Downward-directing in nature, Mori Cortex (sang bai pi) primarily settles cough and wheezing due to heat, and facilitates urination. There is a saying that "Draining Lung excess will not be successful without Mori Cortex (sang bai pi)." It is most commonly used in two areas: cough and wheezing with yellow sputum (or blood in the sputum) due to heat from excess in the Lungs, and for edema with urinary difficulty due to heat from excess. While effective for general edema, it is particularly helpful for swelling around the eyes. The Grand Materia Medica notes that "Its strong point is facilitating urination, as "excess requires draining of the Child"; therefore, it is appropriate when there is water qi in the Lungs, and when Lung fire is excessive." --excerpted from Bensky: Chinese Herbal Medicine Materia Medica, 3rd ed The product is prepared by mixing with warm honey and water, then soaking before frying until yellow in color. "Preparing the herb with honey mitigates its cooling and draining properties, preventing any damage to the Lung qi. It also increases its ability to moisten the Lung and calm wheezing." - Bensky: CHMMM