The Apothecary Diaries anime episode 4: Maomao's Heroic Rescue

The fourth episode of The Apothecary Diaries anime was released on October 28, 2023. It delved into the consequences faced by Lady Lihua following the loss of her son, the crown prince, as shown in the first episode. This installment skillfully showcased Maomao's expertise in medicine while also emphasizing her dedication to the craft.

The Apothecary Diaries anime can currently be streamed on Crunchyroll and Netflix. As of now, it consists of four episodes. In the upcoming fifth episode, Maomao will attend the "Grand Banquet," unveiling scenes that were previously featured in the anime's trailers.

The Apothecary Diaries anime episode 4: Maomao notices Lady Lihua's odd makeup

In this image from TOHO Animations, we can see Lady Lihua in a sickly state as depicted in the anime.

Moving on to episode 4 of The Apothecary Diaries, we continue from where episode 3 left off. It is revealed that the emperor personally requested Maomao to attend to Lady Lihua, who is suffering from a deteriorating health condition. Throughout the episode, Maomao tries to care for Lady Lihua, but her efforts are hindered by the maids who prevent her from providing any form of treatment.

The castle authorities confiscated and disposed of the poisonous face powder, which was identified as the cause of the crown prince's death. As a first measure to cure Lady Lihua, Maomao modified her diet to include easily digestible foods.

In the beginning of the episode, Lady Lihua's maids stop Maomao from treating and examining her. However, Jinshi steps in and assists Maomao, using his influence to allow her to conduct an examination on Lady Lihua. While trying to feed her, Maomao notices something peculiar about her makeup.

Upon investigation, Maomao discovers that Lady Lihua's face was covered in the same toxic face powder that led to the death of her son. Maomao then confronts the maid responsible for applying this harmful makeup on Lady Lihua, admonishing her harshly. Despite the situation, Maomao proceeds with the treatment.

In the anime image provided by TOHO Animation, we witness Lady Lihua's appearance prior to the heart-wrenching loss of her son.

Following this tragic event, Maomao takes charge in implementing a diet abundant in fluids and ensures that Lady Lihua benefits from proper ventilation, all with the intention of purging her body of the poison inflicted upon her. In her determined pursuit, Maomao enlists Jinshi's assistance and goes as far as establishing a sauna, where Lady Lihua can sweat out the toxic substances.

The Apothecary Diaries anime episode 4 features a two-month time skip and focuses on the recovery of Lady Lihua. As the episode draws to a close, Lady Lihua turns to Maomao and inquires about her chances of prevailing against Lady Gyokuyou, despite disregarding her previous warnings and suffering the loss of her son.

Maomao and Lady Lihua, as depicted in the anime (Image via TOHO Animation)

Maomao provides her with words of encouragement, as well as imparting a few tips for satisfying the emperor. Afterward, Maomao reunites with Lady Gyokuyou, yet the emperor's visits to her suddenly decline in frequency, hinting at the direct influence of Maomao's encouragement towards Lady Lihua.

Final thoughts

Airing on October 28, 2023, episode 4 of The Apothecary Diaries anime delves into the aftermath of Lady Lihua's devastating loss of her son. The episode further highlights the obliviousness of the palace servants while emphasizing Maomao's unwavering dedication to medicine and treatment. Additionally, viewers are enlightened on Maomao's detoxification techniques employed to aid in the healing process of Lady Lihua.

The Apothecary Diaries anime episode 5, titled Covert Operations will be released on November 4, 2023, and will include the scenes that were used in the trailer for this anime.