Namazu Medicine

Furidashi Namazu-gusuri 振り出し鯰薬

Here a world-rectifying namazu sells a type of medicine called "furidashi." During the Tokugawa period, furidashi was powdered medicine to be dissolved in hot water and consumed like tea. But the word furidashi, then and now, also suggests renewal or making a fresh start. Strange as it might seem at first glance, earthquakes were an opportunity for renewal. More concretely, laborers of all kinds benefited economically from the post-quake reconstruction. Skilled crafts workers such as carpenters, plasterers, roof-tile makers, and so forth did especially well. And sure enough, the namazu-man carries doll-like images of these types of workers. The earthquake was a boon to such people, at least for those who survived the shaking and fires. In this sense, the earthquake was medicine for many members of society.

The text of this image explains in detail the efficacy of this medicine for restoring economic health. The medicine restores the flow and circulation of money that has been collecting and stagnating in storehouses. Furthermore, it restores warmth to the cold-hearted and cures poverty. It reduces laziness and the ill effects of luxurious living. Strong medicine indeed!

Notice the gourd painted on the medicine box. For more in its significance, click here.

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