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Zhu, female, has been suffering from cough and asthma for over 30 years. Since the recurrence last August, the symptoms have persisted despite the use of both Chinese and Western medicines. The disciple initially used True Warrior Decoction with Ginseng, Bitter Apricot Seed, Magnolia Bark, and Ephedra, but it was ineffective. The master said: "She has long suffered from phlegm-fluid retention, yang qi deficiency, and the chronic illness has affected the kidneys, leading to water retention and impaired lung function. The treatment should focus on warming the heart and kidneys, and transforming cold fluids with True Warrior Decoction. However, the pulse is thin and rapid, indicating yin failing to hold yang. This is not a condition that can be treated with True Warrior Decoction alone. It is appropriate to add Ginseng for tonifying qi and nourishing yin, and Bitter Apricot Seed and Magnolia Bark for descending qi with their bitter and warm properties, while removing the dispersing Fresh Ginger Rhizome. Why was this formula ineffective? It lies in the use of Ephedra. Although Ephedra can ventilate the lungs and relieve panting, its nature is ascending and floating, which is particularly contraindicated for those with kidney deficiency and inability to hold qi. Therefore, it should be removed." The disciple asked: "Is adding Ginseng only for tonifying qi and nourishing yin?" The master replied: "Not only that. Adding Ginseng with Aconite Lateral Root, White Atractylodes Rhizome, Poria, and Peony Root forms Aconite Decoction, which treats shaoyin disease, body pain, cold hands and feet, and joint pain, which aligns with this condition. Adding Huang (likely referring to another herb) would not have this effect." The prescription was:

Ginseng 4.5g, Poria 4.5g, White Atractylodes Rhizome 6g, Magnolia Bark 4.5g, Bitter Apricot Seed 4.5g, Aconite Lateral Root 3g, Peony Root 7.5g
. After one dose, all symptoms were reduced. After two more doses, the cough and asthma were reduced by 70-80%, appetite greatly increased, limbs became slightly warm, and body pain also decreased. The disciple, seeing the small dosage, sought a quicker effect and changed the prescription to Ginseng 10g, Magnolia Bark 10g, Bitter Apricot Seed 10g, Aconite Lateral Root 12g, Peony Root 12g, Poria 30g, White Atractylodes Rhizome 12g. After three doses, not only did the cough and asthma return to their original state, but symptoms such as irritability, thirst, and palpitations also appeared. The disciple sought the master's guidance again. The master said: "Both yin and yang are deficient. Tonifying yang damages yin, and nourishing yin damages yang. Therefore, a small dosage should be used to assist healthy qi in eliminating pathogenic fluids, allowing the body to recover naturally." Everyone was impressed, and after continuing with 10 doses, the asthma was stabilized.