Agarwood in Ancient Texts: From Bencao Gangmu to Xiang Cheng

Agarwood appears in classical Chinese texts as both medicine and incense. This article examines its records in Bencao Gangmu and Xiang Cheng, revealing the tradition of 'incense and medicine sharing the same origin,' and offers key points for identification and use.

Agarwood in Bencao Gangmu: Medicinal Properties and Clinical Applications

Li Shizhen's Bencao Gangmu (Compendium of Materia Medica) records agarwood in the wood section, describing it as 'acrid, slightly warm, non-toxic' and effective for 'wind-dampness and toxic swelling, dispelling foul qi, and stopping cholera and sudden turmoil.' The text not only documents its properties and meridians but also cites earlier works such as Mingyi Bielu and Rihua Zi Bencao, and includes formulas like Chenxiang Jiangqi Tang and Chenxiang Wan for treating rebellious qi, wheezing, and abdominal pain. Li Shizhen noted that agarwood 'can descend and also ascend,' a bidirectional regulation that resonates with later incense studies emphasizing its qi-regulating and orifice-opening effects. For a systematic overview of agarwood in medical literature, see the medicinal chapter in the Agarwood Encyclopedia.

Xiang Cheng: The Compendium of Incense Formulas, Practices, and Views on Incense-Medicine

Xiang Cheng (Incense Compendium) by Zhou Jiazhou of the Ming dynasty is a monumental work of ancient incense studies in 28 volumes, covering incense products, formulas, practices, and anomalies, with detailed records on agarwood. It lists origins, grades (such as 'horn agarwood,' 'yellow agarwood,' and 'wax agarwood'), and numerous blended incense formulas like Chenxiang Jiangzhen Xiang Tang and Chenxiang Yinzi, where agarwood is combined with jiangzhen and sandalwood for clothing scenting, medicine, and rituals. Zhou proposed that 'incense and medicine share the same origin,' arguing they are essentially the same substance used differently. This view deeply influenced later incense studies and gives agarwood dual value in the Chinese Incense Studies: Agarwood Identification system. For a detailed interpretation of agarwood classification in Xiang Cheng, refer to the discussion of 'wax agarwood' and 'kyara' in the Kyara Pillar Page.

Incense and Medicine Sharing the Same Origin: From Ancient Texts to Modern Identification and Use

Ancient records of incense-medicine provide important references for today's agarwood identification. For example, Bencao Gangmu describes agarwood as 'the heartwood node sinks in water,' which echoes the modern 'sinking' criterion for grading; Xiang Cheng emphasizes that 'sweet and pungent aroma is superior,' consistent with today's evaluation of kyara as 'numbing, spicy, and sweet aftertaste.' However, ancient records should be combined with modern scientific methods such as microscopic observation and chemical analysis, rather than relying solely on appearance or smell. The Identification Pillar Page details the integration of classical experience and modern techniques. Additionally, the use of incense-medicine requires attention to dosage and compatibility; for instance, Bencao Gangmu notes agarwood is often used in pills and powders and should not be decocted for long, which still guides the making of sachets and incense sticks today.

Key Takeaways

Bencao Gangmu and Xiang Cheng established agarwood's classic status from medical and incense perspectives, jointly building the framework of 'incense and medicine sharing the same origin.' Studying ancient texts helps understand agarwood's cultural context and provides a basis for modern identification, blending, and health practices. We recommend respecting classical experience while integrating modern standards for a holistic approach.

(This is industry observation and popular-science summary, not investment advice. Buy agarwood through legal channels with traceable, testable sources.)