 |
Chinese
Herbs
A
Digital Materia Medica Compilation by Dr. Peter Borten, DAOM, LAc
|
Preface
My
first degree was in botany, and it taught me, among other things, to
respect plant identification and taxonomy.
Taxonomists frequently change names and confuse people, but the Latin
binomials they've given our herbs are the most
accurate way to identify them. Only by using the full botanical or
zoological names of our medicines (plus part used)
can we be sure we are all on the same page. (E.g., Paeonia
suffruticosa root cortex - Mu
dan pi) The "pharmaceutical
names," (e.g., Cortex Radicis Moutan), which have
unfortunately persisted throughout our field, are outdated and
uselessly altered forms of the proper botanical and zoological names.
In communicating about our medicines to other
medical professionals, we will always need to utilize the proper
botanical and zoological binomials and parts, so it's
time we retired the pharmaceutical names. I wish I'd had the foresight
to include all the proper Latin binomials when I first created the
structure for this document in 1998. Because I didn't, these names are
missing from most herbs as of this writing (January 2012) except in
cases where the species is vital for distinguishing one common herb
from another in the same genus (e.g., Bai Zhi vs Du Huo vs Dang Gui,
all of the Angelica genus). I hope to add the scientific names for the
rest of the substances in this materia medica in the near future.
Ideally,
as practitioners who value the potency, validity, and effectiveness of
our medicines, we should also know:
-
Where
it was grown
-
When
it was harvested
-
How
it was processed
-
How
it was stored
It
is
easy to be unaware of how many years the herbs in our pharmacy spent in
a Chinese warehouse before we got
them; of what other destructive elements they've been exposed
to (heat, light, moisture, mold, biologically or
chemically tainted water, etc.); of what agri-chemicals they were
sprayed with; of what methods of processing (dui yao)
were performed on them; of where they were grown; and of whether
they're even the genus (much less the species) we
believe them to be. If we expect our field to be taken seriously, we
need to remedy these glaring issues.
You must forgive me for having left out much useful
information that appears in printed materia medica, such as the
historical background, the criteria for identifying good quality,
contraindications, and the doses for individual herbs in formulas. The
omission of most of this information is due to the fact that I
initially created this document with my own needs in mind, and wasn't
thinking about what other readers might want. Traditional
contraindications for individual herbs are an interesting thing. Texts
on Chinese herbal medicine tend to say that most drying herbs are
contraindicated in cases of Yin deficiency; most warming herbs are
contraindicated in cases of heat; most moistening herbs are
contraindicated in cases of dampness, phlegm, and sometimes Spleen Qi
deficiency; most strongly clearing herbs are contraindicated in cases
of significant deficiency, etc. Anyone who understands Chinese medical
theory should know these things (in a general way, at least). And
anyone who has been trained in traditional Chinese medicine prescribes
herbs in formulas whereby such contraindications become almost
meaningless. These contraindications are stated as if the herb would be
given alone. But a brief examination of classical herbal formulas and
their indications reveals that most of them contain herbs that, if
given individually, would be unsuitable for the condition the formula
as a whole addresses. This is all an attempt to explain why I didn't
feel the need to type out all the contraindications and cautions for
the hundreds of herbs in this document. Perhaps I will someday do this;
until then, you're on your own to use these herbs wisely. In my
opinion, if you don't have formal training in Chinese herbal medicine,
you have no business recommending or prescribing these herbs for
anyone, yourself included. Besides, as the saying goes, the physician
who treats himself has a fool for a patient.
If I could get on a soap box for a moment... there is much
that could be said about the imperfect state of affairs in the field of
Chinese Herbal Medicine in the United States. The FDA is impeding our
ability to use certain herbs which can be utilized safely and to great
benefit. Quality control is abysmal, mostly because Chinese growers and
exporters are not yet at a place where proper soil analysis, herb
analysis, and record keeping is a priority. Most Americans
probably don't even know of this field's existence, much less that it's
held in greater esteem in China than acupucture, which meanwhile gets
all the press here.
Anyway, it makes sense to focus on what can most readily be
improved. And, as I see it, one of the most significant impediments to
the longevity and development of the field of Chinese Herbal Medicine
in the United States is that we fail to take what we do as seriously as
medical doctors do, or to hold ourselves to the same standards
as those that the biomedical community (generally) abides by.
We get combative about scientific standards because we claim science
doesn't understand us, or that it's trying to take the spirit
out of what we do, or that our medicine can't be measured or
proven by their studies. We run schools in which it's nearly impossible
to fail, even if a student truly doesn't have what it takes to
responsibly guide others' health choices. Schools with a good
percentage of students
who couldn't last a semester in a biomedical program. Do we really want
to be the medical field that's known for being much easier to get a
degree in than the other major medical fields? Or a good
career for someone who feels relieved by the thought that they won't be
a "real" doctor? In Lawrence
Kohlberg's terms, we need to stop thinking of ourselves as a
culture that has transcended
the conventions of the mainstream, when many of us have simply rejected the
mainstream because of our own issues with authority or a blanket
refusal to conform. Only by first learning how to play by the
mainstream's rules, by truly adopting convention, can we actually,
wisely transcend these conventions.
A most glaring example of the fact that we don't take
ourselves seriously enough is that we have fought to get Chinese Herbal
Medicine included in the scope of practice of acupuncturists in most
states, even though most states require no demonstration of competency
in the use of herbs. With few exceptions (thank you,
California) acupuncturists get to practice Chinese Herbal Medicine - a
medical system with a significantly higher risk of harming someone -
whether or not they have received any formal training in it. If we want
the FDA to stop taking away our herbs, we need to show that we
recognize the risks associated with the practice of Chinese Herbal
Medicine and
we take them seriously. We need to prove that we know these
things better than they do, and that we're determined to
ensure the utmost safety for our patients. And we can demonstrate this
by voluntarily withdrawing the right the prescribe herbs from anyone in
our field who can't prove their proficiency in using them safely. Who
among us would object to this, if you care about the future legitimacy
of our field and the safety of your own patients? Who would be so
arrogant as to insist on the right to prescribe medicines you cannot
demonstrate your competence in? A simple course would be to go the way
of Canada, where one can have a license to practice acupuncture
only, a license for herbal medicine only, or a license to
practice the full scope of TCM.
In my opinion, Chinese Herbal Medicine is the most
sophisticated, safe, holistic, and effective form of internal medicine
on Earth. It deserves the
reverence and respect of holding ourselves to higher standards.
~ OUR NATURAL ALLIES ~
Acrid,
Cool Herbs That Release The Exterior
|
•
For wind-heat, herbs from this category are often combined with herbs
to clear heat-toxicity, since toxicity
commonly results when heat is extreme.
•
"Liang E Bing Fu":
Too many acrid, cool herbs will simply suppress wind-heat. They freeze
the surface and wind-heat cannot leave the body. Add one or two acrid,
warm herbs to formulas for wind-heat (i.e. 80% cool herbs, 20%
warm herbs).
•
Use caution when there is profuse sweating or injury of body fluids,
and with patients with carbuncles, boils, urinary
tract infection, or a history of heavy bleeding.
•
Since the dispersing effect of some of the more aromatic herbs in this
category is dependent on their volatile oils,
they are often decocted only for a short time, or they are just infused
(not exposed to a heat source, simply allowed to
steep in water that has been brought to a boil).
|
For
Various Wind-Heat Patterns, Also Consider, When Appropriate:
Bai
ji li, Bai xian pi, Chuan xiong, Dan zhu ye, Gou teng, Gua lou pi, Guan
zhong, Jiang can, Jie geng, Jin yin hua,
Jue ming zi, Lian qiao, Lu gen, Ma bo, Mao dong qing, Pi pa ye, Qian
hu, Qing xiang zi, Xuan shen, Zhe bei mu,
etc. |
Bo He
Mentha
Chinese
Field
Mint
|
acrid
cool
|
Lv
Lu
|
Disperses
wind-heat; eases the head, eyes and throat; expresses skin eruptions;
promotes Qi circulation on the surface and frees liver Qi.
•
Wind-heat: headache, fever, slight aversion to cold, sore throat, red
eyes, cough,
nasal congestion.
•
Liver Qi stagnation: distention, pain or pressure in the chest, costal
region, or
hypochondrium, emotional instability, gynecological problems.
•
Wind-heat: slow skin eruption in early-stage measles, or other
early-stage
rashes.
•
Add to a decoction in the last five minutes of cooking.
HF:
A San Du,
scattering toxin medicinal, typically found in Gu
Zheng (Gu
parasites) formulas.
Li
Dong Yuan:
Upbears Yang Qi.
Li:
Can be warming in a large dose.
Yoga: Phudina:
P, K-; V+ (in excess)
•
Sattvic
herb, very ethereal: soothing, cooling, clarifying, expanding.
•
Relieves tension, congestion; mild; harmonizer.
•
Pungent/cooling (slightly)/pungent.
•
Affects respiratory, nervous, digestive, and circulatory systems.
•
Stimulant, diaphoretic, carminative, nervine, analgesic.
•
Same indications as TCM plus earache, dysmenorrhea.
MLT:
Similar to Lemon Balm and Spearmint (these herbs can be substituted).
•
Do not boil. Infuse in the boiled water only after the rest of the
decoction is
prepared.
1.5-6g
JC:
Spearmint:
•
Diaphoretic (gentle), diuretic (lithotriptic), stimulant, carminative,
antispasmodic, aromatic, nervine (sedative), condiment, nephritic,
anti-emetic.
•
Beneficial to the kidneys and bladder as a diuretic, especially for
suppressed,
painful, or scalding urination, and bladder/kidney inflammation.
•
Soothing and quieting to the nerves and stomach.
•
Colic, flatulence, dyspepsia, spasms, dropsy, nausea, vomiting, gravel
in
bladder, hemorrhoids (shallow enema).
•
Vomiting and nausea of pregnancy: 14g spearmint, 2 teaspoons cloves, 2
teaspoons cinnamon, 2 teaspoons rhubarb. Infuse in 1 pint boiled water,
cover 20
minutes, strain, take 3-4 tablespoons every 30 minutes.
•
Ginger intensifies and accelerates its action.
PLB:
Peppermint (the most pungent mint) is, overall, stronger/sharper than
Spearmint, and is probably less similar to Bo
he.
BII:
For irritable bowel syndrome, GB disease (studies used enteric coated
capsules of peppermint oil).
•
Not for heartburn or esophageal reflux as it relaxes the esophageal
(cardiac)
sphincter (use licorice/DGL instead). |
Chai Hu
Bupleurum
root
"Kindling
of the
Barbarians" |
bitter
acrid
sl
cold |
Lv
GB
PC
SJ
|
Frees
the liver Qi; disperses pathological factors in the half-interior,
half-exterior;
lifts spleen Yang Qi; reduces fever; can both lift and descend (acrid
and bitter).
•
Shaoyang
syndrome: alternating fever and chills, distended chest and
hypochondrium, bitter taste in the mouth, flank pain, irritability,
vomiting, dry
throat, dizziness.
•
Liver Qi stagnation: distended hypochondrium, costal pain, headache,
irregular
menses, dysmenorrhea, dizziness, vertigo, stifling sensation in the
chest, flank
pain, emotional instability.
•
Spleen Qi sinking: prolapsed rectum or uterus, diarrhea, hemorrhoids,
shortness
of breath.
•
Spleen/liver disharmony: epigastric and flank pain, stifling sensation
in the
chest, abdominal bloating, nausea, indigestion, bloating.
•
Some say Chai hu
damages the Yin, since it is bitter and drying (often
combined with Bai shao
to counteract its drying nature).
•
Contraindicated in liver Yang rising due to liver/kidney Yin deficiency.
•
Antipyretic; some antibiotic/bacteriostatic effects; tranquilizer;
anti-tussive.
•
Used to treat malarial disorders.
•
Occasionally can cause nausea or vomiting (should use a small dose in
this
case).
•
Chinensis
species (hard, Northern) (Bei/Ying
chai hu): better for harmonizing
the Shaoyang and clearing heat and wind-heat.
•
Scorzoneraefolium
species (soft, Southern) (Nan/Ruan
chai hu): better for
spreading liver Qi, resolving depression, and relieving constraint.
Jin:
Safe in pregnancy in moderate dose (to 4.5g).
MLT:
Some patients are sensitive to Chai
hu. Some believe it "consumes the
Yin." Despite its recommendation in the Shan
Han Lun, many doctors avoid this
herb.
•
With blood deficiency, always combine it with Dang
gui and/or
Gou qi zi.
PFGC:
Can purge heat in the uterus; can resolve blood heat; disperses
exuberant
gallbladder fire.
•
Should be used to ascend Shaoyang
pathogens to push them over and beyond
the diaphragm, forcing them up and out.
•
In large doses, it is diaphoretic, but this results in out-of-hand
momentum and
weakening of its uplifting force.
•
Can facilitate smooth bowel movements and can foster proper urination -
because uninhibited urination is linked to proper function of the san
jiao - Qi
dynamics of the san jiao are such that Qi descends only if it is
allowed to rise
first.
•
Use in pre- and post-partum disorders, eruption of macules in children,
consumptive fevers, carbuncles, furuncles, all malaria.
•
Food accumulation: can move wood Qi to course earth.
•
Alternating hot and cold are not a necessary symptom to prescribe Chai
hu - it
is enough to know the patient has an exterior affliction with nausea or
vomiting
or frequently spitting sticky saliva - this is sufficient evidence that
the disease is
in the Shaoyang.
HF:
An important herb in anti-Gu
therapy to move Qi (Xing Qi)
and break
accumulation (Po Ji).
DY:
Drains the liver and resolves depression; harmonizes the Shaoyang;
harmonizes the liver and spleen; abates heat; upbears clear Yang; frees
the flow
of Qi on the left side of the body.
•
With Bai shao
to drain the liver without damaging liver Yin, nourish the liver
without causing liver depression Qi stagnation, regulate the spleen,
stop pain
effectively, harmonize the interior and exterior, and constrain Yin
while
upbearing Yang. For such indications as:
-
1.
Liver depression Qi stagnation causing disharmony between Qi and blood.
-
2.
Vertigo, unclear vision, chest and lateral costal oppression, pain, and
distention due to liver depression Qi stagnation or to disharmony
between the
exterior and interior.
-
3.
Menstrual irregularities, dysmenorrhea, breast distention, low-grade
fever
during the menses, premenstrual syndrome, and fibrocystic breasts, all
caused by
liver depression Qi stagnation or disharmony between the liver and
spleen.
•
The combination of Bai shao
and Chai hu
is effective for the treatment of liver
and digestive problems caused by liver depression Qi stagnation or
liver-spleen
or liver-stomach disharmony, such as subacute or chronic hepatitis,
hepatomegaly, cholecystitis, gallstones, enteritis, and colitis.
•
With Huang qin
to harmonize the interior with the exterior, the Shaoyang,
and
liver and gallbladder. Together, they also clear the liver and resolve
depression
as well as clear and eliminate dampness and heat, particularly in the
liver and
gallbladder. Chai hu
dispels evils (heat) limited to the superficial part of the Shaoyang
while Huang qin
drains evil heat limited to the internal part of the Shaoyang.
For indications such as:
-
1.
Alternating fever and chills, a bitter taste in the mouth, dry throat,
pain and
fullness in the chest and lateral costal regions, nausea, and lack of
appetite due to
a Shaoyang pattern. (Xiao Chai
Hu Tang)
-
2.
Malaria due to a Shaoyang
pattern.
-
3.
Liver depression transforming into fire.
-
This
combination is remarkably effective for hepato-biliary disorders, such
as
acute or chronic hepatitis, biliary lithiasis, cholecystitis, and
hepatomegaly due to
liver-gallbladder heat.
•
With Sheng ma
for mutual reinforcement, to upbear liver, stomach, and spleen
Yang Qi. These two herbs alone don't raise the Qi
efficiently. They must be
combined with Ren shen, Huang qi,
and Bai zhu
to be really effective for this
purpose, because one cannot raise what is lacking. Huang
qi does appear to
upbear the Qi, but not for long. When Chai
hu, Sheng ma, and Huang
qi are
combined, they raise the Qi effectively, and for long periods of time.
For
indications such as:
-
1.
Uterine prolapse, rectal prolapse, gastric ptosis due to central Qi
fall. (Bu
Zong Yi Qi Tang)
-
2.
Metrorrhagia and abnormal vaginal discharge due to central Qi fall.
-
3.
Chronic diarrhea or chronic dysentery due to central Qi fall. (Bu
Zhong Yi Qi
Tang)
-
4.
Shortness of breath and dyspnea with feeling of oppression and downward
falling of Lungs due to Qi fall. (Sheng
Xian Tang)
-
For
all the above indications, Sheng
ma should be honey mix-fried and Chai hu
should be stir-fried until scorched.
-
In
all the above cases, a small dosage of the two herbs is sufficient
(i.e. 3-5g). However, a larger dose of Sheng
ma (9-15g) can be used if one
wants to
simultaneously clear Yin fire due to spleen deficiency from the head
and face.
•
Chai hu is
a messenger herb which guides the action of other medicinal
substances toward the liver and gallbladder channels, toward the upper
part of the
body (head and face), along the liver channel pathway (internally) and
the
gallbladder channel pathway (externally), and toward the lateral costal
region.
•
Chai hu
in high dosage (10-18g) resolves the exterior, abates heat, and
harmonizes the Shaoyang.
In small dosage (2-4g), it upbears Yang Qi. In an
average dosage (6-8g), it courses the liver, rectifies the Qi, and
resolves
depression.
•
When pain is predominant, vinegar mix-fried Chai
hu is best.
•
In cases of liver-spleen disharmony, stir-fried Chai
hu should be used.
3-12g
|
Chan Tui
Cicada
molt |
sweet
cold
|
Lu
Lv
|
Disperses
wind-heat; expresses skin eruptions; promotes vision by removing
nebulas; relieves convulsions by subduing liver wind (large dose);
strongly clears
heat from the nose, eyes, and throat.
•
Wind-heat: loss of voice, sore throat, cough, hoarseness, or fever,
headache.
•
Wind-heat or early measles: incomplete expression of skin rash.
•
Liver wind-heat: red eyes, tears, nebulas, conjunctivitis, painful
eyes, blurry
vision.
•
Liver wind-heat: childhood febrile disease, morbid night crying in
babies,
spasms, convulsions, delirium, night terrors; tetanus.
•
Doctrine of signatures: skin treats skin; big eyes indicate affinity
for eyes/liver;
cicadas are silent at night - for calming children at night.
Hsu:
Anticonvulsant; decreases muscle tremors caused by nicotine.
DY:
Disinhibits the throat; diffuses the portals of the Lungs and increases
the
voice.
•
One of few herbs in the materia medica which calms the liver and
settles
convulsions and is also non-toxic, even at high doses of up to 30g/day
(unlike
scorpion and centipede). For this reason, it is good for children.
•
Vexation, agitation, insomnia, night crying, night fears, nightmares,
clonic
convulsions, epilepsy.
•
With Shi chang pu
to effectively rouse the spirit and open the portals. For
vertigo, tinnitus, and deafness due to obstruction of the portals.
3-12g
|
Dan Dou
Chi
Prepared
Soybean
Dou Juan
Soybean
sprout |
acrid
sweet
sl
bitter
cold
|
Lu
St
|
Relieves
exterior syndromes; relieves restlessness; clears heat.
•
Wind-heat or wind-cold: fever, aversion to cold, headache (can be used
for
either hot or cold invasion, usually for early stage).
•
Febrile disease causing stagnant heat in the chest: restlessness,
insomnia,
irritability, stifling sensation in the chest (Dan
dou chi also reaches the heart)
-
combine with Zhi zi.
•
Because of its mild character, is also appropriate for Yin deficiency
with a
superimposed exterior disorder.
•
Is treated either with Ma huang
or Zi su ye
(more warming effect) or Sang ye
or Qing hao
(more cooling effect).
MLT:
Good for kids (ok taste, nutritive).
•
This and all soybeans contain genistein - estrogen precursor and tumor
inhibitor.
DY:
Promotes perspiration; diffuses and out-thrusts external evils from the
exterior.
•
With Zhi zi,
the two herbs unite to form the clearing and diffusing and
out-thrusting method to eliminate evils from the exterior and interior.
Together, they
effectively promote perspiration, drain evils from the exterior, clear
and out-thrust heat from the interior, and eliminate vexation due to
full heat. For
indications such as:
-
1.
Vexation and agitation, insomnia, and irritability during or after a
warm
disease. (Zhi Zi Chi Tang)
Use stir-fried Dan dou chi.
-
2.
External contraction of wind-heat or a febrile disease.
•
Qing dou chi
is cold, and clears heat and eliminates vexation
•
Wen dou chi
is warm and is superior for resolving the exterior and promoting
diaphoresis. Although it is warm in nature, it is used in and preferred
for wind-heat affections.
(Da)
Dou Juan: Soybean sprout
•
Sweet, acrid.
•
Clears heat; drains dampness; clears summer-heat.
•
Early stages of summer-heat or warm-febrile diseases, especially those
with
joint pain, sensation of heaviness, minimal swelling, and a greasy
tongue coating
due to the presence of dampness.
•
Bensky/Gamble classifies with herbs that clear summer-heat.
MLT:
Sprouted form is used for rheumatic conditions, edema, swelling of the
whole body and knees.
9-15g
|
Fu Ping
Duckweed
Spirodela
|
acrid
cold
|
BL
Lu
|
Releases
the exterior; unblocks the muscle level; vents rashes; dispels water,
reduces swelling.
•
Exterior heat: head and body aches.
•
Hastens full expression of measles and other exanthemas and wind rashes
and
thereby hastens resolution of the disease.
•
Hot, superficial edema, especially when affecting the upper body and
when
accompanied by urinary difficulty.
•
One of few cool herbs that is a strong diaphoretic.
•
Doctrine of signatures: The herb is very light, grows on the surface of
water. This indicates its affinity for the surface/skin and its ability
to release superficial
water (edema, sweat).
•
Topical: also used as a wash for rashes.
•
Often used alone.
MLT:
Diuretic, diaphoretic.
3-6g
(to 9g in severe cases) |
Ge Gen
Pueraria
root
Kudzu
|
sweet
acrid
cool
|
Sp
St
|
Relaxes
muscles by promoting sweats and expelling EPIs; lifts spleen Qi and
Yang; clears heat; generates body fluids; supports detoxification and
withdrawal
from alcohol.
•
Wind-heat or wind-cold (lodges in the muscles): stiff neck, occiput, or
upper
back, fever, headache, no sweating.
•
Early-stage measles: slow eruption of skin, fever, aversion to cold.
•
Spleen Qi deficiency or damp-heat: diarrhea (when due to deficiency,
combine
with tonics).
•
Injury of body fluids by heat in febrile disease: restlessness and
thirst.
•
Stomach heat: thirst.
•
Lowers BP, treats headache, dizziness, tinnitus, paresthesias due to
HTN.
•
Also for sudden deafness, ear infections.
•
Eases alcohol withdrawal and hangover.
•
Lowers blood sugar/treats diabetes.
•
Guohui Liu: special for tendinitis.
•
General analgesic for a variety of pains.
•
To lift spleen Qi, roast with wheat bran until the Ge
gen turns yellow. This
form is less cooling and is superior for diarrhea due to deficiency.
Yoga:
Sweet/cooling/sweet; P, V-; K+
•
Tonic, diaphoretic, diuretic.
MLT:
Demulcent and soothing to the stomach and intestines.
•
Has an upward, antispasmodic property.
Hsu:
Anticonvulsant, follicular hormone effect, dilates coronary arteries,
improves cerebral blood flow in hypertensive patients.
DY:
Resolves the muscle aspect; eliminates heat; engenders fluids and stops
thirst; tends to reach evils horizontally and, therefore, out-thrusts
rashes on the
back and the middle part of the body.
•
Marked vasodilatory effect, used for hypertension,
hypercholesterolemia,
coronary disease, angina pectoris, headaches and painful tension in the
cervical
area due to hypertension.
•
With Sheng ma
to resolve the exterior and muscle aspect, clear heat, resolve
toxins, and out-thrust rashes over the whole body. For indications such
as:
-
1.
Skin rashes which have difficulty surfacing, accompanied by headache
and
fever due to an exterior pattern. (Sheng
Ma Ge Gen Tang)
-
2.
Measles in the initial stage with eruptions which have difficulty
surfacing,
and fever sometimes accompanied by lack of perspiration or perspiration
which
has difficulty coming out due to an exterior pattern. (Xuan
Fu Jie Bao Tang)
•
While Sheng ma is
used for all forms of Qi sinking, Ge
gen is only used for
diarrhea. It treats diarrhea of either the deficient type (i.e. spleen
deficiency) or
excess type (i.e. damp-heat). For this, roasted Ge
gen should be used.
6-12g
|
Ju Hua
Chrysanthemum
flower
|
acrid
sweet
bitter
sl
cold |
Lv
Lu
|
Moves
liver Qi, subdues liver Yang rising, clears liver heat; disperses wind
and
clears heat from the liver and Lungs; eliminates toxicity; promotes
vision; can
protect the Lungs; nourishes water of the kidneys; said to promote
longevity.
•
Wind-heat: fever, dizziness, headache.
•
Liver wind-heat or flaring of liver fire: red, swollen, painful eyes.
•
Liver Yang rising leading to stirring of liver wind: headache,
dizziness,
deafness,
hypertension.
•
Liver and kidney Yin deficiency: seeing spots in front of the eyes,
blurry vision,
dizziness.
•
Cook a short time (retain the acridness) to disperse wind-heat, cook
longer (boil
off the acridness, retain the bitterness) to subdue liver Yang.
•
This herb is said to have the energy of autumn - it can protect the
Lungs.
•
Stronger than Sang ye
at clearing liver fire, but weaker at dispersing wind-heat.
•
Compared to Mu zei,
with regard to the vision: Ju
hua nourishes the eyes, but
does not remove superficial visual obstruction (as Mu
zei does).
•
Bai ju hua:
white variety: stronger than the yellow variety at subduing liver
Yang, freeing/nourishing the liver and clearing the eyes; often used
for poor
vision due to liver/kidney Yin deficiency; better for hypertension.
•
Huang ju hua:
yellow variety: stronger than the white variety at clearing heat
and dispersing wind-heat.
HF:
A San Du,
scattering toxin medicinal, typically found in Gu
Zheng (Gu
parasites) formulas.
SD:
May help antidote lead poisoning.
Yoga: Sevanti
- "Service," gives the energy of devotion,
surrender, and service to
the Divine.
•
Bitter, sweet/cooling/pungent; P, K-; V+ (in excess).
•
Affects digestive, respiratory, nervous systems.
•
Diaphoretic, antipyretic, alterative, antispasmodic.
•
For headache, sore throat, nose bleeds, eye infections, boils,
dysmenorrhea,
liver diseases.
•
Cools and regulates the Pitta
that governs vision.
•
Calms Pitta
emotions: anger, irritability.
•
Promotes lactation and menstruation.
•
Caution with high Vata.
•
Aids in the surrender of the egoistic will (a function of deranged Pitta)
to the
Divine.
MLT:
Drink cool in the summer to protect Yin and blood.
•
Good for digestive upset, hypertension, headache, summer-heat.
DY:
Light and upbearing in nature.
•
With Gou qi zi
to effectively nourish and supplement the liver and kidneys,
clear heat, calm the liver, and brighten the eyes. For indications such
as blurred
vision, diminished visual acuity, "moving black spots in
front of the eyes," fire
sparks in the eyes, photophobia, dry eyes with distention and headache,
and pain
in the lower back and knees due to liver-kidney deficiency. For these
indications,
the combination is present in Qi
Ju Di Huang Wan. Bai
ju hua should be used. Ju
hua carries the action of Gou
qi zi toward the eyes.
•
For eye problems, hypertension, or headaches with a feeling of
distention, use
20-30g of Ju hua
daily.
•
(Bai) Ju hua yields
very good results in hypertensive disorders, especially when
accompanied by vertigo and headaches mainly due to liver Yang rising.
It is
often combined with Shan zha
(15-20g), is cases of hypercholesterolemia.
Hsu:
Hypotensive: suppresses the motor center controlling blood vessels and
is
vasodilatory.
4.5-15g
|
Man
Jing Zi
Vitex
fruit
Chaste
berry
Vitex
agnus-castus
|
acrid
bitter
neutral
|
BL
Lv
St
|
Disperses
wind-heat; eases eyes and headaches; drains dampness; expels wind;
traditionally said to promote beard growth in men.
•
Wind-heat: dizziness, headaches, migraines.
•
Upper attack of wind-heat: blurry vision, red, painful, swollen eyes,
lots of
tears, spots in front of the eyes.
•
Wind-dampness in the limbs/joints: stiffness, numbness, cramping,
heaviness.
Jin:
Particularly good for the pain of wind-damp Bi.
Li:
Good for Shaoyang
headaches behind the eyes.
HL:
From Li Shi Zhen's Ben
Cao Gang Mu [provided by John
Black]:
Main
Uses: Treatment of heat and cold between tendons and bones, damp Bi
type
cramps, brightens the eyes, and strengthens the teeth. Regulates the
nine orifices
and expels "bai chong" (the Chinese character indicates some kind of
worm, bug,
parasite, etc.). Prolonged use of this herb can prevent aging. Can
treat headache
caused by wind, ringing in the head, lacrimation; benefits the Qi. It
can enliven
and brighten the spirit, and has been said to be able to expel
pathogenic Qi and
help the hair to grow. It has also been said to be able to free up the
joints, treat
epilepsy, red eyes, and Taiyang type headache. It can treat heaviness
in the head
(and implies some state bordering on unconsciousness), disperse
pathogenic
wind, cool menstrual blood, treat aching eyes, soothe liver wind, treat
headache
caused by wind, darken head hair and treats mastitis in the early
stages. Through
its effect on enhancing beard growth and the hormonal effects
attributed to its
Western cousin, I believe this herb is a tonic to the Chong Mai.
A
final
note though. It is contraindicated for those with deficient stomach Qi.
The effect of Man Jing Zi
in my experience is similar to He
Shou Wu in that it
can cause bloating, loose stools, sometimes explosive bowels with those
people
with a digestive insufficiency. Bai
Zhu seems to counteract this
well.
6-12g
On
the Western species: Vitex agnus-castus - Chaste berry:
It
has
not been clearly established as to whether the Chinese species shares
all
properties of the Western species.
NAH:
For menstrual and menopausal disorders; probably an anaphrodisiac -
lowers sex drive.
•
Increases production of luteinizing hormone and prolactin; stimulates
the flow
of milk.
•
Regulates menses when they are too frequent or too heavy.
•
Seems to stimulate progesterone synthesis and regulate estrogen: for
PMS and
menopause.
•
For fibroids and inflammation of the womb lining.
•
Re-establishes normal ovulation and menses after discontinuance of the
pill.
K&R:
Sympatholytic, antispasmodic, estrogen antagonist, FSH inhibitor,
luteotropic, galactagogue.
•
Sweet-cooling; fire yang, wood yang.
•
Fire:
nervousness, genital excitation, dysmenorrhea, acne; anti-FSH;
sympatholytic; stops excess bleeding, corrects a shortened menstrual
cycle.
•
Wood:
neurotonia, globus hystericus, liver depression, palpitations,
tachycardia,
dysmenorrhea, uterine fibroids, hemorrhage, acne, genital excitation,
mastosis
and breast tenderness, male impotence from excessive sexual excitation,
epigastric tightness, PMS, amenorrhea, menorrhagia, irregular menstrual
cycle,
menstrual and pre-menstrual edema, normalizes milk production (either
too much
or too little), cystic breasts-normalizes ratio of estrogen to
progesterone; anti-FSH,
sympatholytic.
RW:
Increases LH production and inhibits release of FSH, leading to a shift
in
the ratio of estrogens to gestagens, in favor of gestagens, and hence a
corpus
luteum hormone effect.
•
Menstrual disorders due to corpus luteum insufficiency (hyper or
polymenorrhea and PMS based on hyperfolliculinism).
•
Also for acne; pre-menstrual oral herpes; pre-menstrual water retention.
•
Lactagogue (slow effect). |
Mu Zei
Equisetum
hiemale
Horsetail
Scouring
Rush
"Wood
Thief"
|
sweet
bitter
neutral
|
Lu
Lv
|
Mildly
disperses wind-heat; promotes vision, dispels nebulas; stops bleeding;
clears heat.
•
Wind-heat affecting the eyes: red eyes, excessive tearing, pain,
swelling,
cloudiness, blurred vision, pterygium.
•
Heat in the blood: bleeding hemorrhoids, hemafecia (usually used as an
auxiliary herb).
•
Pulmonary disease: silicosis (improves symptoms).
•
Also used externally as a powder.
•
Compared to Ju hua,
with regard to the vision, Mu
zei is best for removing
membranes from the conjunctiva (which Ju
hua cannot do).
•
Doctrine of signatures: the herb is a hollow tube - useful for clearing
the tubes
of the body - urinary tract, bile duct, air passages, vessels (not
widely in this
sense in TCM).
SD:
May help antidote lead poisoning.
Yoga:
Bitter, sweet/cooling/pungent; P, K-; V+
•
Affects urinary, respiratory systems.
•
Diuretic, lithotriptic, diaphoretic, alterative, hemostatic.
•
Strong stone-removing action for the kidneys, bladder, gallbladder.
•
Somewhat irritant, should not be taken for a long duration.
•
Promotes healing of bones.
•
Similar to Niu bang zi: as a paste/wash for inflammation.
•
Clears Pitta
and fiery emotions from the nerves and mind.
•
For edema, nephritis, burning urethra, kidney stones, gall stones,
stomach
ulcers, broken bones, menorrhagia, venereal disease.
•
Caution with patients with high Vata,
constipation, dry skin; good for high Pitta.
NAH:
Major source of silica - for lungs damaged by tuberculosis.
•
Contains many minerals - good for anemia, debility, broken nails,
lifeless hair,
white spots on nails.
•
Silicon encourages calcium absorption and helps guard against fatty
deposits in
the arteries.
•
Astringent action stops bleeding, good for stomach ulcers.
•
Mild diuretic, but its astringency makes it useful for
children's bed wetting.
•
Also for inflamed/enlarged prostate, cystitis, urinary stones.
K&R:
Remineralizing agent.
•
Water yin, wood yang, water yang, metal yin, earth yin.
•
Water:
edema, oliguria, ascites, glomerulonephritis, cystitis, nephrotic
syndromes, osteoporosis, demineralization, pathological calcification,
Paget's
disease, amenorrhea, diabetes.
•
Wood:
hemorrhage, metrorraghia, epistaxis, hematuria, spasmophilia, tetany
•
Metal:
immune deficiency, scrofula.
•
Earth:
diabetes, chronic rheumatism, conjunctivitis, eyelid swelling.
MW:
35+% silica: its uses include almost the entire portrait of homeopathic
Silicea: loss of nerve, nervousness to the point of nail-biting,
hair-pulling,
picking at the body or objects, slightly chilly constitution, problems
with the hard
sheaths and tissues of the body (strengthens tissue), thin, split hair,
weak nails,
lack of "grit" to the personality, no confidence to
plunge into life, allergic to all
sorts of things, chronic cystitis
•
For all bleeding, ulcers.
•
Brings matters to the surface, releases corrupted material.
•
Doctrine of signatures: [see above on tubes] plus stem's
striking joints - for
joints.
MLT:
Cider vinegar extract of Mu
zei: use topically for all
fungus.
TS:
Cleansing agent for the stomach.
•
Reduces the suffering from gravel. For all bladder and kidney
difficulties,
especially stones in the bladder
•
Painful urination.
•
Hemorrhaging, hematemesis, epistaxis.
•
As a compress for foul-smelling sores with pus.
Hsu:
Appetite stimulant; diuretic; screening test shows it is effective
against
stomach, tongue, and liver cancers.
3-9g
|
Niu
Bang Zi
Arctium
seed
Great
Burdock
|
acrid
bitter
cool
|
Lu
St
|
Disperses
wind-heat; eliminates toxicity; expresses skin eruptions; eases the
throat; relieves swelling; moistens the intestines for wind-heat
constipation.
•
Wind-heat: cough with difficult-to-expectorate sputum, swollen, red,
and
painful throat, fever.
•
Wind-heat: slow skin eruption in early-stage measles or other
incomplete skin
rash.
•
Heat and toxicity: red swellings, carbuncles, erythemas, mumps, acute
febrile
maculopapular rashes.
•
Wind-heat: constipation.
•
Good for constipation with sore, swollen throat.
•
Prostatitis
•
Weaker than Bo he
at dispersing wind-heat and inducing sweating, but much
stronger than Bo he
at clearing heat and toxicity.
•
Stronger at clearing heat than dispersing wind-heat, but much weaker at
clearing heat and toxicity than the herbs in that category.
MLT:
Should be crushed.
•
Good for skin disease, cancer.
JC: Diuretic;
alterative;
tonic; nervine; diaphoretic.
•
For edema, inflamed kidneys and bladder; scalding urine; mucus
discharge from
the bladder; difficult skin problems; eczema; boils; carbuncles;
psoriasis.
•
Topical: powder for abrasions, burns, wounds, ulcerations.
•
Apply infusion topically to swollen glands and joints.
Yoga:
(seeds and root) Bitter, pungent, astringent/cooling/pungent
•
P, K-; V+ (in excess)
•
Affects respiratory, urinary, circulatory, lymphatic systems.
•
Alterative, diaphoretic, diuretic, antipyretic.
•
Tonic and rejuvenative for Pitta.
•
Same indications as above sources plus: lymphatic clogging, nephritis,
edema,
kidney inflammation, hypertension, cough.
K&R:
Specific for all kidney afflictions; parotitis with constipation;
eczema;
cough; suppurative inflammation.
•
Contracts the uterus.
IBIS:
Alterative, demulcent, diaphoretic, diuretic, tonic.
•
[Western] dosage: root tincture: 2 - 8 mL; seed tincture: 0.5 - 2 mL.
•
Therapy: aphthous and catarrhal ulcerations of stomach membranes;
irritable
coughs; psoriasis; chronic cutaneous eruptions; chronic glandular
enlargements;
syphilitic, scrofulous, and gouty conditions (Ellingwood, p. 378); skin
conditions,
especially with dry and scaly skin; eczema; acne; boils; styes;
carbuncles;
arthritis; rheumatism (Anderson Geller)
•
Handling fresh leaves may cause contact dermatitis (Duke; Muenscher)
3-9g
|
Sang Ye
White
Mulberry
leaf
Morus
alba |
acrid
sweet
bitter
cold
|
Lu
Lv
|
Disperses
wind and clears heat from the Lungs; clears heat from the liver to
promote vision; cools the blood, stops bleeding (charred).
•
Wind-heat: cough, headache, fever, swollen and painful throat.
•
Lung dryness: cough and dry mouth.
•
Lung heat: thick and yellow sputum.
•
Lung yin deficiency: night sweats, feeling hot at night.
•
Liver channel heat (full or deficient) or liver wind-heat: red, dry,
painful eyes,
excessive tearing, spots in front of the eyes (for liver heat, empowers
metal to
control wood).
•
Heat in the blood: mild cases of hematemesis.
•
May lower blood sugar.
•
Stronger than Ju hua
to disperse wind-heat, but weaker to clear liver fire.
•
Fry with honey (honey:herb::1:10) to moisten the Lungs for invasion of
dryness
and treat coughing.
•
Doctrine of signatures: (supposedly) looks like a lung.
•
Grows in the spring and contains the energy of spring.
•
Can be used as an external wash for eye problems.
•
This is the food of the silkworm.
4.5-15g
|
Sheng Ma
Cimicifuga
(Actea)
rhizome
"Ascending
Hemp"
Cimicifuga (now
Actea) racemosa
Black
Cohosh
|
acrid
sweet
sl
cold |
Lu
Sp
LI
St
|
Guides
upward; releases exterior syndromes; expresses skin eruptions; clears
heat
and eliminates toxicity; lifts Yang Qi.
•
Wind-heat: headache; slow skin eruption in early-stage measles.
•
Heat and toxicity: headache, swollen and painful gums, canker sores,
sore teeth,
ulcerated lips or gums, painful and swollen throat, sores, blotches
(febrile
disease).
•
Spleen Qi sinking: prolapse (rectum, uterus, etc.), shortness of
breath, fatigue.
•
Spleen Qi deficiency and failure to control the blood in the vessels:
uterine bleeding.
•
Stomach heat: toothache (raises Yang and relieves heat toxicity).
•
Often used with Ge gen
to promote expression of rashes.
•
Often used with Chai hu
to lift the Yang Qi.
•
Stronger than Chai hu
at lifting prolapsed organs.
•
Note that the herb Serrulata is often substituted for Cimicifuga.
•
Guides other herbs upward.
•
Fry in honey to lift spleen Qi.
HF:
A San Du,
scattering toxin medicinal, typically found in Gu
Zheng (Gu
parasites) formulas.
DY:
Upbears Yangming
and clear spleen Qi; frees the flow of Qi on the right side
of the body.
•
In combination with Chai hu
for mutual reinforcement, to upbear liver,
stomach, and spleen Yang Qi. See Chai
hu in this category for
indications and
notes on this combination.
•
With Sheng ma
to resolve the exterior and muscle aspect, clear heat, resolve
toxins, and out-thrust rashes over the whole body. See Ge
gen in this category
for specific indications and notes.
•
Sheng ma is
stronger than Ge gen
at upbearing Yang. Moreover, Sheng
ma is
used for all types of Qi fall in the middle burner, such as ptosis of
the organs,
rectal prolapse, uterine prolapse, shortness of breath with a feeling
of collapse in
the chest, chronic diarrhea, and persistent metrorrhagia.
•
Sheng ma is a messenger
medicinal which guides the action of other medicinal
substances toward the upper part of the body - the head, face, and
upper orifices -
and toward the Yangming.
Therefore, it is used to treat toothache, oral ulcers,
and stomatitis associated with the stomach, and constipation associated
with the
large intestine [I assume he means by clearing excess from the Yangming].
Hsu:
Anti-ulcerative, anticonvulsant, analgesic, antipyretic.
1.5-9g
Of
the
Western species, Cimicifuga
racemosa:
It
has
not been clearly established how much the Chinese and Western species
have in common, although they have been shown to contain many of the
same
chemical constituents. It seems that Black Cohosh possesses Sheng
Ma's exterior
releasing and analgesic qualities (and may even be stronger), but Sheng
Ma does
not necessarily possess the hormone modifying qualities of Black
Cohosh. Since Serrulata species
are a very common adulterant for Sheng
ma, unless you are sure
you are getting some kind of Cimicifuga, Sheng
ma certainly cannot be counted
on for the following actions and indications.
K&R:
Antispasmodic (musculotrope and neurotrope), sedative, sympatholytic,
vagolytic, LH antagonist. Pungent-cooling; wood yang.
•
Wood:
headaches - migraine, ophthalmic headaches, cluster headaches,
hypertension, vertigo, Meniere's, neuralgia, spasmophilia,
menstrual cramps,
menopausal complaints incl. depression, anxiety, hot flashes, vaginal
dryness and
atrophy.
•
Also for genital herpes, asthma, pertussis, anxiety, panic attack,
facial neuralgia,
rheumatic pain, relieves tension in shoulders and occiput along the
gall bladdder
channel.
•
Careful with the use of this herb for a true migraine - can induce
vomiting.
JC:
Nervine; emmenagogue; antispasmodic; alterative; diuretic; astringent;
expectorant; diaphoretic; arterial and nervine sedative; cardiac
stimulant-slightly
depresses heart rate while increasing force of pulse and equalizing
circulation;
stomachic-tonic; antiseptic; antivenomous; muscular: for rheumatism,
arthritis,
neuralgia; tonic to mucus and serous tissues; stimulates secretions of
liver,
kidneys, and lymphatics.
•
Pelvic disturbances, uterine disorders - contracts the uterus,
increases menstrual
flow.
•
Acute chronic pulmonary and bronchial affections.
•
Parturition: initiates uterine contractions, checks hemorrhage, allays
nervousness and afterpains of delivery.
•
Hypertension, palpitations, hemorrhage, uterine contractions: use full
dose.
•
Smaller dose for insomnia, headache, indigestion, bronchitis...
•
Use as a syrup for colic, convulsions, nerve disorders, cough, whooping
cough,
liver and kidney disorders.
•
Overdose can produce nausea and vomiting.
MW:
A black, tangled mass of roots: for those caught in state of brooding,
dark
hopelessness, entangled in a web of coercive forces, against which one
fights, but
feels cannot ultimately defeat; a sense of entrapment; maybe caught in
an abusive
relationship or manipulative business pattern.
•
For those who need to grab hold of their fears and drives in order to
get through
the entanglement which surrounds them.
•
Gives the confidence to go through the black states of mind.
•
Known as the "Herbal Chiropractor" - for spine
problems/pain and head pain,
especially when worse with menstruation.
Yoga:
Bitter, pungent/cooling/ pungent
•
Reduces Pitta and Kapha; elevates Vata
•
Alterative, emmenagogue, antiseptic. |
Acrid,
Warm Herbs That Release The Exterior
|
•
Since the dispersing effect of some of the more aromatic herbs in this
category depends on their volatile oils, they
are often decocted only for a short time (or are infused only).
•
Also consider for wind-cold patterns when appropriate: Xi xin, Du Huo,
Cang Zhu, Chuan xiong, Huo xiang, Ju hong, Wu gong, Jiang
huang, Bai shao, etc.
|
Bai
Zhi
Chinese
Angelica
root
Angelica
dahurica
|
acrid
warm
|
Lu
St
|
Eliminates
wind-cold; dries dampness; relieves swelling and drains pus;
alleviates pain by eliminating wind; conducts to
the Yangming
channels;
opens the nasal passages.
•
Wind-cold: frontal headache, nasal congestion, supraorbital pain,
toothache,
or any other problem due to wind invading the Yangming
channels in the head
(can be used for heat syndromes when appropriately combined - e.g. for
frontal headache due to wind-heat when combined with Shi
gao).
•
Headache due to sinusitis - key herb (not for headaches due to blood
deficiency).
•
Carbuncles and surface sores: dissipates swelling before there is pus
or
drains the pus after it has developed.
•
Cold and damp in the lower Jiao: leukorrhea (combined appropriately,
can
be used for damp-heat also).
•
Prevention of colds: increases IgA, IgM in the nose (by smelling it -
usually
hung in a container around the neck).
•
Used in prevention of corneal ulcers secondary to burns.
•
Used topically for freckles, maybe acne, hyperpigmentation, other
blemishes.
•
Liu: the ultimate herb for pus.
•
A powder of Bai zhi
and Bing pian,
when inhaled through the nose, has been
effective in treating headache, toothache, trigeminal neuralgia.
HF:
A San Du,
scattering toxin medicinal, typically found in Gu
Zheng (Gu
parasites) formulas.
Li
Dong Yuan:
Upbears Yang Qi.
3-9g
|
Cang
Er
Zi
Xanthium
fruit
Cocklebur
"Deep
Green Ear
Seeds"
Cang
Er
Cao
Cocklebur
herb
|
acrid
bitter
warm
sl.
toxic
|
Lu
|
Opens
the nose; eliminates wind-damp, alleviates pain; dispels wind.
•
Wind-damp/wind-cold-damp: Bi
syndrome, sinusitis, congestion, whitish
discharge, headache.
•
Wind-damp: skin disorders with itching, painful obstruction.
•
Eliminates wind (auxiliary herb) for exterior syndromes with splitting
headache radiating to back of the neck.
•
Topical: local application in sesame oil for chronic rhinitis.
•
Im injection for low back pain.
•
Bensky/Gamble: eliminate wind-damp category.
Hsu:
Antibacterial, decoction cures chronic arthritis and syphilitic
neuralgia.
DY:
Diffuses the Lung Qi.
•
With Xin yi hua
to effectively dispel wind, diffuse the Lung Qi, and open the
portals of the nose. These two herbs are probably the two most
efficient
Chinese medicinal substances for all types of rhinitis and sinusitis.
For the
following indications, use the base formula Cang
Er Zi San with these
amendments: for wind-cold, add Xi
xin, Huo xiang, Ma huang, and
subtract Bo he;
for wind-heat, add Ju hua, Jin
yin hua, Lian qiao; for
gallbladder heat,
add Yu xing cao, Long dan cao,
Huang qin; for Lung-spleen Qi
deficiency,
add Huang qi, Bai zhu, Dang
shen, and subtract Bo
he.
-
1.
Common cold with headache, nasal congestion, and runny nose due to
wind-cold.
-
2.
Deep source nasal congestion with headache, nasal congestion, loss of
smell, and turbid nasal phlegm.
-
3.
Chronic or acute rhinitis, allergic rhinitis, hypertrophic rhinitis,
sinusitis,
parasinusitis, and frontal sinusitis.
•
Cang er zi
is incompatible with horse meat or pork.
3-9g
Cang
Er Cao: herb
•
Bitter, acrid, slightly cold, slightly toxic.
•
Expels wind; clears heat; eliminates toxicity.
•
For wind-damp: Bi
syndrome with spasms and pain in the extremities.
•
Deep-rooted skin lesions and pruritis.
•
Generally used topically.
•
Not for long-term internal use, particularly by those who are very weak.
6-15g
|
Cong
Bai
Scallion
Spring
Onion
(white
part with
root)
|
acrid
warm
|
Lu
St
|
Mildly
releases the exterior by promoting sweats; disperses cold and activates
Yang; eliminates toxicity, dissolves swellings; conducts Yang to the
surface.
•
Mild wind-cold EPI : especially in the very early stage (often with Dan
dou
chi).
•
Excess cold keeping the Yang on the surface of the body: diarrhea, cold
extremities, feeble pulse, abdominal pain and distention, nasal
congestion.
•
Sores, abscesses, mastitis (often applied externally as a poultice).
•
Combining with honey can upset the stomach.
•
When decocting, cook only for a short time.
•
When there is floating Yang due to deficiency, the use of Cong
bai alone
could make it collapse - this must be treated with Yang tonics or herbs
which
warm the interior (e.g. Fu zi,
Gan jiang).
DY:
Guides the action of other herbs to the Lung channel.
2-5
pieces
|
Fang
Feng
Siler
root
Ledebouriella
"Guard
Against
Wind"
|
acrid
sweet
warm
|
BL
Lv
Sp
|
Releases
the exterior by eliminating wind, cold, and dampness; relives pain;
relieves convulsions and tremors; alleviates itching.
•
Wind-cold-dampness: headache, body ache, aversion to cold or joint
pain,
muscle spasm in the limbs.
•
External wind: tetanus, trembling of the hands and feet.
•
Spleen and liver disharmony: intestinal wind - recurrent, painful
diarrhea
with bright blood in the stool.
•
Migraines.
•
Deeper effect than Jing jie
- Fang feng
reaches the muscles and tendons
while Jing jie
is more for the skin level. Qiang
huo which penetrates to the
bones and tendons, reaches deeper than Fang feng.
•
Analgesic, mild antipyretic.
•
Fang feng's
chief function is to disperse wind. Can be combined with Huang
qi
to prevent wind (e.g. in Jade Wind Screen).
•
Not for convulsions due to blood deficiency or Yin deficiency fire.
Liu:
May free stagnant liver Qi.
SD:
May help antidote arsenic poisoning.
DY:
With Huang qi
to supplement the defensive Qi without retaining external
evils in the body, to drain external evils without damaging correct Qi
and
without causing perspiration, to secure the exterior, prevent invasion
by
external evils, and stop perspiration. This combination appears in Yu
Ping
Feng San for indications such
as:
-
1.
Spontaneous perspiration due to exterior deficiency.
-
2.
Tendency to contract EPIs frequently due to defensive Qi deficiency.
-
Yu
Ping Feng San should not be used
to treat wind affections that are already
established. This combination is too astringent once the evil Qi and
the
defensive Qi are already struggling. Its use might, in this case,
retain the
external evil inside the body.
-
The
pair Fang feng and Huang qi,
when combined with Zhi ke,
yields good
results in the treatment of prolapse of the rectum, external
hemorrhoids,
flatulence, and abdominal distention. For rectal prolapse, the best
approach is
to add 3g Fang feng and
6g Zhi ke
to Bu Zong Yi Qi Tang.
3-9g
|
Gao
Ben
Ligusticum
root
Chinese
Lovage
|
acrid
warm
|
BL
|
Releases
the exterior and alleviates pain by dispersing cold; eliminates wind
and damp; guides to the bladder channel and organ; reaches both ends of
the Du Mai.
•
Wind-cold: headache, especially severe parietal headache radiating to
the
cheek and teeth, occipital headache, or migraine.
