Illustration of (dijiang shui) 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.
This illustration depicts the procedure for obtaining earth paste water. One digs down into the earth until one reaches a layer of yellow earth, then pours freshly drawn water into the hole, and stirs it until it is cloudy. When the water has cleared again, it can be collected and used. It is then known as earth paste water.
The text states: Earth paste water is cold in thermostatic character and non-poisonous. When drunk, it releases the centre and eliminates poisons. If one should inadvertently eat maple fungus (fengshu jun), which causes uncontrollable laughter, drinking this water can bring relief.
