Ageratum is a type of aphrodisiac that was regarded as one of the “five treasures” of emperors in ancient times. However, this powerful drug can drive users mad if taken in excess.
In the television series “Ruyi’s Royal Love in the Palace”, Empress Fu Shun, wanting to spy on the emperor’s intentions, intentionally arranged for her maid, Lian Tan, to marry the high-ranking eunuch Wang Qin, who was favored by Emperor Qianlong. Unexpectedly, this action led Lian Tan into a living hell, where each day felt like an eternity of suffering.
Painting of Emperor Qianlong.
Due to his physical deformity, Wang Qin’s personality became twisted and bizarre. When night fell, he would use a type of aphrodisiac (stimulant) known as Ageratum to enhance his desires. After taking the drug, Wang Qin turned primal, seeking every way to humiliate and torment Lian Tan. He not only beat and bit her but also used needles and other instruments to abuse her.
So, what exactly is Ageratum, what effects does it have, and why can it cause a person to lose their sanity? In fact, Ageratum is a stimulant, referred to as “Shen Xue Jiao” in the Han Dynasty, known as “Wu Shi San” during the Wei and Jin Dynasties, “Zhuo Qing Hua” in the Tang Dynasty, and “Zhan Sheng Qiao” in the Song and Ming Dynasties. In the ancient royal court, it was considered one of the “five treasures” of emperors.
Later, Ruyi discovered Wang Qin’s habit of using aphrodisiacs and devised a plan to make him overdose, causing him to lose his senses and mistakenly believe that the noble consort was Lian Tan, leading to disrespectful behavior. The noble consort, feeling wronged, complained to Qianlong, which ultimately led to the liberation of the unfortunate maid Lian Tan.
However, Ageratum is a potent drug, and taking too much can drive users insane. Additionally, it is noted that while healthy individuals may experience heightened pleasure, those who are weak and misuse it may suffer adverse effects, leading to debilitating conditions and permanent impotence.
During the Qing Dynasty, princes and nobles often used Ageratum to enhance their intimacy. Even the Second Prince Yin Ren of Emperor Kangxi fell from grace as Crown Prince due to excessive indulgence, having used too much Ageratum. As a result, it became despised and was classified as one of the prohibited drugs in the royal court.
However, according to historians, Ageratum originated from Tibet. Although it is a powerful drug, if controlled and used in moderation, it can counteract its own toxicity and even save a life. Particularly, aside from its use in intimacy, Ageratum is also believed to prolong life. Records indicate that one of its ingredients is the Tian Shan snow lotus, which, when consumed, can make one’s body strong enough to walk bare-chested in the snow.
Later in his old age, when he was no longer vigorous, Qianlong also greatly enjoyed using Ageratum. The emperor used it to strengthen his spleen and nourish his kidneys. Perhaps that is why Qianlong lived a healthy life, becoming the longest-reigning emperor in history, passing away at the age of 88.
