I know some people on this list are interested in the concept of
hidden or deep-lying evils in relationship to chronic infectious( read
viral) diseases. So, in issue #9, 2005 of Zhong Yi Yan Jiu (Chinese
Medical Research), the lead article is titled exactly that: "On the
Treatment of Chronic Infectious Diseases Based on the Theory of Hidden
Evils." However, before anyone gets too excited, there isn't a whole
lot new here. The author (born in 1972) goes over the origins of the
theory in the Nei Jing, Shang Han Lun, Nan Jing, and Wen Re Jing Shu.
Nothing new there. He then talks about the importance of strengthening
the body's righteous qi, meaning, practically speaking, the spleen and
kidneys. The last section of the article, however, is on dispelling
evils from the mo yuan or membrane source. In this case, he says it is
prohibited to either sweat or precipitate. Instead, one should
out-thrust the heat of damp warmth, open damp warm depression, and
effuse damp warmth from the exterior, and, to do exactly this, he
recommends three medicinals originally recommended by Wu You-ke: Bing
Lang, Hou Po, and Cao Guo. These three ingredients are found in Master
Wu's Da Yuan Yin (Reach/Extend the Membrane Beverage), Wiseman and
Feng's Open the Source Membrane Beverage) typically indicated for half
inside-half outside condition. Viz. Bensky & Barolet, p. 142-143. The
author quotes Master Wu's explanation of his formula. In this
explanation, Master Wu  says that Bing Lang and Cao Guo "eliminate
hidden evils." In the author's conclusion, he suggests that, in
attempting to treat chronic infectious diseases, one should try using
meds which supplement and boost the spleen, kidneys, essence, and qi
on top of which one can add the above three meds.