Wu Collection, Middle Volume Radical: Sickness (bìng) Term: Xi Kangxi strokes: 15 Page 777, Entry 35 Pronounced xi According to the Explanation of Characters (Shuowen), it is a parasitic growth of flesh. According to the Extensive Dictionary (Guangyun), it is an abnormal growth of flesh. In medical texts, it is stated that a wart in the nose is called a nasal polyp (xi rou), also known as a nasal fungus (xi jun). Since the nose is used for breathing (xi), the term is derived from the word for breath. According to the General Record of Sagely Benevolence (Shengji Zonglu), if a polyp grows in the throat, it should first be pierced to allow blood to flow out; then, apply a paste made of salt and fermented soybeans, which is effective.