's friend's illness was strange. The body was swollen and had festering and purplish wounds which seemed to not coalesce. It was also seasonal—during the summer it deteriorated, but in the fall and winter it became better. The cycle repeated itself every year and it looked to be on worsening as time went on.