Chinese Materia Dietetica, Ming: Alcoholic beverages

Illustrations 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. The illustrations depict the manufacture of chrysanthemum liquor and grape wine. The text states: Chrysanthemum liquor clears wind from the head, increases the acuity of the ears and eyes, alleviates paralysis, stimulates the appetite, invigorates the spleen, warms Yin and raises Yang, and eliminates a hundred illnesses. Grape wine replenishes Qi and regulates the centre; however, it is rather heating in thermostatic character. It is suitable for Northeners to drink, but Southerners should not drink large quantities of it.

Chrysanthemum liquor. Grape wine