•
Any wind pattern that presents as pain at the vertex or pain that
travels from
the vertex down to the cheeks and teeth.
•
Wind-cold-damp: Bi
syndrome, joint pain.
•
Wind-cold: acute lower back pain (the herb reaches both ends of the Du
Mai).
•
Warm, dry, ascending, dispersing nature.
•
Not for headaches due to blood deficiency.
Hsu:
Antispasmodic, emmenagogue, antiphlogistic, antifungal.
HF:
A San Du,
scattering toxin medicinal, typically found in Gu
Zheng (Gu
parasites) formulas.
Li
Dong Yuan:
Upbears Yang Qi.
3-9g
|
Gui
Zhi
Cinnamon
twig
|
acrid
sweet
warm
|
Ht
Lu
BL
Lv
|
Releases
the exterior by promoting sweats; warms the channels; activates
Yang; disperses cold; promotes blood circulation; frees the bladder
channel to
promote urination; adjusts the Ying
and Wei
Qi; warms and facilitates the flow
of Yang Qi in the chest.
•
Wind-cold: fever, aversion to cold, headache, sweating or no sweating.
•
Wind-cold-damp: Bi
syndrome, sore joints, back, limbs, and especially
shoulders.
•
Heart and spleen Yang deficiency: retention of phlegm and harmful fluid.
•
Heart Yang deficiency or obstructed flow of Yang Qi in the chest (shi
or
deficiency): chest pain, palpitations, irregular pulse, or angina
pectoris.
•
Cold obstructing the channels/blood: dysmenorrhea, amenorrhea, masses
in
the uterus/abdomen.
•
Cold-phlegm accumulation or weak movement of Yang Qi: edema.
•
To promote sweating, use with Ma
huang (Ma
huang opens the pores, Gui
zhi pushes the sweat out),
especially for Yangming
stage.
•
Wei
and Ying
imbalance: deficiency patterns where sweating occurs without
improvement.
•
Diuretic; mild antipyretic (primarily by vasodilation); some antibiotic
effects.
•
Compared to Ma huang
in the treatment of wind-cold: while Ma
huang
works more directly by opening and disseminating the Lung Qi, Gui
zhi works
more by aiding the Yang Qi - this gives it the ability to treat either
wind-cold
excess or deficiency.
•
For EPIs, smaller doses are usually used (3-9g) while larger doses
(9-15g)
are used for dispelling painful obstruction.
Li:
Harmonizes the heart and kidneys; warms cold extremities; useful for
palpitations.
PFGC:
Enters the upper extremities; enters the muscle layer - primary herb to
relieve the muscles; opens the energy pathways, raises the ancestral Qi
up,
descends counterflow of Qi (asthma, coughing), disperses pernicious Qi;
keeps the upflaring tendency of liver wood in check; helps collapsed
spleen Qi
rise and rebellious stomach Qi descend.
•
Its pungency disperses while its sweetness tonifies: it is therefore
somewhere
between dispersing and tonifying.
•
By harmonizing the Ying
and Wei,
it can astringe sweats due to wind
injuring the Wei,
which in turn cannot attend to the Ying,
which becomes
weak and cannot secure fluids. it can induce sweating by regulating the
Ying,
which lets the Wei
be harmonious by itself, which then forces sweat out to
release the wind.
Hsu:
Analgesic (raises pain threshold in brain); alleviates headache due to
spasm of blood vessels in the head and relieves abdominal pain due to
spasms
of smooth muscle of the viscera; stimulates gastric secretions and
saliva;
markedly inhibits influenza virus.
DY:
Promotes perspiration and resolves the exterior without damaging Yin;
tropism: the blood division; quickens the network vessels; supplements
spleen
Yang; relieves the muscles; frees the flow of Yang and promotes
urination by
stimulating the function of transformation of the bladder.
•
Treats edema of the damp type due to deficiency of the transformative
function of the bladder.
•
With Bai shao
to harmonize Yin and Yang, the Qi and the blood, and the
constructive and the defensive. This combination drains without
damaging
Yin, while constraining without retaining evils. They harmonize the
vessels,
relieve tension and stop pain, as well as support stomach Yin and
spleen
Yang, while regulating the spleen and stomach. For indications such as:
-
1.
Common cold with fever, shivers, slight perspiration, no thirst,
headache,
thin white tongue fur, and a floating, moderate pulse or, in other
words, a
wind-cold exterior pattern with disharmony between the constructive and
the
defensive. (Take Gui Zhi Tang.
10 minutes later, eat very hot rice porridge,
and stay well covered in bed to promote perspiration.)
-
2.
Spontaneous perspiration and/or night sweats accompanied by fear of
wind and cold, a cold feeling in the low back, and frequent catching of
colds
due to disharmony between the constructive and the defensive. (Use
stir-fried Gui zhi.)
-
3.
Chest and cardiac area pain due to heart Yang deficiency and disharmony
between the Qi and blood. (Use 15-30g Gui
zhi. In case of very cold limbs, Fu zi
can be added.)
-
4.
Abdominal pain with spasms and cramps due to deficiency cold and
disharmony between the Qi and blood. (Dose Bai
shao:Gui zhi::2:1. Use
honey mix-fried Gui zhi
and wine mix-fried Bai shao.)
-
5.
Pain and/or numbness of the limbs due to disharmony between the Qi and
blood. (Use stir-fried Gui zhi
and wine mix-fried Bai shao.)
-
6.
Vomiting and weakness during pregnancy accompanied by fear of cold,
lack of appetite, nausea and a weak pulse in the cubit position due to
disharmony of the spleen and stomach and the constructive and
defensive.
(Use stir-fried Gui zhi
and wine mix-fried Bai shao.)
-
7.
Weakness in the elderly, during convalescence, postpartum, and
post-operatively with fatigue and lack of strength, fear of wind, and
slight
perspiration due to disharmony between the constructive and the
defensive.
(Use stir-fried Gui zhi.)
•
With Shi gao
to clear heat, free the flow of the network vessels, stop pain,
and treat heat Bi
or impediment. For such indications as rheumatic pain of the
heat type with redness, heat, swelling, and severe pain in the joints. (Bai
Hu
Gui Zhi Tang)
•
With Ma huang
to mutually reinforce each other's floating and dispelling
characteristics, to effectively open the pores, strongly promote
perspiration,
resolve the muscle layer, and scatter wind-cold of the excess type. For
indications such as:
-
1.
Colds, influenza with fever, fear of cold, severe shivering, absence of
perspiration, headache, and general body aches caused by wind-cold of
the
excess type.
-
2.
Rheumatic pains due to wind, cold, and dampness. (Ma
huang Tang)
-
3.
Cough and asthma due to wind-cold obstructing the Lung Qi. (Ma
Huang
Tang) It is advisable to use
honey mix-fried Ma huang
for cough and asthma.
-
Gui
zhi communicates with the
constructive division [Ying]
where it moves
fluids. It brings these fluids to the exterior where Ma
huang pushes them
outward forcefully.
•
The fine twigs (Gui zhi jian
or Gui zhi shao)
are known for their powerful
Qi and are very fragrant. They are more powerful (than
Gui zhi) for scattering
wind-cold, warming and opening the channels and vessels, and quickening
the
blood.
•
Gui zhi mu,
small twigs of cinnamon from which the external bark has been
removed, is less powerful than Gui
zhi for resolving the exterior
and inducing
perspiration, but is more powerful for warming the channels and
quickening
the network vessels. Gui zhi mu
is preferred for the treatment of joint pain
and stiffness of the sinews.
3-15g
|
Jing
Jie
Schizonepeta
flowers and herb
Jie
Du
Tan
Charred
Schizonepeta
|
acrid
sl.
warm
|
Lu
Lv
|
Releases
the exterior by eliminating wind; stops bleeding (charred); promotes
expression of rashes, alleviates itching.
•
Wind-cold or wind-heat: headache, fever, aversion to cold, lack of
sweats
(combine appropriately for heat or cold).
•
Wind: itching, urticaria, slow skin eruption in measles.
•
Has a superficial effect (to skin level).
•
Carbuncles and boils when they first erupt, especially when accompanied
by chills and fever.
•
Liu: special for skin problems, the upper body, sore throat, headache,
aversion to cold.
•
Diaphoretic, increases subcutaneous circulation.
•
Bensky/Gamble: can be used whether the disorder is hot or cold.
•
Short cook.
Li:
[contrary to Liu] this is a warm herb - caution with sore throat, can
worsen
it (Li removes Jing jie
from Yin Qiao San
when there is a sore throat). [My
limited clinical experience seems to corroborate this idea. -PLB]
•
With Fang feng
- vital for opening the chest for persistent lung obstruction.
MLT:
Antispasmodic, useful for rheumatism, facial paralysis, stroke
symptoms, stiff neck and spine.
3-9g
Jie
Dui Tan: charred
•
Stops bleeding, promotes blood circulation, dispels blood stasis.
•
For bleeding, helps the liver store blood and the spleen hold blood.
•
Epistaxis, hemafecia, uterine bleeding.
|
Ma
Huang
Ephedra
(E.
sinica, E.
equisetina, E.
intermedia)
"Hemp
Yellow"
|
acrid
warm
|
Lu
BL
|
Promotes
sweating (opens the pores); relieves asthma; promotes urination;
disperses/moves Lung Qi and encourages it to descend.
•
Wind-cold invasion: aversion to cold, no sweats, etc. - specifically Taiyang.
•
Wind-cold in the Lung obstructs Qi: cough, asthma.
•
Edema with exterior syndrome (heat or cold).
•
For externally-contracted or internally-generated wheezing.
•
Ma huang
opens the pores, but does not supply the sweat (combine with Gui
zhi, which reaches the heart,
the mother of sweat).
•
Beneficial for urinary retention due to Lung Qi deficiency, where the
Lungs
lack the energy to descend fluids to the bladder.
•
To mitigate its diaphoretic function, combine with astringent herbs, Qi
tonics, or cool herbs.
•
Anti-viral (influenzas); bronchodilator; vasoconstrictor, raises blood
pressure (mild but prolonged).
•
Not for breathing problems due to failure of the kidneys to grasp Lung
Qi.
•
Traditionally prepared by decocting it first and removing the foam on
the
surface of the water before adding other ingredients.
MLT:
Of the world's ephedra species, Chinese has the most
ephedrine and
pseudoephedrine, especially between the joints of the stem. The best
quality Ma huang
has the joints removed.
PFGC:
Shen Nung says it can break up masses and accumulations; it can
reach the surface and also penetrate deeply into pockets of accumulated
phlegm and coagulated blood, especially in combination with materials
to
eliminate masses and transform stasis
•
By its entry into the Taiyang
bladder, it can also enter the Shaoyin
kidney
and treat Shaoyin
syndrome.
•
Can treat pustules, skin ulcerations, stubborn skin disorders of the
Yin (cold)
type.
•
The foam that collects on the water when Ma
huang is cooked is too intense
a diaphoretic and should be removed.
•
People in cold areas with thick skin and muscles may need a larger dose
to
induce sweating.
DY:
This is one of six medicinals which have been traditionally aged for
the
purpose of reducing secondary effects and reinforcing their therapeutic
actions. Generally, the longer it is kept, the more efficient.
•
The nodes of the stem (Ma huang
jie) have an anti-diaphoretic
action (like
the root). For most effective diaphoresis, the knots should be removed.
•
With Gui zhi
to mutually reinforce each other's floating and dispelling
characteristics, to effectively open the pores, strongly promote
perspiration,
resolve the muscle layer, and scatter wind-cold of the excess type. Gui
zhi
communicates with the constructive division [Ying]
where it moves fluids. It
brings these fluids to the exterior where Ma
huang pushes them outward
forcefully. See Gui zhi
in this category for specific indications of this
combination.
CHA:
(Karen S. Vaughan) Honey fried Ma
huang: The high heat in frying
releases the essential oils in the joints of the Ma
huang which would
otherwise prevent sweating. (Smashing the joints and allowing the oils
to
escape would have a similar effect, but without honey's properties.)
Honey
frying makes Ma huang
less warming (which may seem counterintuitive)
because the oils are freed. (The Shang
Han Lun suggests using node-free Ma
huang to promote sweating.)
K&R:
Sympathomimetic, diaphoretic, vasoconstrictor, bronchodilator,
adrenal medulla stimulant, volumetric diuretic.
Wood,
fire, metal, and water yin, water yang.
Also
for cardiac disorders - hypotension, bradycardia.
-
FDA:
Contraindicated in heart disease, hypertension, thyroid disease,
diabetes mellitus, difficult urination with enlarged prostate, or with
antidepressants
Yoga: Somalata:
K-; P+; V+ (in excess)
•
Powerful Kapha
reducer; lymph cleanser.
•
Rajasic
- can overstimulate the adrenals and burn out the nerves.
IBIS:
Affinities: respiratory tract, urinary tract.
•
Actions: Sympathomimetic, Bronchodilator, Decongestant, Central
stimulant, Hypertensive, Diuretic, Sudorific, Anti-rheumatic.
•
[Western] dosage: Tincture : (1:4) 2.5 ml T.I.D.; Decoction of Dried
herb :
600 mg - 1500 mg per cup, 3 cups per day; Maximum Recommended Doses:
UK: (Schedule III restricted): 600 mg herb single dose. USA: (FDA
recommended) 8 mg single dose, 24 mg total daily as ephedrine alkaloid.
Commission E: 15-30 mg single dose as ephedra alkaloid up to max. 300
mg
daily as ephedrine alkaloid. Children - Not recommended under 13 years.
2
mg alkaloid /Kg body weight maximum dose.
•
Internal: Asthma, hay fever, urticaria, hives, emphysema, nocturnal
eneuresis, narcolepsy, febrifuge, rheumatism, myasthenia gravis, edema,
rheumatic conditions.
•
External: Allergic skin irritations, insect bites and stings.
•
Specific Indications: Allergic rhinitis, congestion due to sinusitis,
coryza or
asthma.
Pharmacology:
•
Ephedra is indirectly sympathomimetic, causing epinephrine release and
thus
non specific adrenergic receptor agonism. Ephedrine is predominantly
alpha
adrenergic, pseudoephedrine is predominantly beta adrenergic (Mills,
1991). Ephedrine is well absorbed by the oral route, crosses the blood
brain barrier
easily, and has a half life much longer than epinephrine being
resistant to
MAO and COMT degradation; excretion is urinary. The whole herb is not
identical to isolated ephedrine because of the pharmacodynamics of
pseudoephedrine and other components; in addition there are
pharmacokinetic
differences between the whole herb and isolated ephedrine (Mills, 1991;
White, 1997; Gurley, 1998).
•
Alpha and beta adrenomimetic effects: peripheral vasoconstriction,
skeletal
muscle vasodilation, positive inotropism, potentially hypertensive,
sudorific,
tachycardic, bronchodilator, mydriatic, urogenital tract stimulant and
relaxant,
decreases visceral muscle motility, increases viceral sphincter tone
lipolytic,
thermogenetic, hyperglycemic, diuretic.
•
Central stimulation: Increases arousal and wakefulness.
•
Motor end plate actions: Ephedrine modulates skeletal muscle motor end
plate activity in rat models of myasthenia gravis (Sieb, 1993.,
Molenaar,
1993)
•
Complement inhibition: Aqueous extracts of Ephedra inhibit complement
activation at C2 and C9 (Ling, 1995).
•
Inhibition of 3'5'cAMP Phosphodiesterase: Whole Ephedra extracts
inhibit
PDE in vitro, but isolated ephedrine did not inhibit PDE. (Nikaido,
1990,
1992).
•
Reports of Ephedra whole herb toxicity in therapeutic dose ranges are
absent
from the medical literature. Numerous references to ephedrine (isolated
alkaloid) toxicity exist. Ma Huang OTC supplements are often cited in
toxicity reports without analysis of dose or alkaloid content. Ephedra
is not
used as an isolated herb or supplement by clinical herbalists of
Western or
Traditional Chinese schools, but is always used in combination with
other
herbs.
•
Excessive consumption of ephedrine causes typical side effects of
sympathetic hyperstimulation including headaches, nausea, dizziness,
vomiting, palpitations, tachycardia, insomnia, tremor, anxiety. These
effects
are less noticable in consumption of the whole herb, and it has been
suggested
that the other constituents may modify the effects of the ephedrine
alkaloids
(Mills, 1991) .
•
Nephrolithiasis has recently been associated with both ephedrine and Ma
Huang usage (Powell,1998) .
•
Contraindicated in hypertension due to vasoconstrictive and inotropic
actions. Hypertensive effects of ephedrine in whole herb modulated by
pseudoephedrine beta adrenergic effects causing muscle bed
vasodilation.
•
Contraindicated in hyperthyroidism: due to sympathetic induced increase
in
metabolic rate.
•
Contraindicated in anxiety states: due to central stimulatory effects.
•
Contraindicated in pregnancy: due to uterine stimulatory action of
ephedrine
and potential mutagenicity of byproducts.
•
Contraindicated in Benign Prostatic Hypertrophy: due to net adrenergic
effects on bladder causing urinary retention.
Drug
interactions:
•
Sympathomimetic effects could interact with MAOI therapy to cause
potentially harmful elevation of catecholamine levels.
•
Increased norepinephrine levels may reduce effectiveness of
beta-blocker
therapy.
•
Ephedrine containing preparations are banned by Olympic and other
sporting
authorities.
Notes:
•
Related Species: E. sinica
is the principal herb of commerce; the related
species E. equisitina, E.
intermedia, E. distachya, E. geradiana
all contain
ephedra alkaloids, in varying distribution profiles (Zhang,1989).
Several
species of Ephedra are native to the South Western USA, including E.
nevadensis, E. viridis. These
species, commonly known as Mormon Tea or
Mexican Tea have either insignificant traces or no detectable alkaloids
(Moore, 1993).
•
Traditional Chinese Medicinal Uses: Ma Huang has been used for over
5000
years in China. Ma Huang is never given alone in Chinese medicine, but
always used in formulae combined with other herbs that modulate its
stimulant effects without altering its actions on the lungs and
kidneys. The
crude herb may also be treated before use (by boiling in water or
cooking with
honey) to change its characteristics. Its principal uses in TCM are to
disperse
external wind, and aid movement of Lung qi. It is also taken for
chills, fevers
and coughs, and in combination with Rehemannia glutinosa as a kidney
yin
deficiency tonic. In Chinese medicine, the root is also used - its
therapeutic
effects being almost opposite to the stem e.g. hypotensive as opposed
to
hypertensive (Hikono,1983).
•
Ephedra and its alkaloids have gained widespread popularity among the
sports and body-building communities for weight reduction. The
combination
of ephedrine with caffeine (E.C.), and of both with aspirin (E.C.A.) is
used by
body builders in combination with caloric restriction to "cut" fat.
This practice
and popular OTC "weight loss" and "natural speed" products, based
either on
Ephedra herb or more usually on isolated ephedrine alkaloids have
attracted
considerable bad press in recent years. The FDA responded by issuing
ultra-conservative dosage guidelines for Ephedra herbal products,
expressed in
terms of total ephedrine alkaloid maximum recommended doses. (Since
then,
this herb and its derivatives have been essentially banned, due to
their use in
the manufacture of crystal methamphetamine. Even pseudoephedrine
products
are now controlled.) The retail and MLM market is still replete with
products
purporting to be legal or natural speed and "natural" weight loss
agents that
contain variable amounts of Ephedra alkaloids or synthetic ephedrine
and
which will likely continue to be subject to consumer abuse and
potential
adverse reactions.
3-9g
|
Qiang
Huo
Notopterygium
root
|
acrid
bitter
warm
|
BL
K
|
Releases
the exterior and dispersing cold; eliminates wind; powerfully
eliminates (external) dampness; unblocks obstruction to alleviate pain;
guides
to the Taiyang
and Du Mai.
•
Exterior obstruction (especially with dampness) causing pain, aversion
to
cold, fever, aches over the body and head, general feeling of
heaviness,
sleepiness, headache at the vertex or occiput.
•
Wind-cold-damp: soreness and pain (Bi)
over the limbs (especially upper
limbs), shoulders, back.
•
Reaches deeper than Jing jie
and Fang feng:
penetrates to bones and
tendons.
•
Compared to Du huo, Qiang huo
is used more for the upper body while Du
huo is used more for the lower
body.
•
Warm, dry, ascending, dispersing nature.
DY:
Powerful in action; tropism: the upper part of the body, occiput, nape
of
the neck, shoulders, upper limbs, and Taiyang.
•
Qiang huo
has a more powerful action than Du
huo. Its nature is upbearing,
draining, and vigorous. The ancients said that Qiang
huo has a "masculine
dispersing Qi."
•
With Du huo
to dispel wind, cold, dampness, and treat Bi
over the whole
body. For indications such as:
-
1.
Moving rheumatic pains all over the body. (Juan
Bi Tang)
-
2.
Common cold with fever, back pain, and joint pain due to wind, cold,
and
dampness. (Qiang Huo Sheng Shi
Tang)
-
3.
Joint running wind due to wind, cold, and dampness penetrating the
channels and network vessels. Li
jie feng or joint running wind
refers to acute
arthralgia which is severe and movable with loss of joint mobility,
swelling,
and intense joint pain which is worse at night. This affection can
transform
itself into heat and then cause redness, pain, swelling, and heat.
6-15g
|
Sheng
Jiang
Fresh
Ginger
rhizome
|
acrid
slightly
warm
|
Lu
Sp
St
|
Releases
exterior syndromes by promoting sweats; stops vomiting by warming
the middle Jiao; stops coughing by warming the Lungs; eliminates or
reduces
toxicity from crabs, fish, shrimp, and some herbs; adjusts Ying
and Wei
Qi.
•
Cold in the stomach: vomiting.
•
Wind-cold: fever, aversion to cold, headache, nasal congestion.
•
Wind-cold or chronic Lung phlegm disorder: cough.
•
Cook with brown sugar for mild wind-cold in children.
•
Good for motion sickness, helps the nausea of chemotherapy.
•
Beneficial in acute bacillary dysentery.
•
Weaker than Zi su ye
at releasing the exterior/promoting sweating.
•
This herb is mainly used to assist.
•
Topical: slices over affected testicle in acute orchitis (when no
lesions).
•
Spasms, sprains, pain: apply ginger tea
•
Raises blood pressure (an average of 11.2/14 in adults in one study).
•
Ayurvedic uses: see dry ginger - Gan
jiang.
•
The skin of the ginger rhizome - Sheng
jiang pi - additionally can
promote
urination and reduce edema.
K&R:
(fresh and/or dry - not indicated) Eupeptic, carminative, febrifuge,
stimulant, antiphlogistic, antiprostaglandin, sudorific, stimulates
circulation
and sympathetic nervous system, increases salivary and gastric
secretions,
strengthens peristalsis of stomach and intestines, accelerates
transport through
alimentary canal and has general calming effect, stimulates appetite,
slight
detoxifying effect, anti-ulcerative, especially for ulcers from excess
HCl.
•
Metal, water, and earth yin.
•
Metal:
respiratory infection, bronchitis, flu, bronchorrhea, pulmonary
congestion, fever.
•
Earth:
anorexia, glairy diarrhea, immune deficiency, leukopenia.
•
Water:
impotence, UTI, glomerulonephritis.
•
Also for hiccups, abdominal pain, diarrhea, gas, amenorrhea from
insufficient circulation.
•
For motion sickness: can work as well as or better than Dramamine.
DY:
"Sheng
jiang" refers not
simply to raw ginger - it must be fresh and young.
•
With Ban xia
to transform phlegm, downbear counterflow, harmonize the
stomach, and stop vomiting. For such indications as:
-
1.
Nausea, vomiting with not thirst and slimy tongue fur due to
phlegm-dampness stagnating in the middle burner. (Xiao
Ban Xia Tang) Ginger-processed Ban
xia should be used.
-
2.
Enduring cough with white, watery, and profuse phlegm. Use
lime-processed Ban xia.
•
Sheng jiang
is renowned for effectively treating vomiting. It can be used for
all types of vomiting, even in the case of stomach heat, if it is
combined with
other medicinals related to the nature of the imbalance. It is
traditionally said, "Sheng jiang
is a sagelike medicinal for vomiting."
•
Use it with bitter medicinals when these would otherwise cause nausea.
In
these cases, Sheng jiang
is directly integrated into the decoction or chewed
immediately after swallowing the liquid. This often is sufficient to
calm the
most stubborn patient.
•
With Da zao
to move the defensive Qi, nourish the constructive Qi,
harmonize the constructive and defensive, fortify the spleen, and
harmonize
the middle burner. For indications such as:
-
1.
Perspiration, fear of wind, and fever due to disharmony between the
constructive and defensive Qi. (Gui
Zhi Tang)
-
2.
Fatigue, lack of strength, abdominal pain, and lack of appetite due to
disharmony between the constructive and defensive Qi. (Xiao
Jian Zhong
Tang)
-
This
pair helps insure the proper assimilation of the active principles of
other
medicinal substances. These are the two main harmonizing herbs in
Chinese
medicine.
3-9g
|
Xiang
Ru
Elscholtzia
Aromatic
Madder
"Fragrant
Soft
Herb"
|
acrid
sl.
warm
|
Lu
St
|
Releases
exterior syndromes by promoting sweating (strong); expels summer-heat;
adjusts function of the stomach to resolve dampness; promotes
urination,
relieves edema; reduces swelling.
•
Wind-cold or summer-heat with dampness: fever, aversion to cold,
headache, abdominal pain, vomiting, lack of sweats, chills, body aches,
diarrhea.
•
Edema with scanty urination, urinary difficulty, especially when
associated
with an exterior pattern.
•
Simultaneously expels summer-heat from the exterior and transforms
turbid
dampness in the interior.
•
Mainly used in summer.
•
For exterior disorders, cook only a short time.
•
For edema, cook a long time into a concentrated decoction.
•
So effective for summer-heat with dampness that it is sometimes called
the "summertime Ma huang."
•
May cause vomiting if taken hot. Take at a room temperature or add Huang
qin or Huang
lian to reduce this effect.
3-9g
|
Xin
Yi
Hua
Magnolia
flower
|
acrid
warm
|
Lu
St
|
Disperses
wind-cold; opens the nose.
•
Any nasal or sinus conditions: nasal congestion or obstruction, nasal
discharge, loss of sense of smell, related headache.
•
Wind-cold or wind-heat: key herb (first choice) for sinusitis and
rhinitis.
•
Stronger than Cang er zi
to open the nose.
•
Antifungal.
•
The hairs can irritate the throat (use a tea bag or grind to a powder).
•
This herb has also been prepared as an ointment and an aerosol for
local
application: when applied to nasal mucosa, Xin
yi hua causes a reduction in
secretions.
DY:
Often combined with Cang er zi.
See Cang er zi
in this category for the
properties and indications of this combination.
3-9g
|
Zi
Su Ye
Perilla
leaf
"Purple
Relaxing
Leaf"
|
acrid
warm
|
Lu
Sp
|
Releases
exterior syndromes by dispersing cold (mild); eases distention of the
chest and epigastrium; promotes Qi circulation, expands the chest;
alleviates
seafood poisoning; calms a restless fetus, alleviates morning sickness.
•
Wind-cold: fever, aversion to cold, headache, nasal congestion, cough,
chest
discomfort or stifling sensation in the chest.
•
Spleen and stomach Qi stagnation: distended chest, vomiting, morning
sickness, poor appetite, nausea, bloating.
•
Seafood poisoning: abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea.
•
Morning sickness: best to use the stem (Zi
su geng) rather than the leaf.
•
Its ability to release the exterior is mild compared to Ma
huang and Gui
zhi,
but it is stronger than Jing
jie and Fang
feng at dispersing cold.
•
Excellent for treating turbidity.
•
Short cook.
Hsu:
Extract prolongs duration of sleep.
HF:
A San Du,
scattering toxin medicinal, typically found in Gu
Zheng (Gu
parasites) formulas (key herb in Su
He Tang).
Li
Dong Yuan:
Upbears Yang Qi.
DY:
Zi su (the
leaves [Zi su ye]
and stems [Zi su geng]
of Perilla) can be
combined with Huang lian
to clear stomach heat, dry dampness, rectify the
Qi, and stop vomiting. For the following indications, ginger mix-fried Huang
lian should be used:
-
1.
Vomiting and nausea due to stomach heat or damp-heat in the middle
burner along with Qi stagnation in the middle burner.
-
2.
Vomiting during pregnancy due to heat or damp-heat along with Qi
stagnation in the middle burner.
•
Zi su geng
(the stem) moves the Qi, opens the center, rectifies the Qi, quiets
the fetus, and particularly treats vomiting due to pregnancy,
threatened
miscarriage, and epigastric or abdominal distention.
•
Zi su ye and Zi su geng are
often combined and added to formulas to treat
plum pit sensation or wind-cold attacks with food stagnation or
vomiting.
BF:
The contemporary standard description of Perilla is that it is acrid
and
warm, it enters the Lungs and spleen, and its functions are to effuse
the
exterior, scatter cold, rectify the Qi, and harmonize the constructive.
It treats
wind-cold flu, aversion to cold, emission of heat, cough, qi panting,
chest and
abdominal distention and fullness, and restless stirring of the fetus.
While
all the sources quoted in the Zhong
Yao Da Ci Dian (Large Dictionary
of Chinese Medicinals) say that
this medicinal is acrid and warm, the Ben
Cao
Yan Yi (Amplified Meaning Materia Medica)
says that Perilla is only slightly
acrid and also sweet. The Ben
Cao Jing Shu (Oversights in the Materia
Medica Classic) says its enters
the hand Shaoyin and Taiyin and the foot
Yangming, while the Ben Cao
Jing Jie (Explaining the Materia Medica
Classic) says it enters the foot
Jueyin and hand Taiyin. In terms of functions
and indications, the Ri Hua Zi
Ben Cao (Ri Hua-zi's Materia Medica)
says it
supplements the center and boosts the Qi as well as frees the flow of
the large
and small intestines. The Ben
Cao Tu Jing (Illustrated Materia Medica
Classic) says it frees the flow
of the heart channel and boosts the spleen and
stomach. These other historical opinions suggest there is more to
Perilla than
its just resolving the exterior and downbearing upwardly counterflowing
Lung
and stomach Qi.
Restless
fetal stirring refers to lower abdominal pain with leakage of blood
from the vaginal meatus and low back pain during pregnancy. These are
symptoms of threatened miscarriage. Most threatened and/or unstoppable
miscarriages in my practice are due to insufficient production of
progesterone.
This usually goes hand in hand with a luteal phase deficiency and is,
in my
opinion, commonly due to autoimmune ovaritis. Such luteal phase
deficiencies and progesterone insufficiencies in 35-50 year old Western
women are overwhelmingly accompanied by signs and symptoms of spleen
Qi-kidney Yang vacuity complicated by liver depression and possible
damp
heat, depressive heat, and/or blood stasis, and it is very interesting
to me that
Perilla is accepted as an empirically effective Chinese medicinal for
quieting
the fetus - something one would not expect from an exterior-resolving
herb.
The
Ben
Cao Tong Xuan (The Mystery-penetrating Materia Medica)
says that
Perilla may discharge (drain) a person's true Qi if administered for a
long
period of time. Resolving the exterior means to promote sweating and
sweating always results in a loss of true Yin and Yang Qi.
However,
when combined with Mume, this medicinal's negative effects of
discharging and draining are counterbalanced. As an exterior-resolving
medicinal, Perilla is contraindicated in Yin vacuity patterns for fear
of further
damaging Yin fluids, but Mume engenders fluids. Likewise, over-effusing
and
out-thrusting can damage the Yang qi, but Mume's astringing and
securing of
the Lung Qi prevents this.
3-9g
|
Herbs
That Clear Summer Heat
|
The
year I learned single herbs from Guohui Liu, he chose not to utilize
this
category. Most of the herbs that clear summer-heat have other
significant functions and may be assigned to these
categories instead. Summer-heat attack, depending on where one lives,
may be quite rare. Following is a list of herbs
that clear summer heat which can be found in other categories in this
book and also full descriptions of a few herbs that
clear summer-heat as (perhaps) their most significant action.
• Bai
bian dou
(Qi Tonics)
• Che
qian zi
- treats diarrhea due to summer-heat (Herbs that Drain Dampness)
• Dong
gua pi
- treats edema due to summer-heat (Herbs that Drain Dampness)
• Dou
Juan
- see Dan dou chi section (Acrid, Cool Herbs that Release the Exterior)
• Hua
shi
(Herbs that Drain Dampness)
• Huo
xiang
(Aromatic Herbs that Transform Dampness)
• Ju
hua
(Acrid, Cool Herbs that Release the Exterior)
• Lian
fang
(Herbs that Stop Bleeding)
• Pei
lan
(Aromatic Herbs that Transform Dampness)
• Qing
hao
(Herbs that Clear Deficiency Heat)
• Ren
shen ye
- see Ren shen section(Qi tonics)
• Tai
zi shen
- treats unrelenting summer-heat in children (Qi tonics)
• Xiang
ru
(Acrid, Warm Herbs that Release the Exterior)
|
He
Ye
Lotus
leaf
Nelumbo
nucifera
|
Particularly
suited for treating diarrhea due to summer-heat. Also frequently used
to promote weight loss.
|
|
Lu
Dou
Mung
Bean
Phaseolus
|
Particularly
suited for treating thirst due to summer-heat. Also used to detoxify
toxic
herbs and for overdose of toxic herbs.
|
|
Xi
Gua
Watermelon
fruit
|
Particularly
suited for treating thirst and scanty urine due to summer-heat. The
white
part ("watermelon frost" is coldest).
|
Herbs
That Clear Heat And Reduce Fire
|
These
herbs are among the coldest in the Chinese herbal pharmacopeia. Many
are used for Qi level or Yangming stage full heat.
From
a
Western perspective, a number of these herbs are antipyretic and some
are anti-inflammatory.
Also
consider, when appropriate: Huang qin, Huang lian, Huang Bai, Da huang,
Tian Men Dong, Di Yu, Jue ming zi, Han shui shi, Gu jing cao, etc.
Herbs
in this category are commonly combined with:
A.
Herbs that strengthen the spleen and stomach, when there is deficiency
of these organs.
B.
Herbs that nourish Yin, when there is injury of body fluids by heat or
the patient has pre-existing Yin deficiency.
C.
Herbs that tonify Zhen Qi when used for patients with a weak
constitution.
|
Dan
Zhu
Ye
Lophatherum
stem
and leaves
"Bland
Bamboo
Leaf"
(Not
actually a true bamboo)
|
sweet
bland
cold
|
Ht
St
SI
|
Promotes
urination; drains Ying level heat; conducts heart heat to the small
intestine (conducts Ying level heat back to the Qi level); clears
damp-heat;
disperses upper Jiao heat; eliminates irritability or restlessness (by
clearing heat
from the heart, small intestine and stomach).
•
Heat patterns with irritability, restlessness, thirst.
•
Concentrated, rough, burning urination. Especially for heat in the
heart/small
intestine with irritability and a dark red tip of the tongue.
•
Stomach or heart channel heat: canker sores or tongue sores, swollen
and
painful gums.
•
Lingering Qi level heat.
•
Some use this herb for Lung wind-heat, since it is very light and can
disperse
heat in the upper Jiao.
•
Dan zhu ye's
diuretic effect is weaker than Mu
tong.
•
Note: Despite the translation of its name and its similar appearance to
bamboo, this herb is of the Lophatherum genus, not Bambusa (true
bamboo).
Hsu:
Anticarcinogenic effect; diuretic.
6-9g
|
Lian
Xin
(Lian
Zi Xin)
Lotus
seed heart or plumule
|
bitter
cold
|
Ht
PC
|
Drains
heart fire; stops bleeding, binds Jing
•
Warm-febrile disease: heat collapse into the pericardium channel
causing mental confusion, delirium, mania.
•
Heart fire: insomnia or irritability.
•
Used as a powder for hematemesis, spermatorrhea.
•
Lowers blood pressure, primarily by vasodilation.
Hsu:
Dilates the coronary arteries; relaxes uterine smooth muscle.
1.5-6g
|
Lu
Gen
Reed
rhizome
Phragmites
|
sweet
cold
|
Lu
St
|
Generates
body fluids; mildly promotes urination; clears heat from the Lungs
and stomach; conducts Lung heat to the bladder and discharges it;
promotes
expression of incomplete rashes; stops vomiting; eases restlessness;
eliminates
phlegm.
•
Lung heat, wind-heat, or phlegm-heat: cough, dry mouth, with or without
sticky yellow sputum. Especially useful in acute stage. For
phlegm-heat, Lu
gen dilutes the phlegm and makes
it easier to expel.
•
Heat in febrile disease, stomach fire: thirst, dry tongue, fever, Shen
disturbance - restlessness.
•
Stomach heat: vomiting, belching, nausea.
•
Heat: dark scanty urine, hematuria. Especially useful when accompanied
by
thirst and irritability.
•
Lu gen
can also drain pus and treat pulmonary abscesses.
•
Febrile disease with rashes that are incompletely expressed.
•
This herb is most potent when fresh (rather than dried).
15-30
(up to 60g alone for incomplete expression of rashes)
|
Mi
Meng
Hua
Buddleia
flower
|
sweet
cold
|
Lv
|
Benefits
the eyes.
•
Red, swollen, painful eyes, excessively tearing, superficial visual
obstruction,
photosensitivity.
•
Can be used in both deficiency and excess patterns.
MLT:
Also for cataracts and for heat and inflammation of the face, head,
throat, teeth, and gums.
3-9g
|
Qing
Xiang Zi
Celosia
seed
|
bitter
sl.
cold
|
Lv
|
Reduces
liver fire to improve the vision and remove nebulas; clears wind-heat.
•
Liver fire or wind-heat affecting the eyes: red, swollen, painful eyes,
poor
vision, superficial visual obstruction, cataracts.
•
Lowers blood pressure: recently used for hypertension associated with
liver
Yang rising. In one study with cases of 160-230 mm Hg systolic and
100-135
diastolic, blood pressure was reduced to 125-145 over 78-90 after one
month of
treatment with Qing xiang zi.
•
Dilates the pupils.
•
Not for liver and kidney Yin deficiency or glaucoma.
Hsu:
Antiphlogistic; dilates the pupils.
3-15g
|
Shi
Gao
Gypsum
"Stone
Paste"
|
acrid
sweet
very
cold
|
Lu
St
|
Clears
heat and reduces fire from the Lungs and stomach; eases restlessness
and thirst; the calcined form promotes tissue regeneration.
•
Lung/stomach, Yangming
stage, or Qi level heat: big, forceful pulse, high
fever, restlessness, thirst, profuse sweats, red tongue, yellow coat.
•
Stomach channel fire: headache, swollen and painful gums, toothache.
•
Lung heat: cough, wheezing, fever, thick, viscous sputum.
•
Topical: use the calcined form for eczema, burns, ulcerated sores,
non-healing
carbuncles. This herb may also be taken internally for these conditions.
•
This herb should be crushed and cooked 20-30 minutes longer than other
herbs.
•
Shi gao
is stronger at clearing Lung and stomach heat than Zhi
mu or Lu
gen.
•
Shi gao
is commonly combined with Ma
huang. Ma
huang's acrid quality
helps to disperse Lung Qi, and its warm nature mitigates Shi
gao's coldness. Shi
gao lessens Ma
huang's diaphoretic
action, and its heavy quality helps Ma
huang more effectively descend
Lung Qi. Together, they effectively diffuse the
Lungs and calm asthma, disinhibit urination and disperse swelling,
clear heat
and drain fire.
Li- "Shi
gao
is like Tylenol." Can relieve pain and lower the body
temperature.
MLT:
Potent for lowering fever: high fever, including that associated with
meningitis, encephalitis.
•
Shi gao
has little or no antibiotic properties.
•
If necessary for long term, repeated use (e.g. reddening of the face
from food
allergies), Shi hu
may be a better choice.
Hsu:
Reduces thirst; hypotensive; antiphlogistic; tranquilizing effect.
DY:
Heavy, downbearing, draining; engenders fluids, alleviates thirst;
resolves
heat from the muscles and from the exterior.
•
For inflammatory rheumatism or hot Bi,
use 150g per day, and in severe
cases, up to 250g/day.
•
With Zhi mu
to strongly clear and drain replete heat (from the Lungs and
stomach) while protecting fluids and Yin. For such indications as:
-
1.
Persistent high fever, great thirst and desire for cold drinks, dry
tongue,
vexation, profuse perspiration, and a surging, big pulse due to heat in
the Qi
division. (Use Bai Hu Tang.)
-
2.
Upper thirsting and wasting with polydipsia, a dry mouth and tongue,
and
great thirst due to replete Lung heat damaging fluids. (Use stir-fried Zhi
mu.)
•
With Chuan xiong
to dispel wind, clear and drain heat, quicken the blood and
move the Qi, and stop pain. For headaches due to wind-heat or full heat
(particularly that which is located in the Shaoyang
or Jueyin
channels). Use
unprepared Chuan xiong.
For wind-heat headaches, add herbs that dispel wind. Usual dosage of Shi
gao for these indications is
30-60g.
•
With Gui zhi
to clear heat, free the flow of the network vessels, stop pain, and
treat heat Bi
or impediment. For such indications as rheumatic pain of the heat
type with redness, heat, swelling, and severe pain in the joints. (Bai
Hu Gui
Zhi Tang)
9-30g
(to 90g for very high fevers)
|
Tian
Hua Fen
Trichosanthes
root
"Heavenly
Flower
Powder"
|
bitter
sl.
sweet
cold
|
Lu
St
|
Strongly
clears heat from the Lungs and stomach; strongly drains pus and
relieves swelling; transforms phlegm; generates body fluids, moistens
Lung
dryness; relieves toxicity.
•
Heat injures the body fluids: restlessness, irritability, thirst,
cough, dry tongue
coat, wasting and thirsting disorder.
•
Heat in the Lungs: cough, including dry cough, or coughing
blood-streaked
sputum
•
Heat and toxicity: red, swollen, painful carbuncles, boils, other
swellings,
sores. Especially useful for breast abscess (both internally and
topically).
•
Diabetes: heat in the Lungs and stomach with strong hunger and extreme
thirst. Use 60-90g or more.
•
Abortifacient (used 2nd
trimester) - applied via a tea-soaked tampon or IM
injection (also with She xiang)
- takes 3-6 days to have an effect.
•
compared to Mai men dong
and Tian men dong, Tian hua fen
is best for Lung
For heat and dryness, Tian hua
fen is most useful for when the
origin is
stomach heat. Mai men dong
is superior when the origin is heart fire, and Tian
men dong is superior when the
origin is kidney Yin deficiency.
•
Tian hua fen
is much stronger than Lu gen
at relieving swelling and draining
pus.
•
Bensky/Gamble and MLT classify this with herbs that resolve phlegm-heat.
•
Some people are allergic to this herb.
9-30g
Contains
Compound Q/Trichosanthin/GLQ223 - a protein which has been
utilized in the treatment of various kinds of ulcers, as an
abortifacient, and to
treat diseases of trophoblastic origin, such as hydatiform mole,
invasive mole,
choriocarcinoma. It appears to inhibit HIV-1 replication in acutely
infected T-lymphoblastoid cells and chronically infected macrophages,
and appears to
selectively kill HIV-infected cells.
It
produces an anaphylactic reaction in 10-20% of users. Pharmaceutical
companies have produced chemically modified variations for greatly
reduced
allergenicity.
CHA:
(Harriet Beinfield, Efrem Korngold, March 7, 2001):
Weidong
Lu, MD, L.Ac., Chairman of the Chinese Herbal Medicine
Department at the New England School of Acupuncture, explains that
trichosanthin is a type of protein that is inactivated by digestive
enzymes or by
decocting the herb in boiling water. Trichosanthin cannot be absorbed
as an
active protein by the intestine from either the crude herbal material
or the water
extract. He further states that trichosanthin can only exert toxicity
via
intravenous or intramuscular injection, and that overdoses of injected
Trichosanthes root may cause allergic reactions that include malaise,
sore
throat, headache, swelling, itching, and rashes. He maintains that
Trichosanthes
root is non-toxic when consumed orally in appropriate doses.
|
Xia
Ku
Cao
Prunella
spike
Selfheal
"Summer
Withered
Herb"
|
bitter
acrid
cold
|
Lv
GB
|
Clears
liver fire; brightens the eyes; disperses stagnant phlegm and fire,
dissipates nodules.
•
Liver fire: red, swollen, painful eyes, lots of tears, dizziness,
photophobia,
headache.
•
Liver deficiency: eye pain that increases in the evening, especially
when the
eyes are neither red nor swollen.
•
Stagnant phlegm-fire: neck nodules, lipomas, swollen glands, scrofula,
goiter. Also for similar nodules in the inguinal groove or other parts
of the body.
•
Mildly reduces hypertension (probably through vasodilation), especially
when
accompanied by liver fire or Yang rising.
•
Broad antimicrobial (tuberculosis, shigella, salmonella, E.
coli, pseudomonas,
strep, many other fungi and bacteria).
Li:
Softens hardness: thick blood, lumps (including hyperthyroidism),
hardened skin in eczema.
MLT:
Also for conjunctivitis; some cancers.
PCBDP:
Astringent, vulnerary.
9-15g
(up to 30g taken alone)
|
Ye
Ming
Sha
Bat
feces
|
acrid
cold
|
Lv
|
Clears
the liver and improves vision.
Night
blindness, superficial visual obstruction, cataracts.
Also
used for childhood nutritional impairment.
Doctrine
of signatures: bats are blind, fly at night - for vision, especially at
night.
3-9g
|
Zhi
Mu
Anemarrhena
rhizome
"Know
About
Mother"
|
bitter
sweet
cold
|
Lu
St
K
|
Mildly
nourishes Yin, moistens dryness; clears heat and reduces fire from the
Lungs, stomach, and kidneys.
•
Extreme heat in the Lungs and stomach, Yangming
stage or Qi level: high
fever, restlessness, irritability, thirst, big, rapid, forceful pulse.
•
Lung heat (including Yin deficiency): cough, including with thick,
yellow
sputum.
•
Kidney (and Lung) Yin deficiency: tidal fever, night sweats,
restlessness,
steaming bone disorder, irritability, warmth in the five centers,
bleeding gums.
•
Also for kidney heat signs such as spermatorrhea, nocturnal emissions,
and an
abnormally elevated sex drive.
•
Lung, stomach, and kidney Yin deficiency: excessive thirst, hunger, and
urination - diabetes (often used with Tian
hua fen).
•
Treats both excess and deficiency heat.
•
For excess Lung heat, it is often combined with Huang
qin. For Lung Yin
deficiency heat, it is often uses with Mai
men dong. For excess stomach
heat,
it is commonly combined with Shi
gao. For stomach Yin deficiency
heat, it is
used with Tian hua fen.
For kidney Yin deficiency heat, it is often used with Huang
bai
and Shu di.
•
Fry it in salt water to strengthen its ability to nourish the kidneys
and to direct
the actions of a formula downward.
Li:
Can lower the body temperature.
DY:
Treats all three Jiaos; clears the Qi division; drains deficiency fire
from
the lower burner, drains [aberrant] ministerial fire.
•
If thirst is predominant, bran stir-fried or honey mix-fried Zhi
mu should be
used.
•
If dry cough is predominant, Zhi
mu should be stir-fried until
scorched.
•
With Bai he
to moisten the Lungs and clear heat, nourish the heart and quiet
the spirit. For such indications as:
-
1.
Vexation and agitation, insomnia, vertigo, thirst related to a warm
disease
which has damaged Yin or due to Yin deficiency with deficiency heat.
-
2.
Dry cough, vexation and agitation after a warm disease.
-
3.
Lily disease.
•
With Chuan bei mu
to clear and moisten the Lungs, enrich Yin, drain fire,
transform phlegm, and stop cough. For such indications as:
-
1.
Enduring dry cough with little phlegm and difficult expectoration,
sometimes fever, dry mouth, and a dry, red tongue due to water
deficiency
causing rising fire or due to Lung Yin deficiency. (Use stir-fried Zhi
mu)
-
2.
Cough due to Lung heat which causes Lung dryness.
•
With Huang bai
to clear heat, enrich Yin, drain deficiency fire, resolve toxins,
and eliminate dampness in the lower burner. For such indications as:
-
1.
Evening fever, steaming bones, and night sweats caused by Yin
deficiency. - 2. Seminal emission, premature ejaculation, easy
erection, excessive thinking
about sex, sexual hyperexcitability, erotic dreams, nymphomania due to
deficiency fire and hyperactive ministerial fire.
-
3.
Dysuria due to Yin deficiency and to Yang losing its ability to
transform (at
the level of the bladder). For all these indications, both herbs should
be salt
mix-fried to guide their action toward the lower burner and kidneys.
•
With Shi gao
to strongly clear and drain replete heat (from the Lungs and
stomach) while protecting fluids and Yin. For such indications as:
-
1.
Persistent high fever, great thirst and desire for cold drinks, dry
tongue,
vexation, profuse perspiration, and a surging, big pulse due to heat in
the Qi
division. (Use Bai Hu Tang.)
-
2.
Upper thirsting and wasting with polydipsia, a dry mouth and tongue,
and
great thirst due to replete Lung heat damaging fluids. (Use stir-fried Zhi
mu.)
MLT:
Broad spectrum antibiotic; has a downward energy, helps lubricate the
kidneys.
•
For heat with thirst unrelieved by drinking.
Hsu:
Reduces blood sugar; antibacterial.
6-12g
|
Zhi
Zi
(Shan
Zhi Zi)
Gardenia
Cape
Jasmine fruit
|
bitter
very
cold
|
Ht
Lu
St
SJ
Lv
|
Clears
heat in all three Jiaos; mildly drains dampness; cools the blood; stops
bleeding; eliminates toxicity; reduces fire from the heart, Lungs, and
stomach
to ease restlessness; topically reduces swelling and blood stasis due
to trauma.
•
Heat in the Lungs, stomach, or heart: restlessness, irritability,
fever, stifling
sensation in the chest, insomnia, delirious speech.
•
Liver/gallbladder damp-heat (and constraint): jaundice, fever, scanty
urination.
•
Lower Jiao damp-heat: painful urinary dysfunction.
•
Damp-heat in the gallbladder and san jiao channels of the face,
affecting the
nose and eyes or causing sores in the mouth or facial region.
•
Heat in the blood: hematemesis, hematuria, hemafecia, epistaxis.
Usually
partially charred for this use.
•
Topical: powder the herb and mix it with egg white or vinegar for
swelling
and blood stasis due to trauma.
•
Increases contraction of the gallbladder 20 to 40 minutes after
ingestion.
•
A paste made of ground Zhi zi,
water, and alcohol was used in an
uncontrolled study of 407 acute sprains. The paste was changed every
2-5
days. 80% of patients had no pain within 24 and 97% were pain free
within 48
hours. Swelling and restoration of function were also improved.
•
Though Wei Li freely uses 9g/day, Guohui Liu is often more conservative
with the dosage, cautioning that it is very bitter and cold and can
nauseate some
patients.
•
This herb should be pounded before cooking.
•
Partially char the herb when using it to cool the blood and stop
bleeding.
•
Chao zhi zi
is Zhi zi
which is dry-fried until it turns yellow. It is less likely
than plain Zhi zi
to cause nausea or vomiting.
Li:
Can lower the body temperature.
MLT:
Also promotes blood circulation; relieves pain.
•
Liver damp-heat: jaundice, hepatitis, boils, sores.
•
Sometimes called the "happiness herb" because it
relieves irritability
associated with heat and liver stagnation.
Hsu:
Cholagogue, lowers blood bilirubin; hypotensive; antibacterial.
DY:
This is one of the bitterest substances in the Chinese pharmacopeia.
•
The outer layer (epicarpium) of Zhi
zi (Shan
zhi ke) moves blood and clears
external heat. The seeds inside (Shan
zhi ren) clear internal heat.
The seeds
with the epicarpium are superior for draining Lung fire. The seeds
without the
epicarpium are superior for draining heart fire.
•
With Dan dou chi,
the two herbs unite to form the clearing and diffusing and
out-thrusting method to eliminate evils from the exterior and interior.
Together, they effectively promote perspiration, drain evils from the
exterior,
clear and out-thrust heat from the interior, and eliminate vexation due
to full
heat. For indications such as:
-
1.
Vexation and agitation, insomnia, and irritability during or after a
warm
disease. (Zhi Zi Chi Tang)
Use stir-fried Dan dou chi.
-
2.
External contraction of wind-heat or a febrile disease.
3-12g
|
Herbs
That Clear Heat And Cool The Blood
|
•
This category consists of two moistening herbs - Sheng
di and Xuan
shen - and three moving herbs - Chi
shao, Mu
dan pi, and Zi
cao. Xi
jiao should no longer be used.
•
Herbs in this category are commonly combined with:
A.
Herbs that strengthen the spleen and stomach, when there is deficiency
of these organs.
B.
Herbs that nourish Yin, when there is injury of body fluids by heat or
the patient has pre-existing Yin deficiency.
C.
Herbs that clear heat and reduce fire, when there is a combination of Qi
and Xue
level invasion.
Herbs
in other categories that also cool the blood. Consider as appropriate:
Bai Mao Gen [Stop
Bleeding], Bai Tou Weng [Clear
Heat & Toxins], Bai Wei [Clear
Deficiency Heat], Ban Lan Gen [Clear
Heat & Toxins], Ce Bai Ye [Stop
Bleeding], Da Qing Ye [Clear
Heat & Toxins], Dai Zhe Shi [Subdue
Liver], Dan Shen [Move
Blood], Di Yu [Stop
Bleeding], Di Gu Pi [Clear
Deficiency Heat], Gui Ban [Nourish
Yin], Mo Han Lian (Han Lian Cao) [Nourish
Yin], Huai Hua [Stop
Bleeding], Luo Shi Teng [Expel
Wind-Damp], Qian Cao Gen [Stop
Bleeding], Qing Dai [Clear
Heat & Toxins], Qing Hao [Clear
Deficiency Heat], Sang Ye (charred) [Acrid,
Cool], Xiao Ji [Stop
Bleeding], Yin Chai Hu [Clear
Deficiency Heat], Yu Jin [Move
Blood], Zhi Zi [Clear
Heat Reduce
Fire], Zhu Ru [Resolve
Phlegm].
|
Chi
Shao Yao
Red
Peony root
|
bitter
sl.
cold
|
Lv
Ht
Sp
|
Promotes
blood circulation, dispels blood stasis, relieves pain; clears heat;
cools the blood; clears liver fire.
•
Blood stasis: pain and swelling (including after trauma), dysmenorrhea,
amenorrhea, immobile abdominal masses. Not for amenorrhea due to
cold/Yang deficiency.
•
Xue level heat or heat in blood: skin eruptions, fever, purple tongue,
bleeding including hematemesis, epistaxis.
•
Liver fire: red, swollen, painful eyes.
•
Heat-toxicity in the blood: carbuncles, boils, red, swollen eyes.
•
Many sources classify this herb as a blood mover.
•
Compared to Mu dan pi, Chi shao
is only to be used for excess heat, while Mu
dan pi
can be used either for excess or deficiency. Chi
shao is stronger
than Mu dan pi
at relieving pain.
•
Chi shao
and Bai shao
may be derived from the same plant (Paeonia
lactiflora). Usually, but not
always, Bai shao
is gathered in the wild, while Chi
shao
is cultivated. The two are used together for pain and irritability
associated with constrained liver Qi stagnation or pain and swelling
due to
trauma.
•
For hepatitis, Chi shao
is often used in very high doses (to 60g).
Hsu:
Tranquilizes the CNS; suppresses abdominal pain caused by spasm of the
smooth muscle of the small intestine; inhibits common cold viruses;
dilates
coronary arteries.
DY:
When using many cold herbs, add Chi shao to prevent the cold from
causing blood stagnation.
•
For Hepatitis A and B (Chi shao
regulates gamma GT and transaminases)
due to liver fire or liver blood stasis. Most hepatitis (especially
enduring
cases) presents with blood stasis. Give 10-30g/day (depending on the
severity
of stasis) on a routine basis in this disease.
•
With Bai shao
to nourish the blood, constrain Yin, stop pain, cool the blood
without causing blood stasis, and drain and nourish the liver. For such
indications as:
-
1.
Persistent low-grade fever due to heat in the blood. (Add Sheng
di, Di gu
pi, and Mu
dan pi.)
-
2.
Dry mouth and tongue, red and painful eyes due to insufficiency of
fluids
or Yin caused by residual heat. (Wine mix-fry both herbs and add Xiang
fu and Dang
gui.)
-
3.
Lateral costal and chest pain, abdominal pain and conglomerations due
to
blood stasis or liver depression Qi stagnation.
-
4.
Menstrual irregularities or amenorrhea caused by blood stasis, blood
deficiency, and/or liver depression Qi stagnation.
4.5-15g
|
Mu
Dan
Pi
Cortex
of Tree Peony
root
Moutan
Paeonia
suffruticosa
|
bitter
acrid
sl.
cold
|
Ht
Lv
K
|
Promotes
blood circulation; dispels blood stasis; clears heat, including
deficiency heat; cools the blood; drains pus, reduces swelling; clears
liver fire.
•
Heat in the blood or Xue
level heat: skin eruptions, hematemesis, epistaxis,
hemoptysis, subcutaneous bleeding, frequent and profuse menstruation.
•
Blood stasis: dysmenorrhea, amenorrhea, uterine masses, lumps, bruises,
swelling, pain due to traumatic injury. Often combined with Gui
zhi.
•
Yin deficiency heat: fever (especially low grade, evening), steaming
bone
disorder. Particularly used in the aftermath of febrile disease. Most
suitable in
the absence of sweating.
•
Heat-toxicity in the blood: yang-type carbuncles, boils, abscesses -
including
intestinal abscess. Also used topically for firm, non-draining sores.
•
Liver fire: headache, eye pain, flank pain, flushing, dysmenorrhea.
•
Appendicitis: with Yi yi ren,
Da huang.
•
Lowers blood pressure. In one study using Mu
dan pi to treat 20 cases of
hypertension, all diastolic readings dropped 10-20 mm Hg within 33
days, and
symptoms improved.
•
Use it in its raw form to cool the blood.
•
Dry-fry it to promote blood circulation.
•
Char it to stop bleeding.
MLT:
Mu dan pi's
blood circulating properties are similar to Gui
zhi.
•
For trauma, bruises with ecchymotic blood
•
Strong downward action: not for wind-heat or Qi level heat - can drive
exterior pathogens deeper into the body.
DY:
Stops bleeding.
With
Dan
shen to quicken the blood and
dispel stasis, cool the blood, and
eliminate deficiency heat. For indications such as:
-
1.
Hematemesis, epistaxis, metrorrhagia, purpura, and also rubella and
pruritis due to heat in the blood division.
-
2.
Menstrual irregularities, dysmenorrhea, amenorrhea, dark purple
menstrual
blood with clots, and postpartum abdominal pain due to heat in the
blood
which causes blood stasis.
-
3.
Continuous, low-grade fever due to Yin deficiency heat. In this case,
if
there are night sweats, use Di
gu pi instead of Mu
dan pi.
-
4.
Hot, red, swollen, painful joints due to hot Bi
or impediment.
•
Mu dan pi
is incompatible with garlic and coriander.
Hsu:
Hypotensive, antibacterial, tranquilizing effects.
6-12g
|
Sheng
Di Huang
Rehmannia
root
(Unprepared)
"Fresh
Earth Yellow"
|
sweet
bitter
cold
|
Ht
Lv
K
Sp
|
Nourishes
Yin, generates body fluids; clears heat; cools the blood; cools
upward-blazing heart fire; slightly promotes bowel movement (by
generating
fluids).
•
Ying
or Xue
level heat: feverish body, dry mouth, deep red tongue,
hemorrhage.
•
Heat in the blood: epistaxis, hematemesis, hematuria, uterine bleeding.
•
Heart fire blazing upward: mouth and tongue sores, irritability,
insomnia,
afternoon or low grade fever, malar flush.
•
Injury of Yin or body fluids by heat: constipation, dry mouth, red
tongue,
thirst, continuous low-grade fever.
•
Yin deficiency: wasting and thirsting disorder, throat pain.
•
Sheng di huang's ability to nourish Yin is relatively weak
compared to most
herbs classified as Yin tonics.
•
Hepatitis: Sheng di is a liver protectant.
•
Rheumatoid arthritis: May reduce joint pain and swelling, improve
function,
nodules, and rash, and decrease temperature. May reduce ESR to normal.
•
Eczema.
•
Ulcerative colitis.
MLT:
Antifungal, antibacterial.
•
Normalizes blood sugar for diabetes mellitus.
•
Stimulates new growth of flesh and bone for injuries.
PFGC:
Moistens the skin, promotes a glossy appearance.
•
In patients with weak stomach Qi, it may cause poor appetite.
•
Can be used to gently clear away exuberant Qi - after taking it, it
will bring
about temporary peace.
•
Contains iron - partly responsible for its ability to generate and cool
the
blood.
•
Boosts the vessels, generates jing and marrow, brightens the eyes,
clears the
ears, treats taxation heat.
Hsu:
Hemostatic, diuretic, lowers blood sugar.
DY:
In the beginning of treatment, it can cause loose stools for 1-3 days.
This
side effect usually goes away on its own.
HF:
An An Shen
(spirit calming) herb, important in Gu
Zheng (Gu
parasite)
formulas (because of emotional disturbance common in patients with Gu).
9-30g
|
Xi
Jiao
Rhinoceros
horn
Shi
Niu
Jiao
Water
Buffalo horn
|
bitter
salty
cold
|
Ht
Lv
St
|
This
herb has been included only because of the important position it has
held
historically in classical Chinese herbal medicine. The market for this
and other
rare animal products has led to the endangerment and abuse of many
wonderful creatures.
Cools
the blood; stops bleeding; reduces fire; eliminates toxicity; calms the
Shen; relieves convulsions and tremors.
•
Heat in the blood or Ying
or Xue
level invasion of heat: epistaxis,
hematemesis, erythema, purpura, convulsions, delirium, very high fever.
•
Blockage of the heart by fire (in disease caused by damp-heat):
delirium, high
fever, coma.
•
Ying
or Xue
level heat: unremitting high fever, loss of consciousness,
delirium, convulsions, manic behavior.
•
Heat and toxicity: skin eruptions
•
Used mainly for cases of extreme heat.
•
Never cooked. Powdered and taken directly.
•
Do not combine with aconite.
1-2g
taken directly
Shi
Niu Jiao: Water buffalo horn (Bubalus
bubalis)
•
Salty, cold.
•
Clears heat; cools the blood; relieves toxicity.
•
Shui niu jiao
and Xi jiao
have basically the same functions and composition,
but Shui niu jiao
is significantly weaker than Xi
jiao.
•
Ox horn is also used.
30-120g
in decoction, 6-15g as a powder
|
Xuan
Shen
Scrophularia
root
Ningpo
Figwort
"Dark
Root"
|
bitter
sweet
salty cold
|
K
Lu
St
|
Nourishes
Yin; strongly
clears heat and eliminates toxicity; cools the blood; softens
hardness,
dissipates nodules and swellings; drains fire.
•
Stagnation of heat/fire and toxicity in the blood: swollen, severely
painful
throat, swollen or red eyes, carbuncles, boils, nodes in the skin. For
throat
problems, Xuan shen
can be used for wind-heat, Lung heat, and kidney Yin
deficiency patterns when combined appropriately.
•
Ying
level heat with injury of the Yin: feverish body, dry mouth, deep red
tongue.
•
Heat in the blood or Xue
level heat: skin eruption, restlessness, delirium,
bleeding, dry mouth, purplish tongue.
•
Phlegm-fire: neck lumps, enlarged lymph nodes, etc. (Often with Zhe
bei
mu)
•
Weaker than Sheng di
at nourishing Yin.
•
Lowers blood pressure - especially effective for renal hypertension -
probably
by vasodilation.
•
Dry-fry it in salt to enhance its Yin nourishing properties.
•
Not to be combined with Li lu.
Li:
For enlarged lymph nodes, use Xuan
shen:Huang lian::1:2.
•
Caution with the dosage for sore throat - its ability to generate Yin
can create
phlegm (2g or less per day is safe).
•
Can treat hyperthyroidism
PFGC:
Treats rootless kidney fire attacking the throat.
Hsu:
Vasodilator; stimulates blood circulation; antiphlogistic; hypotensive;
antipyretic; hypoglycemiant; antifungal.
•
Use 30-90g for tuberculosis and vasculitis.
DY:
Drains floating fire; disinhibits the throat.
•
With Ban lan gen
to clear heat, resolve toxins, cool the blood, nourish Yin,
downbear fire, disinhibit the throat, disperse swelling, and stop pain.
For
painful, red, swollen throat with dry, red tongue, and a fine, rapid
pulse due to
Yin deficiency generating a deficiency fire or replete fire which
damages Yin. For heat-toxins, add Shan
dou gen and Gan
cao. For deficiency fire, add Mai
men dong and Sheng
di huang.
HF:
An An Shen
(spirit calming) herb, important in Gu
Zheng (Gu
parasite)
formulas (because of emotional disturbance common in patients with Gu).
NAH:
(Figwort - S. nodosa)
Alterative. Thought to stimulate the lymphatic
system. Formerly used [in Western herbalism] to treat scrofula
(tuberculosis
of the cervical lymph nodes). Because of its eliminative power, it is
useful for
eruptive skin diseases.
PCBDP:
(herb) Diuretic, depurative, anodyne.
6-30g
|
Zi
Cao
(Gen)
Lithospermum
root
or
Arnebia
"Purple
Herb"
|
sweet
cold
|
Ht
Lv
|
Clears
heat; cools the blood; promotes blood circulation; promotes the
expression of skin eruptions; eliminates toxicity; slight function to
moisten the
intestines and unblock the bowels; topically clears damp-heat from the
skin.
•
Skin eruptions due to a warm-heat pathogen, heat in the blood, or
extreme
heat and toxicity in the blood: early measles, chickenpox, eczema,
carbuncles,
boils, burns. Especially good for dark red or purple skin disorders.
•
Heat in the blood: constipation.
•
Topical: for damp-heat skin lesions, vaginal itching. Often used in
ointment
for burns, sores, etc.
•
May inhibit ovulation.
•
Antineoplastic effects.
•
Doctrine of signatures: Its purple color conveys it ability to enter
the blood
and to treat purple skin eruptions.
JTCM:
Its nature is mild. It cools the blood but is not harsh, it moves
blood,
but not recklessly. It promotes muscle regeneration, clears dampness,
heals
ulcers, kills parasites and fungus. It can prevent the growth of
bacteria and
also has anti-inflammatory properties. It promotes blood circulation,
growth
of the epithelium, and excretion of toxins. It treats allergic purpura
due to heat
in the blood.
•
Treatment of chronic hepatitis B and liver stagnant-heat:
Zi
cao treats liver stagnant-heat:
dull complexion, liver or spleen enlargement,
jaundice, stabbing pain in the liver area, low grade fever,
restlessness, burning
urination, constipation, bitter taste, dry mouth, dark red tongue with
a sticky
yellow coat, wiry pulse. This pattern includes chronic hepatitis B (its
main
pathology is stagnant damp-heat-toxicity). Experiments show the herb
has
activity against the hepatitis B virus. It also treats cirrhosis and
ascites.
To
treat chronic liver stagnant-heat, combine Zi
cao with Mu
dan pi, Chi shao,
Shan zha, Hu zhang, Bai jiang cao, Ku shen, Chai hu, Yu jin, Yin chen
hao. Add Huang
qi and Tai
zi shen if there is Qi
deficiency. Add Nu zhen zi
and Sheng di
if there is Yin deficiency.
•
Zi cao
oil for neurodermatitis:
Zi
cao oil: Soak Zi
cao in sesame oil (1 part herb :
2 parts oil) for 15 days. Strain the oil. Apply it to rashes 3-6
times/day.
Treats
neurodermatitis (skin rash due to nervous system disorder, including
with severe paroxysmal itchiness).
•
Zi cao
for retinal phlebitis and other eye problems:
Zi
Yun eye drops: Decoct 500g each
of Zi cao
and Dang gui
for 15 minutes.
Strain. For each liter of the fluid: Add 1kg Feng
mi. Cook for another 10
minutes. Strain. Add 100g Bing
pian and 3g She
xiang.
Drop
into the eyes three times daily.
Treats
retinal phlebitis (including blindness caused by it), cataracts,
bleeding of
the eyes.
While
applying the above eyedrops, give this formula internally:
Zi
Lan Tui Yi Tang: Zi
cao, Ban lan gen, Mu zei, Chan tui, Huang qi, Pao jia
pian. In 30 days, the symptoms
of 85% of patients are controlled. 95% of
patients recover in 90 days.
•
Zi cao
for festering otitis media:
Zi
cao oil #2: soak 100g Zi
cao in 1kg sesame oil. Cook over
low heat until
the Zi cao
becomes charcoal colored.
Treats
festering otitis media. To use, clear any pus from the ear with 3%
hydrogen peroxide. Apply 3-4 drops of oil into the ear 4-5 times/day.
Complete recovery usually takes 3-7 days.
Can
be
used for both acute and chronic ear conditions.
•
Zi cao
for burns:
Zi
Yun Gao: melt 150g beeswax. Add
30g each of Zi cao
and Dang gui,
and
500 mL sesame oil. Cook until the oil changes to a reddish-purple
color. Strain, cool.
Apply
to burns - especially first and second degree.
•
Zi cao
for chronic ulcers:
Zi
Cao Gao: soak Zi
cao (30g), Dang
gui (15g), and Chuan
jiao (3g) in 300
mL sesame oil for 24 hours. Bring to a boil. Add Chuan
shan jia (9g). Strain. Add 60g
beeswax. Allow to cool.
Apply
topically to chronic ulcers: Sterilize the surface of the ulcer. Apply Zi
Cao Gao. Cover with gauze. Use a
hot water bottle to warm it for 20 minutes,
twice a day. Change the gauze once daily. Ulcers usually heal in 14 or
fewer
applications.
K&R:
(L. officinale
- fruit, leaves, flowers)
Diuretic, emmenagogue, inhibits
pituitary gonadotropins [FSH and LH], TSH antagonist.
•
Wood yang, fire yang, earth yang:
•
Wood:
biliary dyskinesia, urinary and biliary calculi, hyper-folliculine
dysmenorrhea, mastosis, mastitis, hot flashes, spastic colon.
•
Fire:
excess pituitary hormone secretion, especially inhibits FSH and LH.
•
Earth:
hyperfolliculine dysmenorrhea, PMS.
RW:
(various Lithospermum species) Contraceptive: antigonadotropic,
anovulatory actions. Like oral contraceptives, it blocks the
gonadotropic
hormones of the anterior pituitary. Only reliable after prolonged use.
Still
does not reach the almost total efficacy of the contraceptive pill.
Taken as a
daily infusion by American Indian women for a period of six months to
ensure
infertility.
3-9g
|
Herbs
That Clear Heat And Dry Dampness
|
•
Because the herbs in this category are quite cold and bitter, use them
with caution in cases of body fluid injury or
deficiency of the spleen and/or stomach.
•
Herbs in this category are commonly combined with:
A.
Herbs that strengthen the spleen and stomach, when there is deficiency
of these organs.
B.
Herbs that nourish Yin, when there is injury of body fluids by heat or
the patient has pre-existing Yin deficiency.
C.
Herbs that clear heat and reduce fire, when there is fire.
D.
Herbs that clear heat and eliminate toxicity, when there is toxicity.
In
general, these herbs are related to or bear close resemblance to the
class of herbs that in Western herbalism are
called "bitter tonics." This use of the word "tonic" is somewhat
different from the Chinese
concept of a tonic. These
herbs are considered tonics because they are useful for atonic
conditions of membranes, muscles, and other tissues -
particularly of the gastrointestinal tract. Also, based on the doctrine
of signatures, yellow herbs are said to be useful
for yellow conditions (e.g. thick yellow tongue coat indicating
damp-heat, the yellowness of jaundice indicating
[yang-type] damp-heat, yellow phlegm), and to affect organs that
process yellow fluids - urine and bile (i.e. the biliary tract and
urinary tract). For these purposes (mainly digestive weakness) they are
prescribed in much smaller doses than those
given in Chinese herbalism for clearing damp-heat. Typical doses of the
bitters are a few drops of tincture in
water (up
to
about 60 drops), three
times daily, which might be equivalent to something from 0.02g to a
maximum of
1.5 g of the herb daily. When using these herbs in the Chinese
doses given below, they may be wisely combined with
protective/restorative supplements
(e.g., warming herbs such as sheng jiang; moderating herbs such as gan
cao, da zao; middle jiao rectifying herbs such as chen pi, mu xiang;
spleen Qi tonics; probiotics; l-glutamine; zinc-carnosine; etc.) when
appropriate.
Also
consider to clear Damp-Heat, when appropriate: Bai
hua she she cao, bai tou weng, bai xian pi, ban lan gen,
chuan xin lian, jin yin hua, ma chi xian, pu gong ying, shan dou gen,
tu fu ling, yu xing cao, hu huang lian, qin jiao,
xi xian cao, pei lan, bi xie, bian xu, che qian zi, chi xiao dou, deng
xin cao, di fu zi, dong gua ren, dong kui zi, hai jin
sha, hua shi, jin qian cao, mu tong, qu mai, shi wei, tong cao, yi yi
ren, yin chen hao, ze xie, da huang, gan sui, qian
niu zi, chuan lian zi, mu xiang, hu zhang, niu xi, si gua lou, yi mu
cao, chun gen pi, bai mao gen, di yu, huai hua, etc.
See
also herbs that also clear heat in the Drain Damp
category, Cool Herbs that Resolve Phlegm category, etc.
The
first three herbs in this category, plus Zhi
zi comprise the formula Huang
Lian Jie Du Tang.
|
Huang
Bai
Phellodendron
bark
Amur
Cork tree
"Yellow
Fir"
|
bitter
cold
|
K
BL
LI
|
Clears
heat and dries dampness (particularly from the lower Jiao); reduces
fire;
eliminates toxicity; clears deficiency heat; lowers blood pressure
•
Damp-heat (especially in the lower Jiao): painful urination, low back
pain,
thick yellow leukorrhea, foul-smelling diarrhea, dysenteric disorders,
prostatitis,
red, swollen and painful legs, feet, knees, or jaundice.
•
Yin deficiency heat: tidal fever, night sweats, spermatorrhea, steaming
bone
disorder, afternoon fever.
•
Damp-heat-toxicity: carbuncles, boils, sores, lesions, eczema. Can also
be
used as a wash, powder, or ointment.
•
Useful in meningitis.
•
Bacillary dysentery.
•
Topical: vaginitis and cervicitis from Trichomonas infection.
•
Conjunctivitis.
•
Weak antibiotic: contains berberine ∼1% or more (less than Huang
lian).
Li
Dong Yuan:
Leads rising Yang Qi back down to its lower source.
MLT:
Useful for kidney fire with nocturnal emissions, insatiable sexual
urges.
Hsu:
Antiphlogistic, anti-inflammatory.
DY:
With Zhi mu
to clear heat, enrich Yin, drain deficiency fire, resolve toxins,
and eliminate dampness in the lower burner. For such indications as:
-
1.
Evening fever, steaming bones, and night sweats caused by Yin
deficiency.
-
2.
Seminal emission, premature ejaculation, easy erection, excessive
thinking
about sex, sexual hyperexcitability, erotic dreams, nymphomania due to
deficiency fire and hyperactive ministerial fire.
-
3.
Dysuria due to Yin deficiency and to Yang losing its ability to
transform (at
the level of the bladder). For all these indications, both herbs should
be salt
mix-fried to guide their action toward the lower burner and kidneys.
•
With Cang zhu
for mutual reinforcement, to clear heat, dry dampness, disperse
swelling, and stop pain. For indications such as:
-
1.
Wilting of the lower extremities with pain in the sinews and bones due
to
damp-heat pouring downward. (Er
Miao San) Use salt mix-fried Huang
bai.
-
2.
Abnormal vaginal discharge, external vaginal itching, and cloudy,
scanty
urination due to damp-heat. (Use Cang
zhu which has been stir-fried
until
scorched.)
-
3.
Red, swollen, hot, painful joints due to wind, damp, heat impediment. (Cang
Zhu San)
•
With Ze xie
to clear and drain fire due to Yin deficiency, and clear and
eliminate dampness and heat. For indications such as:
-
1.
Steaming bones, night sweats, and seminal emission due to deficiency
fire. (Zhi Bai Di Huang Wan)
Both herbs should be salt mix-fried.
-
2.
Inhibited urination and pricking, painful urination due to damp-heat in
the
lower burner. (Salt mix-fried Huang
bai and either unprepared or
salt mix-fried Ze xie
should be used.)
3-12g
|
Huang
Lian
Coptis
rhizome
Gold
thread
"Yellow
Links"
|
bitter
cold
|
Ht
Lv
LI
St
Sp
|
Clears
heat; dries dampness; reduces fire; eliminates toxicity; clears heart
fire,
drains stomach and liver fire; adjusts the appetite; stops bleeding due
to heat.
•
Heart fire: irritability, insomnia, high fever, restlessness, coma,
delirium. Also
combined with Rou gui
for heart/kidney disharmony.
•
Stomach or large intestine damp-heat: diarrhea, dysentery, vomiting,
acid
regurgitation.
•
Stomach fire: digestive dysfunction, belching with a putrid odor,
excessive
hunger and thirst, diabetes. Also with Wu
zhu yu
in Zuo Jin Wan.
•
Heat in the blood: epistaxis, hematuria, hemafecia, hematemesis.
•
Heat and toxicity: carbuncles, boils
•
Topical: for red and painful eyes; ulcerations of the mouth and throat;
first and
second degree burns; exudative erythema multiforme. Often used as a
powder
or ointment.
•
Cholagogue; lowers serum cholesterol in rats; anti-inflammatory.
•
Sometimes thought of, among the three "Huang"
herbs in this category, as the
main herb for addressing the middle Jiao, though it actually treats all
three.
•
For heart heat, Huang lian
treats the heart, its mother (wood-liver), and also its
son (earth-stomach/spleen).
•
Contains berberine (4.7%): a broad spectrum antibiotic and fungicide.
More
effective than sulfa drugs. As effective as synthetic antibiotics for
bacillary
dysentery, tuberculosis, scarlet fever, diphtheria.
•
Canker sores.
•
Ulcerative colitis.
•
Vaginal trichomonas infection.
•
Tuberculosis.
•
Typhoid fever.
•
Scarlet fever.
•
Diphtheria.
•
Suppurative otitis media (administer in ear drops).
•
Conjunctivitis, superficial keratitis.
•
Anal fissures. (Applied repeatedly with cotton balls and increasing
pressure.)
•
Dry-fry it (Chao huang lian)
to make it less cold and to help it enter the blood.
•
Ginger-fry it (Jiang huang lian)
to make it less cold, easier on the spleen and
stomach, to treat stomach heat, help stomach Qi descend, and stop
vomiting.
•
Fry it with Wu zhu yu
(Yu huang lian)
to treat damp-heat in the Qi level, with
such symptoms as diarrhea, vomiting, belching.
MLT:
Combine Huang lian with
any guiding herb to clear heat anywhere in the
body.
•
For diarrhea with stomach heat and an inability to ingest food, combine
with Ren shen
in a tea and sip throughout the day (it is alright if the patient
vomits).
•
With Huang bai, Huang qin, Da
huang (4 yellows) for cancer.
PFGC:
For heat in the upper Jiao: meningitis, cerebral hemorrhage, occasional
dizziness, eye diseases with swelling and pain, canthus outcrop
creeping over
the eye (not for nebulous eye screen), bright red and rapidly spreading
erisypelas.
•
Damp-heat stagnating below the heart causing epigastric discomfort and
fullness.
•
Damp-heat: inflammations and ulcerations in the vagina.
•
Contains the nutritive essence of fire and the functional nature of
water - can
resolve disorders that involve a chaotic interaction between fire and
water:
damp-heat in all three Jiaos.
•
For eye disorders, coptis tea can be applied to the eyes with a cotton
ball until
the patient feels a bitter sensation in the throat.
•
For red, swollen, painful eyes, coptis can be ground and mixed with
sesame
oil. The patient should then sniff
its scent.
Hsu:
Same antibiotic efficacy as sulfa drugs; stimulates gastric secretions
(including from the pancreas); inhibits gastric ulcer formation;
anti-inflammatory.
DY:
Thickens the intestines, stops diarrhea; cools the blood; clears heat
generated by dampness; treats vomiting and acid regurgitation caused by
liver-stomach disharmony.
•
The patient can take Huang lian
with a slice of ginger on the tongue or eat
ginger after taking it, if he or she is very sensitive to the
bitterness. The herb can
also be ginger-processed, wine-processed, or stir-fried until yellow to
alleviate
its bitterness.
•
With Ban xia
to harmonize upbearing and downbearing, Yin and Yang, to
clear heat, dry dampness, transform phlegm, and stop vomiting. For
indications
such as nausea, vomiting, chest and epigastric fullness and distention,
thick,
yellow phlegm, yellow, slimy tongue fur, and a wiry, slippery pulse due
to
damp-heat, turbid phlegm, and/or mixed cold and heat causing stomach
disharmony. Huang Lian Tang
is typically used. For these indications, ginger-processed Ban
xia and ginger mix-fried Huang
lian should be used.
•
With Gan jiang
to eliminate cold accumulation and depressive heat, drain
mixed cold and heat, in order to stop vomiting and diarrhea. The pair
allows
one to regulate upbearing and downbearing, to harmonize Yin and Yang,
and to
treat mixed cold and heat. The ratio of the two herbs can be adjusted
(3-10g
each) depending on whether heat or cold is predominant (use equal doses
if heat
and cold exist in equal proportion). For indications such as:
-
1.
Vomiting, acid regurgitation, belching, epigastric pain or distention,
and
clamoring stomach (a feeling of hunger, burning, emptiness, unease, and
sometimes pain in the stomach with nausea and acid regurgitation) due
to a
mixture of cold and heat in the stomach. (Ban
Xia Xie Xin Tang) Use stir-fried Huang lian
unless heat is severe.
-
2.
Diarrhea, dysentery, and stomach rumbling due to mixed heat and cold
and/or disharmony between the stomach and intestines. (Use stir-fried Huang
lian unless heat is severe.)
-
3.
Glossitis, stomatitis, and chronic, recalcitrant mouth ulcers due to
spleen
Yang deficiency and stomach fire.
•
With E jiao
to drain fire and enrich Yin according to the method of draining
the south (i.e. fire) and supplementing the north (i.e. water),
reestablish the
interaction between the heart and kidneys, quiet the spirit, and treat
dysentery
damaging Yin. For indications such as:
-
1.
Vexation, agitation, and insomnia due to febrile disease which has
damaged
Yin, deficiency fire, or heart and kidneys not communicating. (Huang
Lian E
Jiao Tang) Unprepared, or, even
better, wine-processed Huang
lian should be
used.
-
2.
Dysentery which damages Yin with pus and blood in the stools due to
damp-heat in the large intestine.
-
This
is a key pair for heart-kidney disharmony, with symptoms mentioned
above, plus many psychological disorders, loss of memory, profuse
dreams, and tendency to wake up easily and frequently
•
With Huang qin
to effectively clear heat and dry dampness, drain fire, and
resolve toxins from the upper, middle, and lower burners. For
indications such
as:
-
1.
Red, swollen, painful eyes, toothache with red, swollen gums, oral
ulcers,
and glossitis due to full heat in the upper and middle burners. (Xie
Xin Tang) Both herbs should be
wine mix-fried. (The alcohol directs the action of these
two herbs toward the upper burner.)
-
2.
Vexation and agitation in warm disease with full heat or due to a
breakdown
in communication between the heart and kidneys. (Huang
Lian Jie Du Tang or Huang
Lian E Jiao Tang)
-
3.
Diarrhea and dysentery due to damp-heat. (Shao
Yao Tang)
-
4.
Hematemesis and epistaxis due to heat in the blood. (Xie
Xin Tang) Both
herbs should be wine mix-fried.
•
With Mu xiang
to rectify the Qi, drain heat, dry dampness, and treat dysentery. This
combination is used in Xiang
Lian Wan for indications such as
diarrhea,
bloody and purulent dysentery, abdominal pain, and tenesmus due to
damp-heat
and Qi stagnation in the large intestine. Roasted Mu
xiang should be used.
•
With Rou gui
(3-6g each) to harmonize Yin and Yang, drain the south (heart
fire) and supplement the north (kidney Yang), and re-establish the
interaction
between the heart and kidneys. For indications such as:
-
1.
Insomnia, vexation, and agitation due to heart and kidneys not
communicating. (Such as for kidney Yang deficiency which cannot move
and
upbear kidney water, which then becomes dead and stagnant, and fails to
nourish heart Yin and control heart fire which rises upward. Use Jiao
Tai Wan.)
-
2.
Glossitis, oral ulcers, heart palpitations, together with fear of cold,
copious
clear urination, impotence, and seminal emission due to simultaneous
heart fire
and kidney Yang deficiency.
•
With Wu zhu yu
to effectively drain liver fire, harmonize the stomach,
downbear counterflow, and stop pain, acid regurgitation, and vomiting.
For
indications such as:
-
1.
Lateral costal pain and distention, nausea, vomiting, acid
regurgitation,
belching, clamoring stomach, and a bitter taste in the mouth due to
liver
depression transforming into fire which disturbs the stomach. (Zuo
Jin Wan - Huang
lian:Wu zhu yu
:: 6:1)
-
2.
Diarrhea and dysentery due to damp-heat.
-
The
usual dosage for this pair is 3-10g Huang
lian and 2-5g Wu
zhu yu. Traditionally, the
combination is for liver fire causing liver-stomach disharmony
which, in turn, leads to nausea, vomiting, and acid regurgitation. In
this case Huang lian
should be prescribed in a larger quantity and Wu
zhu yu in a lesser
amount. However, this pair can also be used in patterns where cold and
heat are
mixed. In this case, if heat is predominant, the dosage of Huang
lian should be
proportionately more. If there is concomitant stomach Yin deficiency,
add Shi
hu. If cold is predominant, the
dosage of Wu zhu yu
should be proportionately
more. If there is concomitant Qi deficiency, add Dang
shen. If cold and heat are
present in identical proportions, the quantities of both herbs should
be equal.
•
With Zi su
(the leaves [Zi su ye]
and stems [Zi su geng]
of Perilla) to clear
stomach heat, dry dampness, rectify the Qi, and stop vomiting. For the
following indications, ginger mix-fried Huang
lian should be used:
-
1.
Vomiting and nausea due to stomach heat or damp-heat in the middle
burner
along with Qi stagnation in the middle burner.
-
2.
Vomiting during pregnancy due to heat or damp-heat along with Qi
stagnation in the middle burner.
•
Huang lian
is incompatible with pork or cold water.
•
From Michael Moore (via internet): Goldthread (coptis), in my opinion,
is
possibly the queen of remedies for stomatitis and slowly healing mouth
sores
(Myrrh and Anemopsis being preferable for acute problems). If you ever
get a
chance to gather some, be sure to use the leaves and stems as well...
all parts of
the plant are active. The constant reference to Goldthread Roots is a
clumsy
remnant of the crude drug trade of a century ago... the dried roots
could be
stored in burlap bags for a DECADE, the foliage lasted but a year or
two. With
drastic loss of wild places in the last century, we need to revamp our
often
wasteful use of herbs, gathered according to standards set in greener
(and
profligate) times.
1.5-9g
(0.5g promotes digestion and improves the appetite)
|
Huang
Qin
Scutellaria
baicalensis
root
Baical
Skullcap root
Scute
(S.
amoena or S.
viscidula also used)
|
bitter
cold
|
Lu
GB
St
LI
Lv
|
Clears
heat; dries dampness; reduces fire; eliminates toxicity; stops
bleeding;
calms the fetus; sedates liver Yang rising.
•
Heat patterns (especially of the upper Jiao, but also of the middle and
lower):
high fever, irritability, thirst, cough, expectoration of thick, yellow
sputum, hot
sores and swellings (internal or topical). This herb is particularly
useful for
clearing Lung (and liver) heat. Also (as with Chai
hu) can be used for Shaoyang
syndrome.
•
Damp-heat: jaundice, diarrhea, dysentery, carbuncles, boils, high
fever,
restlessness, thirst, rapid pulse.
•
Damp warm-febrile disease: fever, stifling sensation in the chest,
thirst but
inability to drink. Also for Qi level heat.
•
Damp heat in the lower Jiao: painful urinary dysfunction.
•
Disturbance of fetus by heat (especially excess liver heat):
restlessness or
excessive kicking of the fetus, threat of miscarriage.
•
Heat in the blood: bleeding problems such as hemoptysis, hemafecia,
epistaxis,
hematemesis, uterine bleeding.
•
Liver Yang rising: headache, irritability, red eyes, flushed face,
bitter taste in
the mouth.
•
Among the three "huang"
herbs in this category, Huang
qin is often thought of
as being generally useful for upper Jiao (damp-) heat.
•
This is a major herb for damp-heat in the stomach and intestines.
•
Doctrine of signatures: the herb's resemblance to lung tissue
conveys its
affinity for the Lungs.
•
Dry-fry it to make it less cool and to help it enter the blood. This
form is used
for heat in the lower Jiao and restlessness of the fetus.
•
Wine-fry it (Jiu huang qin)
to enhance its ascending properties. This form is
more effective for treating damp-heat in the upper Jiao, including lung
heat,
makes it easier on the spleen, and also conducts it to the blood.
•
Char it to enhance its hemostatic properties.
•
Beneficial in bacillary dysentery; inhibits intestinal movement.
•
Broad spectrum antibiotic, antifungal.
•
Antihypertensive, probably due to vasodilation; diuretic; cholagogue.
•
Anti-allergic action: the component baicalein inhibits the release of
enzymes
from mast cells, probably by inhibiting receptors. Baicalein and
baicalin have
been shown to have a bronchodilatory effect in animal studies.
•
The constituent baicalin is anti-inflammatory and analgesic. It is a
COX-2
inhibitor, it inhibits TNF-α, and reduces PGE2.
Baicalin, baicalein, and wogonin
act synergistically as anti-inflammatories and are strong antioxidants.
•
The constituent wogonin has been shown in one study to have
anti-anxiety
(though non-sedating) effects on mice.
MLT:
Also has antiviral properties.
Hsu:
Prevents (antigen/antibody) allergic response - for dermatitis, asthma,
tracheal constriction.
DY:
During pregnancy, Yang becomes stronger and easily produces heat
because the creation of the fetus is a warm transformation and because
the
child's Qi is added to the mother's. As a result,
it is frequent to see a restlessly
stirring fetus due to Qi stagnation, Qi and/or blood deficiency, or
kidney
deficiency associated with heat - Huang
qin can almost always be
prescribed for
this type of problem.
•
Downbears turbid Yin.
•
With Bai zhu
to clear heat stirring the fetus, dry dampness, and fortify the
spleen to contain the blood and the fetus. For uterine bleeding during
pregnancy, threatened miscarriage, nausea and vomiting during pregnancy
caused by heat or damp-heat associated with spleen deficiency which is
incapable of containing the blood within the vessels. For these
indications, the Bai zhu
should be bran stir-fried, and the Huang qin should be stir-fried until
scorched.
•
With Ban xia
to harmonize and re-establish the interaction between Yin and
Yang, to effectively clear heat, drain fire, harmonize the stomach,
stop vomiting,
and scatter nodulation. For such indications as:
-
1.
Vomiting and nausea due to a Shaoyang
pattern. (Xiao Chai Hu Tang)
Use
ginger-processed Ban xia.
When Huang qin
is removed from Xiao Chai Hu
Tang, the pain and distention of
the chest and lateral costal regions disappear,
but the alternating fever and chills persist. When Chai
hu is used alone, the
fever does not abate, but if Huang
qin is added, the fever recedes
efficiently.
-
2.
Phlegm-heat. (Qing Qi Hua Tan
Wan) Use lime-processed Ban xia
and
wine mix-fried Huang qin.
-
3.
Lack of appetite, nausea, vomiting, and distention and sensation of
fullness
in the stomach, diaphragm, and chest caused by a pattern of mixed cold
and
heat. (Ban Xia Xie Xin Tang)
Use ginger-processed Ban xia
and bran stir-fried,
ginger mix-fried or stir-fried-until-scorched Huang
qin.• With Chai
hu to harmonize the interior
with the exterior, the Shaoyang,
and
liver and gallbladder. Together, they also clear the liver and resolve
depression
as well as clear and eliminate dampness and heat, particularly in the
liver and
gallbladder. Chai hu
dispels evils (heat) limited to the superficial part of the Shaoyang.
Huang qin drains evil heat limited to the internal part of the Shaoyang.
For indications such as:
-
1.
Alternating fever and chills, a bitter taste in the mouth, dry throat,
pain and
fullness in the chest and lateral costal regions, nausea, and lack of
appetite due
to a Shaoyang
pattern. (Xiao Chai Hu Tang)
-
2.
Malaria due to a Shaoyang
pattern.
-
3.
Liver depression transforming into fire.
-
This
combination is remarkably effective for hepato-biliary disorders, such
as
acute or chronic hepatitis, biliary lithiasis, cholecystitis, and
hepatomegaly due
to liver-gallbladder heat.
•
With Huang lian
to effectively clear heat and dry dampness, drain fire, and
resolve toxins from the upper, middle, and lower burners. For specific
indications of this combination, see Huang
lian in this category.
•
There are two kinds of Huang
qin:
-
Ku Qin ("Withered
Scutellaria"): light weight, hollow body, dark color,
floating, tropism to the Lung channel, drains Lung fire, clears the
upper Jiao,
drains heat from the muscles and the exterior.
-
Zi
Qin ("Young
Scutellaria") / Tiao
Qin ("Scutellaria
Sticks"): dense, full, hard
body, yellow and slightly green, sinking, tropism to the large
intestine channel,
drains large intestine fire, clears the lower Jiao, treats hot
dysentery.
3-15g
|
Ku
Shen
Sophora
flavescens
root
"Bitter
Root"
|
bitter
cold
|
Ht
Lv
SI
LI
BL
|
Clears
heat; dries dampness; eliminates wind, stops itching; kills parasites;
mildly promotes urination.
•
Damp-heat: jaundice, itchiness of the genitalia, leukorrhea, dysentery,
sores.
•
Wind, fungus, worms or other parasites, damp-heat-toxicity: skin
problems,
especially itchiness, and also seepage, bleeding. Used both internally
and
topically. A key herb for skin problems.
•
Damp-heat in the lower Jiao (including small intestine damp-heat):
painful
urinary dysfunction, hot edema.
•
Palpitations, arrhythmia: combine appropriately based on the diagnosis
(e.g.
when due to heart blood and Qi deficiency, add tonics).
•
Often used in pills, powders, tinctures, ointments, and washes.
•
Contraindicated in combination with Li lu
•
Asthma: with Gan cao
and Ling zhi
in the simplified ASHMI formula.
HF:
A Sha Chong
(kill worms or parasites) herb, important in Gu
Zheng (Gu
parasites) formulas
Li:
For chronic sinusitis: kills persistent microorganisms in the sinuses
which
promote an ongoing inflammatory process (if no results within a month,
discontinue).
3-15g
(Or more for a strong topical wash)
|
Long
Dan Cao
Chinese
Gentian root
"Dragon
Gallbladder
Herb"
(Gentiana
scabra, G.
triflom, G.
manshurica, G.
regescens)
|
bitter
cold
|
Lv
GB
St
|
Clears
heat and dries dampness from the liver and gallbladder; reduces liver
fire.
•
Liver/gallbladder heat or damp-heat: costal or hypochondriac pain,
headache,
bitter taste in the mouth, red eyes, diminished hearing, jaundice,
leukorrhea,
eczema, herpes, itchiness and swelling of the external genitalia. For
all damp-heat disorders of the external genitalia.
•
Damp-heat in the upper gallbladder channel: red, swollen sore throat
and eyes,
swollen and painful ears, sudden deafness.
•
Liver fire: headache, red eyes, flank pain.
•
Liver wind-heat: fever, spasms, convulsions, flank pain.
•
Taken (a half hour) before a meal, it increases gastric secretions,
taken after a
meal, it reduces them.
MLT:
Cholecystitis, inflammatory pain, testicle swelling.
•
Also for liver wind: spasms, dizziness, fever, convulsions, moving
pains and
sores on the liver channel.
Hsu:
Antiphlogistic, antipyretic.
Yoga:
Kirata, Katuki, Trayamana:
bitter/cooling/pungent; P, K-; V+
•
Bitter tonic, antipyretic, alterative, antibacterial, anthelmintic,
laxative.
•
For fever, debility after fever, jaundice, hepatitis, enlarged liver or
spleen,
genital herpes, acne, rashes, obesity, ulcers, venereal sores,
diabetes, cancer.
•
One of the best anti-Pitta
herbs.
•
Not to be used when there is no fever or inflammation or high Pitta
or excess
fat.
•
Not for Vata-type
debility, nervousness, muscle spasm, hypoglycemia.
RW:
(various Euro-Asian species) A pure bitter (the bitter taste is
detectable even at a dilution of 1:20,000). Contains no tannin - no
astringent or irritant
effect. Stimulates gastric secretions and motility and improves tone.
It is active
as soon as it is absorbed through the mouth's mucus membranes.
•
Caution with a sensitive stomach with excess acid - it can aggravate
hyperacidity. Mainly indicated for achylic and atonic conditions.
JC:
(G. lutea)
Tonic, stomachic, febrifuge, emmenagogue, anthelmintic
(vermifuge), antiseptic, antispasmodic, cholagogue, emetic (large
dose),
sialogogue, antibilious, antiperiodic, antivenemous.
•
One of most valuable bitter tonics and best strengtheners of the human
system. Gentian stores vast quantities of condensed oxygen in its roots
- the source of its
bitterness and exhilarating tonic action. It is a revitalizing tonic
and stomachic
for physical exhaustion from chronic ailments, general debility, female
weakness, digestive weakness, lack of appetite. Intensely bitter, but
generally
easily received by stomach, wherein it tones the liver without
influencing the
secretion of bile.
•
For atonic gout, amenorrhea, anemia, bites, bruises, cancer (early),
chills,
chronic indigestion, colds, diarrhea, dizziness, dyspepsia, exhaustion,
fainting,
fevers, general debility (especially digestive), hysteria, infections,
intermittent
fevers, jaundice, lameness, liver troubles, malaria, scanty urine,
scrofula, side
aches, sprains, suppressed menstruation, worms, wounds.
•
Common dose for the above indications: 1-2 teaspoons of a strong
decoction in
a small amount of water, an hour before meals.
•
When possible, combine it with an aromatic herb, such as mint.
MW:
Can be used for either a lack or excess of hydrochloric acid in the
stomach.
•
Mental state of the gentian patient: self doubt, depression, lack of
good
instincts or lack of trust in one's instincts, panic (as in
anaphylactic shock) -
pale, sweaty, scared.
3-12g
|
Herbs
That Clear Heat And Eliminate Toxicity
|
Herbs
in this category are commonly combined with:
A.
Herbs that strengthen the spleen and stomach, when there is deficiency
of these organs.
B.
Herbs that nourish Yin, when there is injury of body fluids by heat or
the patient has pre-existing Yin deficiency.
C.
Herbs that clear heat and cool the blood, when there is heat and
toxicity in the blood.
D.
Herbs that dry or drain dampness when there is associated dampness.
|
Bai
Hua
She She Cao
Hedyotis
=
Oldenlandia
"White-Patterned
Snake's Tongue Herb"
|
sweet
sl
bitter
cold
|
St
LI
SI
Lv
|
Drains
dampness, promotes urination; clears heat; eliminates toxicity;
relieves
stagnation of heat and toxicity; reduces abscesses.
•
Lower Jiao damp-heat: hot, painful urination. Also for damp-heat
jaundice.
•
Heat and toxicity: acne, carbuncles, boils, swollen, painful throat,
intestinal
abscess, appendicitis, sores, ulcerations, snake bite, ulcerative
colitis. Used
internally and topically.
•
Cancer:
stomach, esophagus, rectum (take 60g daily, long term, while monitoring
digestion for cold damage). Usually combined with other herbs,
such as Ban zhi lian.
•
Strongly relieves fire-toxicity.
15-60g
|
Bai
Jiang Cao
Patrinia
or
Sonchus
or
Thlaspi
|
acrid
bitter
sl
cold
|
St
LI
Lv
|
Clears
heat; eliminates toxicity; relieves stagnation of heat and toxicity;
drains pus; dispels blood stasis, relieves pain.
•
Heat and toxicity: carbuncles, abscesses in organs, surface sores and
swellings. Used internally and/or topically.
•
Blood stasis (especially heat-induced): pain, especially in the chest
and
abdomen. Also for postpartum and postoperative pain.
•
Prostatitis - drains pus out of the prostate.
•
Mumps: one study of over 200 cases showed Bai
jiang cao to effectively
treat mumps (used with Shi gao,
internally plus applied topically as a paste), providing relief to 90%
of cases within 24 hours.
MLT:
Specific for colitis/intestinal heat. Anti-inflammatory.
Hsu:
Antibacterial; protects the liver: stimulates regeneration of liver
cells,
prevents denaturalization.
9-15g
(to 30g)
|
Bai
Lian
Ampelopsis
|
bitter
acrid
sl
cold
|
Ht
St
Lv
|
Promotes
tissue regeneration, heals wounds; clears heat; eliminates toxicity.
Heat
and toxicity: carbuncles, boils, burns
Topical:
for wounds. Also works cosmetically on wrinkles - temporarily
tightens the skin.
5-10g
|
Bai
Tou
Weng
Pulsatilla
root
Chinese
Anemone
"White-Headed
Old
Man"
|
bitter
cold
|
LI
Lv
St
|
Cools
the blood; clears heat; eliminates toxicity.
•
Key herb for dysentery (bacterial or amebic) due to damp-heat or
heat-toxicity: fever, abdominal pain, loose stools with pus and blood,
tenesmus. Can be used alone for this.
•
Effective in treating scrofula after it has ulcerated and when healing
is slow.
Hsu:
Anti-trichomonas; antiamebic; cardiotonic effects, dilates peripheral
vessels.
K&R:
(P. vulgaris
- Pasque flower) Antispasmodic, emmenagogue, sedative,
estrogen antagonist, sympatholytic. Wood yang.
•
One of the best plants to drain repletion of Liver Yang, the whole
plant is
used to treat symptoms of Liver fire, hyperthyroid symptoms,
tachycardia,
neuralgia, migraines, bronchial spasms of pertussis, allergic rhinitis
and
asthma, spasms of colonopathy on the right side, colitis, dysmenorrhea,
liver
congestion, symptoms of depression with the sudden mood swings of
menopause, pain in the pelvic and genital area, pelvic congestion,
hysteria,
phobias, anguish.
•
Also has diaphoretic and diuretic properties.
•
All parts of the fresh plant are dangerous, causing nausea, vomiting,
diarrhea, intestinal spasms, skin inflammation, and asphyxiation.
RW:
(P. vulgaris)
Take internally for inner eye conditions: iritis, scleritis,
disease of the retina, and above all, grey or senile cataract and
glaucoma. (More effectiveness in glaucoma than cataract.)
IBIS:
Affinities: female reproductive tract.
•
Sedative, analgesic, antispasmodic, antibacterial.
[Western]
dosage: tincture: 0.1 - 10 gtt. t.i.d.; up to 60 gtt. t.i.d. (Hoffman).
•
Therapy: toothache, insomnia, headache, depression/irritability,
nervous
conditions; dysmenorrhea, amenorrhea, leukorrhea, spasm in reproductive
system; skin infections, respiratory tract infections, asthma.
•
Contraindicated for use in pregnancy; uterine stimulant and
gastrointestinal
irritant (De Smet, Farnsworth).
•
Contraindicated for nursing mothers because of its gastrointestinal
irritant
effect (Brinker, Brooks).
6-15g
|
Bai
Xian Pi
Dictamnus
root bark
Chinese
dittany
"White
Fresh Bark"
|
bitter
cold
|
Sp
St
|
Dries
dampness; eases itching; clears heat; eliminates toxicity; expels wind.
•
Damp-heat: carbuncles, eczema with copious yellow discharge or pus and
itching. Also for wind-heat skin conditions.
•
Damp-heat: jaundice or Bi
syndrome (used in combination with other
herbs).
MLT:
For fungal diseases associated with itching, especially effective when
combined with Ku shen.
Hsu:
Antipyretic, antifungal.
6-9g
|
Ban
Bian Lian
Chinese
Lobelia
"Half-Edged
Lily"
|
acrid
cold
|
Ht
SI
Lu
|
Helps
the Lungs descend fluids to the bladder, promotes urination, relieves
edema; disperses the Lungs; clears heat; eliminates toxicity; cools the
blood.
•
Heat and toxicity, poisons and venoms: snake bite, bee or wasp sting;
also
for swelling and pain from furuncles; fire toxin patterns including
tonsilitis. Herb of choice for bites and stings - may be used
internally or topically.
•
Retention of harmful fluid: edema (often floating edema), ascites, mid-
or
end-stage schistosomiasis.
•
Bensky/Gamble classifies with herbs that drain dampness.
•
Not to be confused with the North American herb Lobelia inflata.
MLT:
Cancer: anti-neoplastic properties.
Hsu:
Diuretic, hypotensive, hemostatic.
15-30g
|
Ban
Lan
Gen
Isatis
root
or
Baphicacanthus
|
bitter
cold
|
Ht
Lu
St
|
Clears
heat; eliminates toxicity; cools the blood; benefits the throat;
strongly
relieves swelling and disperses stagnation.
•
Warm febrile diseases, warm epidemic disorders.
•
Swelling: painful, swollen, sore throat, mumps.
•
Damp-heat: jaundice.
•
Very broad spectrum and powerful antiviral and antimicrobial effects.
•
Viral infections: quite effective for encephalitis B, hepatitis A, B
and C,
EPI's.
MLT:
Ban lan gen
and Da qing ye
are the most powerful anti-viral herbs in
all of herbal medicine.
•
Good for skin blotches from heat in the blood.
•
Agent Orange disease.
•
Similar to Western Baptisia
tinctoria (Wild Indigo).
SD:
May help antidote lead poisoning.
DY:
With Shan dou gen
for mutual reinforcement, to clear heat, eliminate
toxicity, and strongly disinhibit the throat. For such indications as:
-
1.
Painful, red, and swollen throat due to replete heat. This combination
is
usually sufficient to treat severe throat inflammations (including
strep throat,
tonsillitis, pharyngitis, laryngitis, etc.) due to heat-toxins or
replete heat. However, when this combination needs further
reinforcement, add She gan,
Jin yin hua, Lian qiao, Xuan shen,
and Gan cao.
-
2.
Toothache and painful, swollen gums due to replete heat.
-
3.
Oral ulcers due to replete heat.
•
With Xuan shen
to clear heat, resolve toxins, cool the blood, nourish Yin,
downbear fire, disinhibit the throat, disperse swelling, and stop pain.
For
painful, red, swollen throat with dry, red tongue, and a fine, rapid
pulse due to
Yin deficiency generating a deficiency fire or replete fire which
damages Yin. For heat-toxins, add Shan
dou gen and Gan
cao. For deficiency fire, add Mai
men dong and Sheng
di huang.
15-30g
|
Ban
Zhi
Lian
Scutellaria
barbata
Barbat
Skullcap
Bearded
Scute
"Half-Branch
Lotus"
|
acrid
cold
|
Lu
SI
St
Lv
LI
|
Promotes
urination to relieve edema; clears heat; eliminates toxicity;
invigorates the blood, promotes movement and disperses in the course of
clearing.
•
Cancer (heat and toxicity): Lung, stomach, intestines. (One study
seemed to
indicate that this herb alone is not a cure.)
•
Heat and toxicity: carbuncles, snake bite, abscesses, furuncles, sores,
trauma.
•
Retention of harmful fluid: ascites.
•
Chronic hepatitis.
15-60g
|
Chuan
Xin Lian
Andrographis
Green
Chiretta
Kariyat
"Thread-the-Heart
Lotus"
|
bitter
cold
|
SI
LI
Lu
St
|
Dries
dampness; clears heat; eliminates toxicity.
•
Damp-heat: dysentery, painful urination, eczema.
•
Early stage warm-heat pathogenic invasion: fever, swollen, painful
throat,
headache.
•
Lung heat: cough
•
Lung heat and toxicity: abscess.
•
Fire-toxin manifestations on the skin: sores, carbuncles.
•
Topical: for eczema, snake bite (used fresh for snake bite). Often used
in
ointment for eczema.
•
May be useful for prostate enlargement.
•
Upregulates TH1 immunity (i.e., Wei Qi) - useful in acute infection.
•
Recent use for loptospirosis.
•
For common cold, one study indicated that 3-6g a day shortened duration
of
infection and mitigated symptoms.
•
Chuan xin lian
can be used as an inexpensive substitute for Huang
lian (in
some cases).
•
Exceedingly, overwhelmingly bitter. Can injure stomach Qi. Over 15g can
cause nausea and/or
vomiting. When taking it directly as a powder, it is often encapsulated.
PPP:
Stimulates the immune system, especially phagocytic activity;
stimulates bile production and flow; protects the liver from toxins;
counters
the damaging effects of free radicals; antiinflammatory; antiplatelet;
abortifacient [contraindicated in pregnancy, though Chinese sources do
not
corroborate this].
•
Used in Ayurveda for bitter tonic, stomachic, antipyretic, and laxative
properties. Said to increase appetite, strengthen digestion, and
diminish
flatulence, hyperacidity and biliousness [probably in very small doses].
•
Traditional uses include: loss of appetite, atonic dyspepsia,
flatulence,
diarrhea, dysentery, gastroenteritis, bowel complaints of children,
liver
infections, diabetes, general debility and convalescence after fevers,
respiratory and skin infections.
•
Indications supported by clinical trials: bacterial and viral
infections
including the common cold and pharyngotonsilitis, enteric infections;
for
prevention of urinary tract infections following shock wave
lithotripsy,
prophylaxis of common cold.
6-15g
|
Da
Qing
Ye
Isatis
leaf
or
Baphicacanthus or
Clerodendron or Polygonum tinctorium
"Big
Bluegreen Leaf"
|
bitter
very
cold
|
Ht
Lu
St
|
Cools
the blood, relieves skin eruptions; clears heat; eliminates toxicity.
•
Any warm-febrile disease or epidemic febrile outbreak.. Especially for
epidemic toxin or any severe febrile disease that affects people
regardless of
their constitution, such as severe contagious disease.
•
Heat and toxicity in the blood: swollen and painful throat, erysipelas,
mouth
ulcers.
•
Xue
level heat and toxicity: coma, skin eruptions, high fever, restlessness.
•
Heat in the blood: skin blotches, rashes, and other skin eruptions.
Often
used in cases with intense fever, irritability, and changes in
consciousness.
•
May be used for fire-toxicity anywhere in the body, especially the
throat and
Lungs.
•
Very effective in treatment of encephalitis B; commonly used for
meningitis.
•
Acute dysentery, gastroenteritis.
•
Antiviral, antimicrobial.
•
Caution with spleen/stomach cold from deficiency.
SD:
May help antidote lead poisoning.
9-30g
|
Gui
Zhen Cao
Bidens
"Demon/Ghost Spike/Needle Plant"
|
|
|
SD:
It is said that the nature of the herb is sweet and bland, with a
neutral
property, though other sources list it as bitter. Its actions are to
expel
pathogenic factors from the surface of the body, clear up heat, remove
toxin,
and eliminate stagnancy. The applications listed include influenza,
swollen
and sore throat, enteritis, dysentery, jaundice, intestinal carbuncle,
epilepsy in
children, malnutrition in infants, and hemorrhoids.
In
Chinese Medicinal Herbs of Hong Kong, the indications for Bidens
pilosa (the only species
listed)
are: influenza, colds, fever, sore throat; acute
appendicitis; acute infectious hepatitis; gastroenteritis, dyspepsia;
rheumatic
arthralgia; malaria; and hemorrhoids, pruritis.
Oriental Materia Medica reports
it to have the functions of removing wind-dampness, dispersing stagnant
blood, and invigorating blood. Applications of
the herb include rheumatoid arthritis, sprain, insect and scorpion
sting,
diarrhea, dysentery, hepatitis, acute nephritis, stomach ache, and sore
throat.
The
substitute Desmodium species
are similar to the standard herb known
either as hulucha or longshehuang
(Desmodium
triquetri), which is applied to
treat common cold, sore throat, enteritis, dysentery, jaundice,
rheumatic
arthralgia, and other disorders; the overlap in applications between
bidens and
desmodium is evident. A review of uses of Bidens
bipinnata (the only
species mentioned) is presented in Anticancer Medicinal Herbs,
including:
Internal
Medicine: "It is recorded in Handbook
of Chinese
Medicinal Herbs that: The
decoction of
the drug cures dysentery, laryngalgia, dysphagia,
vomiting, cardiac spasm and esophageal dilatation, and is effective in
removing
toxic materials, stopping diarrhea, and clearing away heat. The drug
has been used to treat cecitis in the recent years." For
cancer therapy, 15"“30
grams per day is decocted and taken orally for esophageal cancer;
for
gastric cancer, 15 grams of bidens is combined with a complex formula
for daily administration.
External
Medicine: "It is said in Prescriptions
Worth a
Thousand Gold that "˜External application of bidens with
arctium and blended with
pig fat can cure
finger cut.' It is recorded in Dictionary
of Chinese
Materia Medica that "˜The drug, bitter in taste, mild in
nature, and non-toxic
mainly cures spider
and fly bites through internal and external application.' It
is reported in Materia
Medica that "˜Scorpion sting can be cured by external
application of
the drug.'"
In
Chinese-English Manual of Common-Used Herbs, under guizhencao,
Bidens bipinnata, B.
pilosa, and B. biternata are
all listed as the source
materials; the applications are: 1. clear away the superficial heat:
for common
cold of wind-heat type and prevention of influenza; 2. clear away heat
and
toxic materials: for sore throat, appendicitis, snake bite, and
centipede bite;
and 3. clear away dampness and heat from the gastrointestines
[gastro-intestinal tract]: for diarrhea, dysentery and stomach
ache of heat type.
The
herb, along with others, is included in the Chinese Patent Gan
Mao Qing,
a remedy for common cold and influenza. For topical use, the fresh herb
is
crushed and applied locally or boiled in water to produce a wash for
boils,
eczema, and tinea.
Based
on the traditional claims, bidens would be expected"”from the
modern
perspective"”to show infection-inhibiting and
anti-inflammatory properties:
these actions have been investigated and shown to exist. In fact,
bidens
extracts are shown to inhibit bacteria, fungi, and viruses and to have
potent
anti-inflammatory effects in laboratory animal experiments with induced
gastric ulcer, liver inflammation, or arthritis-type swelling. In Anticancer
Medicinal Herbs, the
anticancer potential of the herb is said to be implied by
its bacteria inhibiting actions (since many antibacterial substances
also inhibit
cancer).
Bidens
tripartita (lang ba cao), which
has been known for many centuries as
a remedy for chronic dysentery, was used in a clinical trial to treat
500 cases
of dysentery, 65 cases of acute enteritis, 248 cases of chronic
enteritis.
In
500
cases of dysentery, 387 cases were reported cured; with 13 not
responding in 3 days. In 313 cases of enteritis all were cured (12
chronic
cases relapsed later). The authors of the study pointed out that there
had been
an epidemic of dysentery in Shandong Province for many years and that
practitioners at village clinics and the county hospital in Jianan
County had
used bidens as a remedy for about 10,000 patients.
ITM Formulary:
A dried hot water extract of bidens with other herbs has
been prepared in tablet form under the name Bidens 6 (Seven Forests).
The
formula is: Bidens 25%, Hu
zhang 20%, Zi
hua di ding 15%, Ban
lan gen
15%, Ju hua
15%, Gan cao
10%. All the herbs in this formula have anti-infection activities.
9-60g
(60-120g for acute appendicitis)
|
Hong
Teng
Sargentodoxa
vine
"Red
Vine"
|
bitter
neutral
|
LI
Lv
|
Promotes
blood circulation, disperses stasis, alleviates pain; clears heat;
eliminates toxicity; reduces abscesses.
•
A key herb for appendicitis. For appendicitis, it is often used in high
doses
(60g) and is combined with herbs such as Pu
gong ying, Da huang, and Hou
po.
•
Blood stasis: dysmenorrhea, trauma, joint pain.
•
Wind-dampness: joint pain.
•
Heat-toxicity: abscesses, skin lesions with heat, swelling, and pain.
•
Prostatitis.
•
Antibacterial.
15-30g
|
Jin
Yin
Hua
Honeysuckle
flower
Lonicera
"Gold
Silver Flower"
Ren
Dong Teng
Honeysuckle
vine/stem
|
sweet
cold
|
Lu
St
LI
|
Clears
heat; eliminates toxicity; expels wind-heat; clears lower Jiao
damp-heat.
•
Wind-heat or early stage of warm-heat pathogenic invasion: fever,
slight
aversion to cold, slight sensitivity to wind, sore throat, headache.
This herb
can be applied to Wei, Qi,
or Ying
level heat invasion.
•
Heat and toxicity: carbuncles, boils, dysentery, hot painful sores and
swellings, arthritis, intestinal abscess. Especially useful for
affections of the
breast, throat, or eyes.
•
Lower Jiao damp-heat: dysenteric disorder or painful urinary
dysfunction.
•
Externally contracted summer-heat.
•
Tuberculosis.
•
Chronic conjunctivitis, keratitis, corneal ulcers.
•
By IM injection or injection into acupoints, Jin
yin hua has proven useful in
treating severe acute pneumonia and bacillary dysentery.
•
Also for many purulent diseases including appendicitis with
perforation,
mastitis, erysipelas.
•
Broad antimicrobial, antiviral. Anti-inflammatory.
•
Not for yin-type ulcers or for sores due to Qi deficiency.
DY:
For severe heat-toxicity, dysentery, or pyogenic skin infections, use
30-60g per day. High doses can be used without side effects.
•
With Lian qiao
to strongly and effectively clear heat and resolve toxins. For
indications such as:
-
1.
Colds and influenza due to wind-heat. (Yin
Qiao San)
-
2.
Warm diseases with internal heat. (Yin
Qiao San)
-
3.
Headache, eye pain, toothache, sinusitis, and painful, swollen throat
due
to wind-heat.
-
4.
Skin eruptions with pruritis due to wind-heat.
-
5.
Skin inflammation due to heat toxicity.
-
Neither herb is acrid. They are often included in formulas for
dispelling
wind-heat to prevent the production of heat toxins or to prevent heat
from
entering deeper into the interior. They are able to limit the worsening
of
colds, influenza, and other illnesses due to wind-heat.HF:
A Sha Chong
(kill worms or parasites) herb, important in Gu
Zheng (Gu
parasites) formulas.
K&R:
Water yin, fire yin. Diuretic, antiseptic, sudorific, febrifuge,
oxytocic.
•
Tonsilitis, strep, pyelonephritis, acute articular rheumatism.
•
The leaf may accelerate childbirth.
9-60g
Ren
Dong Teng: the stem - "Stem that Resists Winter"
•
Similar functions Jin yin hua, but does not disperse wind-heat.
•
Also clears wind, heat, and dampness from the channels.
•
Wind-damp-heat in the channels: hot, swollen, painful joints that are
difficult to move (arthritis).
•
Doctrine of signatures: the stem resembles a meridian - clears the
meridians,
treats the extremities.
15-30g
|
Lian
Qiao
Forsythia
fruit
Lian
Qiao Xin
Forsythia
seed
|
bitter
sl.
cold
|
Ht
Lu
GB
Lv
|
Disperses
internal stagnant heat (from Qi stagnation); clears heat; eliminates
toxicity; can separate a mixture of Yang pathogenic factors.
•
Wind-heat or early stage attack of warm-heat pathogen: fever, headache,
thirst, sore throat, slight chills.
•
Heat and toxicity: various kinds of carbuncles, nodules, boils, lymph
swellings, all hot sores.
•
Some benefit in acute nephritis and macular hemorrhage.
•
May possess antiemetic properties.
•
Doctrine of signatures: resembles the heart and, like the heart, it is
light
when open.
•
Broad spectrum antimicrobial like Jin yin hua. Lian qiao is better
against
Shigella and Staphylococcus aureus, while Jin yin hua is better against
Salmonella and hemolytic Streptococcus.
HF:
A San Du,
scattering toxin medicinal, typically found in Gu
Zheng (Gu
parasites) formulas.
Hsu:
Antiviral, cardiotonic, diuretic.
DY:
Clears heat from the whole body; clears the heart and upper burner
fire;
treats skin inflammations; scatters nodulation and disperses swelling.
•
Do not exceed 15g/day - can damage the stomach Yang (sometimes 30g per
day can be tolerated for a short time).
•
With Jin yin hua
to strongly and effectively clear heat and resolve toxins. See Jin
yin hua above for specific
indications of this combination.
•
Lian qiao
is superior to Jin yin hua
for clearing heat-toxicity, but (unlike Jin
yin hua) Lian
qiao does not reinforce the
expelling actions of herbs which
disperse wind-heat.
6-15g
Two
types of Lian qiao:
(B&G,
DY)
•
Qing lian qiao or Qing
qiao: the blue-green fruit which
has just begun to
ripen. It is superior for clearing heat, resolving toxins, and treating
warm
diseases, fever, and erysipelas.
•
Huang lian qiao or Lao qiao:
the ripe, yellow fruit - called "Old" qiao.
It is
superior for dispersing abscesses and swelling, scattering nodulation,
and
treating goiter, subcutaneous nodules, skin inflammations, and
carbuncles.
Lian
Qiao Xin: the seed
•
Clears heat-toxicity which have entered the pericardium causing
vexation,
agitation, irritability, insomnia, high fever with delirium, mental
confusion,
loss of consciousness.
|
Ma
Bo
Lasiosphaera
or Calvatia
Puffball
mushroom
|
acrid
neutral
|
Lu
|
Eases
the throat; stops bleeding; clears Lung heat; disperses wind-heat.
•
Lung heat: swollen, painful throat, cough, aphonia; hemoptysis,
epistaxis.
•
Topical: for bleeding (most often in the oral cavity and lips), sores,
wounds,
epistaxis. Also for bleeding gums associated with frostbite.
•
For hemorrhage from surgery (prostate, liver, spleen, kidneys) and
trauma. In one series of 467 cases, it was successful 98% of the time.
•
Can easily induce sweating and vomiting in its unprepared form. The
herb should be honey-fried except when used to stop bleeding.
•
Large doses can induce nausea.
•
Possesses antimicrobial properties.
•
Wrap in cheesecloth or a tea bag while cooking.
Hsu:
Antiphlogistic, antipyretic, astringent.
1.5-4.5g
|
Ma
Chi
Xian
Purslane
Portulaca
"Horse's
Teeth
Amaranth"
|
sour
cold
|
LI
Lv
|
Relieves
fire toxicity; cools the blood; clears damp-heat; treats sores;
antidotes wasp and snake poison.
•
Damp-heat or fire toxicity: dysenteric disorders; hot or bloody painful
urinary dysfunction. In clinical studies involving thousands of
subjects,
decoctions of Ma chi xian
reduced the incidence of bacillary dysentery in
those exposed during epidemics. The herb is about as effective as sulfa
drugs
in treating acute and recurrent bacillary dysentery - over 90%
effective in
acute cases and less than 60% effective in chronic cases.
•
Carbuncles, sores, red-and-white vaginal discharge. Applied topically
or
taken internally.
•
Wasp stings, snake bites: for pain and swelling.
•
Recently used for post-partum bleeding.
•
Hookworm: when juice or tablets of Ma
chi xian were taken by 192
subjects, 80% had a negative stool sample in one month.
•
Appendicitis: A decoction of Ma
chi xian and Pu
gong ying was used in
treating 31 cases of clinically diagnosed appendicitis. Of these, only
one
needed surgery; all others recovered uneventfully.
•
Contractile effect on the uterus.
•
Often prepared as a wash for skin problems.
15-60g
(The fresh used is often used at double the dry dosage)
|
Niu
Huang
Cow,
Ox, or Water
Buffalo Gallstone
(Bezoar)
"Cattle
Yellow"
|
bitter
cold
|
Lv
Ht
|
Clears
the heart, strongly opens the orifices, awakens the Shen by resolving
phlegm; extinguishes liver wind, relieves tremors; clears heat;
eliminates
toxicity.
•
Heat-toxicity: painful, red, swollen or ulcerated throat, canker sores,
boils,
carbuncles, ulcers, sores, herpes lesions, and a wide variety of hot
swellings.
•
Liver wind (due to extreme pathogenic heat): spasms, tremors, (infant)
convulsions.
•
Heat or phlegm-heat blocks the heart in wind-stroke or epilepsy: coma,
difficulty speaking, delirium, seizures.
•
Note: this herb should not be used alone for phlegm, as its cold nature
may
congeal the phlegm.
•
Not as strong as She xiang
at opening the orifices.
•
The genuine article is expensive and difficult to find. The lab
produced
variety (Ren gong niu huang)
is available, which is comparable to the true
herb for treating heat-toxicity, but is weaker than the true herb at
opening the
orifices.
•
Bensky/Gamble classifies with herbs that open the orifices.
MLT:
Due to its rarity and expense, it is mostly used in the patent Niu
Huang
Jie Du Pian.
•
With rhinoceros or water buffalo horn: for legionnaire's
disease, meningitis,
encephalitis.
Hsu:
Sedative to the CNS, respiratory, and circulatory systems; cardiotonic;
raises blood pressure; stimulates RBC and hemoglobin production.
0.15-1g
(used only in pills and powders)
|
Pu
Gong
Ying
Taraxacum
Dandelion
|
sweet
bitter
cold
|
Lv
St
|
Drains
dampness; clears heat; eliminates toxicity; promotes lactation; reduces
abscesses; dissipates nodules.
•
Heat-toxicity: inflammation - mastitis, appendicitis, prostatitis;
carbuncles,
boils, abscesses, nodules (especially when firm and hard). Used
internally
and topically.
•
Damp-heat: jaundice, painful urination.
•
Insufficient lactation: especially when due to heat.
•
Pu gong ying
clears heat without the risk of damaging the stomach.
•
The leaves are better at draining dampness than the root. The root is
generally regarded as better at eliminating toxicity than the aerial
parts.
•
Antibacterial; anti-inflammatory.
K&R:
Cholagogue, laxative, diuretic. Wood yang, metal yin, water yang.
•
Wood: biliary dyskinesia,
vesicular calculi, constipation, obesity, cellulitis,
urea, gout, hypercholesterolemia, varices, acne, herpes, eczema.
•
Metal:
acne, chronic rheumatism.
•
Water:
excess uric acid, urinary calculi, urea, renal insufficiency.
•
Also for various states of congestion of the liver and pancreas.
•
Use as an eyewash for acute conjunctivitis.
Yoga:
Bitter, sweet/cooling/pungent. P, K-; V+
•
Alterative, diuretic, lithotriptic, laxative, bitter tonic.
•
Detoxifies Pitta
and Ama
conditions.
•
For swollen lymph nodes, tumors, suppressed lactation, breast problems.
•
Similar to the Indian herb Bhringaraj
- may substitute.
•
Detoxifying for over-consumption of fat, fried foods, and meat.
MLT:
For cirrhosis, hepatitis; all breast disorders.
•
The whole herb is strongly diuretic, especially the leaves.
Joe:
Rich in potassium. Therefore, when used as diuretic, it should not
deplete potassium in the body.
RW:
Rich in vitamins, especially C.
•
Contains substances which act like enzymes, stimulating the function of
the
large glands - especially the liver and kidneys - and stimulating cell
metabolism as a whole.
•
Diuretic and cholagogue: encourages kidney function and promotes
secretory function in the liver. Good for gall and kidney stones.
•
For a tendency to form gallstones: must take dandelion for 4-6 weeks
(best
done in the spring, and repeated in the fall if necessary).
•
One of the best herbs to use in chronic rheumatic complaints, chronic
degenerative joint disease, and arthritis (requires repeated,
consistent courses
of treatment).
MW:
The root focuses more on the (Western) liver - for stagnant metabolism,
waste products/fluids building up. The leaf focuses more on the
(Western)
kidneys.
•
Will stop infections in bones (e.g., infected tooth and jaw).
•
Good when the tongue has a geographic coat.
•
For mental illness: manic depression, obsessive-compulsive disorders
(generally takes time to work - 6-12 weeks - not usually for acute
disease).
9-30g
(up to 100g fresh)
|
Qin
Pi
Fraxinus
branch bark
Korean
Ash
|
bitter
cold
|
Lv
GB
LI
|
Clears
heat, drains liver fire; drains dampness; disperses wind-dampness;
eliminates toxicity; benefits the eyes.
•
Stagnant liver heat: red, swollen, painful eyes or superficial visual
obstruction.
•
Damp-heat or large intestine heat and toxicity: dysentery (not amebic)
with
pus and blood.
•
Wind-dampness: Bi
syndrome, mainly hot.
•
Bensky/Gamble classifies Qin pi
with herbs that clear heat and dry
dampness.
Hsu:
Antiphlogistic; analgesic; suppresses arthritis; diuretic.
4.5-15g
Excelsior
species: Similarity to Qin pi
(Fraxinus rhynchophylla, F.
bungeana,
F. chinensis) unknown. However,
studies done in Russia would seem to
indicate that Eastern species possess the same (or similar) properties
as
Western species.
K&R:
(Ash - F. excelsior)
Laxative, purgative, febrifuge, astringent.
•
Moves the bowels, relieves the pain of constipation.
•
Stimulates sluggish metabolism, stimulates secretions of the Islets of
Langerhans.
•
In Russia it is used as a circulatory stimulant to warm the hands and
feet
(warms the entire body).
•
For intermittent fevers. Once used in place of quinine for malaria.
•
Uremia (Cheynes-Stokes), arteriosclerosis, hypercholesterolemia.
•
Metal, water, fire, and earth yang:
•
Metal:
arterial hypertension, arteriosclerosis, hypercholesterolemia, uremia.
•
Fire:
urinary calculi, gout, rheumatism.
•
Water:
oliguria, urinary calculi, hypertension, arteriosclerosis, promotes
longevity.
•
Earth:
arthritis, arteriosclerosis, rheumatism, stimulates sluggish lymph.
|
Qing
Dai
Indigo
(A
preparation of Shi
Gao and Da Qing Ye)
|
salty
cold
|
Lv
St
Lu
|
Cools
the blood; relieves swelling; clears heat; eliminates toxicity.
Heat
or
heat and toxicity in the blood: epistaxis, hemoptysis, hematemesis.
Heat
and toxicity in the liver: infant convulsions, fever.
Heat
in
the Lungs: cough, sticky sputum, difficulty breathing.
Heat
and toxicity: mumps, carbuncles, acne. Used both internally and
topically.
Topical:
inflammation of oral cavity and throat (often combined with Bing
pian).
One
component (Dian yu hong)
is effective for treating leukemia, raises RBC
count, decreases abnormal cells.
1.5-3g
directly in pills or powders (to 9g or more when cooked)
|
Shan
Dou Gen
Sophora
root
(S.
tonkineenis or S.
subprostata)
"Mountain
Bean Root"
|
bitter
cold
|
Lu
LI
|
Benefits
the throat; relieves swelling, alleviates pain; clears heat; eliminates
toxicity.
•
Heat and toxicity: swollen, sore, painful throat; carbuncles. A key
herb for
sore throat due to heat and toxicity.
•
Lung heat: cough.
•
Damp-heat: jaundice.
•
Topical: use the powder for pain, redness, and swelling of the oral
cavity or
cervix.
•
Anti-neoplastic effects.
•
Doses over 10g may cause nausea and/or vomiting.
Hsu:
Anti-cancerous effects against malignant carcinomas; antimicrobial.
DY:
Shan dou gen
is the most efficient Chinese medicinal for treating throat
inflammations due to heat-toxins or replete heat.
•
With Ban lan gen
for mutual reinforcement, to clear heat, eliminate toxicity,
and strongly disinhibit the throat. For such indications as:
-
1.
Painful, red, and swollen throat due to replete heat. This combination
is
usually sufficient to treat severe throat inflammations (including
strep throat,
tonsillitis, pharyngitis, laryngitis, etc.) due to heat-toxins or
replete heat. However, when this combination needs further
reinforcement, add She gan,
Jin yin hua, Lian qiao, Xuan shen,
and Gan cao.
-
2.
Toothache and painful, swollen gums due to replete heat.
-
3.
Oral ulcers due to replete heat.
3-9g
|
She
Gan
Belamcanda
rhizome
"Arrow
Shaft"
|
bitter
cold
|
Lu
|
Powerfully
eliminates phlegm; eases the throat; clears heat; eliminates
toxicity.
•
Phlegm-heat or fire excess or fire-toxicity: swollen, painful throat.
Sometimes used alone for sore throat.
•
Phlegm accumulation: cough, asthma, wheezing.
•
She gan's
powerful ability to eliminate phlegm makes it valuable for cold-
phlegm patterns also, for which it should be combined with warm herbs.
•
May be useful for uterine fibroids.
•
Increases secretion of saliva.
•
Liu: Not recommended for treating wind-heat. Since it is bitter, not
acrid, it may drive the pathogen to the interior.
•
The exquisite cultivated flower of this plant is sometimes called
Blackberry
Lily or Leopard flower.
MLT:
Anti-hyaluronidase activity, especially useful to control inflammation;
topical: for sores, dermatitis.
Gargle:
with a little salt and lemon juice in water for severe sore throat.
Hsu:
Antifungal, hypotensive.
1.5-9g
|
Tu
Fu
Ling
Smilax
Sarsaparilla
|
sweet
bland
neutral
|
Lv
St
|
Clears
heat; eliminates toxicity; resolves dampness; relieves joint pain and
muscle spasm.
•
Damp-heat (including with toxicity): joint pain, turbid and painful
urination,
jaundice, genital problems (liver channel).
•
Dampness and toxicity: skin problems including acne, carbuncles, boils,
herpes.
•
Syphilis: pain and spasms of the muscles around joints (use with Jin
yin hua
and Wei ling xian)
•
Lupus.
•
Lyme disease.
•
Treats and prevents leptospirosis.
SD:
May help antidote arsenic and mercury poisoning.
K&R:
Depurative, diuretic, stimulates LH secretion.
•
Water yang, metal yin.
•
Water:
nephritis, edema, gout, arthritis, rheumatism.
•
Metal:
skin problems, flatulence; mild diaphoretic.
•
Also for leukorrhea with inguinal lymphatic swelling.
•
Eliminates urea for uremia; psoriasis.
•
Contains hormone precursors.
•
Traditionally used as a tonic.
BII:
Binds to gut endotoxins for conditions associated with high levels of
toxins: psoriasis, eczema, arthritis, ulcerative colitis.
•
Possibly beneficial in cancer treatment.
Hall:
For reproductive hypofunction, difficulty conceiving/sterility.
•
May eliminate the inherited traces of unresolved disease (particularly
syphilis).
•
Teenage acne.
Yoga:
Dwipautra:
P, V- (does not increase Kapha)
•
Alterative, diuretic, diaphoretic, antispasmodic, antisyphilitic,
anti-rheumatic.
•
Purifies the genitourinary tract - dispels infection and inflammation.
•
Purifies the blood, improves Agni.
•
Helps dispel accumulated Vata
from the intestines.
•
Cleanses the mind of negative emotions, useful in many nervous
disorders.
•
Tonic action on the sexual organs.
•
Topical: As a wash for genital sores or herpes.
•
Use as a hot fomentation for painful, arthritic joints.
MLT:
Lymph cleanser.
•
Able to penetrate the blood-brain-barrier: useful for spirochete-type
microbes - syphilis, Lyme disease.
•
Also useful for herpes.
JC:
Alterative, diuretic, tonic, stimulant, relaxant, demulcent,
diaphoretic,
cathartic, anti-arthritic, anti-syphilitic, depurant, deobstruent,
anti-scorbutic,
carminative, poison antidote.
Hsu:
Anti-tumor effect - use 500-750g.
15-60g
|
Ya
Dan
Zi
Brucea
fruit
"Crow
Gallbladder
Seed"
|
bitter
cold
toxic
|
LI
Lv
|
Treats
dysenteric disorders; treats intermittent fever and chills; topically
treats
corns and warts.
•
Topical: for warts and corns. For warts, the wart can be seen as a
parasite
and Ya dan zi
as an antiparasitic herb which feeds the parasite and then kills
it. Ya dan zi
is broken open and the white seed inside is applied to the wart.
Usually requires continuous application for at least 10 days. For the
first 10
days, nothing may appear to be happening. By 14 days, the wart should
suddenly be gone.
•
Chronic or recurring dysenteric disorders. An important herb for
chronic
cold stagnation dysenteric disorders that wax and wane, or alternating
hard
and soft stool. Particularly useful for dysentery due to protozoa.
•
Malarial disorders: alternating fever and chills. Yan
dan zi's antimalarial
effect is stronger than that of Chang
shan and equal to quinine. In
experiments the dosage required for an antimalarial effect was quite
high and
side effects of nausea and vomiting sometimes occurred.
•
Generalized inhibitory effect on the CNS.
•
Kills Entamoeba histolytica
and the malarial parasite, but has no effect
against Shigella or Salmonella. The herb has a success rate from 72-94%
against amebic dysentery with a recurrence rate of approximately 6%.
•
Antiparasitic against a number of intestinal parasites.
•
Extremely bitter taste, stimulates the stomach to the point that it may
cause
nausea, pain, and diarrhea. It is therefore not used in decoctions. It
is either
placed in capsules or inside Long
yan rou.
10-15g
for malarial disorders; 10-30g for dysenteric disorders
|
Ye
Ju
Hua
Wild
Chrysanthemum
flower
|
acrid
bitter
sl
cold
|
Lu
Lv
|
Drains
fire; relieves toxicity.
•
Heat and toxicity: furuncles, carbuncles, sores, sore swollen throat.
•
Wind-fire: red eyes.
•
Topical: for chronic cervicitis.
•
Hypertension: used either alone as an infusion or with Pu
gong ying and Jin
yin hua in a decoction.
•
Antibiotic effects.
•
Lowers blood pressure: the flower alone is less toxic and more
effective
than the entire plant.
•
Helps prevent common cold.
•
In patients with acute bronchitis, Ye ju hua reduces the number of
acute
attacks.
MLT:
More detoxifying than Ju hua.
•
Use internally or externally for all inflammations.
•
May be very similar to (Western) Feverfew.
6-15g
|
Yu
Xing
Cao
Houttuynia
"Fishy-Smelling
Herb"
|
acrid
sl
cold
|
Lu
LI
|
Drains
pus; clears heat; eliminates toxicity; reduces swelling and abscesses;
drains damp-heat, promotes urination.
•
Heat and toxicity in the Lungs: cough with sticky sputum, including
extreme
Lung phlegm-heat with green phlegm or Lung abscess with pus and blood.
A
key herb for Lung abscess. Also for bacterial pneumonia, COPD,
bronchitis.
•
Damp-heat: painful, burning urination, colitis, diarrhea.
•
Heat and toxicity: carbuncles, sores, pus. Used internally or topically.
•
Topical: for skin problems, especially herpes.
•
Cook with sesame oil and soy sauce and eat to promote digestion,
improve
the appetite.
•
Antimicrobial.
•
Should not be cooked long.
MLT:
Good for treating the adverse effects of tobacco addiction. Use in a
formula with Ren shen, Sang
bai pi, Gua lou, Jie geng: take
two 00 capsules
of this powdered mixture every 1-2 hours to lessen cravings, and
support
detoxification. Lower the dose after 3-4 days.
Hsu:
Strengthens capillary walls; antifungal, antibacterial, antiviral,
diuretic.
15-60g
|
Zao
Xiu
(Qi
Ye
Yi Shi Hua)
Paris
Rhizome
|
bitter
sl
cold
|
Lv
|
Clears
heat; eliminates toxicity; relieves swelling and pain; subdues liver
wind to relieve convulsions; mildly moves blood.
•
Heat and toxicity: snake bite, carbuncles, boils.
•
General herb for any kind of pain.
•
Liver wind stirring: epilepsy, convulsions.
•
Warm-heat pathogen: coma, convulsions.
•
Blood stasis: pain after trauma (inferior to San
qi for this).
•
Particularly good for early stages of heat and toxicity.
5-10g
|
Zi
Hua
Di Ding
Viola
yedoensis
Violet
"Purple
Flower Earth
Spike"
|
bitter
acrid
cold
|
Lv
Ht
|
Clears
heat; eliminates toxicity; clears hot sores.
•
Heat-toxicity: inflammation, swelling - erysipelas, boils, mastitis,
appendicitis, mumps, other hot swellings; red, swollen eyes; swollen,
painful
throat and ears. Especially useful for boils. Weaker than Pu
gong ying for
mastitis.
•
Hot sores and abscesses - especially of the head and back. Used
internally
and topically (usually fresh).
•
Snake bite: chew and apply topically.
MLT:
Softens lumps, including cancer.
•
As a syrup: use as an expectorant and to ease sore throats.
9-15g
It
has
not been clearly established as to which of the Western species - Viola
odorata (Sweet Violet) or V.
tricolor (Wild Pansy) - is most
similar to the
Chinese species, and to what degree.
Hall:
(V. odorata)
Its root system resembles chains of lymph nodes: clears
lymph blockage, lymph cancer (throat), lymph stasis, blood-component
changes.
•
This herb is a symbol of death of one kind and rebirth in a different
dimension.
RW:
(V. odorata)
Expectorant: chronic bronchitis.
(V.
tricolor) Skin conditions:
Excellent results with eczema in infants, milk
crust and other chronic skin complaints. In adults, chronic eczema will
at
times respond very well. However, it is necessary to take it for a long
time.
•
Topical: gauze soaked in the tea can be used for skin complaints,
including
for tuberculous skin conditions.
K&R:
(V. tricolor)
Wood yang, metal yin.
Diuretic
(volumetric), laxative, depurative, diaphoretic, anticoagulant,
antipruritic; tonic to the venous system; anti-allergic and
anti-inflammatory
properties.
•
Skin problems (juvenile acne, herpes, hives, eczematous varicose
ulcers,
chronic psoriasis, eczema).
•
Hemorrhoids, phlebitis, constipation.
•
Arthritis, rheumatism with oliguria.
|
Herbs
That Clear Deficiency Heat
|
•
Also consider, as appropriate: Ze
xie, Zhi mu, Huang bai, Mu dan pi, Han lian cao, Tian men dong,
etc.
•
Bensky & Gamble, second edition, has a similar category - Herbs
for Steaming Bone Disorder - which includes Di
gu pi, Hu Huang lian, Mu dan pi, Qing hao, and
Yin chai hu.
•
Herbs in this category are commonly combined with:
A.
Herbs that nourish Yin.
B.
Herbs that strengthen the spleen and stomach, when there is deficiency
of these organs.
|
Bai
Wei
Cynanchum
root
Swallowwort
|
bitter
salty
cold
|
St
Lv
Lu
K
|
Clears
heat; cools the blood; promotes urination; eliminates toxicity.
•
Ying
or Xue
level heat, or Yin deficiency, or blood deficiency (especially
postpartum or after a febrile disease): fever.
•
Heat in the blood: painful, hot or bloody urination. Especially before
or
after giving birth.
•
Heat and toxicity: carbuncles, swollen, painful throat, snake bite,
toxic
sores. Can be used internally or applied topically for these
indications.
•
Some say this herb can conduct heat in the blood out of the vessels.
•
Bensky/Gamble classifies Bei
wei with herbs that clear heat
and cool the
blood.
MLT:
Important in gynecological problems: postpartum inflammation,
septicemia and/or accompanying restlessness.
•
Urinary tract infection caused by Yin deficiency (use with Ren
shen and Dan
zhu ye).
6-15g
|
Di
Gu Pi
Lycium/Wolfberry
root
bark
|
sweet
bland
sl
cold
|
Lu
K
Lv
|
Clears
heat; cools the blood; drains Yin deficiency fire, including floating
fire in the kidney channel; stops coughing.
•
Yin deficiency heat: tidal fever, night sweats, irritability, thirst,
steaming
bone disorder with sweating (if no sweating, use Mu
dan pi).
•
Lung heat (deficiency or excess): cough, asthma, wheezing.
•
Kidney Yin deficiency fire: toothache.
•
A strong decoction can be used as a dental analgesic. In one study of
11
patients with pulpitis, concentrated decoctions of Di
gu pi effectively
reduced the pain and inflammation in a mean time of one minute.
•
Food retention and Yin deficiency: fever in children.
•
Heat in the blood: hemoptysis, epistaxis, hematuria, hematemesis.
•
Antipyretic. Less effect than aspirin.
•
Lowers blood pressure. Especially for hypertension in classes I and II.
•
Eczema and juvenile verruca plana: Di
gu pi was shown to be beneficial
when injected (no mention of the effect of oral administration).
•
Malaria: in one study, Di gu pi
and tea leaves given to malaria patients 2-3
hours before the onset of fever had a significant effect in 145 of 150
cases.
•
Bensky/Gamble classifies this with herbs that clear heat and cool the
blood.
Li:
Can astringe sweats.
MLT:
Topical: for fungal infection - use as a wash with Ye
jiao teng, Ming
fan, She chuang zi, Zi cao, Ku shen
for genital itching, poison oak and ivy,
and other rashes.
DY:
Eliminates evils from the Yin division.
•
With Sang bai pi
to clear the Yin and Qi divisions, to effectively clear
heat and drain fire from the Lungs, eliminate deficiency fire damaging
the
Lungs, stop cough, and calm asthma. For the following indications, the
combination is found in Xie
Bai San:
-
1.
Cough and asthma with expectoration of yellow, sticky, and thick
phlegm, fever and thirst due to Lung heat.
-
2.
Cough accompanied by evening fever or low but persistent fever with
skin which is warm to the touch due to deficiency heat damaging the
Lungs.
-
For
the above indications, honey mix-fried Sang
bai pi should be used. This
combination can treat both full and deficiency heat. The Lungs are a
delicate viscus and are easily damaged by heat. Full heat easily
damages
Lung Yin, causing both full and deficient heat simultaneously. This
pair
addresses this situation very well. In case of full heat, add Huang
qin, Pi pa
ye, and Zhe
bei mu. In case of deficiency
heat, add Zhi mu
and Mai men
dong.
Hsu:
Hypotensive (vasodilator); hypoglycemiant; antibacterial; antipyretic.
6-15g
|
Hu
Huang Lian
Picrorhiza
rhizome
"Barbarian
Yellow
Link"
|
bitter
cold
|
Ht
Lv
St
LI
|
Clears
damp-heat; clears Yin deficiency heat; reduces fever due to parasites;
treats childhood nutritional impairment.
•
Large intestine damp-heat: diarrhea, dysentery, hemorrhoids. For these
disorder, Hu huang lian
is much weaker than Huang lian
and should be
used when Huang lian
would be too strong for the patient.
•
Digestive disorder with nutritional impairment in children: fever,
abdominal distention, dysenteric diarrhea.
•
Yin deficiency heat: tidal fever, night sweats, etc.
•
Damp-heat: sores.
•
Often used as a substitute for the more expensive Huang
lian.
•
Bensky/Gamble classifies this with herbs that clear heat and dry
dampness.
3-9g
BII:
(P. kurroa)
Extensive Ayurvedic use in the treatment of hepatic and
respiratory disorders.
•
Bronchial asthma: May prevent allergen-, histamine-, and PAF- induced
bronchial obstruction.
|
Qing
Hao
Artemisia
annua or A.
apiacea
Sweet
Annie
|
bitter
acrid
cold
|
Lv
GB
K
|
Clears
summer-heat; cools the blood, stops bleeding; treats malaria; clears
Yin deficiency heat; guides interior heat out to the exterior.
•
Summer-heat: fever, headache, dizziness, stifling sensation in the
chest,
with or without sweating.
•
Yin deficiency, blood deficiency, or febrile disease: fever. Especially
for
unremitting fever or night fever and morning coolness with an absence
of
sweating.
•
Yin deficiency: fever, hot sensation in the soles and palms.
•
Heat in the blood: purpuric rashes, epistaxis.
•
Malaria: alternating fever and chills (do not mistake for Shaoyang
syndrome, do not use Xiao Chai
Hu Tang). Liu: The extract of
this herb - Qing Hao Su
- is very strong at killing the malaria parasite (much stronger
than Western medicines), and has no side effects.
•
Induces sweating.
•
The leaves are the most potent part of the plant.
•
Short cook.
•
Bensky/Gamble classifies with herbs to clear summer-heat.
HF:
A Sha Chong
(kill worms or parasites) herb, important in Gu
Zheng
(Gu
parasites) formulas.
BF:
Anti-amoebic and anti-giardia effects.
•
Very effective herb when there is deficiency heat above and damp-heat
below.
MLT:
This is the only heat clearing herb which is aromatic,
bitter, and
cold. It clears heat and dampness, while its aromatic quality protects
the
spleen from its bitter, cold nature. Though it is bitter, it will not
injure the
Yin. Though it is cold, it will not aggravate dampness. Its fragrant Qi
is
able to decongest turbidity. Being light and clear, it is able to rise
upward
and release evil through the surface.
•
Useful for all four levels of Wenbing
as either the primary or secondary
herb in the formula.
•
More neutral than Huang qin and Huang
lian.
3-10g
(up to 24g for strong heat-clearing)
|
Yin
Chai Hu
Stellaria
root*
"Silver
Barbarian
Kindling"
Stellaria
media
Chickweed
|
sweet
sl
cold
|
Lv
St
|
Clears
Yin deficiency heat; clears fever due to parasites; cools the blood,
stops bleeding; reduces childhood nutritional impairment.
•
Yin deficiency: tidal fever, night sweats, steaming bone disorder.
•
Accumulation with heat or parasites: digestive disorders in children
with
malnutrition, fever, abdominal bloating, thin muscles.
•
Heat in the blood: epistaxis, uterine bleeding, bloody cough, hematuria.
•
Bensky/Gamble classifies with herbs that clear heat and cool blood.
*
Arenaria
juncea, Silena jenissensis, and Gypsophila
oldhamiama are also
used as this herb.
3-9g
The
ubiquitous Western species - Stellaria
media, Chickweed - is used in
Western herbalism (aerial parts or whole plant):
Grieve:
Refrigerant, demulcent.
K&R:
General tonic, cardiotonic. Fire, water, and metal yin.
•
Fire: asthenia, hypotension,
palpitations, anemia, excellent tonic for
convalescents.
•
Water:
edema, glomerulonephritis, nephrotic syndromes, asystole, cardiac
weakness, acute articular rheumatism, scarlatina, anemia.
•
Metal:
bronchitis, pleurisy, cough, colds, atonic bowel, strengthens Lung
and bronchial tubes, topical for skin conditions, especially burns,
hemorrhoids, ulcers.
•
A cholesterol cleanser, can be used long term to clear out cellulite
for
obesity, lipomas and other tumors.
•
Also for arrhythmias, depression.
PCBDP:
(herb) Antipruritic, vulnerary, emollient, antirheumatic.
•
Poultice for eczema, psoriasis, ulcers, boils.
JC:
(herb) Demulcent, emollient, nutritive, resolvent, pectoral,
alterative,
refrigerant, mucilage, discutient.
•
Excellent for pulmonary complaints, any form of internal or external
inflammation of the membranes or skin, and weakness of the stomach and
bowels, especially bleeding of the Lungs or bowels.
•
Topical: for wounds, skin diseases, inflamed surfaces, etc.
•
Also used as a weight loss aid.
|
Herbs
That Dispel Wind-Dampness
|
•
Use caution with
cases of Yin or blood deficiency, since these herbs tend to be acrid,
warm, and drying.
• Since the
dispersing effect of some of the more aromatic herbs in this category
is dependent on their volatile oils, they are
often decocted only for a short time (or are infused only).
• Herbs in this
category are frequently combined with:
A. Herbs that eliminate wind
and relieve exterior syndromes when the disease is located on the body
surface or in the upper
part of the body.
B. Herbs that promote blood
circulation and remove obstruction from the channels and collaterals
when there is associated
blood stasis.
C. Herbs that warm the
channels when there is cold associated.
D. Herbs that tonify Qi and
nourish blood when there is Qi and/or blood deficiency.
E. Herbs that tonify the
kidneys and liver when there is deficiency of these organs.
|
Bai
Hua She
Agkistrodon
snake or
Bungarus
snake
"White-Patterned
Snake"
|
sweet
salty
warm
|
Lv
Sp
|
Eliminates
internal and
external wind; activates the collaterals; relieves convulsions;
powerfully unblocks the channels.
• Wind-related
disorders:
• Wind-damp: Bi
syndrome, numbness and weakness of the limbs, cramping of the
sinews.
• Wind-stroke:
facial paralysis, hemiplegia.
• Wind in the skin:
itching, tinea, numbness of the skin, any kind of rash.
• Liver wind
stirring: infant convulsions and tetanus.
• Wind in the
sinews: spasms, tremors, seizures.
• Doctrine of
signatures: the movement and pervasiveness of a snake: can go anywhere,
deep or superficial, even to the bones, to eliminate wind.
Hsu:
Tranquilizer, hypotensive.
3-10g (1-1.5g directly as
powder)
|
Du
Huo
Angelica
pubescens
root**
"Self-Reliant
Existence"
|
acrid
bitter
warm
|
Lv
K
BL
|
Eliminates
wind-dampness,
alleviates pain; releases the exterior, disperses wind-cold-dampness.
• Wind-damp: Bi
syndrome, body pain - especially lower back and legs - can be used
for both acute and chronic conditions. Gout.
• Exterior
wind-cold together with dampness.
• Shaoyin
headache radiating to the teeth.
• A small dose
(3-6g) can lift spleen Yang and treat internal dampness.
• Tranquilizing
effect.
• **As with
numerous Chinese herbs, several different species are used as this
herb. In
some parts of China A. dahurica
(Bai zhi)
is used, and species of the Heraclelum
and Aralia
genera are also used.
• May cause skin
photosensitivity with topical application.
• It is said that when
the wind blows, this plant is still.
• Compared to Qiang
huo, Du
huo is more for the lower body
(while Qiang huo
is
stronger & more for the upper body), Du
huo is milder at eliminating
exterior
syndromes but is more effective at eliminating dampness than Qiang
huo.
MLT:
Promotes Qi and blood circulation, similar to Western (A.
archangelica)
species.
Hsu:
Sedative, analgesic, antiarthritic, hypotensive.
DY:
Moderate in action; treats hidden wind or wind which is more internal
and fixed;
tropism: the lower part of the body, lumbar area, knees, legs, feet,
and Shaoyin.
• With Qiang
huo to dispel wind, cold,
dampness, and treat Bi
over the whole body. For indications such as:
- 1. Moving rheumatic pains
all over the body. (Juan Bi Tang)
- 2. Common cold with fever,
back pain, and joint pain due to wind, cold, and
dampness. (Qiang Huo Sheng Shi
Tang)
- 3. Joint running wind due
to wind, cold, and dampness penetrating the channels and
network vessels. Li jie feng
or joint running wind refers to acute arthralgia which is
severe and movable with loss of joint mobility, swelling, and intense
joint pain which
is worse at night. This affection can transform itself into heat and
then cause redness,
pain, swelling, and heat.
3-15g
|
Fang
Ji
(Han
Fang Ji)
Stephania
root
Guang
Fang Ji (Mu Fang Ji) - Aristolochia
fangchi is also referred to
simply as Fang
Ji. It contains aristolochic
acid, which has been associated with kidney damage when
misused (though no historical sources of Chinese medicine recorded any
detrimental
effects when properly used). Its use is prohibited by the FDA in the
United States. |
bitter
acrid
cold
|
BL
K
Sp
|
Eliminates
wind-dampness;
drains dampness by promoting urination; relieves pain;
reduces edema.
• Wind-damp-heat: Bi
syndrome, fever, red, swollen, hot, painful joints.
• Damp accumulation
in the lower Jiao: edema (facial, legs, or systemic, but especially
good for the lower body), ascites, gurgling sounds in the intestines,
abdominal
distention, damp leg qi.
• Anti-inflammatory.
• Analgesic: 1/4
the strength of Yan hu suo,
1/1000 the potency of morphine, less effect
in very high doses.
• Treats dampness
in two ways (eliminates from the surface, promotes urination).
• Lowers BP by
vasodilation.
• Antiparasitic:
against Entamoeba histolytica
(stronger than berberine).
DY:
Quickens the channels; opens the pores of the skin; opens the nice
orifices;
disperses swelling; drains evil Qi.
• With Huang
qi to simultaneously drain and
supplement, to support the correct Qi and
drain evil Qi at the same time, to regulate the upbearing and
downbearing of the Qi
mechanism and strongly promote diuresis. For the following indications,
the
combination is found in Fang
Ji Huang Qi Tang:
- 1. Edema due to wind-water
with fever, fear of wind, edema predominantly in the
upper body and face, joint pain, scanty urination, and a floating
pulse. If wind attacks
the exterior and blocks the Lung Qi, this causes a disturbance in the
Lungs' diffusing
and downbearing function. Therefore, because the water passageways are
not
regulated, dampness is not moved downward. Thus, there is accumulation
of
dampness in the upper body and edema appears.
- 2. Rheumatic pain due to
damp Bi
with heavy limbs, joint numbness, and sometimes
swollen joints.
- 3. Chronic nephritis and
cardiac disease with edema due to Qi deficiency and
accumulation of dampness.
• Han
fang ji is usually used for
edema and accumulation of damp-heat in the lower
half of the body. When
combined
with Huang
qi, Han
fang ji can then treat edema in
the upper half of the body and of the wind type.
3-9g
|
Hai
Feng Teng
Kadsura
stem
Piper
futokadsura
"Sea
Wind Vine"
|
acrid
bitter
slightly
warm
|
Lv
|
Eliminates
wind-dampness;
dispels obstructions from the channels and collaterals;
disperses cold, relieves pain.
• Wind-damp: Bi
syndrome with limited movement of joints, spasm of tendons, stiff
joints, lower back pain, cramping of the muscles and sinews, sore knees.
• Pain due to
trauma.
• Cold invading the
spleen and stomach:
epigastric
and abdominal
pain and diarrhea.
• Can be used for
pain in either the upper or lower body.
• Some
anti-neoplastic effects.
Hsu:
Analgesic.
6-15g
|
Hai
Tong Pi
Erythrina
bark
Coral-bean
bark
|
bitter
acrid
neutral
|
Lv
Sp
K
|
Eliminates
wind-dampness;
dispels obstruction from channels and collaterals;
promotes urination, reduces edema; treats itching skin lesions and
toothaches.
• Wind-damp (heat
or cold): Bi
syndrome with spasm of tendons (especially in the
extremities), soreness of the lumbar region and knees.
• Dampness:
superficial edema.
• Gout pain.
• Topical: itching
skin lesions - scabies, etc.
• Gargle for
toothache due to cavities.
6-15g
|
Luo
Shi Teng
Trachelospermum
Star
Jasmine stem
"Collateral
Stone
Vine"
|
bitter
sl cold
|
Ht
Lv
|
Cools
the blood; relieves
swelling; eliminates wind-dampness; unblocks the channels.
• Wind-damp: Bi,
spasm of tendons (especially suitable for wind-damp-heat).
• Heat in the
blood: sore and swollen throat, carbuncles, red, hot, painful
abscesses,
toxic sores.
• Can be used for
pain in either the upper or lower body.
• One component,
Arctiin, is vasodilatory and lowers blood pressure.
6-15g
|
Mu
Gua
Chinese
Quince
Chaenomelis fruit
"Wood
Melon"
|
sour
warm
|
Lv
Sp
St
|
Relaxes
the muscles and
tendons; unblocks the channels; resolves dampness;
harmonizes the stomach, adjusts the stomach and spleen; reduces food
stagnation.
• Spasm of calves
due to diarrhea and vomiting (earth is weakened, [metal becomes
weakened and cannot control wood] wood wind attacks earth's
muscles of the limbs),
also abdominal pain, and edema due to leg qi.
• Wind-damp: Bi
with spasm of tendons, painful obstruction of the extremities,
especially with severe, cramping pain, and weakness in the lower back
and lower
extremities.
• Cannot treat
exterior syndromes (does not expel wind or cold) - only resolves
dampness, has a more interior effect.
• Very effective at
relaxing the sinews.
• Especially
suitable for treating pain in the lower body.
• Anti-inflammatory.
• Bensky/Gamble:
excessive use can harm the teeth and bones.
Hsu:
Antispasmodic, antibacterial, diuretic.
4.5-12g
|
Qian
Nian Jian
Homalomena
rhizome
"Thousand
Years of
Health"
|
acrid
bitter
warm
|
K
Lv
|
Dispels
wind-dampness;
strengthens the sinews and bones.
• Wind-cold-damp: Bi
syndrome with pain, spasms, or numbness wither perceived
superficially (in the sinews) or deeply (in the bones).
• Weakness or
softness in the sinews and bones: strong fortifying action.
• Traumatic injury:
swelling, pain.
• Widely used in
treating the elderly, both internally and as an external wash.
4.5-9g
|
Qin
Jiao
Gentiana
macrophylla root
|
bitter
acrid
sl. cold
|
St
Lv
GB
|
Relaxes
the tendons and
muscles; clears deficiency heat; eliminates wind-dampness;
resolves dampness and relieves jaundice (damp-heat); moistens the
intestines, unblocks
the bowels.
• Wind-damp: Bi
with muscle and tendon spasms.
• Yin deficiency:
tidal fever, steaming bone disorder.
• Dryness of the
intestines: constipation.
• Damp-heat:
jaundice, especially in acute cases and in infants.
• Only herb in this
category that is not very drying. Use in formulas with other wind-damp
herbs to counteract their drying qualities. Safe with Yin or blood
deficiency.
• Antibacterial/fungal.
• May treat
meningitis (used successfully by IM injection in study).
MLT:
Anti-inflammatory.
Li:
Can astringe sweats.
Hsu:
Hypotensive, antiarthritic, analgesic, increases secretions from
adrenal cortex.
DY:
Guides to the spine and lumbar area.
4.5-12g
|
Qing
Feng Teng
Sinemenium
|
acrid
warm
|
Lv
Sp
|
Promotes
urination;
eliminates toxicity; eliminates wind-dampness; dispels
obstructions from the channels and collaterals.
• Wind-damp: Bi
syndrome with numbness of the skin.
• Accumulation of
damp and harmful body fluids: edema.
• Heat-toxicity:
carbuncles.
Hsu:
Analgesic (increases pain threshold), tranquilizer, antitussive (one
constituent is
similar to codeine), hypotensive - fast acting and long lasting,
antiphlogistic.
10-15g
|
Sang
Zhi
Mulberry
twig
Morus
|
bitter
neutral
|
Lv
|
Eliminates
wind and dispels
obstructions from the channels and collaterals; benefits
the joints.
• Wind-damp: Bi
syndrome with spasm of the tendons - especially good for the upper
extremities.
• Edema.
• May increase
blastogenesis of lymphocytes.
• For lower body
pain, can be combined with Du
huo, Fang ji.
10-30g
|
Wei
Ling Xian
Chinese
Clematis
root
"Awesome
Spiritual
Immortal" or "Temple's Sacred
Root" or
"Strong
and Very
Effective"
|
acrid
salty
warm
|
BL
|
Eliminates
wind-dampness,
alleviates pain; dispels obstructions from the channels and
collaterals; dissolves fish bones lodged in the throat; powerfully
promotes Qi
circulation at the body surface and in the channels; reduces phlegm and
pathogenic
water.
• Wind-damp: Bi
syndrome.
• Phlegm and
pathogenic water: focal distention and accumulation in the middle Jiao.
• Useful in icteric
infectious hepatitis.
• Fish bone lodged
in the throat: use 15-30g, make a thick decoction with vinegar and
brown sugar, swallow slowly (not for deeply lodged or very big bones).
• Can be used for
pain in either the upper or lower body.
• While Liu
translates Wei ling xian
as "Strong, Very Effective," Bensky/Gamble
interprets it as "Awesome Spiritual Immortal," and MLT
says it translates as "Temple's Sacred Root" and refers to the
ancient story of an old nun who lived in the "Temple of Powerful
Spirits" atop a mountain and
used this herb often and with great
success.
Hsu:
Antibacterial, antifungal, hypotensive, analgesic, antidiuretic;
"anti-sprain
action."
6-12g
|
Wu
Jia Pi
Eleutherococcus
gracilistylus root
bark
(formerly
known as Acanthopanax)
"Bark
of Five
Additions"
(akin
to Ci Wu Jia, Eleutherococcus
senticosus root)
|
acrid
bitter
warm
|
Lv
K
|
Strengthens
the tendons and
bones; eliminates wind-dampness; transforms dampness
and reduces swelling.
• Wind-damp: Bi
syndrome with weakness in the lumbar region and knees (particularly
when chronic deficiency of the liver and kidneys has led to weak or
soft sinews and
bones).
• Developmental
delays in motor functions in children, especially retardation in
walking.
• Urinary
difficulty, edema, damp-cold leg qi.
• Good when the
smooth flow of Qi and blood is obstructed.
• Especially
effective for children and the elderly.
PLB:
The genera Acanthopanax and Eleutherococcus are one and the same (with
the
latter now being the preferred name), as authoritatively confirmed at
the taxonomic
symposium Biological
Nomenclature in the 21st
Century (University of MD,
1996).
While Wu jia pi
and Ci wu jia
come from different species - E.
gracilistylus and E.
senticosus, respectively - E.
gracilistylus seems to possess
some (if not all) of the tonic
properties attributed to E.
senticosus ("Siberian
Ginseng"). However, since it is the
bark of the root that is used from the former (Wu
jia pi) as opposed to the whole
root,
which is used in the case of Ci
wu jia, Wu
jia pi's action is
focused more on the surface
(on dispersion of wind-dampness), than the interior (on tonification).
MLT:
Often sold as a medicinal wine for neurasthenia, insomnia, excessive
dreaming,
forgetfulness, dizziness, poor appetite, palpitations, coronary heart
disease, angina
pectoris.
• Prolonged
consumption can treat leukopenia from chemotherapy/ physiotherapy.
HF:
A supplement with an anti-Gu
nature, possessing acrid, toxin-resolving qualities,
useful in Gu Zheng
(Gu
parasites) formulas.
BF:
Good when wind-damp is accompanied by concomitant Qi and blood
deficiency.
Hsu:
Antiarthritic, antiphlogistic, analgesic, antipyretic, adaptogenic
(increases the
body's non-specific resistance to disease and stress),
hypotensive.
4.5-15g
|
Wu
Shao
She
Zaocys
snake
|
sweet
salty
neutral
|
Lv
Sp
|
Same
actions and indications
as Bai hua she,
but not as strong, though neither does it
possess any of Bai hua
she's toxicity. Also
easier to find in the United States.
3-9g (3g directly as powder)
|
Xi
Xian Cao
Siegesbeckia
|
bitter
cold
|
Lv
K
|
Clears
heat; eliminates
toxicity; eliminates wind-dampness; dispels obstruction from
the channels and collaterals; strengthens the sinews; calms the Shen;
pacifies the liver;
transforms damp-heat; alleviates itching.
• Wind-damp: Bi
syndrome with numbness and weakness in the limbs; facial paralysis,
hemiplegia, numbness and weakness in the back and legs.
• Damp-heat-toxicity: carbuncles,
boils, eczema, sores, itching.
• Wind-damp: rash,
itching.
• Shen disturbance:
irritability, insomnia, forgetfulness.
• Liver
Yang rising: headache,
dizziness.
• Hypertension:
lowers blood pressure.
• Acute malaria:
use large doses (up to 60g per day).
• Topical: soak in
this tea for numbness due to dampness.
• Use raw to clear
heat and resolve dampness.
• Treat with wine
for wind-damp Bi.
Hsu:
Antibacterial, hypotensive, antiphlogistic.
6-15g
|
Aromatic
Herbs That Transform Dampness
|
•
Since the dispersing effect of some of the herbs in this category is
dependent on their volatile oils, they are often
decocted only for a short time (or are infused only) since heat causes
volatization of these oils. Toasting them thus tends to moderate their
effect.
•
These herbs should be used with caution in cases of Yin deficiency.
•
Herbs in this category are frequently combined with:
A.
Herbs that clear heat when there is heat associated.
B.
Herbs that warm the interior when there is cold associated.
C.
Herbs that tonify the spleen when there is spleen Qi deficiency.
D.
Herbs that promote Qi circulation, since moving Qi can help in the
elimination of dampness.
|
Bai
Dou
Kou
Cardamom
fruit
Cluster
Amomum
cardamomum or
A.
kravanh
(syn:
Elettaria
cardamomum)
"White
Cardamom"
|
acrid
warm
|
Lu
Sp
St
|
Warms
the middle Jiao; promotes Qi circulation, transforms stagnation; stops
vomiting; transforms dampness; descends rebellious Qi.
•
Dampness and Qi stagnation in the spleen and stomach: distending pain
in the
epigastrium and abdomen, poor appetite, nausea, vomiting, fullness in
the chest.
•
Stomach cold, or cold from deficiency of the spleen and stomach:
vomiting.
•
Damp warm-febrile disease: stifling sensation in the chest, lack of
appetite,
very greasy tongue coat.
•
Not too warm (cooler than Sha
ren) alright for use with
damp-heat.
•
Smash before using.
•
When decocting, add near the end.
MLT:
Sha ren
is better for the middle and lower Jiao, while Bai
dou kou is
better for the middle and upper Jiao.
Hsu:
Stomachic, antiemetic, stimulates GI secretions and intestinal
peristalsis,
inhibits abnormal fermentation in intestines, dispels accumulated air
in GI tract,
prevents vomiting.
Yoga:
Ela:
pungent, sweet/heating/pungent; V, K-; P+ (in excess)
•
Affects digestive, respiratory, circulatory, and nervous systems.
•
Stimulant, expectorant, carminative, stomachic, diaphoretic.
•
Awakens the spleen, kindles Agni,
removes Kapha
from the stomach and
Lungs.
•
Stops vomiting, belching, and acid regurgitation. Good, safe digestive
stimulant.
•
Stimulates the mind and heart, and gives clarity and joy.
•
Sattvic.
Opens and soothes the flow of the Pranas.
•
For colds, cough, bronchitis, asthma, hoarseness, loss of taste, poor
absorption, indigestion.
•
Nervous digestive upset in children or for high Vata
(good with fennel for
this).
•
Add this herb to milk to neutralize milk's mucus-forming
properties.
•
Detoxifies the caffeine in coffee.
•
Stimulates absorption from the small intestine.
3-6g
in
decoction, or, preferably, 1.5-4.5g directly as powder.
|
Cang
Zhu
Red
Atractylodes
rhizome
(also
known as
Black
Atractylodes)
|
acrid
bitter
warm
|
Sp
St
|
Strongly
dries dampness and strengthens/activates the spleen; eliminates wind-
dampness (and cold); eliminates dampness in the lower Jiao; induces
sweating,
releases exterior syndromes; improves vision.
•
Accumulation of dampness in the middle Jiao: distention in the
epigastrium
and abdomen, poor appetite, diarrhea, epigastric distention and
pressure,
fatigue, nausea, vomiting, thick and greasy tongue coat.
•
Wind-cold-dampness: Bi
syndrome with swollen knees and feet, pain in the
extremities.
•
Wind-damp-cold EPI: headache, body aches, absence of sweating, and/or
oozing yin sores.
•
Damp skin disease: acute eczema, vitiligo.
•
Night blindness or poor vision with a rough sensation in the eyes.
•
Damp-heat pouring downward: leg qi, vaginal discharge, swollen, sore
joints
(use with heat-clearing herbs).
•
Increases IgA, IgG, IgM in nose to enhance local immunity.
•
Mix with Bai zhi,
grind into powder, and hang over the chest to prevent EPIs. Also burn
these two herbs as the weather gets warm - on the new moon about
early May - to enhance immunity.
Li:
1/3 the strength of Bai zhu to tonify, 3 times the strength to resolve
damp. Quite warm and very drying.
DY:
One of the most drying substances in the whole Chinese pharmacopeia.
•
Upbears the clear and downbears the turbid.
•
Stops diarrhea.
•
Can be used for damp-heat when combined with bitter, cold herbs.
•
Cang zhu
is incompatible with black carp, peaches, plums, and Chinese
cabbage.
•
With Huang bai
for mutual reinforcement, to clear heat, dry dampness,
disperse swelling, and stop pain. For indications such as:
-
1.
Wilting of the lower extremities with pain in the sinews and bones due
to
damp-heat pouring downward. (Er
Miao San) Use salt mix-fried Huang
bai.
-
2.
Abnormal vaginal discharge, external vaginal itching, and cloudy,
scanty
urination due to damp-heat. (Use Cang
zhu which has been stir-fried
until
scorched.)
-
3.
Red, swollen, hot, painful joints due to wind, damp, heat impediment. (Cang
Zhu San)
MLT:
Possesses no significant diuretic properties despite its strong drying
action (does increase secretion of urinary salts).
•
Can dramatically lower blood sugar for some kinds of diabetes.
Hsu:
Stomachic, diuretic, diaphoretic, tranquilizer, hypoglycemiant, tonic.
4.5-9g
|
Cao
Dou
Kou
Alpinia
katsumadai
seed
Katsumada's
Galangal seed
"Grass
Cardamom"
|
acrid
very
warm
|
Sp
St
|
Warms
the middle Jiao; promotes Qi circulation; dries dampness.
•
Cold and dampness in the spleen and stomach: fullness, distention, and
pain in
the epigastrium and abdomen, accompanied by vomiting, diarrhea.
•
This is the warmest herb in the category.
•
Cao dou kou
is much warmer and much drier than Sha
ren. For this reason, it
is not usually a first choice. It is appropriate only for cold-dampness.
•
When decocting, do not cook long.
1.5-6g
|
Cao
Guo
Tsaoko
fruit
Amomum
tsaoko
"Grass
Fruit"
|
acrid
warm
|
Sp
St
|
Warms
the middle Jiao; strongly dries dampness; disperses cold; treats
malaria;
dissolves stagnation and distention.
•
Cold and dampness in the spleen and stomach: distending pain and
fullness in
the epigastrium and abdomen, vomiting, diarrhea, very greasy tongue
coat.
•
Malaria: especially due to excess damp-cold or turbid dampness.
•
Food stagnation: indigestion, especially due to meat.
•
Cold from spleen and stomach deficiency: focal distention, nausea.
•
Roasting the herb reduces the possible side effect of vomiting.
1.5-6g
|
Hou
Po
Magnolia
Bark
Hou
Po
Hua
Magnolia
flower
|
bitter
acrid
warm
|
Sp
St
Lu
LI
|
Promotes
Qi circulation; transforms dampness, resolves stagnation; relieves
asthma; descends the Qi of the Lungs, stomach, and large intestine
(directs
upward-rebelling Qi downward); warms and transforms phlegm.
•
Accumulation of damp or food causing stagnation of Qi in the middle
Jiao:
distention and fullness of epigastrium, abdomen, and chest, loss of
appetite,
vomiting, diarrhea. This is a key herb for eliminating distention and
fullness.
•
Lung phlegm: wheezing, cough with difficult breathing, stifling
sensation in
the chest, copious sputum.
•
Most effective herb to promote Qi circulation in this category.
•
Binds to GABA receptors, produces calming effect.
•
Reduces allergic and asthmatic reactions.
•
Counters effects of excessive cortisol, beneficial for insomnia and
anxiety
with high cortisol.
MLT:
Gently stimulates intestinal peristalsis - for damp stagnation with
either
diarrhea or constipation.
Antimicrobial
(though significantly weaker than the yellow herbs/berberine).
PCBDP:
Stimulant, tonic, aromatic, diaphoretic, anti-inflammatory.
Hsu:
Antispasmodic, antibacterial, stomachic.
3-9g
Hou
Po Hua: flower (different
species than Xin yi hua,
also magnolia flower)
•
Acrid, warm, aromatic.
•
Similar to, but weaker than the bark.
•
Focuses more on the upper and middle Jiao, and regulates liver Qi.
•
For a stifling sensation in the chest.
•
Stomach ache due to liver/stomach disharmony.
3-6g
|
Huo
Xiang
Patchouli
Agastache
or
Pogostemon
|
acrid
sl.
warm
|
Sp
St
Lu
|
Transforms
dampness; releases the exterior, clears summer heat (and wind-cold);
harmonizes the middle Jiao, stops vomiting; awakens the spleen.
•
Damp accumulation in the middle Jiao: vomiting, distention in the
epigastrium
and abdomen, poor appetite, nausea, lethargy, weakness, white, moist
tongue
coat.
•
Summer heat with dampness: fever, aversion to cold, headache, distended
epigastrium, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting.
•
Wind-cold EPI.
•
Similar to Zi su ye,
though Huo xiang
is stronger at circulating Qi and Zi
su ye
is stronger at eliminating wind-cold. Zi
su ye has a stronger focus on
the Lungs
than Huo xiang.
Li:
Often adds to formulas for patients with digestive weakness, or when
using
difficult-to-digest herbs, (also in combination with Pei
lan) to keep herbs from
causing stagnation or upsetting or damaging the digestion.
Hsu:
Antiemetic, antidiarrheal, tranquilizes GI nerves, antifungal,
antipyretic,
stomachic.
DY:
Moves the Qi; strongly clears summer-heat (mainly summer-heat-dampness).
•
The leaf (Huo xiang ye)
is more powerful than the stem at draining the
exterior. The stem (Huo xiang
geng) is better for harmonizing
the stomach and
stopping vomiting.
•
More powerful than Pei lan at
resolving the exterior and eliminating summer-heat as well as for
stopping vomiting.
•
With Pei lan
to effectively transform dampness and turbidity, harmonize the
middle burner, stop vomiting, eliminate summer-heat (and dampness), and
stop
diarrhea. For indications such as:
-
1.
Vertigo, head distention, fever with or without perspiration, chest
oppression, epigastric distention, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain,
and
diarrhea due to external attack of summer-heat-dampness.
-
2.
Spleen pure heat. This refers to a rising upward of turbid Qi towards
the
mouth due to spleen heat generated by an excess of fatty and sweet
foods. It is
accompanied by a sticky, thick feeling in the mouth, a sugary taste in
the mouth,
abundant salivation, thick, slimy tongue coat, and a slippery pulse.
-
This
combination is very effective for its treatment of bad breath or a
thick,
sticky feeling in the mouth with a sugary taste due to turbid dampness
accumulation or turbid dampness transforming into heat.
4.5-9g
|
Pei
Lan
Eupatorium
(Eupatorium
fortunei,
E.
japonicum)
"Ornamental
Orchid"
|
acrid
neutral
|
Sp
St
|
Transforms
dampness; clears summer-heat; releases the exterior and transforms
turbidity.
•
Damp accumulation in the middle Jiao: distention in the epigastrium and
abdomen, poor appetite, nausea, weakness, lethargy, vomiting, stifling
sensation
in the chest, white, moist tongue coat.
•
Summer-heat with dampness: fever, aversion to cold, headache, distended
epigastrium, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting.
•
Spleen damp-heat: sweet, sticky taste in the mouth, copious saliva,
foul breath.
•
Early-stage of damp warm-febrile diseases.
•
Topical: as powder on a sweaty, sour, smelly scalp (the synonym Xing
tou cao
relates to this use).
•
Does not lead to dryness.
•
Much weaker than Huo xiang
at releasing exterior syndromes.
Hsu:
Antiviral, antipyretic, stomachic, diuretic.
DY:
With Huo xiang
to effectively transform dampness and turbidity,
harmonize the middle burner, stop vomiting, eliminate summer-heat (and
dampness), and stop diarrhea. For specific indications and notes, see Huo
xiang
in this category.
•
Pei lan
is more powerful than Huo xiang
for transforming turbid dampness. In
addition, it clears dampness which has transformed into heat and treats
spleen
pure heat. ("Spleen pure heat" refers to a rising
upward of turbid Qi towards the
mouth due to spleen heat generated by an excess of fatty and sweet
foods. It is
accompanied by a sticky, thick feeling in the mouth, a sugary taste in
the mouth,
abundant salivation, thick, slimy tongue coat, and a slippery pulse.)
4.5-9g
|
Sha
Ren
Amomum
villosum or A.
xanthioides
"Sand
Seeds"
|
acrid
warm
|
Sp
St
|
Warms
the middle Jiao; promotes Qi circulation; transforms dampness; calms
the fetus; stops vomiting; strengthens the stomach.
•
Dampness and Qi stagnation in the middle Jiao: distending pain in the
epigastrium and abdomen, nausea, vomiting, and especially poor appetite.
•
Spleen Yang deficiency cold: diarrhea.
•
Morning sickness or violent fetal movement.
•
Often added to tonic herbs to keep them from causing stagnation.
•
Crush before use.
•
Short cook - add near the end of cooking a decoction.
•
Liu: Sha ren
is much warmer than Pei lan,
Huo xiang, Cang zhu, and Hou
po. Caution with heat conditions.
•
This
herb consists only of the seeds inside the shell - the shell should be
discarded unless its properties are intentionally desired.
•
The
shell - Sha ren ke
-
is better at promoting Qi circulation, is less warming, and is weaker
overall.
Jin:
Great herb for women, including in pregnancy.
•
Good for liver invading the spleen.
Chen:
Used successfully in one study for treating peptic ulcer.
1.5-6g
(Sha ren ke is dosed at 3-4.5g)
|
Herbs
That Drain Dampness
|
•
Some herbs in this category only drain dampness, while others both
drain dampness and clear heat.
•
Some herbs in this category have the potential to damage Yin or Qi. Be
cautious with Yin or Qi deficiency.
•
Herbs in this category are frequently combined with:
A.
Herbs that relieve exterior syndromes and promote sweating when there
is edema and an exterior syndrome
simultaneously.
B.
Herbs that warm the kidneys and spleen when there is Yang deficiency of
these organs.
C.
Herbs that clear heat and reduce fire when there is both dampness and
heat.
D.
Herbs that stop bleeding when there is bleeding due to heat forcing
blood out of the vessels.
|
Bi
Xie
Tokoro
rhizome
Fish-Poison
Yam
Dioscorea
hypoglauca or D.
tokoro
(and
other species)
|
bitter
neutral
|
Lv
St
BL
|
Strongly
drains damp; eliminates wind-dampness; clears damp-heat from the
skin; separates the pure from the turbid; relaxes the sinews, unblocks
the
connecting channels.
•
Dampness: painful urination with turbid urine (like rice porridge) or
vaginal
discharge (can be used for problems due to either deficiency or
damp-heat).
•
Wind-damp or damp-heat: Bi
syndrome, lower back pain, numbness or
stiffness of the lower extremities, muscle aches. (mild effect)
•
Damp-heat accumulation at the skin: skin lesions such as eczema,
pustular
sores.
•
In cases of damp-heat induced painful urinary dysfunction, this herb is
most
appropriate when dampness is predominant.
MLT:
Antibacterial, antifungal, antirheumatic, anti-inflammatory,
antitussive,
antiparasitic.
•
Similar to Western wild yam (D.
villosa) - for damp-heat:
jaundice, hepatitis,
and gallbladder and rheumatic diseases.
SD:
May help antidote lead poisoning.
9-15g
May
bear some similarities to Western Wild Yam - Dioscorea
villosa:
JC:
Antispasmodic, relaxant, stimulant, antibilious, diaphoretic,
expectorant,
diuretic, hepatic, cholagogue, stomachic, tonic, anti-emetic,
antirheumatic, anti-asthmatic, emetic (large dose).
Good
for pain.
RW:
Contains diosgenin - a precursor used in the synthesis of progesterone
and
other steroids.
PLB:
Studies indicate that orally consumed diosgenin is not converted to
progesterone in the human body. Does not have hormonal effects.
IBIS:
Anodyne, anti-inflammatory, antirheumatic, antispasmodic, cholagogue,
diaphoretic.
•
[Western] dosage: tincture: 1 - 2 mL. powder: 400 - 800 mg.
•
Specific indications: bilious colic; skin and conjunctiva yellow, with
nausea
and colicky pain; tongue coated, stomach deranged, and paroxysmal pain
in the
abdomen; twisting or boring pain, radiating from the umbilical region,
with
spasmodic contraction of the belly muscles; colic with tenderness on
pressure,
which gives relief to the spasmodic action (Felter and Scudder, p. 344)
•
Therapy: indigestion; dysenteric tenesmus; cholera morbus; ovarian
neuralgia;
spasmodic dysmenorrhea; nausea of pregnancy; after-pains; obstinate and
painful vomiting; gastralgia (Felter and Lloyd, p. 660); intestinal
colic;
diverticulitis; rheumatoid arthritis; muscular rheumatism; cramps and
intermittent claudication; cholecystitis; dysmenorrhea; ovarian and
uterine pain
(British Herbal Pharmacopoeia, p. 79)
•
Contraindicated during pregnancy due to teratogenic potential (Brinker,
p. 43)
•
Contraindicated in peptic ulcers; long term use may potentiate ulcers
and/or
prevent their detection.
•
Caution is advised in patients with history of recent surgery,
diabetes,
hypoglycemia, nephrotic syndrome, urinary tract infections, acute
infectious
hepatitis, leukemias, Graves' disease, or related genetic
disorders (Langer and
Greer, pp. 66 - 67); caution is also advised for those with thyroid
problems, as
studies indicate a possible goitrogenic response (Langer and Greer, p.
79).
•
Large doses cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea (Spoerke, p. 149; Felter
and
Lloyd, p. 661)
|
Bian
Xu
Polygonum
aviculare
Polygonum
Knotweed
|
bitter
sl
cold
|
BL
|
Stops
itching; clears damp-heat; promotes urination; unblocks painful urinary
dysfunction; kills parasites.
•
Damp-heat in the lower Jiao: painful urination.
•
Damp-heat: skin disorders with itching, including tinea.
•
Intestinal parasites: tapeworm, hookworm, pinworm.
•
Douche for trichomonas.
•
Topical: wash for surface parasites.
•
Also for bacillary dysentery.
•
Increases the tension of the uterus - used to stop postpartum uterine
hemorrhage.
•
In cases of damp-heat induced painful urinary dysfunction, this herb is
most
appropriate when dampness and heat are equally severe.
MLT:
Common weed around the world, used widely for urinary tract
inflammation.
TS:
The gravel remedy. Its chief influence is on the bladder and it has
been
known to remove stones from the bladder when all other treatment had
failed. It will prevent the formation of gravel when there is a
tendency, and it
frequently dissolves stones already formed. It is desirable to combine
it with
Equisetum.
Hsu:
Antibacterial, hypotensive, anthelmintic.
9-15g
|
Che
Qian Zi
Plantago
seed
"Before
the Cart
Seeds"
Che
Qian Cao
Plantago
herb
|
sweet
cold
|
K
Lv
Lu
BL
|
Drains
dampness and harmful body fluid by promoting urination (without
damaging Yin); clears heat from the liver; brightens the eyes (mildly
nourishes
Yin); clears heat and resolves phlegm from the Lungs (mild); stops
coughing;
normalizes malpositioned fetus (at 8 months); mildly nourishes Jing;
solidifies
the stool (by promoting urination).
•
Bladder damp-heat: scanty urination, painful urination, edema.
•
Liver heat: red, painful, swollen eyes, photosensitivity.
•
Liver and kidney Yin deficiency: blurry vision, cataracts, dry eyes.
•
Summer-heat with dampness: diarrhea.
•
Can be used alone for any diarrhea (usually does not address the root).
•
Scanty milk after childbirth.
•
Female infertility: strengthens the Jing of kidneys and liver.
•
Lung heat: cough with copious sputum.
•
Injection into joint spaces has the effect of tightening overly lax
joint
capsules. This effect has been used clinically in treating recurring
dislocation of
the temporomandibular joint.
•
In one study, in which Che
qian zi was used in treating 68
cases of
malpositioned fetus diagnosed at eight months, 90% of the subjects had
a
normal presentation at birth.
•
Often put into a bag for cooking, to keep it from floating or passing
through
the strainer.
•
Often dry-fried when used to promote urination.
•
Often fried in wine when used for kidney deficiency.
Hsu:
Antitussive, expectorant.
4.5-9g
Che
Qian Cao: entire plant
•
Sweet, cold.
•
Not as effective as the seed in promoting urination, but more effective
at
clearing heat and it also eliminates toxicity.
•
Used internally and topically in the treatment of abscesses and
swellings.
9-30g
K&R:
(various parts of the plant): Astringent, diuretic, sympathomimetic,
pituitary stimulant.
Wood
yang, wood yin, earth yin, metal yin.
Inflammation
of the kidneys, gonorrhea, associated low back pain, eye diseases,
Lung Yang deficiency, bronchitis, laryngitis.
Wood:
conjunctivitis, allergic rhinitis, allergic asthma, allergic eye
conditions.
Metal:
emaciation, retarded development, bronchitis, laryngitis, tuberculosis,
constipation, chronic diarrhea, leukorrhea, eczema, acne.
Earth:
strengthens stomach and upper digestive functions; for malnutrition,
retarded development, nephrotic syndromes.
JC:
(root, leaves, flower spikes, seeds of Plantago major or P. lanceolata)
•
Alterative, depurant, diuretic, emollient, mildly astringent,
refrigerant,
deobstruent, antiseptic, vulnerary, antivenomous, styptic,
antisyphilitic,
anthelmintic (vermicide).
•
The roots and leaves have moderately diffuse and stimulating alterative
effects on the circulatory system. They also assist the glandular
system, healing
lymph and epidermal areas in scrofulous and skin diseases.
•
Excellent for kidney and bladder disorders.
•
An effective remedy for poisonous bites and stings.
•
The best herb for blood poisoning: reduces swelling and heals limbs
where
amputation seems imminent.
•
Eases pain and heals the lower intestinal tract.
•
Diarrhea, glandular swellings, hemorrhoids, piles, kidney and bladder
disorders, lumbar pain, scanty urine, enuresis, edema, scrofula,
syphilis, thrush.
•
Douche for leukorrhea, menorrhagia.
•
Topical: for bleeding, use as a poultice and drink. Use as a wash for
malignant or bleeding ulcers, toothache, burns, scalds, erysipelas,
inflamed
eyes. Wash with a strong infusion for itching, ringworm, old wounds.
|
Chi
Xiao Dou
Aduki
bean
Phaseolus
"Little
Red Bean"
|
sweet
sour
neutral
|
Ht
SI
|
Promotes
urination to relieve edema; clears heat; eliminates toxicity; drains
pus; dispels blood stasis; reduces swelling; clears damp-heat, treats
jaundice.
•
Retention of harmful fluid: edema with distended abdomen, urinary
difficulty,
leg qi edema.
•
Blood stasis, fire toxicity: carbuncles, sores, furuncles.
•
Damp-heat: jaundice.
•
Topical: combine with egg white, vinegar, and honey, and apply to
carbuncles
and boils due to damp-heat.
9-30g
|
Deng
Xin Cao
Rush
pith
Juncus
"Lamp
Wick Herb"
|
sweet
bland
sl.
cold
|
Ht
Lu
SI
|
Drains
dampness by promoting urination; clears heat from the heart channel -
descends heart heat to the small intestine.
•
Hot, painful or dark, scanty urine.
•
Pediatric sleep disorders with dark, scanty urine and irritability,
especially at
night.
•
Heart and kidney not communicating (due to heart fire with kidney Yin
deficiency): insomnia or restless sleep.
MLT:
Specific for urinary tract infections, sore throat, damp-heat,
incessant
crying of babies.
1.5-4.5g
|
Di
Fu
Zi
Kochia
fruit
"Earth
Skin Seeds"
|
bitter
cold
|
BL
|
Stops
itching; clears heat; drains dampness, promotes urination.
•
Damp-heat: skin disorders such as eczema, scabies and other
dermatological
problems where itching is a major symptom. Also for damp-heat in the
external genitalia. Good with Huang
bai. Can be used both internally
and
topically for skin problems.
•
Damp-heat in the lower Jiao: painful urination, dark, burning, scanty
urine.
•
Not to be used in combination with Hai
piao xiao.
6-15g
|
Dong
Gua Ren
Benincasa
seed
Winter
Melon
Wax
Gourd
"Winter
Melon
Seed"
Dong
Gua Pi
Winter Melon peel |
sweet
sl
cold
|
Lu
SI
St
LI
|
Clears
heat; expels phlegm; promotes discharge of pus; promotes urination;
drains dampness.
•
Heat in the Lungs or intestines: expectoration of thick, yellow sputum,
etc.
•
Damp-heat with phlegm obstruction in the upper or lower Jiao:
intestinal
abscess, Lung abscess - when the patient is exhausted easily, scar
tissue
surrounds the abscess and antibiotics cannot get through.
•
Especially useful in the treatment of damp-heat vaginal discharge.
•
Topical: grind and use the powder as sunscreen.
3-12g
Dong
Gua Pi:
•
Sweet, slightly cold; Lung, small intestine.
•
Promotes urination to relieve edema; clears heat.
•
Retention of harmful body fluid, heat, or summer-heat: edema.
•
For edema, it is often used with Zhu
ling, Ze xie, Fu ling.
15-30g
|
Dong
Kui Zi
(Dong
Kui Guo)
Muskmallow
seed
Malva
verticalla
or
Abutilon
seed
Velvetleaf
|
sweet
cold
|
LI
SI
BL
|
Promotes
lactation, benefits the breasts; moistens the intestines; drains
dampness and heat; promotes urination, unblocks painful urinary
dysfunction.
•
Damp-heat in the lower Jiao: painful, hot, bloody, or stony urination.
•
Retention of harmful body fluid: edema.
•
Insufficient fluids in the intestines: constipation with dry and hard
stool.
•
Insufficient lactation, painful swollen breasts, early stages of breast
abscess.
•
Especially useful for urinary/edema disorders accompanied by
constipation.
MLT:
Similar to Western Althea/Marshmallow [mainly used for its soothing
mucilaginous properties -PLB] - for irritated urination from dryness.
•
Milder than Hua shi.
•
Demulcent; increases richness of mother's milk.
6-15g
|
Fu
Ling
Poria
sclerotium
Hoelen
Tuckahoe
(includes
Fu Shen,
Fu Ling Pi, Chi Fu
Ling, Fu Shen Xin)
Fu
Ling
Pi
Chi
Fu
Ling
Fu
Shen
Fu
Shen
Xin
Poria
heart
|
sweet
bland
neutral
|
Ht
Sp
K
Lu
|
Drains
dampness and harmful body fluid by promoting urination; tonifies
spleen Qi; calms the Shen; transforms phlegm; harmonizes the middle
Jiao.
•
Spleen Qi deficiency with dampness: loose stool, fatigue, poor appetite.
•
Stagnation of fluids or dampness: edema, scanty urination, difficult
urination,
diarrhea.
•
Retention of harmful body fluid in the spleen: dizziness, palpitations,
cough,
headache (The spleen Qi is prevented from lifting to the head:
dizziness,
headache; from lifting to the heart: palpitations; and from lifting to
the Lungs:
cough.)
•
Shen disturbance: insomnia, palpitations, forgetfulness (Fu
shen may be
preferable).
•
Said to promote longevity.
•
Reduces blood sugar.
•
Drains without harming the Qi or Yin.
•
Weight loss: can be powdered and mixed 50/50 with powdered rice, then
dry
fried into a "cookie" with small amount of
sweetener, eaten as main food.
•
Compared to Yi yi ren, Fu
ling's tonic effect is
much stronger. But unlike Yi
yi ren, Fu ling does not treat
wind-dampness.
PFGC:
Balances earth; transforms stomach phlegm-rheum into useful body
fluids; can bank earth and engender metal - beneficial to both the
stomach/spleen and Lungs; stops excessive sweat loss.
•
"The Qi of the pine tree enters the earth, where, after a
long time, it forms
hoelen. the material quality of hoelen is formed by Yin Qi, while it
has been
conceived by Yang."
•
Purely benevolent, always tonifying.
•
Key herb for excessive sweats causing palpitations causing insomnia.
•
Hoelen settles kidney water rushing up to fill the void of depleted
heart fluid
(use a large dose in critical situations).
Li:
Commonly uses up to 30g/day for severe dampness. Combines large doses
of Fu ling
with non-greasy Yin tonics (such as Huang
jing) when there is both
dampness and Yin deficiency.
MLT:
High in potassium salts, which may be responsible for its fluid
regulating properties.
Frees
interstitial fluid for excretion and regulates intercellular fluid -
unlike
most diuretics, it does not cause thirst.
PCBDP:
Contains several acids shown to be cytotoxic to hepatoma in
vitro.
DY:
With Bai zhu,
the two herbs reinforce each other to effectively supplement
the spleen and dry dampness, percolate dampness, and disinhibit
urination. For
such indications as:
-
1.
Edema due to accumulation of dampness, due in turn to spleen
deficiency.
(Bai Zhu San)
-
2.
Fatigue, weakness in the limbs, lack of appetite, loose stools or
diarrhea
caused by spleen deficiency with accumulation of dampness. (Shen
Ling Bai
Zhu San)
-
3.
Vertigo, blurred vision, and/or heart palpitations due to
phlegm-dampness.
(Ling Gui Zhu Gan Tang)
-
4.
Chronic cough due to phlegm-dampness and spleen deficiency. (Liu
Jun Zi
Tang)
•
With Yi zhi ren
to fortify the spleen, secure the kidneys, reduce urination, and
stop diarrhea. For indications such as:
-
1.
Strangury with chyluria, milky, turbid urine, and dysuria due to
deficiency
cold in the kidneys or kidney Qi not securing with imbalance in the
function of
transformation of the bladder. (Use salt mix-fried Yi
zhi ren)
-
2.
Diarrhea due to deficiency cold of the spleen and kidneys. Particularly
watery diarrhea. Use Yi zhi ren
which has been stir-fried until scorched.
9-15g
(up to 60g for acute facial edema)
•
Fu Ling is the generic term for
the entire mushroom, which consists of:
•
Fu Ling Pi: the blackish "bark."
-
More
diuretic, slightly tonic.
-
Frees
urination without affecting the Qi.
-
Disperses swelling, treats edema and oliguria caused by severe
accumulation
of dampness due to spleen deficiency.
-
Usual
dosage: 15-30g.
•
Chi Fu Ling: the pinkish flesh
just beneath the blackish bark.
-
Drains heat, frees urination.
-
For
strangury, oliguria, and red or dark urine due to damp-heat.
-
Usual
dosage: 5-15g
•
(Bai) Fu Ling:
the white flesh which comprises most of the mushroom.
-
Tonic
and moderately draining.
-
Frees
urination, tonifies the spleen, quiets the Shen.
-
For
edema, oliguria, and phlegm due to spleen deficiency.
-
For
nausea and vomiting due to damp stagnation in the middle Jiao.
-
For
loss of appetite due to spleen deficiency.
-
Usual
dosage: 5-15g
•
Fu Shen:
the flesh which surrounds the parasitized root.
-
Stronger at quieting the Shen than Fu ling. Calms the heart, quiets the
spirit.
-
For
insomnia, disturbed sleep, palpitations, loss of memory.
-
Usual
dosage: 5-15g
-
HF:
(Fu Shen)
An An Shen
(spirit calming) herb, important in Gu
Zheng (Gu
parasite) formulas because emotional disturbance is common in patients
with Gu.
•
Fu Shen Xin:
the parasitized pine root at the heart of the mushroom.
-
Strongest at quieting the Shen.
-
Tranquilizes the heart, calms the liver, drains wind and dampness.
-
For
insomnia, cardiac pain, spasms of the sinews.
-
Usual
dosage: 5-10g
|
Hai
Jin
Sha
Japanese
Fern
spores
Lygodium
"Sea
Gold Sand"
Jin
Sha
Teng
Lygodium
herb/vine
|
sweet
cold
|
BL
SI
|
Drains
dampness and heat by promoting urination.
•
Damp-heat and/or stones in the lower Jiao: painful urination with blood
or
turbidity.
•
This herb is superior for pain relief (urinary).
•
Often cooked in a bag to keep from floating to the surface.
DY:
Frees strangury; clears heat from the small intestine, bladder, and
blood
division.
•
With Ji nei jin
to free strangury, transform stones, and, therefore, treat stone
strangury. For stone strangury and urinary lithiasis due to damp-heat.
This
combination can be reinforced by combining it with Jin
qian cao, Hua
shi, Qu
mai, and Che
qian zi.
•
With Jin qian cao
for mutual enhancement, to strongly clear heat and
eliminate dampness, disinhibit urination, free strangury, and expel
stones. For
indications such as:
-
1.
Stone and/or sand strangury, renal lithiasis, bladder lithiasis. For
these
indications, the combination can be enhanced by adding Ji
nei jin, Che qian zi,
Dong gua ren, and Qu
mai.
-
2.
Gallstones due to damp-heat in the gallbladder. For this indication,
the
combination can be reinforced by adding Yin
chen hao, Yu jin, Jiang huang,
Qing pi, and Hu
zhang.
6-15g
Jin
Sha Teng: the herb - "Gold Sand Vine"
•
Sweet, cold.
•
Clears heat; promotes urination; relieves fire toxicity.
•
Damp-heat: painful urinary dysfunction, especially with stones or blood.
•
Painful, swollen throat or mumps.
•
Bensky/Gamble: clear heat and relieve toxicity category.
|
Hua
Shi
Talcum
"Slippery
Stone"
|
sweet
bland
cold
|
St
BL
|
Drains
dampness and heat by promoting urination; clears heat and releases
summer-heat; absorbs dampness.
•
Damp-heat in the lower Jiao: scanty, dark, burning and painful
urination;
diarrhea.
•
Summer-heat: restlessness, thirst, fever, urinary difficulty.
•
Damp-heat: diarrhea, distention of the chest.
•
Qi level heat with dampness: unremitting fever, a heavy feeling in the
body,
thirst, yellow tongue coat.
•
Topical: for damp skin lesions, eczema, boils, itching.
•
Doctrine of signatures: Use stone for stones. Hua
shi's slippery quality
frees
the orifices and also helps kidney stones "slip"
out of the body.
•
Contraindicated for spermatorrhea due to kidney deficiency - this herb
is too
slippery and may exacerbate the problem.
•
Place in a tea bag when decocting.
DY:
Above, it clears the origin of water (i.e. the Lungs) and downbears
Lung
Qi; below, it frees the flow of the water passages and opens the
bladder;
eliminates evil heat in the six bowels.
•
Since it is heavy and slippery and therefore favors descent, is not
advisable in
pregnancy (it might cause the fetus to slip), except to hasten delivery.
•
With Gan cao: Gan cao
can moderate the cold nature of Hua
shi and protect
the middle jiao, while Hua shi
can prevent stasis due to the sweet flavor of Gan
cao. As a pair, they clear heat,
eliminate summer-heat, disinhibit urination
without damaging the middle burner, and free strangury. For such
indications
as:
-
1.
Fever, vexation, agitation, thirst, vomiting, diarrhea, and dysuria due
to
attack of summer-heat with internal and external heat. (Liu
Yi San)
-
2.
Turbid strangury.
-
3.
Stone and/or sand strangury.
9-18g
|
Jin
Qian Cao
Lysimachia*
"Gold
Money
Herb"
|
sweet
bland
neutral
|
Lv
GB
K
BL
|
Dissolves
stones and discharges them; eliminates dampness; clears damp-heat
from the liver and gallbladder, relieves jaundice; eliminates toxicity;
relieves
swelling; drains dampness and heat by promoting urination; unblocks
painful
urinary dysfunction.
•
Damp-heat and/or bladder stones, kidney stones, or gall stones: painful
urination.
•
Liver/gallbladder damp-heat: jaundice and/or red, swollen eyes.
•
Topical and/or internal: for carbuncles, boils, snake bite, abscess,
traumatic
injury.
•
Very effective for acute mastitis.
•
Often used alone as an infusion for stones.
*A
diverse array of herbs that have similar functions are used as Jin
qian cao. Besides Lysimachia
christinae, these include:
•
Desdemodium styracifolium
- known as Guang Jin Qian Cao,
since it comes
from Guangdong.
•
Glechoma longituba
- (Ground Ivy) known as Lian
Qian Cao, "Linking
Gold
Money Herb."
•
Dichondra repens
- known as Xi Jin Qian Cao,
as it comes from Jiangxi.
•
Hydrocotyle sibthorpiodes
- known as Xiao Jin Qian Cao, "Little Gold
Money Herb."
Hsu:
Helps dissolve and excrete urinary calculi, stimulates bile production.
DY:
Very effective in cases of biliary or renal lithiasis and may be used
alone
at a dose of 200-250g. Even when combined with other herbs, it should
still be
prescribed in relatively high doses of 50-150g daily.
•
With Hai jin sha
for mutual enhancement, to strongly clear heat and eliminate
dampness, disinhibit urination, free strangury, and expel stones. See Hai
jin
sha in this category for
specific indications and notes.
SD:
May help antidote mercury and lead poisoning.
15-60g
(or much more for stones)
|
Mu
Tong
Akebia*
"Open-ended
Wood"
Ba
Yue
Zha
Akebia
fruit
|
bitter
cold
|
Ht
SI
BL
|
Drains
dampness and heat by promoting urination; clears heart heat - conducts
heart heat out through the small intestine and the bladder to the
urine; promotes
lactation (by opening the channels); unblocks the blood vessels,
promotes
blood circulation.
•
Heart fire pouring downward to the small intestine: irritability, mouth
and
tongue sores, restlessness, scanty, concentrated urine.
•
Bladder damp-heat: scanty, yellow, painful urination, edema, leg qi.
•
Damp-heat obstruction: Bi
syndrome, joint pain, stiffness, amenorrhea.
•
Insufficient lactation after childbirth.
•
Regarding its ability to promote lactation, this refers to an ability
to enhance
the flow of milk, but not to produce it. In cases of insufficient
lactation due to
blood deficiency (milk is a product of the blood), you must nourish
blood.
•
This herb can easily injure the body fluids/Yin.
•
Doctrine of signatures: this herb's highly porous form - a
dense vascular
network like pipes - is suggestive of its ability to conduct fluids
(milk, urine).
*
Though Akebia species were most commonly listed in classical
pharmacopeias as this herb, this plant is rarely used in China today.
Instead, Aristolochia
manshuriensis
and Clematis armandi or C. montana
are used. Given the recent warnings about aristolochic acid as a
possible cause of kidney
damage, it is advisable to choose a reputable supplier to ensure you do
not get
Aristolochia.
MLT:
For urinary dysfunction associated with or caused by irritability and
emotional stress.
DY:
One of bitterest substances in the Chinese materia medica (it may be
worthwhile to mitigate its taste - with ginger, for instance).
3-9g
Ba
Yue Zha: Akebia fruit - "Eighth-Month Sticker"
•
Bitter, neutral; liver, stomach.
•
Frees the liver Qi; dissipates clumps; promotes urination.
•
Used mostly for hypochondriac or hernial pain, most commonly associated
with liver/spleen disharmony.
•
Scrofula and other nodular disorders.
•
Urinary difficulty and stony, painful urination.
•
Recent use: for tumors of the breasts and digestive tract.
6-12g
|
Qu
Mai
Dianthus
Pink
|
bitter
cold
|
BL
Ht
SI
|
Clears
damp-heat, promotes urination, unblocks painful urinary dysfunction;
breaks up blood stasis; unblocks the bowels.
•
Any type of painful urinary dysfunction, especially when bloody.
•
Blood stasis: amenorrhea (an auxiliary herb).
•
Constipation.
•
In cases of damp-heat induced painful urinary dysfunction, this herb is
most
appropriate when heat is predominant.
•
The flowers are the most diuretic part of the plant. (Not potassium
sparing: in
animal experiments, the herb had a more significant effect on potassium
excretion than on that of sodium.)
MLT:
Strong diuretic, also stimulates intestinal peristalsis.
Hsu:
Increases intestinal peristalsis, hypotensive, anthelmintic.
6-12g
(up to 24g)
|
Shi
Wei
Pyrossia
leaf
"Stone
Reed"
|
bitter
sweet
sl
cold
|
Lu
BL
|
Clears
the Lungs, expels phlegm, stops coughing; drains dampness and heat by
promoting urination; clears heat, stops bleeding.
•
Damp-heat or stones in the lower Jiao: hot, stony, or painful urination
with
blood.
•
Retention of harmful body fluid: edema.
•
Heat in the blood: hematemesis, uterine bleeding, hematuria.
•
Heat in the Lungs: cough, difficulty breathing, wheezing.
Hsu:
Antibacterial; strong antitussive, expectorant, and antispasmodic.
3-9g
(up to 30g)
|
Tong
Cao
Tetrapanax
Rice
Paper Pith
"Unblocking
Herb"
|
sweet
bland
sl
cold
|
Lu
St
|
Clears
heat and mildly drains dampness by promoting urination; promotes
lactation; conducts Lung heat out through the bladder.
•
Damp-heat or damp warm-febrile disease affecting the lower Jiao:
scanty,
painful urination. Usually prescribed as an assistant or envoy.
•
Insufficient or absent lactation.
3-6g
|
Yi
Yi
Ren
Coix
seed
Job's
tears
|
sweet
bland
sl cold
|
Sp
St
Lu
K
|
Drains
dampness and harmful body fluid by promoting urination; expels
wind-dampness, eliminates dampness from the channels; mildly tonifies
spleen Qi,
stops diarrhea; clears heat; drains pus; clears the eyes; expels
phlegm, stops
coughing.
•
Retention of dampness and harmful body fluid, especially when due to
spleen
Qi deficiency: scanty urination, edema, diarrhea, damp leg qi.
•
Damp-heat: any damp-heat disorder at any level characterized by a
greasy
tongue coating and digestive problems.
•
Wind-damp: Bi
syndrome with tendon spasms. Especially effective for
increasing joint mobility and reducing spasms in chronic cases.
•
Lung or large intestine heat: Lung abscess or appendicitis
•
Soft, pustulated carbuncles.
•
Lung phlegm-heat, cough.
•
Can also be used for problems due to liver or kidney deficiency or
liver
channel heat.
•
Despite its slightly cold nature, it does not hurt the stomach, and
despite its
sweet flavor, it does not block the Qi
•
Weaker than Fu ling
at tonifying the spleen. Milder at draining than Ze
xie.
•
Liu: Best herb for damp-heat with spleen Qi deficiency.
•
For chronic spleen Qi deficiency with dampness, can be cooked into a
porridge with rice, Da zao,
Bai bian dou, etc.
•
It is reported that Yi yi ren
has an inhibitory effect on the growth of cancer
cells.
•
Should be cooked at least 30 minutes.
•
Dry-fry to tonify the spleen.
Li:
Good for generalized body aches due to damp accumulation.
MLT:
Regulates fluid metabolism - drains dampness while it moistens the
skin.
•
Also for warts and fatty tumors, rheumatoid arthritis.
•
Research shows anti-cancer properties.
Hsu:
Hypoglycemiant.
9-30g
|
Yin
Chen Hao
Capillaris
Artemisia
capillaris
(or
A.
scoparia)
|
bitter
sl
cold
|
Sp
St
Lv
GB
|
Drains
dampness and mildly clears heat to relieve jaundice; descends stomach
and gallbladder Qi; frees the liver Qi; helps the liver Qi and spleen
Qi lift;
clears heat and releases the exterior.
•
Damp-heat or damp-cold in the liver and gallbladder: jaundice. Can be
used
alone for this. For damp-cold jaundice (greyer/duller color), add herbs
such as Fu zi, Gan jiang.
•
Heat patterns: intermittent fever and chills, bitter taste in the
mouth, stifling
sensation in the chest, flank pain, dizziness, nausea, loss of appetite.
•
Also and important herb for hepatitis, especially icteric, including
acute
hepatitis B. In one study, subjects were effectively treated with
administration
of 30-45g of Yin chen hao
3 times a day.
•
Liu:
Vents heat from Ying/Xue to Qi level, good for lurking heat.
•
Promotes bile secretion.
•
Lowers blood pressure.
•
This herb is picked in early spring and contains the energy of the wood
element.
•
Bensky/Gamble: Compared to Chai
hu, Yin chen hao is less drying
and is "softer." It is especially useful when a patient
with a Yin deficient or excessive
fire constitution needs the heat-clearing action of Chai
hu but is unable to
tolerate its dry nature.
•
In disorders of the anatomical liver, this herb may be more effective
when
combined with Da huang
and Zhi zi.
Hsu:
Antipyretic; lowers serum cholesterol and β-lipoprotein;
antibacterial,
antiviral, antifungal.
9-15g
(up to 30g in very severe cases)
|
Yu
Mi Xu
Cornsilk
"Jade
Rice
Whiskers"
|
sweet
neutral
|
BL
GB
Lv
|
Promotes
urination; benefits the gallbladder, alleviates jaundice.
•
Hot or stony, painful urinary dysfunction or edema.
•
Can be used for either yin- or yang-type jaundice (depending on the
other
herbs with which it is combined).
•
Wasting and thirsting disorder.
•
For many disorders of the biliary system. Cholagogue.
•
Relatively weak and safe diuretic.
•
Reduces clotting time and increases prothrombin concentration in the
blood.
•
Intravenous administration of the infusion has been used for its marked
hypotensive effect (which is not seen with oral administration, even
over long
periods of time).
K&R:
Diuretic (volumetric, azoturic, uricosuric, natriuric), choleretic,
cholagogue, TSH inhibitor, hypocholesterolemiant, hypoglycemiant.
•
Earth yang and yin, water yang and yin.
•
Extracts are diuretic and are used to relieve the pain of rheumatism
and gout; as a diuretic, it treats: nephritis, cardiac insufficiency,
edema
•
Also for obesity, high cholesterol, arterial hypertension.
•
Germ oil: inhibits development of arterial plaque, strong influence on
pancreatic-duodenal junction, and is used to treat hepatitis and
cholecystitis.
Hall:
Mucilaginous, soothing demulcent. Acts especially on the urinary tract
and kidneys.
•
For cystitis, burning on intercourse.
MLT:
Helps dispel and expel stones.
PCBDP:
Also useful for prostatitis.
Hsu:
Hypotensive, hypoglycemiant, cholagogue, decreases bile viscosity -
good
for chronic cholecystitis and difficulty in bile secretion due to
cholangitis.
•
Hemostatic - increases platelet count and prothrombin.
15-30g
|
Ze
Xie
Alisma
rhizome
Water
Plantain
"Marsh
Drain"
|
sweet
bland
cool
|
K
BL
|
Drains
dampness and harmful body fluid by promoting urination; clears (excess
and deficient) heat, including kidney fire.
•
Retention of dampness and harmful body fluid, especially damp-heat in
the
lower Jiao: scanty urination, urinary difficulty, edema, diarrhea,
leukorrhea,
dizziness.
•
Kidney Yin deficiency heat: dizziness, tinnitus.
•
Classically: for wasting and thirsting disorder.
•
In terms of strength at draining dampness, Ze
xie is second to Zhu
ling in this
category.
•
Doctrine of signatures: some say this herb resembles a kidney.
•
Ze xie's
diuretic strength varies according to when it is harvested. Winter
yields the most potent herb, and spring the least. The salt-prepared
form is not
an effective diuretic. Ze
xie's diuretic effect
causes an increase in the excretion
of sodium and urea. The herb has a high concentration of potassium,
which
may be a factor in its diuretic effect.
•
Ze xie
seems to lower serum glucose.
•
Compared to other herbs which promote urination, Ze
xie has less of a
tendency to damage the Yin.
Li:
Does not damage the Yin.
Liu:
Must be combined with Shu di
huang to avoid damage to the Yin.
Li
Dong Yuan:
Leads Yang Qi back down to its lower source.
Jin:
Good for draining fluid from the ear.
MLT:
Make into congee (stir fry the herb, powder it, add it to rice) and
take for
inhibited urination, edema, leukorrhea, obesity, high cholesterol,
hypertension, chronic liver disease.
DY:
Drains fire from the liver, kidney, and bladder channels; clears
damp-heat
from the lower burner; clears heat from the Qi division.
With
Huang
bai to clear and drain fire due
to Yin deficiency, and clear and
eliminate dampness and heat. For indications such as:
-
1.
Steaming bones, night sweats, and seminal emission due to deficiency
fire. (Zhi Bai Di Huang Wan)
Both herbs should be salt mix-fried.
-
2.
Inhibited urination and pricking, painful urination due to damp-heat in
the
lower burner. (Salt mix-fried Huang
bai and either unprepared or
salt mix-fried Ze xie
should be used.)
Hsu:
Hypotensive, hypoglycemiant, antibiotic (TB).
6-15g
|
Zhu
Ling
Polyporus
sclerotium
Grifola
mushroom
|
sweet
bland
neutral
|
K
BL
Sp
|
Strongly
drains dampness and harmful body fluid by promoting urination.
•
Retention of dampness and harmful body fluid: edema, scanty urination,
diarrhea, vaginal discharge, cloudy, painful urination, jaundice.
•
May be useful in hepatitis B. However, be cautious of damaging the Yin.
•
Possible benefit in cancer.
•
Much stronger at draining dampness than Fu
ling. No tonic effect.
•
Caution with Yin deficiency: may cause damage to the Yin (and, as a
result,
the vision).
•
In normal dosage, Zhu ling
has shown no significant diuretic effect. In
slightly higher dosage, and increase in urine production of up to 62%
has been
shown. Its effect is thought to take place at the level of the
glomeruli.
Hsu:
5g will cause a 62% increase in urine volume in 6 hours.
•
Antibacterial.
6-15g
|
Herbs
That Resolve Phlegm-Cold
|
The herbs in this category
are neutral or warm. They are used mostly for cold phlegm,
phlegm-dampness, or phlegm
in a neutral environment, without the presence of heat.
However, they are sometimes
used even for the treatment of
phlegm-heat (when combined with cooling herbs), because their acrid,
warmer natures make many of them very
powerful drying herbs for eliminating phlegm. Also consider, as
appropriate: herbs the resolve phlegm-heat, herbs that drain
dampness, herbs that warm the interior, herbs that promote Qi and blood
circulation, herbs that release the exterior, herbs that stop coughing
and wheezing, etc.
|
Bai Fu Zi
Typhonium rhizome
"White
Appendage"
|
acrid
sweet
warm
toxic
|
Sp
StLv
|
Eliminates both internal and
external wind; relieves convulsions; dries
dampness; resolves phlegm; eliminates toxicity; disperses stagnation of
phlegm, dissipates nodules; stops spasms; expels wind-cold-dampness;
alleviates pain.
• Wind-phlegm:
Bell's palsy, migraine, tetanus, dizziness, deviation of the
mouth and eyes in wind-stroke. Specific for phlegm problems of the face
and head - enters the Yangming
stomach channel.
• Phlegm and
toxicity: snake bite, masses, scrofula or other nodules. Often
used topically.
• Wind-cold-dampness: dizziness,
severe lateral headaches, numbness,
facial
pain, facial weakness, or any head pain with signs of damp-cold or
wind-dampness.
• Some
effectiveness against tuberculosis.
• In Northern
China, the root of Aconitum
coreanum is used as this herb.
It
is known as Guan bai fu,
and it should not be confused with Typhonium
since it is very toxic.
Hsu:
Analgesic, tranquilizer.
1.5-6g
|
Bai Jie Zi
White Mustard seed
|
acrid
warm
|
Lu
|
Warms the Lungs, eliminates
phlegm; promotes Qi circulation, dispels Qi
stasis; removes phlegm from the channels and collaterals; dissipates
nodules,
reduces swelling, alleviates pain.
• Phlegm-cold
accumulation: Coughing copious and thin sputum, difficulty
breathing, distention and pain in the chest and hypochondriac region,
hydrothorax.
• Phlegm(-cold)
obstruction in the channels and collaterals: multiple
abscesses, carbuncles, lymphoma, joint pain, body aches, yin-type
boils,
bedsores, watery, oozing sores. A valuable herb for the treatment of
any kind
of pain when phlegm or dampness obstructs the channels and collaterals.
• Often applied as
a plaster for asthma (on BL-13, 15, 17) - promotes local
blood circulation.
• Topical: for
lumps and pain. Long Western history of use
in baths and plasters for pain. Caution: may
cause blistering
of the skin. Do not use
on patients with skin sensitivities.
• Must be crushed
before using.
• Compared to Su
zi and Lai
fu zi: All are capable of
transforming phlegm,
regulating the Qi, and alleviating wheezing. However, Bai
jie zi warms the
Lung Qi, Lai fu zi
disperses the Lung Qi, and Su
zi descends the Lung Qi.
Li:
Very warming.
PCBDP:
Rubefacient, counter-irritant, stimulant, diuretic, emetic.
• Externally used
for rheumatic pains and bronchitis.
Hsu:
Expectorant: the oil slightly irritates the gastric mucosa, causing
slight
nausea which reflexively increases the bronchial secretions needed to
expel
phlegm.
• Topical:
decreases pain and inflammation.
3-9g
|
Bai Qian
Cynanchum root and
rhizome
"White
Before"
|
acrid
sweet
neutral
|
Lu
|
Strongly eliminates phlegm;
descends Lung Qi, relieves coughing.
• Lung Qi
stagnation and failure to descend: cough with thick, sticky sputum,
gurgling in the throat, wheezing, difficulty breathing.
• Not drying.
• Combine with
acrid herbs for wind-cold or wind-heat
• Bai
qian's ability to
descend rebellious Lung Qi is similar to, but weaker
than, Ma huang's. Bai qian
can be used to treat wheezing and coughing in
patients who are not strong enough to tolerate Ma
huang.
DY:
This herb "disperses" phlegm - xiao
tan - close to the Western idea
of
expectorating phlegm.
• Can be used in
the treatment of almost every type of cough. Due to its
neutral nature, it can be used for coughs due to either cold or heat.
• With Qian
hu, for mutual reinforcement in
dispersion of phlegm. They
complement each other to downbear (mainly via
Bai qian) and diffuse
(mainly via Qian hu)
the Lung Qi in order to effectively treat cough. For
such indications as: cough with abundant phlegm or phlegm which is
difficult to expectorate, itchy throat, chest oppression due to
blockage of the
Lung Qi and Lung Qi counterflow. The combination can be used in the
treatment of numerous respiratory diseases: chronic bronchitis,
dyspnea,
asthma, whopping cough, cough associated with a cold, etc.
• In case of cough
due to wind-cold or wind-heat, the uncooked form of the
herb should be prescribed.
• In case of cough
caused by an accumulation of phlegm in the Lungs, the
herb should be stir-fried until scorched.
• In case of
chronic cough, dryness in the Lungs, or if the patient is old, use
the honey mix-fried form of the herb.
3-9g
|
Ban Xia
Pinellia rhizome
"Half
Summer"
|
acrid
warm
slightly
toxic
|
Sp
St
Lu
GB
Ht
|
Resolves phlegm; dries
dampness; descends rebellious stomach Qi,
harmonizes the stomach, stops vomiting; dissipates lumps and
distention, disperses swelling and relieves pain.
• Phlegm-damp
(especially when originated in the spleen): cough with
copious sputum.
• Rebellion of
stomach Qi (including from stomach phlegm-damp): nausea,
vomiting.
• Phlegm
obstruction: pressure, distention in the chest or epigastrium, plum
pit sensation, masses, carbuncles, phlegm nodules in the neck
(including
goiter, scrofula), or other obstruction caused by phlegm anywhere in
the
body.
• Compared to Bei
mu, Ban
xia is more effective for
phlegm-damp, while Bei
mu is more for phlegm-heat. Ban
xia is better at transforming
phlegm
lodged in the stomach, while Bei
mu is better at transforming
phlegm in the
Lungs. The two are often used together to mutually enhance each
other's
therapeutic properties.
• Tincture of Ban
xia was effective in treating
95% of cases of acute
toothache.
• Effective in
acute suppurative otitis media.
• Ban
xia is always prepared for
internal use with ginger, alum, or vinegar. Prepared Ban
xia is called Fa
ban xia. The ginger-prepared
form is
specifically referred to as Jiang
ban xia. That prepared with alum
is called Qin ban xia.
• Raw Ban
xia is toxic and is only used
externally to reduce ulcerations,
deep-rooted sores, and carbuncles.
• Overdose can
generally be cured with oral administration of raw ginger.
• Contraindicated
in combination with aconite products.
• Must be crushed
before use.
• Ban xia qu is
powdered and
fermented Ban xia with Gan cao.
It promotes
digestion and resolves phlegm. It is particularly good when food
stagnation
has led to phlegm accumulation.
Li:
Ban xia
is a nice addition when treating the Ren
Mai (e.g. chronic UTI),
as it opens all the channels. It is vital for lower Jiao problems.
• The Chong
and Ren Mai
connect with the Yangming.
Therefore, moving
stomach Qi with Ban xia
helps unblock the Chong
and Ren.
MLT:
One of the strongest antitussives; stops post-nasal drip and excessive
saliva.
• Avoid the form
prepared with Ming fan
(Alum) since it may have a
cumulative toxic effect.
PFGC:
Ban xia
can open up coagulations; can revive accidental death
victims when the powder is blown up the nose.
• Ban
Xia Tang can resolve insomnia by
restoring proper communication
between the body's Yin and Yang aspects.
• Ban
xia can be considered to open
the orifices.
• Ban
xia contains the storing and
descending momentum of autumn metal:
can pull things down, can calm the Chong
Mai
• Ban
xia can relieve paralysis caused
by wind-cold-damp.
• Alum-processing
destroys its pungency and can induce nausea rather than
treating it.
• It is best to buy
unprocessed Ban xia,
soak it in hot water for 10 days changing the water daily, then cut it
into halves, put it in fresh cold water,
bring it to a boil, remove it from heat, let it cool, and then dry it.
CHA:
(Karen S. Vaughan) While our materia medicas list about 10
functions of Ban xia,
only about two of them apply to any given preparation. Fa
ban xia,
for instance (usual preparation) rectifies spleen deficiency,
harmonizes the stomach, and deals with insubstantial phlegm leading to
vertigo, insomnia or delirious speech. Jiang
ban xia is needed to deal with
nausea, vomiting, rebellious Qi and coughs due to colds with phlegm. Qing
ban xia is necessary for coughs
with damp, phlegmy Bi syndrome, especially
with nodulations or long-standing conditions without nodulations. Zhu
li ban
xia is used for serious mental
disturbances such as schizophrenia.
Hsu:
Strong antiemetic - decreases excitation of the vomiting center in the
brain. Ban xia
also has an emetic component which is destroyed by heating
it. Furthermore, this toxic compound is quite insoluble in water.
• Sedative.
• Slightly
decreases pressure inside the eye.
Heiner
Fruehauf
and Chip Chace: Articles by
Zhang Xi-chun indicate that
Ban xia has a slippery nature that helps supplement both the spleen and
kidney. By removing phlegm-damp, it helps restore the normal spleen qi,
and
by disinhibiting dampness, helps supplement the kidney. Zhang Xi-chun
says
that when the pungent nature of ban xia is used to counteract phlegm or
damp, the normal moistening actions of spleen and kidney are
benefitted. "Just as Cheng Wuyi has put it: "˜Pinellia is
pungent and dispersing; it moves
water and thus moistens kidney dryness. In other words, if dryness
counteracts dampness, water becomes uninhibited, and if pungent flavors
transform fluids, the dryness becomes moist.' He also says
that it is used for
vacuity constipation in the elderly, therefore, it is a mistake to say
that it is
excessively drying." [from Z'ev Rosenberg]
DY:
Fortifies the spleen; disperses food accumulation.
• With Chen
pi for mutual reinforcement, to
fortify the spleen, rectify the Qi,
dry dampness, transform phlegm, and stop vomiting. For such indications
as:
- 1. Cough due to an
accumulation of phlegm-dampness. (Use lime-processed Ban
xia.)
- 2. Chest oppression,
nausea, and vomiting due to stomach disharmony and
phlegm-damp stagnation. (Use ginger-processed Ban
xia and stir-fried Chen
pi.)
- Both herbs are
traditionally cured to reduce secondary effects and reinforce
their therapeutic actions. The longer they are kept, the more effective
they
become.
• With Huang
lian to harmonize upbearing and
downbearing, Yin and Yang,
to clear heat, dry dampness, transform phlegm, and stop vomiting. For
indications such as nausea, vomiting, chest and epigastric fullness and
distention, thick, yellow phlegm, yellow, slimy tongue fur, and a wiry,
slippery pulse due to damp-heat, turbid phlegm, and/or mixed cold and
heat
causing stomach disharmony. Huang
Lian Tang is typically used. For
these
indications, ginger-processed Ban
xia and ginger mix-fried Huang
lian
should be used.
• With Huang
qin to harmonize and
re-establish the interaction between Yin
and Yang, to effectively clear heat, drain fire, harmonize the stomach,
stop
vomiting, and scatter nodulation. For such indications as:
- 1. Vomiting and nausea due
to a Shaoyang
pattern. (Xiao Chai Hu Tang)
Use ginger-processed Ban xia.
When Ban xia
is removed from Xiao Chai
Hu Tang, the alternating fever
and chills disappear, but the pain and
distention of the chest and lateral costal regions persist.
- 2. Phlegm-heat. (Qing
Qi Hua Tan Wan) Use
lime-processed Ban xia
and
win mix-fried Huang qin.
- 3. Lack of appetite,
nausea, vomiting, and distention and sensation of
fullness in the stomach, diaphragm, and chest caused by a pattern of
mixed
cold and heat. (Ban Xia Xie Xin
Tang) Use ginger-processed Ban
xia and
bran stir-fried, ginger mix-fried or stir-fried-until-scorched Huang
qin.
• With Sheng
jiang to transform phlegm,
downbear counterflow, harmonize
the stomach, and stop vomiting. For such indications as:
- 1. Nausea, vomiting with
not thirst and slimy tongue fur due to phlegm-dampness stagnating in
the middle burner. (Xiao Ban
Xia Tang) Ginger-processed Ban
xia should be used.
- 2. Enduring cough with
white, watery, and profuse phlegm. Use lime-processed Ban
xia.
• With Shu
mi (Millet) to transform phlegm,
harmonize the stomach, and
quiet the spirit. For such indications as insomnia with heart
palpitations,
nausea, and cough with thin phlegm due to phlegm-dampness accumulation
in the middle burner causing stomach disharmony. Ban
xia and Shu
mi are
probably the best combination to treat insomnia due to stomach
disharmony,
i.e. stagnant food preventing the defensive Qi from entering the
interior.
• With Zhu
ru for mutual reinforcement, to
effectively dry dampness, clear
heat, transform phlegm, harmonize the stomach, and stop vomiting. For
such indications as:
- 1. Hiccup, nausea, and
vomiting due to counterflow of stomach Qi. (Use
ginger-processed Ban xia
and ginger mix-fried Zhu ru.)
- 2. Vertigo, agitation, and
insomnia due to phlegm turbidity. (Use lime-processed Ban
xia and ginger-processed Zhu
ru.)
- 3. Nausea and vomiting
during pregnancy due to disharmony of the
stomach, phlegm-heat, or heat in the stomach. In cases of stomach
disharmony, add Zi su geng
and Sha ren.
In cases of stomach cold, add Sheng
jiang
and Sha ren.
In cases of phlegm-heat, add Pi
pa ye. In cases of
stomach heat, add Bai mao gen
and Pi pa ye.
• Ban
xia is incompatible with mutton,
sheep blood, and maltose.
4.5-12g
|
Jie Geng
Platycodon root
Balloon Flower
Gan Jie Geng
Adenophora
tracheloides
|
bitter
acrid
neutral
|
Lu
|
Disperses Lung Qi;
eliminates phlegm; drains pus; benefits the throat; guides
herbs upward.
• Cough with
copious sputum or less, difficult-to-expectorate sputum, chest
congestion, hoarse voice, sore throat. Combined appropriately, it can
be
used for both wind-cold and wind-heat coughs.
• Sore throat, loss
of voice - especially when due to external heat, but also
when due to other factors, such as phlegm-heat or Yin deficiency heat.
• Lung abscess or
throat abscess: cough with a mixture of pus, blood, and
yellowish, foul sputum.
• This is the
premier herb for dispersing stagnant Lung Qi.
Hsu:
Expectorant - promotes saliva and bronchial secretions; antitussive;
antifungal; tranquilizer; analgesic; antipyretic; anti-inflammatory;
vasodilator; hypotensive.
DY:
Guides other herbs to the Lungs, chest, and the Lung channel. Jie
geng
can raise herbs which otherwise have a tropism for the lower burner
towards
the middle or upper burner. Loosens the diaphragm. Mainly upbears but
also downbears.
• Can be used to
treat the upper body (Lungs - the superior origin of fluids)
for certain lower body problems (oliguria, dysuria, anuria).
• With Gan
cao to clear heat, transform
phlegm, disinhibit the throat and
stop pain, evacuate pus, and resolve toxins.
- 1. Pulmonary abscess with
cough, expectoration of profuse, purulent
phlegm, and chest oppression and pain due to heat stasis in the chest. (Jie
Geng Tang)
- 2. Pain, redness, and
swelling of the throat due to heat (deficient or excess,
external or internal).
- 3. Loss of voice and/or
hoarse or husky voice.
- For indications 2 and 3,
the combination can be reinforced by adding He
zi,
as in He Zi Tang.
For these indications, in cases of Lung dryness, honey
mix-fried Jie geng
should be used.
• With Xing
ren to effectively regulate the
Lungs' function of dispersing and
descending, to transform and disperse phlegm, stop cough, and calm
asthma. For such indications as cough and/or asthma with chest
oppression, profuse
phlegm, sore throat, and aphonia due to an attack of external wind
(wind-cold or wind-heat) that disturbs the diffusion and downbearing
function of
the Lungs.
- Both herbs have the
function of dispersing and descending the Lung Qi,
however, Jie geng
mainly disperses while Xing ren
mainly descends. Both
herbs transform and disperse phlegm, however, Xing
ren mainly transforms
while Jie geng mainly
disperses (promotes expectoration of) phlegm.
• With Zhi
ke to effectively regulate
upbearing and downbearing, regulate the
upper and middle burners, diffuse the Lung Qi, and loosen the chest and
diaphragm. For indications such as:
- 1. Chest and diaphragm
oppression or distention or chest Bi
due to
accumulation of phlegm and Qi stagnation. (Jie
Geng Zhi Ke Tang)
- 2. Epigastric distention,
stomach rumbling, and difficult defecation due to
disturbance of ascending and descending. Note: Zhi
ke and
Jie geng do not
moisten the intestines, do not soften the stools, and do not
precipitate the
bowels. However, Zhi ke
moves and descends the Qi in the large intestine in
order to improve evacuation of the stools, while Jie
geng disperses and
descends Lung Qi. When the Lung Qi correctly descends, the large
intestine
Qi does the same. Therefore, although Zhi
ke and Jie
geng do not have a
direct action on peristalsis, they can treat constipation due to
Lung-large
intestine Qi stagnation. Hence, this pair may be used to advantageously
reinforce any formula that specifically treats constipation.
• Jie
geng is incompatible with pork,
seaweed, and Chinese cabbage.
3-9g
Gan
Jie Geng: Adenophora
tracheloides - "Sweet" Jie
geng
• Cold.
• Moistens the
Lungs; clears heat; relieves fire toxicity.
• See its relative, Nan
sha shen.
• When
Jie geng is specified,
Platycodon - Ku jie geng
("bitter" Jie
geng) is
implied. It is much more commonly used than Adenophora.
|
Xuan Fu Hua
Inula flower
Elecampane
"Revolved,
Upturned
Flower"
(Western) Elecampane root
|
bitter
acrid
salty
slightly
warm
|
Lu
Sp
St
LI
Lv
|
Descends the Qi of the Lungs
and stomach, stops vomiting and burping;
resolves phlegm and harmful fluids; promotes blood circulation, frees
the
connecting vessels; free the liver Qi and subdues the liver.
• Vomiting or
burping, especially when due to spleen damp, spleen/stomach
deficiency cold, or stomach phlegm.
• Lung phlegm
accumulation: cough with copious sputum, wheezing.
• Retention of
harmful fluid in the Lungs: distention in the chest and
diaphragm.
• Qi and blood
stagnation: distending pain in the costal or hypochondriac
area.
• Liver Qi
stagnation or liver invading the middle Jiao.
• Anti-emetic,
anti-nauseant. Good for nausea after chemotherapy.
• Honey fry the
herb for patients with Lung deficiency to ameliorate its
warmth and prevent it from harming the Qi or Yin.
• Liu: this is the
only flower in the Chinese pharmacopeia which does not
disperse (it descends).
MLT:
The root and flower are similar, but the root is probably more Qi tonic
than the flower.
• Contains
quercetin and isoquercetin - both useful for upper respiratory
allergies.
DY:
Usually flowers have an upbearing, floating nature. However, Xuan
fu
hua, on the contrary, downbears
the Qi and disinhibits urination.
• The flower (Xuan
fu hua) and stem (Xuan
fu geng) of this plant have
similar actions. However, Xuan
fu geng is superior for
downbearing the Qi
and disinhibiting urination, while Xuan
fu hua is superior for
dispersing
phlegm, downbearing the Qi, and calming asthma.
• With Dan
nan xing to clear heat,
transform phlegm, stop cough, calm
asthma, extinguish wind, and wash away phlegm in the channels and
network vessels. For indications such as:
- 1. Cough, asthma, and
chest oppression due to phlegm-damp obstruction,
phlegm-heat, or stubborn phlegm in the Lungs.
- 2. Numbness in the limbs
due to (wind) phlegm in the channels and
network vessels.
- In the absence of heat,
and in the presence of cold or damp patterns,
processed Tian nan xing
may be favorably prescribed instead of Dan
nan
xing.
Yoga:
Pushkaramula:
(root and flower) K, V-; P+
• Expectorant,
antispasmodic, carminative, analgesic, rejuvenative.
• For colds,
asthma, cardiac asthma, pleurisy, dyspepsia, cough, nervous
debility
• A rejuvenative
tonic to the lungs. Promotes longevity of lung tissue, helps
absorb water from the lungs, reduces swelling.
• Calms the mind,
the digestive system, and the female reproductive system.
• Topical: apply as
a paste for muscular pain.
MW:
The plant told him, in a dream, that its flowers could be used for
grief.
• It is said that
where Helen of Troy's tears fell, this plant grew.
3-12g (flower)
K&R:
(Elecampane root): Expectorant, alterative, choleretic, diuretic,
pituitary stimulant, sympathomimetic, vagolytic.
• Water, wood,
fire, earth, metal yin.
• Strengthens and
cleanses the mucosa of the gastrointestinal and respiratory
tracts.
• Good for
glandular insufficiency, immune deficiency, renal insufficiency.
• Metal:
bronchorrhea, pertussis, copious expectoration, asthma,
emphysema, tuberculosis, immunoallergic pneumopathies, sarcoidoses,
anemia, leukorrhea, insufficient menses, amenorrhea, dermatoses,
chronic
diarrhea.
• Water:
oliguria, edema, glomerulonephritis, acute and chronic arterial
hypertension.
• Wood:
choleretic, immune stimulant, hepatomegaly, herpes, insufficient
bile secretion.
• Fire:
hypotension, lipothymia, syncope from vagotonia, stimulates pituitary
and testicular activity, FSH and LH-like activity.
• Earth:
splenomegaly, gastroptosis, gastric atony, chronic diarrhea,
hypothyroidism, insufficient hypophysial function, amenorrhea,
impotence,
frigidity.
|
Zao Jiao
Gleditsia fruit
Chinese Honeylocust
"Soap
Thorn"
Zao Jiao Ci
Gleditsia spine/thorn
|
acrid
warm
slightly
toxic
|
LI
Lu
|
Powerfully dispels phlegm;
opens the orifices, promotes resuscitation; dissipates clumps, reduces
swellings; suppository: unblocks the bowels and
expels roundworms
• Phlegm:
obstruction, phlegm nodules, coughing or wheezing with copious,
difficult-to-expectorate sputum.
• Excessive phlegm:
sudden unconsciousness with facial paralysis or
seizures.
• Initial stage of
abscesses and boils, or abscesses with pus that is difficult to
discharge.
• Suppository: for
constipation and intestinal obstruction due to roundworms.
• Increases
secretions in the stomach and respiratory tract. Significant
expectorant effect, though not as strong as that of Jie
geng.
Hsu:
Strong hemolytic actions; antibacterial; antifungal; expectorant.
0.6-1.5g in pill and powder
form only
Zao
Jiao Ci: the spine of the plant
• Acrid, warm;
enters liver, stomach.
• Reduces
swellings; discharges pus; promotes blood circulation; reduces
abscesses; expels wind; kills parasites.
• Used during early
stages of swollen sores to encourage suppuration or to
induce those that have already closed to burst. Not for use with ulcers
that
have already burst.
• Leprosy.
• Ringworm.
3-9g
|
Herbs
That Resolve Phlegm-Heat
|
|
Several
herbs
in this
category can be used for either hot or cold patterns when combined
appropriately. Even when there is phlegm-heat, the warm and neutral
herbs in the previous category (Herbs that Resolve Phlegm-Cold) are
often used in combination with heat-clearing herbs. Also consider, as
appropriate: herbs that promote Qi and/or blood circulation, herbs that
drain dampness, herbs that clear heat (including damp-heat and
heat-toxins), herbs that release the exterior, herbs that stop coughing
and wheezing, etc.
|
Bei Mu:
Chuan Bei Mu
Tendrilled Fritillaria
bulb
"Shell Mother from
Sichuan"
Zhe Bei Mu
Non-tendrilled
Fritillaria bulb
"Shell Mother from
Zhejiang"
|
Chuan:
bitter
sweet
slightly
cold
Zhe:
bitter
cold
|
Lu
Ht
|
Both
forms: clear heat; resolve
phlegm; stop coughing; resolve masses and
lumps.
• Phelgm-fire
nodules, sores, swellings, scrofula, Lung or breast abscess.
• These herbs are
always used in their processed form, since they are toxic in
their raw state.
• Not to be used
with Aconite products.
• Both forms can be
very useful in the treatment of heartburn and GERD.
Hsu:
Antitussive, expectorant.
• Alkaloids have
atropine-like action - decrease secretions, stop contraction of
bronchial smooth muscle, dilate pupils.
• Inhibits the CNS,
stimulates heart muscle.
Chuan
Bei Mu:
• Moistens the
Lungs.
• Possibly the most
effective herb for cough in the Chinese pharmacopeia. Useful for many types of
cough, mainly chronic cough with Yin deficiency
fire, cough with slight sputum that is difficult to expectorate, or
cough with
blood-streaked sputum.
• Lung yin
deficiency: prolonged cough with little sputum and dry throat.
• Milder than Zhe
bei mu and therefore more
appropriate for children.
• More effective
than Zhe bei mu
at transforming phlegm and moistening the
Lungs.
• Most effective in
treating cough accompanied by constrained Qi, manifesting
in a reduced appetite and a stifling sensation in the chest and upper
abdomen.
• Quite expensive:
therefore, it is generally powdered and taken uncooked
along with a decoction.
• For dry Lungs:
core an Asian pear and fill the center with powdered Chuan
bei mu. Replace the top of the
plug of pear flesh so the pear is sealed, steam
lightly, then eat the whole thing.
DY:
Moistens, treats enduring, chronic coughs - such as due to Yin
deficiency
or dry heat.
• With Zhi
mu to clear and moisten the
Lungs, enrich Yin, drain fire, transform
phlegm, and stop cough. For such indications as:
- 1. Enduring dry cough with
little phlegm and difficult expectoration,
sometimes fever, dry mouth, and a dry, red tongue due to water
deficiency
causing rising fire or due to Lung Yin deficiency. (Use stir-fried Zhi
mu)
- 2. Cough due to Lung heat
which causes Lung dryness.
• With Xing
ren to moisten while
transforming phlegm, downbear the Qi, and
stop cough. For indications such as:
- 1. Chronic cough and/or
dry cough with little or no phlegm, difficultly
expectorating, and dry throat due to Lung vacuity.
- 2. Relentless cough with
expectoration of yellow phlegm due to external
evils or an accumulation of phlegm-heat in the Lungs.
3-12g or 1-3g directly
as powder
Zhe
Bei Mu:
• Dispels stagnant
heat and phlegm.
• Used more for
acute Lung wind-heat/phlegm-heat: cough with yellow, sticky
sputum.
• Stronger than Chuan
bei mu at clearing heat and
dissipating nodules,
swellings, and difficult-to-expectorate phlegm.
• Clears hot phlegm
from the ear, as in pediatric otitis media.
DY:
More often used for acute, full, or external type coughs.
3-9g
|
Dan Nan Xing
Prepared Arisaema
rhizome
Jack-in-the-Pulpit
(Dan Nan Xing is usually listed as subordinate to Tian Nan Xing, but it
is more commonly used)
Tian Nan Xing
raw Arisaema
"Star of the
Southern
Heavens"
|
Dan:
bitter
cold
Tian:
bitter
acrid
warm
toxic
|
Lu
Lv
Sp
|
Strongly resolves phlegm and
dries dampness; disperses swelling, relieves
pain; disperses wind-phlegm in the channels; eliminates both internal
and
external wind, relieves convulsions.
• Wind-phlegm
obstructing channels: numbness, paralysis, convulsions,
tremors, seizures, stroke, opisthotonos, lockjaw.
• Stubborn phlegm:
cough, distended sensation in the chest.
• Good for stubborn
phlegm. Treats phlegm over the whole body.
• Topical: for
swelling and pain, deep-rooted sores, injuries, ulcers,
carbuncles.
• Often used in
pediatrics.
• Extremely drying
in nature.
• Dan
nan xing is prepared by soaking Tian
nan xing in Ming
fan (alum), Sheng
jiang
(ginger), and ox/pig bile.
Li:
Dan nan xing
is one of the best herbs for phlegm-heat throughout the whole
body.
MLT:
Stimulant, expectorant, diaphoretic, irritant (Tian/raw).
Hsu:
Sedative, antispasmodic, expectorant, antitumor activity (inhibits
growth).
DY:
With Xuan fu hua
to clear heat, transform phlegm, stop cough, calm
asthma, extinguish wind, and wash away phlegm in the channels and
network
vessels. For indications such as:
- 1. Cough, asthma, and
chest oppression due to phlegm-damp obstruction,
phlegm-heat, or stubborn phlegm in the Lungs.
- 2. Numbness in the limbs
due to (wind) phlegm in the channels and network
vessels.
- In the absence of heat,
and in the presence of cold or damp patterns,
processed Tian nan xing
may be favorably prescribed instead of Dan
nan xing.
3-9g
Tian
Nan Xing:
• In its raw,
unprepared form, is very toxic and is mainly used as a topical
application for yin-type abscesses, trauma-induced swelling and pain,
and
swelling of the joints. When used internally, it is always treated
(usually with
fresh ginger) which greatly reduces its toxicity. If numbness of the
tongue is
experienced after ingestion, granulated sugar can be taken as an
antidote.
• Zhi
nan xing, the treated form (not Dan
nan xing), is somewhat less
toxic
than raw. It is used mainly for wind-stroke. If one simply asks for Tian
nan
xing, Zhi
nan xing is the form that will
be given at a pharmacy. It is not to be
used internally if it still has its outer skin.
4.5-9g (treated); 0.3-1g
(untreated, in pills and powders only)
|
Fu Hai Shi
(Fu Shi, Hai Fu Shi)
Pumice
or
Costazia skeleton
(an aquatic
invertebrate similar to
coral)
"Float on the Sea
Stone"
|
salty
cold
|
Lu
|
Softens and resolves
hardness and masses; promotes urination; clears Lung
heat; resolves phlegm.
• Lung heat: cough
with thick, sticky sputum or coughing up blood.
• Phlegm: masses,
nodules, scrofula.
• Hot or stony
painful urinary dysfunction - urinary tract infection, kidney or
bladder stones.
• Pumice is very
light - some say it can slightly disperse Lung Qi.
• To promote
urination, grind into a powder and take directly.
• When decocting,
place it in a tea bag.
• History of use as
an abrasive for softening skin, and more recently in spas as
a powder as an exfolliant.
6-15g
|
Gua Lou Pi
Trichosanthes peel
|
sweet
cold
|
Lu
St
LI
|
Promotes Qi circulation in
the chest; clears Lung heat; eliminates phlegm,
moistens.
• Lung heat: cough
with thick and sticky sputum, including dry coughs with
difficult-to-expectorate sputum.
• Lung phlegm-heat:
distention or pain in the chest.
• Qi accumulation
in the chest: stifling or distended sensation, constriction,
pain, diaphragmatic pressure.
• Painful
obstruction of the chest, Lung abscess, breast abscess.
• May help break
down granulomas.
• Gua
lou pi is less moistening than Gua
lou ren.
• Not to be used
with Aconite products.
Li:
Stronger than Gua lou ren
to open the chest.
MLT:
Same energetics as the whole fruit (Gua
lou), but better for dry throat,
cough, and wind-heat-phlegm that is difficult to expectorate.
9-30g
|
Gua Lou Ren
Trichosanthes seed
Gua Lou
Whole Trichosanthes
fruit
|
sweet
cold
|
Lu
St
LI
|
Moistens the Lungs and large
intestine; promotes bowel movement; promotes
healing of sores; clears phlegm-heat; expands the chest.
• Large intestine
dryness: constipation - especially when accompanied by Lung
heat with dry mouth, thirst, and irritability.
• Lung
heat/phlegm-heat: cough with thick, sticky, difficult-to-expectorate
sputum, chest pain.
• Accumulation of
phlegm in the chest: stifling sensation, pain, diaphragmatic
pressure.
• Adjunct herb for
breast abscesses, swellings, and for sores that have not yet
suppurated.
• Gua
lou - the whole fruit - is
similar in effect to the seed, but is less effective
at lubricating the intestines, transforming phlegm, and dissipating
nodules.
• Not to be used
with Aconite products.
MLT:
Dry constipation associated with thirst.
Hsu:
Antibacterial, anti-cancerous - mild inhibitory action on tumors.
10-15g
DY:
Gua lou (Whole fruit):
• Sweet, cold,
moistening, clearing, downbearing; clears the Lungs; transforms
phlegm; loosens the chest, scatters nodulations; moistens dryness,
moistens
the intestines; promotes Qi circulation; loosens the chest and
diaphragm and
frees the flow of impediment.
• Though Gua
lou is sweet and cold, it is
used for chest Bi due
to Qi
stagnation and blood stasis and/or chest Yang deficiency. Though Gua
lou is
sweet, it does not supplement, nor produce Qi stagnation. Though it is
cold, it
does not cause obstruction. In cases of chest Yang deficiency or
stagnation, Gua lou
is combined with herbs that balance its cold nature, such as Xie
bai,
Bai jiu, Gui zhi, and Tan
xiang.
• With Xie
bai to effectively free the flow
of Yang and move the Qi, loosen
the chest and clear the Lungs, transform phlegm and scatter nodulation,
stop
pain, moisten the intestines, and free the flow of the stools. For
indications
such as:
- 1. Constipation due to
fluid dryness of the large intestine and/or Qi
stagnation.
- 2. Yin binding
constipation. (Constipation due to spleen-kidney Yang
deficiency or sometimes due to dryness in the large intestine caused by
an
essence-blood deficiency with pale lips, white tongue fur, and clear,
copious
urination.)
- 3. Chest Bi
with oppression of the chest and epigastrium, cough, profuse
phlegm, piercing pain in the chest radiating toward the back, and
shortness of
breath due to accumulation of turbid phlegm blocking the Qi and Yang of
the
chest. (Gua Lou Xie Bai Ban Xia
Tang - which can be favorably
combined
with Er Chen Tang)
Use Gua lou
which has been stir-fried until scorched.
- 4. Chest Bi and
cardiac disease with
intense heart pain due to heart Qi and
blood stasis and deficiency of heart Yang. (Gua
Lou Xie Bai Bai Jiu Tang) For
these indications, the combination can be favorably reinforced by
adding Dan shen, San qi, Tan
xiang, and Gui
zhi. The Gua
lou should be stir-fried
until scorched.
10-20g
|
Hai Zao
Sargassum
Seaweed
|
salty
cold
|
Lv
St
K
Lu
|
Softens masses; resolves
phlegm; promotes urination, reduces edema.
• Phlegm
accumulation: masses, lumps, neck nodules - goiter, scrofula.
• Adjunct herb for
edema due to leg qi or floating edema.
• Pain associated
with hernial disorder.
• Stronger than Kun
bu to promote urination.
• May soften
atherosclerosis.
• Contains iodine -
caution with hyperthyroidism (when due to iodine excess).
• May lower
cholesterol.
Li:
With Kun bu,
also with Gui ban:
for polycystic kidneys, all cysts and
swellings, inner ear phlegm. Also for some thyroid problems.
MLT:
Often used with Kun bu
for swollen glands (especially the thyroid) and
tumors.
SD:
Heavy metal poisoning: has been shown to bind heavy metals.
Hsu:
Anticoagulant [when decocted] (this component possesses same action
as heparin [about half the strength]), antifungal, hypotensive, lowers
serum
cholesterol.
4.5-15g
|
Huang Yao Zi
Dioscorea
bulbifera
tuber
"Yellow
Medicine"
|
bitter
neutral
toxic
|
Ht
Lv
Lu
|
Dissipates nodules, reduces
masses; cools the blood, stops bleeding; reduces
toxicity of toxic swellings.
• Masses: many
kinds of cancer, especially those involving the esophagus,
stomach, uterus, and colon; also for goiter.
• Bleeding:
hematemesis, hemoptysis, uterine bleeding.
• Topical: sores,
snake bite, dog bite.
• Thyroid tumors:
tinctures and decoctions have been used in many clinical
series for thyroid tumors, including endemic goiter and thyroid cancer.
It has
been most effective in treating nonmalignant tumors of short duration
in
relatively young patients. Side effects included nausea and vomiting
that
required cessation of treatment. There are also recorded cases in which
tinctures led to significant liver dysfunction and jaundice.
• Esophageal and
gastric tumors: in one series of 28 cases, tinctures of Huang
yao zi improved symptoms in 18
cases. In a few cases there were adverse
effects on the liver.
• Often taken in
wine, or directly in pill or powder form.
• To avoid
hepatotoxicity, the herb is given only for a few weeks at a time
(while monitoring liver function). It may be resumed after a break.
6-15g
|
Kun Bu
Kelp thallus
Ecklonia
Kombu
or
Laminaria
(Hai Dai, which possesses
nearly the same properties)
|
salty
cold
|
Lv
St
K
|
Softens masses and nodules;
resolves phlegm; promotes urination, reduces
swelling.
• Phlegm:
swellings, masses, nodules in the neck, sensation of fullness and
obstruction in the chest.
• Adjunct herb for
edema and leg qi.
• Stronger than Hai
zao at resolving phlegm and
soften masses.
• Shown to have an
anti-asthmatic and antitussive effect in many animals.
• Contains iodine -
caution with hyperthyroidism (when due to iodine excess).
• Useful in
treating both hyperthyroidism (temporarily improves the
symptoms) and hypothyroidism (due to a lack of iodine).
• Extracts of this
herb and Undaria have
been used for their fucoxanthin
content as a non-stimulating thermogenic supplement for weight loss.
SD:
Heavy metal poisoning: has been shown to bind heavy metals.
K&R:
Earth, metal, and water yin.
• Glandular
stimulant, remineralizer.
• Treats obesity
and cellulite by nourishing thyroid function.
• Rich in minerals
and nutrients for various deficiencies.
• Retarded
development, anorexia, emaciation, asthenia, anemia, frigidity,
impotence.
• Strengthens a
weak constitution for chronic problems like asthma,
emphysema, sinusitis, arthritis, collagenoses, chronic dermatoses,
amenorrhea,
oligomenorrhea, hypothryroidism, polyneuritis, paralysis.
• Adjunct herb for
autoimmune disorders, degenerative disease, cancer.
MLT:
Long Western tradition for regulation of the thyroid and for weight
reduction (due in part to high iodine).
• Binds toxins to
help their excretion.
Hsu:
Antitussive, expectorant, hypotensive (slight, temporary).
4.5-15g
|
Meng Shi
Mica or
Lapis
Chlorite-Schist
|
sweet
salty
neutral
|
Lu
Lv
|
Calms the liver, relieves
convulsions and palpitations; descends the Lung Qi;
resolves phlegm.
• Stubborn phlegm:
cough and difficulty breathing with old, viscous, clumped
phlegm.
• Liver wind
stirring, phlegm-heat: convulsions, palpitations, seizures,
mania-withdrawal.
• Severe food
stagnation.
• Bensky/Gamble
classifies as an herb to stop cough and wheezing.
• Duan
meng shi, the calcined form, is
more easily absorbed then the raw
form.
9-15g
|
Pang Da Hai
Boat Sterculia seed
"Fat Big
Sea"
|
sweet
cold
|
Lu
LI
|
Clears heat and disperses
Lung Qi; clears large intestine heat; promotes bowel
movement; encourages the expression of rashes (topical use).
• Lung heat: hoarse
voice, sore throat, tonsilitis.
• Lung phlegm-heat:
cough.
• Heat and dry
feces in the colon: constipation with concurrent headache, red
eyes, and feverish body.
• Good for the
combination of hoarse voice with constipation.
• Use alone in hot
water for hoarseness/sore throat and watch its
metamorphosis.
• Topical: as an
external wash for incomplete expression of rashes.
Hsu:
Strongly inhibits influenza viruses; laxative (when eaten) by
absorption
of a large amount of water into colon; hypotensive; diuretic; analgesic.
4.5-9g
|
Qian Hu
Peucedanum root
Hogfennel
"Before
Barbarians"
|
bitter
acrid
slightly cold
|
Lu
|
Descends Lung Qi; eliminates
phlegm; mildly disperses wind-heat.
• Lung heat or Lung
Qi stagnation with failure of the Lung Qi to descend:
cough with thick and sticky sputum, wheezing.
• Wind-heat or
wind-cold: cough, copious sputum. Most often for wind-heat.
• Can be used with Chai
hu for externally-contracted
diseases presenting with
cough, rebellious Qi, thick sputum, and/or malarial disorders.
DY:
With Bai Qian,
for mutual reinforcement in dispersion of phlegm. The
two herbs complement each other to downbear (mainly via Bai
qian) and
diffuse (mainly via Qian hu)
the Lung Qi in order to effectively treat cough. For such indications
as: cough with abundant phlegm or phlegm which is
difficult to expectorate, itchy throat, chest oppression due to
blockage of the
Lung Qi and Lung Qi counterflow. The combination can be used in the
treatment of numerous respiratory diseases: chronic bronchitis,
dyspnea,
asthma, whopping cough, cough associated with a cold, etc.
• In case of cough
due to wind-cold or wind-heat, the uncooked form of the
herb should be prescribed.
• In case of cough
caused by an accumulation of phlegm in the Lungs, the herb
should be stir-fried until scorched.
• In case of
chronic cough, dryness in the Lungs, or if the patient is old, use
the honey mix-fried form of the herb.
Hsu:
Dilates coronary artery; expectorant - stimulates secretions of the
respiratory tract (effect similar to Jie
geng, but weaker antitussive
action);
antihistamine action.
4.5-9g
|
Tian Zhu Huang
Siliceous Secretions
of Bamboo
Tabasheer
"Heavenly Bamboo
Yellow"
|
sweet
cold
|
Ht
Lv
GB
|
Clears heat and resolves
phlegm to calm the Shen and ease convulsions;
stabilizes fright.
• Lung phlegm-heat:
difficult-to-expectorate sputum.
• Phlegm-heat:
convulsions, spasms. Especially useful for childhood
convulsions.
• Wind-stroke due
to phlegm accumulation: gurgling sound in the throat.
• Mental
disturbances due to fright.
• Compared to Zhu
li, Tian zhu huang is gentler
and less cold, and is therefore
more appropriate for children.
• The fully natural
product is rare. Heat is usually applied to the bamboo, the
secretions are collected from a node and then crystallized.
Yoga:
Vamsha-rochana
(includes Zhu ru):
P, V-; K+
• Demulcent,
expectorant, tonic, rejuvenative, antispasmodic, hemostatic;
nurtures the heart, soothes the nervous system.
• For colds, cough,
fever, asthma, bleeding disorders, emaciation, debility,
dehydration, palpitations, vomiting, consumption.
• Helps Lung
weakness, helps recovery from chronic disease.
• Strong anti-Pitta
herb.
3-9g (0.6-1.2g taken
directly)
|
Ze Qi
Euphorbia
helioscopia
"Marsh
Lacquer"
|
acrid
bitter
cool
slightly
toxic
|
SI
LI
Lu
|
Transforms phlegm; stops
cough, arrests wheezing; dissipates nodules;
promotes urination, strongly reduces edema.
• Lung heat with
phlegm and congested fluids: coughing, wheezing.
• Scrofula: used
both internally and topically (as a wash, paste, or powder).
• Edema in the
upper abdomen, face and eyes, and extremities.
• Bacillary
dysentery: In one study of 79 cases, oral preparations markedly
improved 44 cases and improved 13.
• Esophageal
cancer: In one study of 64 cases (using IM injection of a 20%
solution of neutral saponins), in terms of their ability to swallow, 10
cases
were cured, 18 were markedly improved, 30 were improved. Results were
generally noted within five days. The herb had no effect if the patient
had
previously undergone radiation therapy.
3-15g
|
Zhu Li
Dried Bamboo Sap
|
sweet
very
cold
|
Ht
Lu
St
|
Clears heat, transforms
phlegm, penetrates to and unblocks the channels;
transforms phlegm-heat, stops coughing.
• Phlegm
obstructing sensory (heart) orifices: fainting, paralysis of the hands
or feet, hemiplegia, coma.
• Phlegm-heat:
Cough. Used in small doses as powerful adjunct herb.
• Channel
obstruction: spasms of the extremities.
• Take directly.
May be mixed with ginger juice to offset its cold nature (as
when used in a large dose for coma).
• Compared to Tian
zhu huang, Zhu
li is extremely cold and
slippery in nature,
and therefore is very effective in clearing heat and moistening
excessive
dryness.
30-90g (9-15g for cough)
MLT:
Important in the preparation of Sito
Paladi Churna (Ayurvedic
cold/cough remedy):
• Take 8 parts Zhu
li, 16 parts raw brown sugar, 1
part cinnamon (Rou gui),
4
parts black pepper (Hu jiao),
2 parts cardamom (Sha ren).
• Grind into a
powder.
• Take 1 teaspoon
at a time with warm water or milk.
• Strongly warming,
clears mucus, helps digestion.
|
Zhu Ru
Bamboo Shavings
|
sweet
sl.
cold
|
Lu
St
GB
|
Descends gallbladder and
stomach Qi and fire; clears heat; resolves phlegm;
stops vomiting; cools the blood, stops bleeding; eases restlessness.
• Vomiting:
especially due to stomach heat and rebellious stomach Qi; also for
other patterns (including morning sickness), when appropriately
combined.
• Lung phlegm-heat:
cough with thick and yellowish sputum, stifling sensation
in the chest, hemoptysis.
• Shen disturbance
due to gallbladder and/or stomach heat: restlessness,
insomnia.
• Stomach heat: bad
breath, aversion to heat, yellow, greasy tongue coat.
• Epistaxis,
hematemesis.
• Often fried in
ginger juice to mitigate its slightly cold nature.
• Compared to Ban
xia, Zhu ru has similar effects
and the two are often used
together, though Zhu ru
is cooling and is better for calming the Shen and
alleviating irritability.
Hsu:
Strongly antibacterial.
DY:
With Ban xia
for mutual reinforcement, to effectively dry dampness,
clear heat, transform phlegm, harmonize the stomach, and stop vomiting.
For
such indications as:
- 1. Hiccup, nausea, and
vomiting due to counterflow of stomach Qi. (Use
ginger-processed Ban xia
and ginger mix-fried Zhu ru.)
- 2. Vertigo, agitation, and
insomnia due to phlegm turbidity. (Use lime-processed Ban
xia and ginger-processed Zhu
ru.)
- 3. Nausea and vomiting
during pregnancy due to disharmony of the stomach,
phlegm-heat, or heat in the stomach. In cases of stomach disharmony,
add Zi
su geng and Sha
ren. In cases of stomach cold,
add Sheng jiang
and Sha ren.
In cases of phlegm-heat, add Pi
pa ye. In cases of stomach heat,
add Bai mao
gen and
Pi pa ye.
4.5-10g
|
Herbs
That Stop Coughing And Relieve Wheezing
|
These
herbs
work
predominantly by any of four major actions:
1. Descending Lung Qi. 2.
Astringing Lung Qi. 3. Dispersing Lung Qi. 4. Moistening the Lungs.
As appropriate, consider
combining with: herbs that resolve phlegm, astringents, herbs that warm
the interior, yin tonics, Qi tonics, yang tonics, surface releasing
herbs, herbs that clear heat, herbs that eliminate food retention, etc.
In my own practice, I have
encountered some stubborn cases of cough that didn't respond
satisfactorily to any/all the herbs in this category (administered, of
course, in an appropriate formula based on the zangfu pattern). Perhaps
my formulas were flawed. However, over the years I have grown to trust
three herbs more than any others for difficult coughs: Chuan bei mu,
the Western herb Mullein (leaf and fower), and the needles of
evergreens (Pine, Spruce, and Fir). The Western herb Lobelia (inflata sp.)
is also a powerful, if also enigmatic, herb in the treatment of
respiratory complaints. While it is an emetic in moderate doses, small
doses can be used as an "activator" of the respiratory tract in
combination with an appropriate formula.
|
Bai Bu
Stemona root
"Hundred
Parts"
|
sweet
bitter
neutral
|
Lu
|
Moistens the Lungs, stops
coughing; kills parasites.
• Acute or chronic
cough: Especially useful for deficiency cough, including Yin
deficiency. A key herb for tuberculosis. Pertussis: over 85%
effectiveness rate
in one clinical series of over 100 patients. In other studies a
preventative
function was also noted.
• Topical: as a
tincture or decoction for lice, pinworms, fleas, bedbugs.
• For pinworms, Bai
bu can also be used as an enema,
30-60g per day for 3 days.
MLT:
For lice, apply a 20% alcoholic solution or strong decoction. Also can
be
used as a flea wash for animals.
Hsu:
Pesticide, antitussive, antitubercular, antibacterial, antifungal,
antiviral.
3-9g
|
Bai Guo
Ginkgo nut
"Silver
Almond"
|
sweet
bitter
astringnt
neutral
sl. toxic
|
Lu
K
|
Astringes the Lungs to
relieve wheezing; expels phlegm, softens stubborn
phlegm; eliminates dampness; stops discharge; stabilizes the lower Jiao.
• Difficult
breathing, wheezing, coughing, with copious sputum.
• Kidney or spleen
Qi deficiency or damp-heat: vaginal discharge, turbid urine.
• Lower Jiao
instability: frequent urination, incontinence, spermatorrhea.
• Use raw for
treating phlegm and clearing heat.
• Use prepared to
stop wheezing and restrain urine.
• May aid in
alcohol withdrawal by causing a distaste for alcohol.
• Because of its
greater toxicity, when the raw herb is used, its dosage is usually
reduced.
• Usually the husk
is removed and the seed is crushed before use.
• Cautiously used
for coughs with thick and sticky sputum, and in cases of
excess.
• Symptoms of
overdose include vomiting, headache, fever, tremors, irritability,
dyspnea. The antidote is 60g of boiled Gan
cao or 30g of boiled ginkgo
shells. This reaction may be avoided by including the hard shells and
thin linings of the
seeds when using this herb.
• Bensky/Gamble
classifies this herb as an astringent.
Hsu:
Antibacterial, antiviral effects.
4.5-9g
|
Kuan Dong Hua
Coltsfoot flower
Tussilago
"Welcome Winter
Flower"
|
acrid
warm
|
Lu
|
Descends (and disperses)
Lung Qi; moistens the Lungs; resolves phlegm; stops
coughing.
• A key herb for
many types of cough. Can be used alone for damp-phlegm or
cold-phlegm. For phlegm-heat, combine with cool herbs.
• Fry in honey to
enhance its ability to moisten the Lungs.
• Often combined
with Zi wan
since Zi wan
is superior for resolving phlegm
while Kuan dong hua
is superior for stopping coughs.
K&R:
Emollient, expectorant, antitussive, vagolytic, slightly diaphoretic
and
tonic.
• Metal yin:
cough, acute
bronchitis, laryngitis, tracheitis, lymphadenitis,
postinfectious fatigue, emphysema, silicosis.
• Contains
pyrrolizidine alkaloids - may damage the liver with excessive use.
RW:
The combination of its bitter and mucilaginous qualities gives it
expectorant/demulcent plus tonic properties.
• The choice remedy
in chronic respiratory problems, especially chronic
emphysema and silicosis: have a cup of the tea immediately upon waking,
while
still in bed.
• Reports of
carcinogenicity may be disregarded if the herb used properly.
MLT:
Pertussis.
PCBDP:
Recent research: anti-inflammatory, immunostimulant, demulcent,
antispasmodic.
MW:
Good for deteriorating respiratory conditions, "incurables" - e.g.
emphysema.
• Also for sore
feet with respiratory conditions.
• Alcohol extracts
its alkaloids - therefore, always take it as a tea rather than as a
tincture.
1.5-9g
|
Ma Dou Ling
Aristolochia fruit
Birthwort
"Bell of a
Horse's
Hat"
|
bitter
sl. acrid
cold
|
Lu
LI
|
Resolves phlegm; clears Lung
heat; stops coughing, relieves wheezing.
• Lung heat: cough
with difficult breathing.
• Lung deficiency:
prolonged cough.
• Bleeding
hemorrhoids.
• Hypertension with
lightheadedness and flushing: lowers blood pressure an
average of 15 mm Hg diastolic.
• Very bitter. May
make some patients vomit. Gua
lou is often substituted.
• Honey-frying this
herb makes it less cold and bitter, and reduces the side
effects of nausea and vomiting.
• Contains
aristolochic acid [only slightly soluble in water - Merck
Index], which
has been associated with renal damage when misused. Some authorities
therefore discourage the use of this herb; its use may be prohibited in
places.
Hsu:
Strong expectorant (stronger than ammonium chloride).
3-9g
|
Mu Hu Die
Oroxylum seed
"Wood
Butterfly"
|
sweet
bland
cool
|
Lv
Lu
|
Moistens the Lungs, clears
the voice, stops coughing; comforts the liver,
regulates Qi; topically promotes healing of sores.
• Hoarseness,
cough, sore throat.
• Qi constraint:
flank and epigastric pain.
• Topical:
ulcerated, suppurative sores.
Hsu:
Anti-inflammatory, decreases capillary permeability.
Li:
Often uses to free constrained liver Qi.
1.5-9g
|
Pi Pa Ye
Loquat leaf
Eriobotrya
|
bitter
neutral
|
Lu
St
|
Descends stomach and Lung
Qi; harmonizes the stomach, clears stomach heat; resolves phlegm; stops
coughing; clears Lung heat.
• Wind-heat,
dryness, or fire in Lung: cough with sticky sputum. Especially
suitable for dry coughs.
• Stomach heat:
vomiting, belching, hiccups, nausea.
• Pi
pa ye's expectorant
action is very mild.
• Hairs on the leaf
may cause throat irritation, belching, or vomiting. The leaves
are therefore usually scrubbed to remove the hair. These side effects
can also be
avoided by honey frying the herb, which additionally gives the it the
ability to
moisten the Lungs.
• Frying in ginger
juice enhances its ability to stop nausea and vomiting.
Hsu:
Antitussive, expectorant, antiviral.
4.5-12g
|
Su Zi
(Zi Su Zi)
Perilla seed
|
acrid
warm
|
Lu
LI
|
Descends Lung Qi; stops
coughing, eases difficult breathing; mildly resolves
phlegm; moistens the large intestine, promotes bowel movement.
• Lung Qi fails to
descend: coughing, wheezing, including patterns with copious
phlegm. Used mainly for cold patterns. Especially indicated when the
exhale is
more labored than the inhale and there is a stifling sensation in the
chest.
• Dryness of the
large intestine: constipation.
• Compared to Bai
jie zi and Lai
fu zi: All are capable of
transforming phlegm,
regulating the Qi, and alleviating wheezing. However, Bai
jie zi warms the
Lung Qi, Lai fu zi
disperses the Lung Qi, and Su
zi descends the Lung Qi.
• Usually ground
before use.
4.5-9g
|
Sang Bai Pi
Morus bark
"Mulberry White
Bark"
|
sweet
cold
|
Lu
Sp
|
Drains Lung heat (to the
bladder); stops coughing, eases difficult breathing;
promotes urination, reduces edema.
• Lung heat: cough
with copious phlegm and difficult breathing.
• Edema related to
an excess syndrome.
• Lung heat
obstructs the descent of Lung Qi, preventing water from moving and
cutting off perspiration: floating edema, facial edema, swelling of the
extremities, fever, thirst, difficulty in urination, floating pulse.
• Hypertension:
moderately lowers blood pressure.
• Honey fry when
using the herb for coughing and wheezing.
Hsu:
Diuretic, sedative, hypotensive.
DY:
Disinhibits urination and disperses swelling without damaging Yin;
eliminates evils from the Qi division.
• With Chen
pi to clear the Lungs and
transform phlegm, rectify the Qi, stop
coughing and calm asthma. For cough and asthma due to Lung heat with
abundant yellow phlegm.
• With Di
gu pi to clear the Yin and Qi
divisions, to effectively clear heat and
drain fire from the Lungs, eliminate deficiency fire damaging the
Lungs, stop
cough, and calm asthma. For the following indications, the combination
is
found in Xie Bai San:
- 1. Cough and asthma with
expectoration of yellow, sticky, and thick phlegm,
fever and thirst due to Lung heat.
- 2. Cough accompanied by
evening fever or low but persistent fever with skin
which is warm to the touch due to deficiency heat damaging the Lungs.
- For the above indications,
honey mix-fried Sang bai pi
should be used. This
combination can treat both full and deficiency heat. The Lungs are a
delicate
viscus and are easily damaged by heat. Full heat easily damages Lung
Yin,
causing both full and deficient heat simultaneously. This pair
addresses this
situation very well. In case of full heat, add Huang
qin, Pi pa ye, and Zhe
bei
mu. In case of deficiency heat,
add Zhi mu
and Mai men dong.
6-15g
|
Ting Li Zi
Descurainia or
Lepidium seed
|
bitter
acrid
very
cold
|
Lu
BL
|
Strongly promotes urination,
moves water, relieves edema; resolves phlegm;
clears heat; descends Lung Qi; calms wheezing.
• Lung phlegm
accumulation or Lung heat: cough with copious sputum,
difficulty breathing, gurgling sound in the throat.
• Lungs fail to
dominate the water passages or excess-type obstruction of Lung
and bladder Qi: facial edema, fluid accumulation in the chest or
abdomen,
urinary difficulty.
• For hydrothorax,
combine with Xing ren
and Mang xiao.
• Large doses have
produced a cardiotonic effect in various animals (positive
ionotropic effect and negative chronotropic effect - increases cardiac
output and
reduces venous pressure).
• Liu:
Not for deficiency. Its purgative function is as strong as rhubarb -
can
damage the Qi.
Hsu:
Purgative; expectorant, alleviates pharyngitis, facilitates removal of
phlegm from throat.
DY:
With Da zao
to powerfully drain the Lungs, disinhibit urination, and
drastically evacuate phlegm without damaging Yin or the stomach.
Together,
they downbear Qi and calm asthma. For indications such as asthma, cough
with
stertor, wheezing, a swollen face, and oliguria due to accumulation of
phlegm in
the Lungs. (Ting Li Da Zao Xie
Fei Tang)
• There are two
types of Ting li zi:
- Tian
ting li is sweet and comes from
the south. Its draining and dispersing
properties are moderate. It drains the Lungs and expels phlegm without
damaging the stomach.
- Ku
ting li is bitter and comes from
the north. This is the most currently
prescribed in clinical practice and the most effective. Its draining
action is
strong. It strongly drains the Lungs and expels phlegm and can damage
the
stomach. In order to slow down the drastic action of this herb, it can
be stir-fried until scorched. Also, its combination with Da
zao is essential.
3-9g
|
Xing Ren
Apricot seed
Prunus
|
bitter
sl. warm
sl. toxic
|
Lu
LI
|
Descends the Lung Qi, stops
coughing, eases difficult breathing; moistens the
large intestine, promotes bowel movement.
• Lung fails to
descend its Qi: cough, difficulty breathing. Appropriately
combined, this herb can be used for either hot or cold patterns. It is
the
especially useful for externally contracted dry coughs, and coughs
which are
accompanied by wheezing.
• Dryness of the
large intestine: constipation
• Topical: grind to
a powder and mix with water to form a paste. Apply locally
for acne, dog bites, trichomonas vaginitis.
• Forms a cyanide
compound (hydrocyanic acid) in the body: lethal dosage for
adults is approximately 50-60 kernels, and in children about 10
kernels. Cooking it, removing the outer coating, and mixing it with
sugar all reduce its
toxicity. Overdose can be treated with administration of activated
charcoal and
syrup of ipecac [Cephaelis
ipecacuanha]. The bark of the
apricot tree and the
cortex of its root have also been used traditionally as antidotes. Use
cautiously
with infants.
• The type most
often used are the bitter kernels which grow in northern China, called
"bitter apricots" - Ku
xing ren - or "northern apricots" - Bei
xing ren. Sometimes, especially
in the treatment of dry or deficient coughs, the sweet
apricots grown in southern China are used. These are called "sweet
apricots" - Tian
xing ren
- or "southern apricots" - Nan
xing ren.
DY:
The slight toxicity of Xing ren
is located in the superficial skin and the tip
of the seed. The preparation of Dan
xing ren (scalded apricot seed)
by removing
the tip and skin, considerably reduces the risk of toxicity.
• Tian/Nan
xing ren (the sweet, southern
type) is sometimes used - it is not
toxic, and is favored for asthma and cough of the deficiency type and
dry
constipation.
• With Chuan
bei mu to moisten while
transforming phlegm, downbear the Qi,
and stop cough. For indications such as:
- 1. Chronic cough and/or
dry cough with little or no phlegm, difficultly
expectorating, and dry throat due to Lung vacuity.
- 2. Relentless cough with
expectoration of yellow phlegm due to external evils
or an accumulation of phlegm-heat in the Lungs.
• With Jie
geng to effectively regulate the
Lungs' function of dispersing and
descending, to transform and disperse phlegm, stop cough, and calm
asthma. For such indications as cough and/or asthma with chest
oppression, profuse
phlegm, sore throat, and aphonia due to an attack of external wind
(wind-cold or
wind-heat) that disturbs the diffusion and downbearing function of the
Lungs.
- Both herbs have the
function of dispersing and descending the Lung Qi,
however, Jie geng
mainly disperses while Xing ren
mainly descends. Both
herbs transform and disperse phlegm, however, Xing
ren mainly transforms
while Jie geng mainly
disperses (promotes expectoration of) phlegm.
Hsu:
Expectorant, antitussive, emollient, laxative.
3-9g
|
Zi Wan
Purple Aster root
|
bitter
sweet
sl. warm
|
Lu
|
Resolves phlegm; stops
coughing; descends Lung Qi.
• Coughs of various
etiologies - including phlegm or Lung deficiency: sticky
sputum that is difficult to expectorate, difficulty breathing, or
coughing of
blood-streaked sputum. Especially for chronic cough or cold-induced
cough.
• Can be combined
with Bai bu
for phlegm that is difficult to expectorate.
• Stronger than Bai
bu at resolving phlegm.
• Fry in honey to
strengthen its action of moistening the Lungs and stopping
coughs.
MLT:
Expectorant; antibiotic against
E. coli, Shigella
sonnei, Pseudomonas
aeruginosa, more.
Hsu:
Expectorant (increases secretions in respiratory tract), antibacterial
(especially against tuberculosis), antiviral, diuretic.
3-9g
|
Herbs
That Promote Bowel Movement By Moistening The Intestines
|
• Also
consider, as appropriate,
these herbs from other categories which also moisten the
intestines: Bai Zi Ren [Calm
Shen], Dang Gui [Nourish
Blood], Dong Kui Zi [Drain
Damp], Feng Mi [Tonify
Qi],
Gua Lou Ren [Resolve
Phlegm-Heat],
He Shou Wu [Nourish
Blood],
Hei Zhi Ma [Nourish
Yin],
Hu Tao Ren [Tonify
Yang], Jue Ming Zi [Subdue
Lv/Exting Wind], Lu Hui [Purge
to Eliminate Pathogens],
Mai Men Dong [Nourish
Yin],
Mang Xiao [Purge
to Eliminate Pathogens],
Niu Bang Zi [Acrid,
Cool],
Qin Jiao [Dispel
Wind-Damp], Rou Cong Rong [Tonify
Yang],
Sang Shen [Nourish
Yin],
Su Zi [Stop
Cough],
Suo Yang [Tonify
Yang], Tao Ren [Promote
Blood Circulation],
Xing Ren [Stop
Cough],
Zi Cao [Clear
Heat/Cool Blood].
• In addition, consider herbs that
generate body fluids, herbs that moisten the Lungs, herbs that nourish
Yin and Blood. |
Huo Ma Ren
aka Ma Zi Ren
Cannabis seed
"Fire Hemp
Seeds"
|
sweet
neutral
|
Sp
LI
St
|
Slightly nourishes
blood/Yin; moistens the large intestine to promote bowel
movement; clears heat; promotes healing of sores.
• Blood deficiency,
Yin deficiency, or body fluid deficiency: constipation,
especially in the elderly, postpartum, or after febrile disease.
• This herb must be
ground before use.
• An auxiliary herb
for sores and ulcerations. Taken orally or applied
topically.
• Mildly lowers
blood pressure.
• Doses over 60g
may cause nausea, vomiting, restlessness, diarrhea.
• Sometimes the
name Ma Zi Ren is used to refer to flax seed.
9-30g (to 45g when used as
the principal herb in a prescription)
|
Yu Li Ren
Bush Cherry pit
Prunus
japonica or P.
humulis
"Constrained Plum
Pit"
|
acrid
bitter
neutral
|
LI
SI
Sp
|
Moistens the large intestine
to promote bowel movement; promotes
urination to treat edema.
• Dryness or Qi
stagnation in the intestines: constipation.
• Edema with
abdominal distention or leg qi with difficult urination and
constipation.
• Stronger than Huo
ma ren at moistening the
intestines and promoting
bowel movement.
• For stubborn
insomnia after a frightening event, this herb is taken as a folk
remedy: Decoct it in yellow wine for 10 minutes, then add the drained
seeds
to an appropriate prescription based on the diagnosis.
• Some patients may
get slight cramps in the intestines from this herb.
• Crush before use.
MLT:
Contains 60-75% oils which give it its lubricating properties.
Hsu:
Emollient laxative, stronger purgative than cannabis; diuretic.
3-9g
|
Herbs
That Purge Accumulation And Stagnation By Promoting Bowel Movement
|
•
Da
huang, Lu hui,
and Fan xie ye all contain anthraquinone
glycosides which make them stimulant
laxatives (as
well as having some antibiotic effect) - increasing peristalsis. (The
common Western herbal purgatives Cascara
sagrada and Frangula are also stimulants containing anthraquinones.)
• Other common
laxatives include citrus seed extracts and castor oil (the
latter is a strong
stimulant). Psyllium seed husk (a
Plantago species), flax seed meal, and Pang da hai, when eaten, are
high-fiber bulk-forming laxatives, which retain
water and stimulate peristalsis by forming a mass in the intestines.
• All but the fiber
(bulk-forming) laxatives are generally contraindicated in pregnancy.
• The herbs in this
category are commonly combined with:
A. Herbs to clear heat and
toxicity, promote Qi and blood circulation.
B. Herbs to warm the
interior, when there is constipation due to Yang deficiency (e.g. Da
huang + Fu zi).
C. Herbs that release the
exterior, when there is an EPI associated.
D. Herbs that support Zhen
Qi, when the patient has a weak constitution.
Chief Applications:
1. Dry and hard stool due to
excess heat or fire in the large intestine.
2. High fever, coma,
delirium due to blockage of the heart by excess heat.
3. Headache, red and painful
eyes, toothache, hemoptysis, hematemesis due to flare up of fire from
the liver, Lungs,
stomach, or large intestine.
4. Tong Yin Tong Yang:
Purgation when there is leakage (incontinence) due to blockage.
|
Da Huang
Rhubarb root and
rhizome
Rheum
"Big
Yellow"
|
bitter
cold
|
St
LI
Lv
Ht
Sp
|
Clears heat, reduces fire;
eliminates toxicity; promotes blood circulation,
dispels blood stasis; drains accumulation and stagnation; drains
damp-heat;
drains heat from the blood, clears heat obstructing the blood level.
• Any accumulation
or stagnation of heat or damp-heat in the large intestine,
including Yangming
stage invasion: high fever, profuse sweating, thirst,
constipation, abdominal distention and pain, delirium, yellow tongue
coat,
full pulse.
• Stomach fire:
hematemesis, epistaxis.
• Blood stasis:
amenorrhea, lochioschesis, masses, trauma, hemorrhage,
fixed pain, stasis due to intestinal abscess.
• Damp-heat:
jaundice, painful urination, acute hot dysentery.
• Heat and
toxicity: carbuncles, boils, furuncles, burns. Use internally and/or
topically.
• Blood in the
stool due to bleeding hemorrhoids or heat accumulation in the
intestines.
• Excess heat
obstructing the blood level: fever, hot, swollen, painful eyes,
or fire toxin sores.
• Antineoplastic,
antifungal, and antibacterial effects.
• May lower
cholesterol.
• Also for
schistosomiasis.
• Topical: for
dermatitis, stomatitis, oral ulcers/canker sores.
• As a paste with
vinegar on K-1 for abdominal distention. Change every 2
hours.
• Local application
of a decoction has been shown to be effective in the
treatment of stomatitis, oral ulcers, and folliculitis, especially
those caused
by Staphylococcus aureus.
• Ecthyma: a powder
made of Da huang
and Gan cao,
used with a
multilayered soybean plaster, was applied in 12 cases of ecthyma of up
to 13
years duration. All cases healed within 1-4 weeks.
• A 1g dose has a
mild effect to stimulate the appetite.
• Da
huang's purgative
effect takes 6-8 hours.
• Da
huang has astringent tannin
which has a constipating effect that
outweighs the purgative effect when taken in small doses (<0.3g).
• For strong
purgation, cook only 5 minutes. The longer the cook time, the
milder the purgative effect.
• The wine or
vinegar treated form has a stronger effect of promoting blood
circulation, and is a milder purgative.
• To stop bleeding,
use the charred form.
• The
alcohol-prepared form can direct to the face.
• When using Da
huang, the sweat and urine may
be notably yellow.
• Contraindicated
for nursing mothers because components are excreted in
breast milk.
• One of four herbs
in Essiac tea, a cancer formula.
• Anti-inflammatory: a COX inhibitor
Li:
"Dissolves fat" - for obesity, high cholesterol,
etc. (including with Dan
shen, Shan zha, San Qi).
K&R:
Metal and wood yang.
• Metal:
constipation, dyspepsia,
dysentery.
• Wood:
biliary dyskinesia, gallstones, high cholesterol, blood stasis.
• Anti-inflammatory.
• Has bacteriacidal
action against Bacerioides
fragilis, which has been found
in large quantities in the gallbladders of patients with hepatic or
gallbladder
disease.
BII:
Reduces bleeding of duodenal and gastric ulcers.
Yoga:
Amla-vetasa:
P, K-; V+
• Purges Pitta,
Ama,
and stagnation.
DY:
To moderate Da
huang's purgative
effect, combine it with Gan
cao.
• Can be used for
any type of constipation, when combined with other herbs
specific for the pattern.
• Up to 3g Da
huang is lightly purgative and
stimulates digestion. Over 3g,
the higher the dose, the purgative its effect is. There is a wide
variability in
the degree of sensitivity of patients to the purgative effects of Da
huang. Profuse diarrhea can
occur with only 3g in one patient, while constipation
can resist a 12g dose in another patient.
• Wine mix-fried Da
huang is very slightly purgative. Carbonized Da
huang is not purgative.
• With Fu
zi to warm the interior,
precipitate accumulation of cold, and
evacuate the stools. For constipation, abdominal pain, fear of cold,
and cold
limbs due to accumulation of internal full cold. (Da
Huang Fu Zi Tang).
When this pair is combined
with Xi xin,
it has shown an interesting action in
the treatment of cold-damp Bi
or impediment with Yang deficiency and
blood stasis (use wine mix-fried Da
huang for this) as well as for Bi
with an
accumulation of heat in the stomach and intestines with persistent
constipation.
• It is noteworthy
to mention that some practitioners believe that small doses
(1-3g) of Da huang
can have supplementing effects and that this medicinal
can be integrated into any formula that supplements the middle burner.
However, this is probably an indirect effect. As it is said, the bowels
function when they are freely flowing. The spleen cannot be fortified
and
healthy if the stomach and intestines are not free flowing. In
addition, when
the spleen becomes weak and, therefore, loses its control over
transportation
and transformation, the stomach typically becomes hot due to
accumulation
and depression. Therefore, a small amount of Da
huang can address this
accumulation and heat even if the main symptoms are those of spleen
deficiency and there is no marked constipation.
• With Mang
xiao for mutual reinforcement,
to effectively precipitate full
heat and internal accumulation, and free the flow of stools. (Dose of
each:
up to 15g) For indications such as:
- 1. Constipation with dry,
hard stools and abdominal pain which worsens
with pressure due to heat accumulation in the Yangming
bowels. (Da Cheng
Qi Tang)
- 2. Constipation with dry,
hard stools, high fever, delirium and mental
confusion, and dry, yellow tongue fur due to full heat in the Yangming
bowels. (Da Cheng Qi Tang)
- 3. Chronic or severe
constipation due to heat.
MLT:
For burns (not open sores) soak Da
huang in vinegar for 1-3 days
and
apply locally.
• Use the charred
form for diarrhea and to stop bleeding.
PFGC:
Enters the blood layer, cracks all forms of stagnant blood. Since its
Qi is fragrant, it can also enter the Qi layer - therefore, in small
doses, Da
huang can regulate Qi and treat
Qi stagnation pain.
• Purges all kinds
of masses and accumulations.
• Can treat mania
by opening the epigastric region and resolving phlegm-heat. Use up to
60g when the pulse is clearly excess.
• Its fragrant
orifice-opening effect can disinhibit urination.
• Can also clear
heat in the upper Jiao - for all pain in the eyes and oral
cavity.
• Descends stomach
heat and "entices stomach Qi to move downwards" -
excellent for hematemesis.
• Can "drain the old and generate
the new."
Hsu:
Stimulates bile and pancreatic secretions; broad antibacterial;
anti-carcinogenic effect.
JC:
Cathartic (aperient to brisk purgative, depending on dosage), hepatic,
cholagogue, astringent, tonic, stomachic, antibilious, sialogogue,
vulnerary,
anthelmintic, peristaltic.
• Given in small
doses, it is a valuable stomach tonic, increasing saliva and
gastric juices, improving the appetite, promoting the action of the
liver and
the flow of bile (without astringing the intestines), and facilitating
absorption throughout the system.
• Increases
circulation in the glands by the GI tract and increases peristalsis
by stimulating the muscular layer of the bowel.
• In larger doses
(2-3g), it produces copious yellow, pultaceous stools in 6-8
hours, with considerable hepatic stimulation and some griping (although
the
larger doses may produce severe griping, the herb will never inflame
the
digestive mucous membrane).
• Highly esteemed
as a laxative tonic for children and infants because of the
milk-like quality of its action. It acts chiefly on the duodenum, and
generally does not clog or produce an after-constipation. The tonic and
astringent action following evacuation makes it a valuable remedy for
diarrhea due to irritating matter in the bowel - it removes the
irritating
substance, its astringent properties check the diarrhea, and then it
tones and
corrects the accompanying atonic indigestion.
• Particularly
useful for hemorrhoids with constipation, atonic dyspepsia,
infantile digestive and intestinal disorders, and both constipation and
diarrhea.
3-12g
|
Fan Xie Ye
Senna leaf
Cassia
angustifolia or C.
acutifolia
"Purgative Leaf of
the
Foreigners"
|
sweet
bitter
cold
|
LI
|
Purges accumulation and
stagnation.
• Excess heat in
the large intestine: constipation.
• Do not cook too
long (over 10 minutes) or at too high a temperature - just
add to water at 95°-100° C and let it steep. Water
temperatures under 75° C
will not be hot enough to extract the purgative constituents of this
herb. Cooking over 1 hour will completely eliminate any purgative
properties.
• Doses over 10g
may cause nausea, abdominal cramps, and vomiting (can
be combined with Huo xiang
to prevent these side effects).
• Fan
xie ye's purgative
effect takes 2-6 hours.
• Sources conflict
on Fan xie ye's
strength and nature:
Liu:
Milder purgative than Da huang.
Li:
Stronger purgative than Da
huang.
BII:
Probably the best-tolerated laxative.
MLT:
Can cause griping - combine with a warming herb to counteract this
side effect (e.g. Sheng jiang,
Chen pi).
K&R:
Metal yang, water yang.
• Inhibits
resorption of water from the colon.
• Contraindicated
with intestinal inflammation, pelvic congestion, or
pregnancy.
JC:
Cathartic (pods: laxative; leaflets: simple purgative), slight
stimulant,
antibilious, anti-periodic, tonic.
• A somewhat prompt
cathartic that acts on nearly the entire intestinal tract,
especially the colon. Suitable for chronic constipation. Acts locally
on the intestine wall, increasing peristalsis and secretions, to
produce copious
yellow stools. Does not constipate afterwards.
• The leaves cause
griping and flatulence (the pods do not), and the odor is
nauseous to many persons. The griping and nausea may be alleviated by
adding some corrective herb, such as: cloves, ginger, cinnamon,
coriander,
fennel, manna, etc. Often given with licorice.
• Two main
varieties, Alexandrian or Nubian senna (Cassia
acutifolia, C.
senna, C. lenitive, C. officinalis, C. aethiopica)
and East Indian or
Tinnevelly senna, are used. The former is preferred by most herbalists
since
it is milder, but equally certain in its action.
• Should not be
used when there is an inflamed condition of the GI tract.
• Shortly after
administration (2-30 minutes) it may dye the urine reddish.
IBIS:
Drug interactions:
• Sennosides
aggravate nephropathy from analgesics associated with
dehydration (DeSmet).
• Decrease in
absorption of oral drugs due to decrease in bowel transit time
(DeSmet).
• Aggravates loss
of potassium associated with use of diuretics (DeSmet).
• Overuse or misuse
can cause potassium loss leading to increased toxicity
of cardiac glycosides (Wichtl, DeSmet) such as those in Adonis,
Convallaria, Urginea, (Brinker, DeSmet) Helleborus, Strophanthus, and
Digitalis (Brinker).
1.5-3g for mild purgation.
5-10g for strong purgation.
|
Lu Hui
Aloe
(dried concentrate)
A.
vera or A.
ferox
Aloe (various forms)
|
bitter
cold
|
Lv
LI
St
|
Clears liver heat; kills
parasites (especially roundworms) and strengthens the
stomach; purges accumulation and stagnation; drains fire.
• Heat accumulation
(liver and/or large intestine): constipation, dizziness,
headache, tinnitus, irritability, fever. Also used for chronic
constipation.
• Roundworms. Also
for ringworm.
• Childhood
nutritional impairment, especially when due to roundworms: abdominal
pain, sallow face, thin muscles.
• Stronger than Da
huang, but can be mild when
dosed appropriately.
• Very bitter.
Often encapsulated.
• As effective in
enema form as when taken orally.
Liu:
Less likely to cause griping than Da
huang.
Hsu:
Low doses are a cholagogue, stimulate intestinal peristalsis.
• High doses induce
abdominal pain and congestion of the pelvic cavity.
• Anti-carcinogenic
effect.
• Aloe ulcin
inhibits histamine synthesis.
IBIS:
Note: The leaf gel, commonly consumed as a cleansing juice
preparation, is a different product. (McGuffin, p.7).
• Affinities:
intestines, skin.
• Actions: laxative
on lower gastrointestinal (slow acting 10-15 hours), can
also be a purgative; cathartic; bitter tonic, stomachic, hepatic;
vermifuge/
anthelmintic; emmenagogue; vulnerary, demulcent, and emollient.
• Dosage: tincture:
1 - 4 mL. resin [Lu hui]: 100 - 300 mg.
• Therapy: atonic
constipation; burns; to increase menstrual flow; insect
bites; asthma.
• Toxicity varies
between different species and varieties of Aloe; barbaloin
can be very griping (especially in dried form) and cause severe
intestinal
irritation; Aloe vera [Lu hui], which has very little, if any,
barbaloin, is
usually considered non-toxic.
• Contraindicated
in pregnancy and cases of menorrhagia or metrorrhagia;
also in patients with gastrointestinal inflammation, irritable
plethoric
conditions and hemorrhoids; not to be used by patients with chronic
constipation (Felter and Lloyd, pp. 151-152; Morton, pp. 47-50; U.S.
Dispensatory, pp. 46-50).
• Produces
catharsis in nursing child (Morton, pp. 47-50).
• May cause or
potentiate kidney irritation (Brooks).
• Contraindicated
in children younger than 12 due to depletion of
electrolytes and water (De Smet).
• Extended use of
more than 8-10 days may cause loss of peristalsis from
intestinal smooth muscle and mesenteric plexi damage (De Smet).
• Drug
interactions: Aloe can cause potassium loss which may lead to
increased toxicity of cardiac glycosides such as those in Adonis,
Convallaria,
Urginea, Helleborus, Strophanthus, and Digitalis (De Smet; Wichtl).
Aloe
can reduce the absorption of oral drugs and increases potassium loss
caused
by diuretics (De Smet).
0.3-3g (usually taken
directly as powder or in capsules)
Aloe in various forms (fresh
gel, extract, powder):
BII:
Cancer: contains a potent immunostimulant polysaccharide -
acemannan - especially effective for leukemia, but also should be
considered
for: HIV, bronchial asthma, diabetes mellitus, immunodepression.
• May have an
anti-ulcerative effect on the GI tract.
Yoga:
Kumari:
A young girl/virgin, called so because it imparts the energy
of youth and brings about the renewal of the female nature.
• Bitter,
astringent, pungent, sweet/cooling/sweet.
• VPK= (gel). The
powder, except in very low doses, will aggravate Vata.
• Alterative,
bitter tonic, rejuvenative, emmenagogue, purgative, vulnerary.
• Regulates sugar
and fat metabolism.
• Tonifies all
Agnis. Reduces Pitta.
• Fever,
constipation, obesity, inflammatory skin diseases, swollen glands,
conjunctivitis, bursitis, jaundice, hepatitis, enlarged liver or
spleen, herpes,
venereal disease, amenorrhea, dysmenorrhea, menopause, vaginitis,
tumors,
intestinal worms.
• The powder is a
strong purgative. Caution: take with a carminative
(turmeric, rose, etc.).
DH:
For a dry person/constitution. Doctrine of signatures: Aloe retains
moisture, even in extremely dry environments.
|
Mang Xiao
Mirabilite
Sodium sulfate
Glauber's salt
(Na2SO4)
Xuan Ming Fen
|
salty
bitter
cold
|
St
LI
|
Softens masses; clears heat;
moistens dryness; purges stagnation and
accumulation; reduces swelling.
• Excess heat in
the large intestine and stomach: constipation (only when the
stool is dry and hard).
• Heat: painful,
swollen, ulcerated mouth or sore throat, canker sores, red,
swollen, painful eyes, carbuncles, swellings, skin lesions, breast
swellings -
yang type mastitis.
• Use large doses
(carefully) to purge the intestines of toxicity for the
treatment of all cancers.
• Purgative effect
usually takes 4-6 hours.
• Should not be
cooked - add to the strained decoction.
• Drink large
quantities of fluids when taking this substance.
DY:
Drains fire; disperses swelling, stops pain, disperses food
accumulation
(external use).
• With Da
huang for mutual reinforcement,
to effectively precipitate full
heat and internal accumulation, and free the flow of stools. For
specific
indications and notes, see Da
huang in this category.
• With Ji
nei jin to strongly and
effectively soften hardness, disperse
accumulation, clear heat, and transform stones. For renal, urethral, or
bladder lithiasis. Neither substance should be cooked. For greatest
efficacy,
the two herbs should be ground to a powder (6-10g Ji
nei jin and 3-10g Mang
xiao)
and taken, 6g at a time, twice daily, dissolved in hot water.
3-9g
Xuan
Ming Fen: a purer form of sodium
sulfate
Less effective as a
purgative than Mang xiao,
but superior in topical
preparations for ulcers of the oral cavity / canker sores.
|
Herbs
That Aggressively Purge Accumulation (Cathartics)
|
These
herbs
powerfully
eliminate pathological factors (chiefly harmful fluid) by drastically promoting bowel
movement.
The effect of these herbs is
generally milder when they are roasted or dry fried.
Caution with use on weak
patients. The results can be quite bad.
Contraindicated in pregnancy.
Commonly combined with:
A. Herbs that clear heat and
nourish Yin when Yin is damaged by excess heat.
B. Blood tonics when there
is blood deficiency.
C. Herbs that promote Qi
circulation.
D. Herbs that release the
exterior, when there is an EPI associated.
E. Herbs that support the
Zhen Qi when the patient has a weak constitution.
|
Ba Dou
Croton seed
"Clinging
Bean"
|
acrid
hot
toxic
|
St
LI
Lu
|
Unblocks cold accumulation
and vigorously purges the bowels; drives out
water and reduces edema; dispels clogged phlegm, benefits the throat;
promotes healing of abscesses and ulcers.
• Severe cold
accumulation in the interior: constipation, abdominal fullness,
distention, pain.
• Phlegm clogging
the throat: difficult breathing, wheezing, severe fullness and
distention in the chest and diaphragm.
• Phlegm misting
the sensory orifices.
• Ascites.
• Topical: for
abscesses that have suppurated but not yet ulcerated, to
accelerate the ulcerating process. Also for severe ulcers such as
phagedena.
• Bowel
obstruction: The prepared herb (see below) was used in 50 cases of
intestinal obstruction. The adult dosage was 150-300mg; a lower dosage
was
used for children. When necessary, the dosage was repeated every 3-4
hours. 40 cases were cured. When there is severe obstruction or no
response to this
treatment within 48 hours, immediate surgery is required.
• This herb is
extremely harsh and should always be used with caution. It is
said to be able to "chop through the gate and open the
door."
• When taking this
herb, one should avoid drinking hot liquids, as this may
severely aggravate its laxative effect.
• If the herb
causes unremitting diarrhea, one should take cold rice congee or a
tea made from Huang lian
and Huang bai.
• The herb is
mainly used in its de-fatted form, Ba
dou shuang.
• The oil: Oral
administration of ½ to 1 drop of the oil causes a burning
sensation in the mouth, gastric mucosa, and vomiting, then multiple
episodes
of watery diarrhea within 30-40 minutes, together with severe abdominal
pain
and tenesmus, and inflammation of the oral mucosa and GI tract.
External
application of the oil stimulates the skin and causes redness which may
progress to blisters.
0.1-0.3g in pills
|
Da Ji
Euphorbia
pekinesis
or Knoxia
valerianoides
Peking spurge root
"Big Lance from
the
Capital"
|
bitter
acrid
cold
toxic
|
Lu
K
LI
|
Strongly eliminates harmful
body fluid by purging the bowels; relieves
swelling, dissipates nodules.
• Retention of
harmful fluid: relatively moderate accumulation of fluid in the
chest and flanks with such symptoms as labored breathing, dull pain in
the
lateral aspect of the chest, expectoration of thick sputum, a thick,
greasy
tongue coat; ascites, hydrothorax, edema.
• Phlegm and fire:
lumps.
• Heat and
toxicity: carbuncles and boils, red, swollen, painful, toxic, sores.
Also used topically for sores and scrofula.
• Acute or chronic
nephritis.
• Ascites due to
schistosomiasis.
• Milder than Gan
Sui.
• Cooking it with
honey and Da zao
reduces its harsh properties.
• Frying it in
vinegar reduces its toxicity.
• Traditionally
forbidden in combination with Gan
cao. Recent animal studies
have shown that a mixture of the two herbs has a much lower LD50
(i.e much
higher toxicity) than Da ji
alone.
MLT:
Very similar to Gan sui.
The two are often combined.
1.5-3g (1g in powders)
|
Gan Sui
Euphorbia
kansui
root
"Sweet
Process"
|
bitter
sweet
cold
toxic
|
Lu
K
LI
|
Violently purges the bowels
to strongly eliminate harmful body fluid; clears
heat; reduces swelling.
• Retention of
harmful body fluid: severe accumulation of fluid in the chest
and abdomen - ascites, hydrothorax; also for generalized edema, facial
edema,
abdominal distention. May be combined with Zhu
ling to simultaneously
promote urination.
• Internal wind and
phlegm: epilepsy (uncommon use).
• Topical: for
swollen, painful, nodular skin lesions due to damp-heat. This
herb is most appropriately used during early stages of this disorder.
Herbs that
clear heat and eliminate toxicity should be given orally simultaneously.
• Within 30 minutes
following administration, borborygmus and cramps will
begin.
• The use of this
herb is generally limited to robust patients with severe
patterns of excess.
• May be given in
alternation with Ren shen
to avoid causing depletion.
• Frying in vinegar
reduces its purgative function.
• Roasting it
reduces its tendency to cause vomiting.
• Rarely used in
decoctions. The active ingredients may not be water soluble.
• Traditionally
forbidden in combination with Gan
cao. Animal studies have
not produced any conclusive data on this combination.
MLT:
The juice can be used topically as a counterirritant to clear warts and
other skin nodules.
0.3-1g taken directly as
power or in pill form
|
Qian Niu Zi
Morning Glory seed
Pharbitis (Ipomoea)
"Cowherd
Seeds"
|
acrid
bitter
cold
toxic
|
K
LI
Lu
SI
|
Drives out harmful fluid by
promoting bowel movement and urination; dispels
accumulation; expels phlegm and fluids; expels intestinal parasites,
reduces
food stagnation.
• Heat accumulation
in the stomach or intestines: severe constipation,
abdominal distention, urinary difficulty, leg edema.
• Damp-heat
accumulation in the stomach and intestines: constipation. (Lower
dosage for this indication than the previous indications.)
• Fluid congestion
obstructing the Lungs: cough, wheezing, fullness in the
chest and abdomen.
• Roundworm or
tapeworm infestation.
• Food stagnation.
• Dry-fry the herb
for a milder effect.
• Contains
d-lysergic acid amide, similar hallucinogenic effect to LSD in large
doses.
MLT:
Mildest herb in this category.
4.5-9g (or 1.5-3g alone as
powder)
|
Shang Lu
Poke root Phytolacca
"Commerce
Continent"
|
bitter
cold
toxic
|
Lu
K
LI
BL
Sp
|
Eliminates harmful fluid by
promoting bowel movement and urination;
relieves swelling, reduces sores and carbuncles.
• Retention of
harmful body fluid: edema, scanty urination, urinary difficulty,
constipation.
• Heat and
toxicity: carbuncles, sores. Also used topically.
• For skin lesions,
it is ground up and applied as a paste with petroleum jelly,
honey, or egg white.
• When used
internally, it is generally stir-fried with vinegar, which reduces its
toxicity.
• The root must be
dried, aged more than 3 months, and cooked long to
neutralize its toxic elements.
• The traditional
antidote for poisoning from the herb (particularly from the
berries) is fresh Gan cao
and Lu dou
(Mung bean).
JC:
Powerful alterative,
relaxant, cathartic, emetic, resolvent, deobstruent,
detergent, anti-syphilitic, antiscorbutic, nutritive.
• Cancer, skin
problems, hardened liver, scanty flow of bile, hard, swollen, or
enlarged glands (especially the thyroid, spleen, lymph, breast),
abnormal
growths, bony enlargements from direct injury, rheumatism, dyspepsia,
inflamed kidneys.
• Slow but
persistently powerful action.
MW:
For the stagnant person: lazy, flabby, tired, flops down after work,
apathetic (especially teenagers), lack of personal delicacy, disregard
of
surrounding objects, indifferent to life, "For the person who
eats, sleeps, and
shits in the same place." (A few drops of the tincture)
• Has definitely
cured cancer. As a cancer preventative, boil it twice.
• For stagnant Qi,
blood, and fluid.
NAH:
Powerfully stimulates the lymphatic system: tonsilitis, swollen glands,
mastitis (poultice).
IBIS:
(fresh root, berries)
• Affinities: skin;
glandular structures of the buccal cavity, throat, and sexual
system; mammary glands; fibrous and serous tissues and mucous membranes
of the digestive and urinary tracts; heart; spinal cord; bowels (Felter
and
Lloyd, p. 1473).
• Alterative,
antirheumatic, anticatarrhal, cathartic, emetic, fungicide, narcotic,
parasiticide.
• [Western] dosage:
tincture of fresh root: 0.2 - 1 mL. tincture of berries: 0.2 -
1 mL. dry powder: 60 - 300 mg.
• Appearance:
tongue hurts upon protrusion (Wood).
• Pulse: dull
stroke with tremulous or vibratile wave (Scudder, 1903, p. 154).
• Specific
indications: pallid mucous tissues with ulceration; sore mouth with
small blisters on tongue and mucous membranes of cheeks; sore lips;
hard,
painful, enlarged glands; mastitis; orchitis; parotitis; aphthae;
soreness of
mammary glands, with impaired respiration; faucial, tonsillar, or
pharyngeal
ulceration; pallid, sore throat, with cough or respiratory difficulty
(Felter and
Lloyd, p. 1475).
• Internal: acute
inflammations of the throat; adenitis; acute inflammations of
the breast; children's glandular and skin disorders; sciatic
rheumatism;
syphilitic disorders with ulceration; long-standing ulcers in
psoriasis, dermal
abscesses, fissures, boils, and carbuncles (Ellingwood, p. 375);
chronic
rheumatism; chronic respiratory catarrh; tonsillitis; laryngitis;
mastitis (British
Herbal Pharmacopoeia p. 157).
• External: as
ointment in scabies, tinea, sycosis, acne; as poultice in abscess,
mastitis (British Herbal Pharmacopoeia p. 157).
• Contraindicated
in pregnancy.
• Laboratory test
results: agglutination of red and white blood cells is
promoted by pokeweed mitogen (Tedeschi, Eckart and Tedeschi, p. 1524);
pokeweed mitogen has been found to stimulate both B and T lymphocytes
(Kinghorn, p. 84-90; Von Oettingen, p. 500)
3-9g
|
Yuan Hua
Genkwa flower
Daphne
genkwa
|
bitter
acrid
warm
toxic
|
Lu
K
LI
|
Eliminates phlegm, stops
coughing; strongly eliminates harmful body fluid by
purging the bowels and promoting urination; kills fungus (topically).
• Premier herb for
fluid retention in the chest. In China, 500-1000mg capsules
are given 2-3 times daily.
• Retention of
harmful fluid: congested fluid in the chest, abdomen, or flanks, edema,
ascites, hydrothorax.
• Lung cold and
phlegm: cough. Shown to be 91% effective for chronic
bronchitis.
• Topical: fungal
infection, including ringworm.
• Traditionally
forbidden in combination with Gan
cao. Recent research
suggests that there is in fact an increase in toxicity when these two
herbs are
combined.
• Fry with vinegar
to reduce its toxicity.
1.5-3g (generally in powder)
|
Herbs
That Promote Digestion And Relieve Food Retention
|
Commonly
combined with:
• A. Herbs that
promote Qi circulation.
• B. Herbs that
warm the interior, when there is interior cold associated.
• C. Herbs that
transform dampness, when there is dampness in the middle Jiao.
• D. Herbs that
clear heat when there is heat associated. (Lian qiao is most commonly
used.)
• E. Herbs that
tonify the spleen and stomach when there is deficiency of either organ.
|
Gu Ya
Rice sprout
Oryza
|
sweet
neutral
|
Sp
St
|
Promotes digestion (mainly
of starch); adjusts the middle Jiao; slightly
tonifies the spleen and stomach; promotes the appetite.
• Food retention,
including when due to spleen or stomach deficiency:
indigestion - especially with accumulation of undigested starchy foods
(contains amylase). Also appropriate in cases of hot food stagnation.
• Spleen or stomach
deficiency: poor appetite, weak digestion.
• Will not damage
stomach Qi - very safe.
• The raw form is
mainly used to aid digestion.
• The dry-fried
form is stronger at tonifying the stomach and spleen.
• This
herb's potency is greatly diminished by cooking or prolonged
toasting. It is best taken powdered and added to a prepared decoction.
9-15g
|
Ji Nei Jin
Chicken Gizzard
Lining
"Chicken Inner
Gold"
|
sweet
neutral
|
Sp
St
SI
BL
|
Slightly strengthens the
spleen; promotes digestion; strongly eliminates food
retention; controls Jing and urine; transforms hardness and dissolves
stones.
• Food retention:
malnutrition in children or distention of the epigastrium,
poor appetite. Can be used alone in mild cases of food retention.
• Seminal emission,
incontinence, enuresis, frequent urination. Especially for
children.
• Stones in the
urinary or biliary tract.
• Usually
considered more effective when taken directly as a powder.
Hsu:
Increases gastric secretions, promotes motor activity in the stomach,
increases the rate of expelling air, stimulates the nerves and muscles
of the GI
tract.
DY:
Frees strangury.
• With Hai
jin sha to free strangury,
transform stones, and, therefore, treat
stone strangury. For stone strangury and urinary lithiasis due to
damp-heat. This combination can be reinforced by combining it with Jin
qian cao, Hua
shi, Qu mai, and Che
qian zi.
• With Mang
xiao to strongly and effectively
soften hardness, disperse
accumulation, clear heat, and transform stones. For renal, urethral, or
bladder
lithiasis. Neither substance should be cooked. For greatest efficacy,
the two
herbs should be ground to a powder (6-10g Ji
nei jin and 3-10g Mang
xiao)
and taken, 6g at a time, twice daily, dissolved in hot water.
3-9g (1.5-3g directly as
powder)
|
Lai Fu Zi
Radish seed
Raphanus
|
acrid
sweet
(bitter)
neutral
|
Sp
St
Lu
|
Descends the Lung Qi;
resolves phlegm; promotes digestion, eliminates food
retention; slight function to promote bowel movement.
• Food retention:
bloating, fullness, distended epigastrium and abdomen,
belching with fetid odor, acid regurgitation, abdominal pain, or
diarrhea with
hesitant elimination.
• Food retention
leading to dampness/phlegm in the Lungs: coughing,
wheezing.
• Lung phlegm
accumulation: cough with copious sputum.
• The raw form is
used for food stagnation.
