The old man of Mount Qingcheng
Has a secret method of taking pepper.
Over ninety years of age,
His looks defy the marks of great old age.
I bowed twice and asked him,
He gladly told me his way.
Two jin of Sichuan pepper, clean,
Six liang of purified salt.
Sprinkle salt and simmer over slow fire,
Boil thoroughly, then add chrysanthemum powder.
Start with fifteen pills,
Morning and evening, do not stop.
Increase gradually each month,
Until you reach two hundred.
With salted wine or salted broth,
Take as you please.
After half a year of taking,
You may feel slight chest congestion.
Reduce ten pills each day,
Back to fifteen grains.
Wait until there is no hindrance,
Then resume the former count.
Always let the qi steam and permeate,
Or else the previous effort is lost.
Diet, vegetables, fruits, and such,
Have no particular restrictions.
In one year, effects appear,
Complexion suddenly becomes radiant.
Eyes bright and ears sharp,
Beard dark and hair black.
Tonifies kidneys, lightens waist,
Secures qi, benefits essence and blood.
Pepper is warm, salt is also warm,
Chrysanthemum's nature dispels vexing heat.
Only after forty may one take it,
Take it, please do not neglect.
Persist for decades,
Its merit rivals that of Creation.
Resists aging, prolongs life,
Who knows how many years?
If desires and cravings can be forgotten,
The effect is especially outstanding.
I wish for the world's well-being,
Thus I write this song with earnest care.