子 Dongassi (동아씨)

Original, read line by line 東醫寶鑑 · Tangaek — Decoctions vol. 2

1. 卽冬瓜子也.

   This is the seed of the donggwa (冬瓜, wax gourd).

   HomiclubDonga seed is the seed of the wax gourd, a large fruit borne on a trailing cucurbit vine. A white bloom settles on its rind, which is why it is called baekdonggwa (白冬瓜, white winter gourd), and its flat pale seeds sit embedded in the spongy core.

2. 性平寒, 味甘, 無毒.

   Its nature is neutral and cold, its taste is sweet, and it is non-toxic.

3. 潤肌膚, 好顔色, 剝黑䵟, 可作面脂.

   It moistens the skin, improves the complexion, strips away dark blotches, and can be made into myeonji (面脂, a facial ointment).

4. 經霜後八月採, 破核取仁, 微炒用之. 《入門》

   Gather it in the eighth month after frost has fallen, crack the hard shell to take the kernel, and roast it lightly for use. 《Ipmun (入門)》

   HomiclubThe eighth month after frost falls is a lunar date, corresponding to around September today. Wax gourds gathered then keep through the winter if stored in a cool place.