• The dry-fried
form is used for productive coughs.
• The fried form is
used for promoting bowel movement.
• Antimicrobial,
antifungal properties.
• Reduces serum
triglycerides.
• Compared to Su
zi and Bai
jie zi: All are capable of
transforming phlegm,
regulating the Qi, and alleviating wheezing. However, Bai
jie zi warms the
Lung Qi, Lai fu zi disperses
the Lung Qi, and Su zi
descends the Lung Qi.
JTCM:
For abdominal distention after surgery: fry 200g Lai
fu zi, grind to a powder, wrap
in cloth or a tea bag, heat it, and apply it to the navel until the
distention abates (can also apply a TDP lamp to keep the bag hot).
• For eczema and
prevention of viral and fungal growths: fry the herb for 30
minutes, let it cool, grind it to a powder, mix it with vinegar, and
apply it
topically once a day.
PLB:
For respiratory conditions with phlegm (allergies, asthma, etc.) which
are exacerbated by food sensitivities.
Hsu:
Antibacterial, antifungal, stomachic, expectorant.
6-12g
|
Mai Ya
Barley sprout
|
sweet
neutral
(warm
if
fried)
|
Sp
St
Lv
|
Promotes digestion (mainly
of starch); mildly frees the flow of liver Qi;
adjusts the middle Jiao; strengthens the stomach and spleen; inhibits
lactation.
• Food retention:
distended epigastrium and abdomen, poor appetite. Particularly useful
for over-consumption of starch and for cold food
stagnation. Also for poorly-digested milk in infants.
• To stop nursing
or for stagnant milk with distending pain in the breasts, use
a large dose (to 60g).
• Liver Qi
stagnation: stifling sensation and distention in the epigastrium or
costal region, belching, poor appetite.
• Spleen
deficiency: weak digestion, poor appetite.
• Treats hepatitis,
especially acute.
• When using herbs
which strongly subdue the liver, add a small amount of Mai
ya
- a sprout which possesses the "springing-forth"
nature of wood - so as
not to insult the proud general - to let it still rise upward.
• The raw form is
neutral, and is used mainly to reduce and guide out.
• The dry-fried
form is warm, and is better at strengthening the spleen,
improving the appetite, and inhibiting lactation.
• The powdered form
is better for aiding in the digestion of grains.
Hsu:
Slightly stimulates secretion of pepsin and gastric acid.
• Treats painful
and swollen mammary glands and milk stagnation due to
cessation of breast feeding.
MLT:
For blocked lactation with distended breasts, take 25g raw sprouts and
25g fried, in decoction, each day.
BF:
I have lots of experience using Mai Ya to stem lactation, both in China
and the U.S. To achieve this effect, the med must be used in large
doses (30-60g) and lightly stir-fried till aromatic. I have found this
med to be very
dependable for this effect, and there is quite a lot of published
research on this
med's effect on PRL. I have used Mai Ya for women who had lost their
babies
during birthing, for women with galactorrhea due to hyperprolactinemia,
and
for women with galactorrhea-amenorrhea syndrome, and it has always
worked.
12-30g (6-15g directly as
powder)
|
Shan Zha
Crataegus fruit
Hawthorn
(C.
pinnatifida or C.
cuneata)
Crataegus
oxycantha
Western Hawthorn
|
sour
sweet
slightly
warm
|
Sp
St
Lv
|
Promotes blood circulation
and dispels blood stasis and clumps; promotes
digestion, eliminates food retention, digests fat. The partially
charred form stops diarrhea (and is superior for moving blood).
• Food retention:
distended epigastrium, abdominal pain, diarrhea. Particularly for
over-consumption of meat or fatty foods.
• Blood stasis:
abdominal pain (including post-partum), clumps, testicular
pain and hernial disorders.
• Chronic
diarrhea/dysentery: use the partially-charred form.
• Breast lumps: use
the seeds.
• Hypertension;
coronary artery disease; elevated serum cholesterol.
• This
herb's combination of sweet and sour flavors give it the
potential to
nourish Yin.
• The herb is used
commonly used raw for dispelling blood stasis and is dry-fried for food
stagnation.
Li:
Softens hardness: clots, etc.
Jin:
Add to phlegm-resolving formulas to treat phlegm due to food
sensitivity.
• For acne: pimples
are deposits of oil (fat) and this herb helps digest fat (see
Jin's acne formula.
• For weight loss:
digests fat.
MLT:
Reduces hypertension, cholesterol, blood lipids; also for murmurs,
enlarged heart.
Yoga:
V-, P+; K+ (in excess)
• Not for Pitta-type
(hot) heart conditions.
• Especially good
for Vata
heart conditions like nervous palpitations, or the
heart problems of old age (the age of Vata)
like cholesterol and arteriosclerosis.
Hsu:
Increases secretion of digestive enzymes; antibacterial, vasodilator.
9-15g (to 30g)
Western Hawthorne, C.
oxycantha and many other species
(in Western herbalism, the leaves and
flowers are also often used):
K&R:
Cardiac sedative, hypotensive, sympatholytic, febrifuge, diuretic and
astringent, coronary dilator, chronotrope negative (strong),
bathmotrope
negative, antispasmodic.
• Fire and wood
yang:
• Fire:
slows and reinforces the heart's contractions, treats
tachycardia,
extrasystoles, arrhythmia, promotes vasodilation of the coronaries and
treats sequela of infarctus, increases oxygen supply to the heart,
stimulates venous
walls (varices, varicose ulcer), diminishes arterial tension, treats
arterial
hypertension, can reverse arteriosclerosis; diuretic.
• Diminishes
diarrhea from full heat in the small intestine, inhibits the
sympathetic tonus.
• Precordial pain
or oppression, dyspnea, rapid and weak heart contractions,
cardiac hypertrophy, endocarditis.
• Also for such
Fire yang symptoms as: vertigo, dizziness, anguish, insomnia,
night terrors, enuresis, hot flashes of menopause.
• Wood:
disperses liver and gallbladder channels, calms sympathetic nervous
system, calms sympathotonic spasms, CNS sedative.
• The flowers and
berries are astringent - use in decoction for a sore throat.
• East Asian uses:
for blood stasis, menstrual pain, postpartum lower
abdominal pain, intestinal bleeding, lower abdominal distention.
• Increases stomach
acidity to help digest meats and fats.
• Treats bacterial
dysentery and chronic enteritis.
• Chinese research
has shown that its flavones can alleviate myocardial
ischemia. Its flavones also can reinforce the crosslinking of collagen
that
forms connective tissue, and can prevent the release of
pro-inflammatory
substances such as prostaglandins, leukotrienes and histamine, and thus
prevent tissue destruction in inflammatory diseases of the soft tissues.
• Potentiates the
action of barbiturates.
• Topical: for
angina.
• Not for acute
cardiac insufficiency (use Lily of the Valley [Convallaria] or
Foxglove [Digitalis]) - Hawthorn should be taken over time to improve
the
functional tone of the myocardium and prevent arteriosclerosis.
• Contraindicated
for stomach ulcers with hyperacidity.
BII:
Beneficial in: atherosclerosis, cardiac arrhythmia, CHF, hypertention,
peripheral vascular disease, vascular fragility.
• Reduces angina
attacks, lowers blood pressure and serum cholesterol.
IBIS:
(berries, flowers, leaves)
• Qualities: sweet,
slightly bitter, cool, dry, astringent.
• Affinities:
heart, arteries, blood.
• Actions:
cardiotonic, myocardial trophorestorative; coronorary and
peripheral vasodilator, anti-arrhythmic, antioxidant,
hypocholesterolemic,
hypotensive, positive inotrope.
Dosage:
• Tincture (flowers
& leaves) : 1 - 2 ml T.I.D.
• Tincture
(berries) : 2 - 4 ml. T.I.D.
• (Preparations may
vary, some are 50/50 Flower/Berries.)
• Dried herb :
Infusion (flowers & leaves) Decoction (berries) Two teaspoons
per cup (30gm/500ml) One cup T.I.D.
• Powdered dried
herb : 500 - 1000 mg T.I.D.
• Standardized
Extract : 100-250mg T.I.D. (Standardized to 1.8% vitexin or
10% total flavonoids as hyperoside)
• Therapy: coronary
artery disease; angina pectoris; myocardial hypoxemia;
Cardiac insufficiency (NYHA Stage I and II), arrhythmias; senile
degeneration
of the heart and atherosclerosis; post-infectious weakening of
myocardium
(Weiss pp. 164-65); paroxysmal tachycardia; Buerger's disease, (British
Herbal Pharmacopoeia), synergist to reduce dosage of cardiac glycoside
herbs
(or drugs).
• Specific
indications: hypertension with myocardial weakness, angina
pectoris (British Herbal Pharmacopoeia).
Pharmacology:
• Cardioactivity:
It is established that Crataegus oligomeric procyanidins and
flavonoids increase myocardial and coronary blood flow, that it is
positively
inotropic and and hypotensive, but the mechanism of action is unclear.
Crataegus flavonoids inhibit cAMP Phosphodiesterase, and myocardial
Na+/K+ ATP'ase. The same compounds exhibit high antioxidant free
radical
scavenging activity, and are hypolipidemic via an action on hepatic LDL
receptors and increased bile secretion. Crataegus also inhibits TXA2
(Thromboxane) formation, while stimulating prostacycline. Crataegus
prolongs rather than reduces the myocardial refractory period, unlike
most
positive inotropes, hence reducing risk of arryhthymia. Animal studies
have
confirmed the abilty of Crataegus to lower blood pressure, increase
myocardial perfusion, minimize ischemic damage (reduces post infarct
LDH
by 50%).(Literature Review see American Herbal Pharmacopoeia).
Clinical trials:
• Several
controlled studies have been performed with Crataegus extracts and
NYHA stage I and II cardiac insufficiency patients. Crataegus increased
exercise tolerance, decreased systolic BP and heart rate (Schmidt
1994),
decreased severity of symptoms subjectively as well as HR, BP
(Leuchtgens,
1993). In another group (n=1476) Crataegus decreased symptom severity
by
66%, and was associated with systolic drop of 10mm and diastolic drop
pf
5mm average blood pressure. (Loew, 1996)
Drug interactions:
• Crataegus will
synergize with the cardiac glycoside containing plants such as
Convallaria, Digitalis, Strophanthus, Urginea, Apocynum, Asclepias
etc., as
well as the hypotensive alkaloids of Veratrum and Rauwolfia. Western
clinical herbalists use Crataegus as an adjuvant to lower the dose of
these
more toxic herbs required for effective action.
• Crataegus
potentiates the activity of cardiac glycosides including digitoxin,
digoxin etc. Patients using these medications should be monitored by a
herbalist or physician since the dose of pharmaceutical drug will need
to be
reduced during intercurrent therapy.
Joseph Coletto
(OCOM):
Extract of the berry (e.g. Scientific Botanicals' solid
extract) is both tasty
and excellent for oral lesions and irritation (administer repeatedly
and hold in
the mouth).
|
Shen Qu
Medicated Leaven
(Usually composed
of 6 herbs)
"Divine Fermented
Mass"
|
acrid
sweet
warm
|
Sp
St
|
Promotes digestion and
eliminates food retention; harmonizes the stomach.
• Any type of food
retention, including minerals, metals, bones: fullness,
distention in the epigastrium and abdomen, poor appetite, borborygmus,
diarrhea. Also appropriate for overindulgence in alcohol and starches.
• Especially
effective for stomach cold with food stagnation.
• Can be dry-fried
to enhance its effect on food stagnation.
• Added to pills
that contain minerals to aid in their digestion and absorption.
• Bensky/Gamble:
The ingredients vary - usually a fermented combination of
wheat flour, bran, Qing hao,
Xing ren, Cang er zi, Chi xiao dou.
Liu: Wheat, Xing ren, Chi xiao
dou,
Qing hao, plus varying local
herbs.
MLT:
Rich in digestive enzymes.
• Also good for
stomach flu.
6-15g
|
Herbs
That Warm The Interior
|
Commonly
combined with:
• A. Acrid, warm
herbs that relieve exterior syndromes when there is exogenous cold
attack.
• B. Herbs that
promote Qi circulation when there is Qi stagnation associated.
• C. Herbs that
tonify spleen and/or kidney Yang when there is Yang deficiency of
either organ.
• D. Herbs that
tonify source Qi when there is Yang collapse.
• These herbs are
to be used with caution for patients with heat, Yin deficiency, or in
pregnant women.
|
Bi Ba
(Bi Bo)
Long Pepper fruit
Pippali
|
acrid
hot
|
Sp
Lu
K
St
LI
|
Warms the middle; disperses
cold from the stomach and intestines (middle and
lower Jiaos); alleviates pain.
• Stomach cold:
nausea, vomiting, belching, acid regurgitation, rumbling,
abdominal pain.
• Topical: as a
powder for pain, especially toothache.
• Antibiotic effect.
• Usually taken
directly in powder or pill form.
• Contains piperine -
used as a carrier to
increase absorption of other
substances through digestive tract (e.g., curcumin) and slow metabolism
of
certain drugs.
MLT:
Reverses the flow of rebellious Qi.
• The Ayurvedic
mixture Trikatu
(the main stimulant compound of Ayurveda)
consists of equal parts Bi bo,
Hu jiao and Gan
jiang. Powder the herbs and
mix with honey. Take for cold digestion, allergies with clear/whitish
discharges, abdominal and other pains caused by cold.
Yoga:
Pippali:
V, K-; P+
• Stimulant
(digestive and respiratory systems), expectorant, carminative,
aphrodisiac, anthelmintic, analgesic.
• Colds, coughs,
asthma, bronchitis, laryngitis, arthritis, rheumatism, gout,
dyspepsia, abdominal distention, flatulence, abdominal tumors, lumbar
pain,
sciatica, epilepsy, paralysis, worms.
• Strongly heating,
dispels cold, congestion, and Ama,
revives weakened organ
functions.
• Unlike black
pepper, it is a rejuvenative, mainly for the lungs and for Kapha.
• Use as a milk
decoction for degenerative lung diseases like asthma.
• Strengthens
reproductive functions.
• Take 3 pods with
a little honey each morning to control excess secretions,
mucus, and Kapha.
• Trikatu
(mentioned in MLT
above) rejuvenates Agni,
burns away Ama,
allows for the assimilation of other medicines and foods.
Hsu:
Analgesic, stomachic, antibacterial.
1.5-4.5g (usually taken
directly as a powder or pill)
|
Chuan Jiao
(Hua Jiao)
Szechuan Pepper
fruit
Chinese Prickly
Ash
Zanthoxylum
bungeanum
Jiao Mu
Sichuan Pepper
seed
|
acrid
hot
sl.
toxic
|
Sp
St
K
|
Warms the middle Jiao,
disperses cold, relieves pain; kills parasites.
• Yang deficiency
with cold in the spleen and stomach: epigastric and
abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea.
• Roundworms:
abdominal pain, vomiting.
• Pinworms: can be
used as an enema.
• Schistosomiasis: Chuan
jiao can be useful, increases
appetite, reduces
organomegaly. (Given in capsules in study.)
• Topical: as a
poultice or compress for pain.
• Can reduce or
stop lactation within 1 or 2 days postpartum.
• Overdose can
cause paralysis of the diaphragm.
• Good quality Chuan
jiao should cause numbness of
the lips when eaten.
• Not to be
combined with Li lu. Not to be used for Yang rising headaches.
• Farong Zhang: The
seed inside "“ Jiao
mu "“ is safe; its
toxicity is in the fleshy
covering.
Yoga:
Tamburu:
V, K-; P+
• Powerfully
destroys toxins (Ama),
kills worms and candida.
• Good for Sama
Vata
and arthritis; anti-rheumatic, increases peripheral
circulation.
JC:
(Z. americanum, Z.
clava-herculis, Z. faxineum bark
and berries. Berries
are considered more effective, as they contain a volatile oil.)
• General stimulant
(including cardiac), tonic, alterative, pungent, deobstruent,
diuretic, antiseptic, diaphoretic, sialogogue, nervine. Plus, the
volatile oil
(found in the fruit) is stimulant, antispasmodic, carminative, acts
principally
upon mucus membranes.
• Dispels
obstruction from all parts of the body.
• Asthma, cholera,
cold extremities, colds, colic, diarrhea, dropsy, dyspepsia
(atonic), female problems (chronic), flatulence, hepatic problems,
lumbago,
paralysis (including of tongue), pharyngitis, syphilis, rheumatism
(chronic),
scrofula, skin disease, poor circulation, mouth sores, toothache,
ulcers,
wounds. Can be chewed for mouth sores and toothache.
• Rheumatism
liniment: mix 1 ounce [28.4g] of the herb in 4 ounces olive oil. Use
with massage.
NAH:
(Z. americanum, Z.
clava-herculis)
• Stimulating to
the circulation (the berries are reputedly more powerful than
the bark, which is also used in Western herbalism) - causes blood to
flow to the
periphery, promotes sweating (helps reduce fevers).
• One common name
is "toothache tree" since it can be chewed as a
counter-irritant for toothache pain.
• Warms the
stomach, stimulates the salivary glands and mucous membranes,
reduces colic and flatulence, strengthens debilitated digestion,
especially if the
pulse is weak and the tongue is pale and flabby.
• Considerable
reputation for allaying rheumatic pain.
• Reputed to have
anti-cancer activity - the isolated benzophenanthridene
alkaloids are reported to be destructive to cells, however, there are
no accounts
of adverse side-effects from medicinal doses.
1.5-6g
Jiao
Mu: the seed
• Bitter, acrid,
cold; enters the bladder and spleen channels.
• Moves water;
calms wheezing.
• Edema with
fullness and distention or wheezing and cough due to congested
fluids.
1.5-6g
|
Ding Xiang
Clove flower bud
"Spike
Fragrance"
Clove Essential
Oil
|
acrid
warm
|
Sp
St
K
|
Warms the middle Jiao;
descends stomach Qi; warms the kidneys, tonifies
kidney Yang.
• Stomach cold:
hiccups, vomiting, poor appetite, abdominal pain, diarrhea.
• Kidney Yang
deficiency: impotence (Fu zi
is superior), clear vaginal
discharge (usually accompanied by weakness in the legs).
• Spleen or stomach
cold from deficiency: lack or appetite, vomiting, diarrhea.
• Topical: fungal
infections. (Treatment should not be interrupted.)
• Use as a powder
locally or a rinse for toothache. Long history as a dental
anaesthetic.
• Male cloves are
preferred, as they provide a faster onset of action.
• Increases
secretions of sputum from the gastric mucosa without increeasing
acidity.
• Contraindicated
in combination with Yu jin.
Hsu:
Broad antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal; tranquilizing;
adrenaline-antagonizing action - inhibits excitory transmission of the
AV nodes of the
heart; vasodilator; stimulates the uterus.
HF:
A Sha Chong
(kill worms or parasites) herb, important in Gu
Zheng (Gu
parasites) formulas.
BF:
The Ben Cao Zai Xin
says this herb opens the nine orifices, soothes
depressed Qi, eliminates wind, and moves water.
DY:
Scatters cold, stops pain.
• Male flowers, Gong
ding xiang ("Spike
Fragrance Father"), is reputed to be
more powerful than the female flowers, Mu
ding xiang ("Spike
Fragrance
Mother").
• With Shi
di to effectively warm the
middle burner and scatter cold, downbear
Qi counterflow, and stop hiccups. For indications such as:
- 1. Hiccups due to cold in
the stomach.
- 2. Nausea and vomiting due
to deficiency cold in the spleen and stomach.
- For these indications,
this pair is present in Shi Di
Tang. For hiccups, add Chen
xiang.
• Ding
xiang you, the aromatic oil
extracted from cloves, warms the stomach
and scatters cold. Applied externally, it treats epigastric pain,
rheumatic pain,
and toothache due to cold.
Yoga: Lavanga:
K, V-; P+
• Rajasic.
• Analgesic,
stimulant, expectorant, carminative, mild aphrodisiac.
• Topical:
administer the oil in the ear for tinnitus.
JC:
Stimulant; the most powerful aromatic/carminative; stomachic;
expectorant; anti-emetic; antispasmodic; astringent; rubifacient;
antiseptic;
digestive; increases circulation, stimulates excretory organs,
stimulates and
disinfects the kidneys, skin, liver, and bronchial mucous membranes.
• Toothache (use
the oil), vomiting (especially in pregnancy), cholera, ague,
infant convulsions (use a poultice on the nape of the neck),
colic/flatulence
(use a poultice on the abdomen), neuralgia, diarrhea, griping,
hypotension,
palsy, rheumatism, zygotic disease, nausea, epilepsy.
1.5-4.5g (0.5-1g directly as
powder)
K&R:
Essential oil (topical):
• Key for fatigue,
memory loss, depression, colitis, weak libido.
• Oxytocic,
aphrodisiac, parasympathomimetic, sympatholytic.
• Water:
severe fatigue, anergy, depression, melancholia, memory loss,
impotence, frigidity, diarrhea from chronic intestinal disease,
Crohn's disease,
hemorrhagic rectocolitis, headache, UTI, edema, renal insufficiency,
dental
cavities, deafness.
• Metal:
pulmonary infection, tuberculosis, anorexia, parasites, chronic
diarrhea, aerocolitis.
• Strong topical
antiseptic/antifungal.
|
Fu Zi
(Zhi Fu Zi)
Prepared lateral
(daughter) root of
Aconite
"Appendage"
or "Attached Son"
Wu Tou
Aconite main root
|
acrid
hot
toxic
|
(ALL)
Ht
K
Sp
|
Restores collapsed Yang;
tonifies heart fire, unblocks the vessels, and
improves circulation; tonifies kidney Yang; disperses cold, warms the
channels, relieves pain; reaches the 12 channels.
• Yang collapse:
cold sweats, cold extremities, feeble pulse, diarrhea with
undigested food (often after severe vomiting, diarrhea, or sweats). In
these
cases, Fu zi assists
the heart Yang to unblock the vessels and improve
circulation, and tonifies kidney Yang to augment fire and avoid loss of
the
source Yang.
• Heart, spleen, or
kidney Yang deficiency: any associated patterns.
• Wind-cold-dampness: Bi
syndrome, especially when cold is predominant. Also for cold blocking
the organs, channels, sinews, bones, or blood vessels.
• Congestive heart
failure.
• Lowers heart rate
and slightly lowers blood pressure.
• Anti-inflammatory.
• Guohui Liu uses
higher doses on Americans - up to 45g (so far) - and often begins
with 10g.
• Guohui Liu
recommends cooking Fu zi for
at least 2 hours, until it no longer numbs
the tongue, while Bensky/Gamble says to cook it for 30-60 minutes
before
adding other herbs.
• Watch for
development of heat symptoms: burning urination, canker sores,
bleeding, hard, dry stool.
• Gan
cao, Gan jiang, and honey
substantially diminish Fu
zi's toxicity (as do Xi
jiao, Jin yin hua,
and Lu dou).
• Symptoms of
poisoning: vomiting, diarrhea, palpitations, drooling, nausea,
vomiting, lightheadedness, blurry vision, numbness in the mouth and
extremities, premature atrial contractions, dyspnea, tremors,
incontinence,
stupor, reduced temperature and blood pressure, death.
• Atropine and
lidocaine have been used successfully in treatment of overdose.
• Contraindicated
in pregnancy or Yin deficiency.
• One form of
processing renders the herb black, called Hei
fu pian or Hei
fu zi
("Black Appendage"). Its action is focused on the
kidneys.
• Another form of
processing renders the herb white, called Bai
fu pian or Bai
fu zi ("White
Appendage"). It is used by some for treating painful
obstruction
(Bi
syndrome).
• Sheng
fu zi, the untreated herb, is
used - rarely - when the full force of the herb
is required - usually for emergencies and topical use.
PFGC:
Enters and tonifies Ming Men;
is pure Yang, moves without being
confined, can reach any part of the body.
• For severe cold
disorders causing: cold extremities, hiccups, nausea,
regurgitation of food, diarrhea, cramps, wind obstruction, masses and
accumulations, disorders of the Du
Mai with stiffness and rigidity
of the spine,
chronic infant convulsions, greyish papules, skin ulcerations that do
not heal
with dispersing herbs.
• Aconite opens the
pores to expel wind and cold from inside.
• Some books say
that in combination with blood tonics, it can moisten
deficiency of original Yin (not for complete water exhaustion).
• In extreme Yin
syndromes with signs of false Yang, take the decoction cool.
• Though its action
is opening, it also has a strong astringing effect: for profuse
sweats from Yang collapse (cold body), diarrhea from intestinal cold,
Yang
deficiency in the lower Jiao with escaping Yin, cold excess syndromes
with
spontaneous seminal emission.
• Though all Yang
things have the tendency to float upwards, aconite has
ability to entice fire downward.
• Boosts both the
imperial and ministerial fires.
• When the surface
Yang of the Taiyang
system floats precariously on the
outermost surface, producing fever, aconite has ability to link it with
the
astringing energy of the Shaoyin
system and heat symptoms will naturally
disappear.
• If the inner core
of the Shaoyin
network is diseased, aconite can entice the
energy to come up from below and make the pulse reappear.
• Wu
tou represents the mother Yin
which is already depleted of the procreative
force.
• Tian
xiong (an aconite root which
does not spread laterally, but just grows
fatter) represents the solitary Yang which is unable to procreate by
itself.
• Fu
zi is the seedling of Wu
tou and Tian
xiong and thus contains both Yin
and
Yang.
MLT:
Main herb for tonifying the Ming
Men.
• Antidote to
poisoning: mung bean congee (also Atropine).
Hsu:
(Fu zi
and Wu tou)
Cardiotonic - increases contraction of the heart and
improves circulation to the whole body; analgesic; antiphlogistic;
stimulates
the adrenocortical system of the pituitary, benefits patients with
dysfunction of
the adrenocortical system through adrenocortical hormone-like actions.
DY:
Operates within the Qi division; returns Yang and stems counterflow;
strongly supplements Yang; in the exterior, it is directed to the skin
to drain
cold; in the interior, it is directed to the three burners to drain
cold; invigorates Ming Men fire;
assists Yuan
Yang; acts mainly on heart Yang (upper Jiao),
spleen Yang (middle Jiao), and kidney Yang (lower Jiao).
• With Gan
jiang for mutual reinforcement,
to return Yang and stem
counterflow. For indications such as:
- 1. Loss of consciousness,
cold spontaneous perspiration, cold limbs, and a
minute pulse due to Yang desertion. (Si
Ni Tang) Use bland Fu
zi.
- 2. Pain and a feeling of
cold in the stomach and abdomen, vomiting, and
diarrhea due to spleen vacuity cold. (Fu
Zi Li Zhong Wan) Use blast-fried Fu
zi.
• With Da
huang (which operates within the
blood division) to warm the
interior, precipitate accumulation of cold, and evacuate the stools.
For
constipation, abdominal pain, fear of cold, and cold limbs due to
accumulation
of internal full cold. (Da
Huang Fu Zi Tang).
When the pair of Da
huang and Fu
zi is combined with Xi
xin, it has shown an
interesting action in the treatment of cold-damp Bi
or impediment with Yang
deficiency and blood stasis (use wine mix-fried Da
huang for this) as well as
for Bi with an accumulation of heat in the stomach and intestines with
persistent constipation.
• With Huang
qi for mutual reinforcement, to
supplement the Qi and warm the
Yang, return Yang, secure the exterior, and stop perspiration. For
indications
such as cold spontaneous perspiration accompanied by aversion to cold,
cold
limbs, lassitude of the spirit, a pale tongue with white fur, a fine,
weak pulse,
and in severe cases, profuse sweating, loss of consciousness, and a
minute
pulse due to Yang deficiency or Yang collapse.
• Fu
zi is incompatible with soy
sauce and millet.
RW:
(part of root not specified) Neuralgia (facial/ trigeminal): 5-10 drops
tincture (1:5::herb:menstruum) 3 times daily (increase dosage slowly).
IBIS:
Actions: sedative, anti-inflammatory, synergist.
• Dosage: Tincture:
0.5 - 8 gtt., up to t.i.d.; Root: 0.06 g.
• Therapy:
irritation of mucous membranes, facial neuralgia, fever and
inflammation (especially with sudden onset), acute disease with
restlessness.
• Toxic amounts of
alkaloids have been absorbed through the skin. (Duke, pp.
12-13)
• Internal use may
result in immediate oral burning, tingling, numbness, and
throat constriction; followed by salivation, gastritis, nausea and
vomiting.
Characteristic tingling may spread over the entire body surface.
Dysarthria,
ataxia, vertigo, blurred vision, paresthesias and general weakness can
follow.
Myotoxic effects include stimulation followed by depression of cardiac,
smooth and skeletal muscle. Alkaloidal effects on CNS and peripheral
nerves
produce a curare-like paralysis with labored respirations spreading
from upper
extremities to lower. Death from cardiac arrhythmia and respiratory
failure
occurs within 1-8 hours. (A.M.A., p. 20; Dreisbach, p. 434; Levy and
Primack,
p. 120; Theines and Haley, p. 24)
• The odor has a
narcotic effect and can lead to eye irritation and swelling
(Tedeschi, Eckert, and Tedeschi, p. 1525).
• Treatment for
overdose: body warming (internally and externally),
administration of atropine 0.05 mg/kg body weight, 2 - 3 mg total dose,
and a
potassium permanganate (1:1000) gastric lavage (Levy and Primack, p.
120;
Theines and Haley, p. 24; Cooper, et al; Turnball)
• Laboratory
changes: hypocalcemia due to reduction in free Ca++ ions.
1.5-15g (to 45g or more)
HF:
Some practitioners of the Warming Yang school use doses up to
150g a day. It has even been claimed that these high doses are less
likely to
produce "overheating"-type side effects than lower
doses.
Wu
Tou: main root
• Includes two
types: Chuan wu,
Sichuan aconite, the garden variety (the form
that is commonly used), and Cao
wu, the wild variety (even
stronger and more
toxic, rarely used internally).
• Acrid, bitter,
warm, very toxic; enters the heart, liver, spleen, kidney.
• Expels wind-damp,
disperses cold, alleviates pain.
• Cold-dampness: Bi
syndrome, cold and pain in the chest and abdomen,
intense headaches, pain from trauma.
• Severe migratory
arthralgia.
• Heart pain that
radiates toward the back.
• Better at
dispelling cold, eliminating obstruction, and alleviating pain than Fu
zi, but less tonifying and more
toxic.
• Must be cooked at
least 30-60 minutes before adding the rest of the herbs
(some say 60-90 minutes).
• Frequently used
topically for pain.
• Traditionally not
to be combined with Bai mu,
Gua lou, Bai ji, Ban xia, Bai
wei.
1.5-9g
|
Gan Jiang
Dry Ginger
rhizome
Pao Jiang
Quick-fried
Ginger rhizome
|
acrid
hot
|
Sp
St
Ht
Lu
|
Warms the middle Jiao;
rescues collapsed Yang; expels interior cold; warms
the Lungs, resolves harmful body fluid, transforms phlegm; warms the
channels, stops bleeding.
• Yang collapse:
very weak pulse, cold limbs, etc. Gan jiang alone cannot be
counted on. Combine it with Fu zi.
• Yang deficiency
cold: hemorrhage of various types, especially uterine
bleeding - only when the bleeding is chronic, pale in color, with cold
limbs,
white face, and a soggy, thin pulse.
• Spleen and
stomach cold (either Yang deficiency or externally-contracted
excess cold): cold and pain in the epigastrium and abdomen, vomiting,
diarrhea.
• Lung cold: cough
with thin white sputum, difficulty breathing, cold in the
back.
• Raises blood
pressure (by acting on central sympathetic centers).
• Downregulates
some detoxification genes "“ may prevent some drugs from
working
DY:
Gan jiang
is often used to reinforce the action of Fu
zi. As a pair, they are
used to return Yang and stem counterflow. For specific indications and
notes
on this combination, see Fu zi
in this category.
• Gan
jiang warms the spleen and
stimulates its functions of transformation
and transportation. This has the effect of promoting the upbearing of
the clear
toward the Lungs and the downbearing of the turbid toward the large
intestine. Furthermore, it prevents development of phlegm which the
spleen tends to
discharge into the Lungs. It transforms cold phlegm (the Chinese word
for
transform literally means "to melt") in the Lungs
by warming the Lungs. This
then promotes diffusion and downbearing [by the Lungs]. In turn, this
has the
effect of regulating and freeing the flow of the water passageways in
order to
prevent the development of new phlegm, and downbearing the rebellious
Lung
Qi.
• Gan
jiang has clearly demonstrated
its efficacy for cold-type asthma in
clinical practice. It is, therefore, often systematically added to
reinforce the
impact of conventional treatments for this pattern of cough and asthma.
• With Wu
wei zi: While Gan
jiang treats the disease
mechanism (see previous
bullets), Wu wei zi
treats the branch manifestations (i.e. cough and asthma) by
securing the Lung Qi by its astringent nature. As a pair, Gan
jiang andWu
wei
zi effectively warm the Lungs,
transform phlegm, stop cough, and calm
asthma. For indications such as cough and/or asthma with profuse,
clear, and
white phlegm due to cold in the Lungs, Lung Yang deficiency, or
phlegm-cold. For these indications, the combination is used in Xiao
Qing Long Tang
accompanied by Xi xin.
• With Huang
lian to eliminate cold
accumulation and depressive heat, drain
mixed cold and heat, in order to stop vomiting and diarrhea. The pair
allows
one to regulate upbearing and downbearing, to harmonize Yin and Yang,
and
to treat mixed cold and heat. The ratio of the two herbs can be
adjusted (3-10g
each) depending on whether heat or cold is predominant (use equal doses
if
heat and cold exist in equal proportion). For indications such as:
- 1. Vomiting, acid
regurgitation, belching, epigastric pain or distention, and
clamoring stomach (a feeling of hunger, burning, emptiness, unease, and
sometimes pain in the stomach with nausea and acid regurgitation) due
to a
mixture of cold and heat in the stomach. (Ban
Xia Xie Xin Tang) Use stir-fried Huang lian
unless heat is severe.
- 2. Diarrhea, dysentery,
and stomach rumbling due to mixed heat and cold
and/or disharmony between the stomach and intestines. (Use stir-fried Huang
lian unless heat is severe.)
- 3. Glossitis, stomatitis,
and chronic, recalcitrant mouth ulcers due to spleen
Yang deficiency and stomach fire.
Yoga:
Sunthi, Nagara
(dry), Ardraka
(fresh): V, K-; P+
• Pungent,
sweet/heating/sweet. The most Sattvic
spice.
• With honey, it
relieves Kapha.
• With rock candy,
it relieves Pitta.
• With rock salt,
it relieves Vata.
• Dry ginger is
better than fresh as a stimulant and expectorant for reducing Kapha
and increasing Agni.
• Fresh ginger is a
better diaphoretic, better for colds, cough, vomiting and
deranged Vata.
• The herb is also
a heart tonic.
• Use as a paste
for pain and headache.
BII:
Carminative, intestinal spasmolytic.
• For all symptoms
of motion sickness, and also for morning sickness in
pregnancy.
• Some
anti-inflammatory effects.
• Useful for
migraines, arthritic conditions.
• Also useful in:
atherosclerosis, headaches, inner ear dysfunction, nausea,
vomiting, osteoarthritis, pain (rheumatic), rheumatoid arthritis.
Hsu:
Raises blood pressure - reflexively stimulates the vasomotor center and
stimulates the sympathetic nervous system.
• Anti-emetic,
anti-diarrheal.
DY:
This herb is specifically the older, more mature (dried) rhizome.
3-12g
Pao
Jiang: Quick-fried Ginger (or
fried until slightly blackened)
• Bitter,
astringent, warm. Enters the liver and spleen.
• Stops bleeding
associated with cold from deficiency; warms the channels.
• Less potent than Gan
jiang at warming the interior,
though may be better at
treating lower abdominal disorders.
|
Gao Liang Jiang
Galanga rhizome
Alpinia
officinarum
|
acrid
hot
|
Sp
St
|
Warms the middle Jiao,
relieves pain.
• Cold in the
spleen and stomach: pain in the epigastrium and abdomen,
vomiting, diarrhea, hiccups.
DY:
With Xiang fu
to warm the stomach and drain cold, move the Qi, and stop
pain. For indications such as pain in the epigastrium alleviated by
warmth and
pressure, chest and lateral costal distention, and nausea due to cold
in the
stomach and Qi stagnation. For these indications, the combination is
used in Liang Fu Wan.
Vinegar mix-fried Xiang fu
should be used. In cases of severe
cold, a larger dose of Gao
liang jiang should be used. In
cases of severe Qi
stagnation (as evidenced by epigastric distention and pain aggravated
by
pressure), a greater quantity of Xiang
fu should be prescribed.
• Gao
liang jiang is very acrid and
drying. Its action is drastic, and it should
not be prescribed over a long period of time, for fear of damaging
stomach Qi
and Yin.
PCBDP:
Carminative, stimulant.
• Dyspepsia.
• In a paste with
bloodroot [Sanguinaria] to treat periodontal diseases
(including gingivitis) and skin cancer.
• Has anti-ulcer
activity, possible anti-tumor activity.
Hsu:
Stomachic, analgesic (stronger than Gan jiang), broad antibacterial.
1.5-9g
|
Hu Jiao
Black Pepper
"Barbarian
Pepper"
|
acrid
hot
|
LI
St
|
Warms the middle; disperses
cold; alleviates pain.
• Stomach cold:
vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain.
• Diarrhea
(chronic, non-infectious studied) - can be used orally or applied to
the navel in a plaster.
• Nephritis: In one
study, 10 patients were given two steamed eggs daily into
which Hu jiao was placed prior to steaming. All but one patient (who
had
nephritis for 10 years) were cured.
• A large dose can
be used for pain associated with malignancies.
• When prescribed
in large doses (up to 30g), it must be cooked at least 2
hours.
• Contains piperine -
used as a carrier to
increase absorption of other
substances through digestive tract (e.g., curcumin) and slow metabolism
of
certain drugs.
Yoga: Marich:
The Sun, named because it contains large amounts of solar
energy. Pungent/heating/pungent; K, V-; P+
• Stimulant,
expectorant, carminative, febrifuge, anthelmintic.
• Chronic
indigestion, toxins in the colon, degenerated metabolism, obesity,
sinus congestion, fever, intermittent fever, cold extremities.
• Take nasally in
ghee for sinus congestion, headache, seizures.
• Burns up Ama;
energizes Agni.
• Good antidote for
cold/raw food.
• With honey it is
a powerful expectorant and mucus cleanser, dries up
secretions.
• Excessive amounts
can be an irritant - it is Rajasic
in nature.
1.5-4.5g
|
Rou Gui
Inner bark of
Vietnamese
Cinnamon
(Cinnamomum
loureirii)
Guan Gui
Young Cinnamon
bark
Rou Gui Xin
Cinnamon heart
Cinnamon
Essential Oil
|
acrid
hot
|
K
Sp
Ht
Lv
|
Tonifies heart fire and
kidney Yang; disperses cold to relieve pain; warms,
activates, and unblocks the channels; conducts floating Yang back into
kidneys; encourages the generation of Qi and blood.
• Kidney Yang
deficiency, waning at the Ming
Men: cold extremities,
intolerance of cold, weak lumbar region and knees, impotence, frequent
urination.
• Spleen and Kidney
Yang deficiency: cold and pain in the epigastrium and
abdomen, poor appetite, loose stools.
• Cold-dampness:
low back pain, Bi
syndrome.
• Failure of the
kidneys to grasp the Lung Qi: wheezing.
• Yang deficiency:
carbuncles.
• Qi and blood
deficiency with cold: ulcers resistant to healing
• Floating Yang:
flushed face, severe sweats, wheezing, weak and cold lower
extremities, a deficient and rootless pulse (i.e. conditions of (false)
heat above,
cold below). Also used for other conditions where the upper part of the
body is
hot (e.g. dry mouth, sore throat, or toothache that become worse at
night) and
the lower part is cold (e.g. lower back pain, cold lower extremities,
diarrhea,
weakness in the proximal position of the pulse). To conduct floating
Yang
back to the kidneys, a tiny dose is used - 0.1 to 0.5g.
• Deep cold causing
Qi or blood stasis: cold in the blood causing amenorrhea
or dysmenorrhea; yin-type boils (concave, usually ooze a clear fluid),
abscesses
or sores that do not heal.
• With Qi and blood
tonics as an auxiliary herb for chronic deficiency of Qi
and blood.
• Injected into
BL-13 for asthma. Clinical trials showed it to be very effective.
• Antibacterial and
antifungal properties.
• Crush into small
pieces before using.
• Weaker than Gui
zhi at warming, activating, and
unblocking the channels.
• Decoction causes
loss of the volatile oils which are responsible for much of
its effect. Usually taken directly as a powder, pill, or tincture (can
also be
added to a strained decoction).
• Recently used to
treat blood sugar dysregulation and diabetes.
Yoga:
Twak:
pungent, sweet, astringent/heating/sweet; Sattvic;
V, K-, P+
• Stimulant,
diaphoretic, carminative, alterative, expectorant, diuretic,
analgesic.
• Colds, sinus
congestion, bronchitis, dyspepsia.
• Relieves pain of
toothache, and muscular pain.
• Strengthens the
heart, promotes Agni.
• Is less likely to
aggravate Pitta
than ginger is.
• Good general
drink for Vata.
Hsu:
Vasodilator, diaphoretic, alleviates pain due to GI spasms, inhibits
abnormal fermentation processes in intestines.
DY:
Supplements the source Qi.
• By supplementing
source Qi, it assists in the engenderment of Qi, blood, and
essence (as in Shi Quan Da Bu
Wan [Ba
Zhen Tang + Huang
qi and Rou
gui]).
• Real Rou
gui is very expensive. Many
importers sell the culinary quality - Gui
pi
- which has little medicinal value. It focuses on the middle burner. It
does not reinforce kidney Yang or Ming
Men fire.
• With Huang
lian (3-6g each) to harmonize
Yin and Yang, drain the south
(heart fire) and supplement the north (kidney Yang), and re-establish
the
interaction between the heart and kidneys. For indications such as:
- 1. Insomnia, vexation, and
agitation due to heart and kidneys not
communicating. (Such as for kidney Yang deficiency which cannot move
and
upbear kidney water, which then becomes dead and stagnant, and fails to
nourish heart Yin and control heart fire which rises upward. Use Jiao
Tai
Wan.)
• As a powder (Rou
gui mo or Rou
gui mian), some expense can be
spared, as it
needs only be prescribed at a dose of 1-2g daily, taken directly or
added to a
decoction within the last 5 minutes of cooking.
1.5-4.5g (to conduct
floating Yang back to the kidneys, use 0.1-0.5g)
Guan
Gui: the thinner bark of trees
that are 6-7 years old
• This bark has
less oil than Rou gui,
and is considered to be drier.
• Weaker than Rou
gui for supplementing the
original Qi, but better for
warming the middle and drying dampness. Guan
gui is mainly for the middle
burner and spleen.
• Less tonifying
for Yang Qi than Rou gui.
4.5-9g
Rou
Gui Xin (Gui Xin): the heart of Rou gui
• This is cinnamon
bark which has been cleaned of its fine, superficial layer.
• It is believed to
be superior for reinforcing heart Yang and for re-establishing
the interaction between the heart and kidneys.
Essential
Oil of Cinnamon
K&R:
Key for fatigue, weak digestion, weak libido.
• Sympathomimetic,
adrenal cortex stimulant, carminative, astringent,
antibacterial, oxytocic, antispasmodic.
• Earth:
flu, parasitosis, digestive mycosis, fatigue after infection, spastic
colitis, obsessions, contracts uterus for labor, stimulates sexual
appetite,
stimulates CNS.
• Metal:
flu, hemoptysis, melancholy, stimulates psychic functions.
|
Wu Zhu Yu
Evodia fruit
|
acrid
bitter
hot
sl.
toxic
|
Lv
Sp
St
K
|
Warms the middle Jiao,
disperses cold, relieves pain; stops diarrhea; frees the
liver Qi; redirects rebellious Qi, stops vomiting; warms the liver
channel and
organ; dries dampness; expels damp-cold; leads fire downward
(topically).
• Yang deficiency
cold in the middle Jiao: severe pain in the epigastrium and
abdomen.
• Liver and/or
stomach channel disorders from cold or phlegm: headaches,
epigastric pain, nausea, drooling, reduced taste sensation, pale
tongue, wiry or
weak pulse.
• Cold in the liver
channel: hernial disorders.
• Liver Qi
stagnation, Qi rebellion, or Liver attacking the stomach: vomiting,
acid reflux, flank pain, severe vertex headache. For liver/stomach
disharmony
(liver channel heat attacking the stomach), Zuo
Jin Wan is commonly used - 6
parts Huang lian
with 1 part Wu zhu yu.
Indications: hypochondriac pain,
indeterminate gnawing hunger, epigastric focal distention, vomiting,
acid
regurgitation, belching, bitter taste in the mouth, dry mouth, red
tongue, yellow
coat, wiry, rapid pulse.
• Topical: Grind
the herb to a powder. Combine it with water or vinegar
(vinegar is stronger) to form a mud. Apply it to the soles of the feet
(covering K-1) and cover it with plastic wrap. Put socks on and walk on
it for up to 6
hours. This tonifies/warms the kidneys for kidney deficiency; leads
fire
downward - for rising Yang, mouth or tongue sores, toothache; speeds up
metabolism (helps weight loss); lowers blood pressure (in 12-24 hours).
This
method of application may lose efficacy (particularly for weight loss)
after
several consecutive treatments.
• Irritable bowel
syndrome: powder the herb, mix it with vinegar, and apply it
to the navel.
• Useful for early
and subacute eczema, childhood eczema, and localized
neurodermatitis.
• Antibiotic and
antiparasitic effects; analgesic.
• Very drying. Can
injure the Qi. Not for long term use.
• Administering a
Gan cao decoction before this herb can reduce its side
effects.
Hsu:
Constricts the uterus; anthelmintic; antifungal; analgesic; stimulates
blood circulation.
• Large doses cause
CNS stimulation and hallucinations (contains DMT).
DY:
This is one of six medicinals which have been traditionally aged for
the
purpose of reducing secondary effects and reinforcing their therapeutic
actions. Generally, the longer it is kept, the more efficient it
becomes.
• With Huang
lian to effectively drain liver
fire, harmonize the stomach,
downbear counterflow, and stop pain, acid regurgitation, and vomiting.
For
indications such as:
- 1. Lateral costal pain and
distention, nausea, vomiting, acid regurgitation,
belching, clamoring stomach, and a bitter taste in the mouth due to
liver
depression transforming into fire which disturbs the stomach. (Zuo
Jin Wan)
- 2. Diarrhea and dysentery
due to damp-heat.
- The usual dosage for this
pair is 3-10g Huang lian and
2-5g Wu zhu yu.
Traditionally, the combination is for liver fire causing liver-stomach
disharmony which, in turn, leads to nausea, vomiting, and acid
regurgitation. In this case Huang
lian should be prescribed in a
larger quantity and Wu zhu yu
in a lesser amount. However, this pair can also be used in patterns
where cold
and heat are mixed. In this case, if heat is predominant, the dosage of
Huang
lian should be proportionately
more. If there is concomitant stomach Yin
deficiency, add Shi hu.
If cold is predominant, the dosage of Wu
zhu yu should
be proportionately more. If there is concomitant Qi deficiency, add Dang
shen. If cold and heat are
present in identical proportions, the quantities of both herbs
should be equal.
3-9g
|
Xi Xin
Asarum root
"Wild
Ginger"
"Thin
Acrid"
|
acrid
warm
sl.
toxic
|
Lu
K
|
Alleviates pain; releases
the exterior, eliminates wind, disperses cold; warms
the Lungs, resolves harmful fluid, transforms phlegm; opens the nose;
mildly
promotes sweating.
• Wind-cold or any
exterior cold pattern, especially with the addition of
dampness or underlying Yang deficiency: headache (especially Shaoyin,
radiating to the teeth), toothache, body aches, Bi
syndrome, other pain.
• Cold and harmful
fluid in the Lungs: cough with thin, whitish sputum,
difficulty breathing.
• Nasal congestion
- various types.
• Shaoyin
syndrome, fever, deep pulse.
• Topical: in
powder, mixed with water and glycerine, and applied to the navel
(for at least 3 days) for oral lesions.
• Better at warming
the interior than releasing the exterior.
• For nasal and
oral problems, it is often powdered and sucked directly into the
affected areas.
• Antipyretic;
analgesic.
• Liu: Can be used
in doses as high as 10g daily for body aches. Monitor the
patient for signs of toxicity - not for prolonged use at higher doses.
• Bensky/Gamble
classifies this herb with acrid warm herbs that release the
exterior.
• Contains
aristolochic acid. Caution in patients with
renal problems. May be restricted by FDA.
Hsu:
Local anesthetic, analgesic; antitussive.
DY:
Powerful analgesic. Despite its warm quality, it can be combined with
appropriate herbs for any pain pattern.
• Toxic at doses
over 5g per day.
IBIS:
Carminative, diaphoretic.
• Avoid in stomach
inflammation and/or intestinal inflammation due to its
spicy stimulant effects (Brinker).
• Avoid during
pregnancy due to its emmenogogue and abortifacient effects
(Lewis & Elvin).
1-3g
|
Xiao Hui Xiang
Fennel seed
|
acrid
warm
|
Lv
K
Sp
St
|
Disperses cold, relieves
pain; regulates Qi, harmonizes the stomach; frees the
liver Qi, warms and moves the liver channel and lower Jiao, warms the
kidneys.
• Cold in the liver
or kidneys: severe pain in the lower abdomen and testes,
especially in cases of hernia. Useful for any kind of lower abdominal
pain due
to cold. In one study of 26 cases of incarcerated hernia, Xiao
hui xiang was
given orally and then patients were asked to lie supine with their
knees bent. The hernia and symptoms were reduced in 22 cases, usually
within a half hour. The longer the incarceration, the less effective
the treatment.
• Stomach cold:
vomiting, poor appetite, indigestion, distending pain in the
epigastrium or abdomen. (Wu zhu
yu and Ding
xiang are superior.)
• Regulates
intestinal peristalsis, reducing emptying time and increasing the
passage of gas. It also relieves spasms of the intestines.
• Topical: powder
the herb, heat it (under a TDP lamp, in a microwave, or by
dry-frying it), put it in a tea bag, and place it over a hernia or an
area with a
sensation of cold or pain.
• Hydrocele of the
tunica vaginalis: Xiao hui
xiang was given (with salt and
other ingredients) at bedtime with rice wine. 59 of 64 cases were cured
at six
weeks and 1 was improved.
K&R:
Carminative, eupeptic, expectorant, antispasmodic, galactagogue,
diuretic (azoturic), urinary antiseptic.
• Earth yin, water
yin, metal yin.
• Earth:
digestive insufficiency, colic, pediatric abdominal pain.
• Metal:
intestinal colic, colitis, pediatric- expectorant for bronchitis,
asthma.
• Water:
oliguria, renal calculi, amenorrhea, frigidity, impotence, urinary
infection.
• Use with a
laxative for constipation with poor intestinal tone.
• Sedative and
carminative for excitable children with indigestion.
Yoga:
Shatapushpa:
sweet, pungent/slightly cooling/sweet; VPK=
• Carminative,
stomachic, stimulant, diuretic, antispasmodic.
• Indigestion, low Agni,
abdominal pain, cramps or gas, difficult or burning
urination, children's colic.
• Stops griping
from purgatives.
• Helps promote
menstruation and lactation.
• Good for all
constitutions. Strengthens Agni
without aggravating Pitta.
• The aroma acts on
the mind, produces alertness.
Hsu:
Expectorant, stomachic.
3-9g
|
Herbs
That Promote Qi Circulation
|
Commonly
combined with:
• A. Herbs that
disperse the Lungs and resolve phlegm when there is attack of the Lungs
by an EPI.
• B. Herbs that
clear heat and resolve phlegm when there is Lung phlegm-heat.
• C. Herbs that
clear damp-heat when there is damp-heat in the middle Jiao.
• D. Herbs that
warm the interior when there is spleen cold-dampness.
• E. Herbs that
promote digestion when there is food retention.
• F. Herbs that
tonify spleen Qi when there is spleen Qi deficiency.
• G. Herbs that
nourish liver blood and Yin and promote blood circulation when there is
liver Qi stagnation.
• Since these herbs
disperse Qi and tend to be aromatic and drying, they are generally used
with caution for patients
with Yin or Qi deficiency.
• Since the
dispersing effect of many of these herbs is dependent on their volatile
oils, these herbs are generally
decocted for no longer than 15 minutes.
• When using Chen
pi, