Shen Collection, Middle Volume Radical: Insect (chóng) Kangxi Strokes: 10 Page 1078, Entry 19 Pronounced gong. Jade Chapters (Yupian): A centipede. Supplementary Records of the Materia Medica (Bencao Bielu): Centipedes are found in the valleys of Dawu and Jiangnan. Those with red heads and feet are superior. Zong Shi says: The centipede is photophobic, has a black-green back, red feet, and a yellow belly. Those who are stung may apply black chicken excrement or garlic to the area for immediate relief. Shizhen says: Centipedes are found everywhere in the southwest; they emerge in spring and hibernate in winter. They have feet on every segment, two antennae, and forked tails. They fear spiders, which may shoot urine at them, causing their bodies to decay and break apart. Also, the name of a plant. Ground centipede (Diwugong) grows in fields and on embankments; it has long spikes, and its roots and leaves are used in medicine to treat all types of carbuncles and swellings. Pronounced song. Used in the term gongxu. See the notes under the entry for the character shu. Pronounced song. Meaning same as above. Pronounced zhong. Also the name of an insect.