Use of Caterpillar Fungus to Increase Sex Drive

In ancient China where for centuries this fungus was used exclusively by the Emperor because of its scarcity, it was given the nick-name “summer-plant, winter-worm” because it was long considered a vegetable during the summer, but an animal during the winter.  Used primarily for impotence, backache, and as an antidote for opium poisoning, caterpillar fungus was prepared by stuffing the stomach of a duck which was then roasted.  Considered similar to ginseng in potency in ancient Chinese herbals, caterpillar fungus is still quite popular in China today, and gaining a following in the US for its recognized ability to increase sex drive.  Read more . . .

Confucianism and Taoism: The Yin and Yang of Chinese Religion

Chinese religion has a long and complex spiritual tradition, with references to a great spiritual being referred to as “Lord-on-High,” dating back at least 2500 years.  Complimenting this ethereal personified concept is the ancient idea of ch’i, an impersonal life-force encompassing two opposing but equal aspects, yin and yang.  From these concepts two distinct religious traditions rose from China at approximately the same time--the sixth century BCE--which today are considered two halves of the same philosophical whole: Confucianism and Taoism.  From the Eastern mindset, these two spiritual traditions represent the yin and yang of the totality of Chinese religion.  Read more . . .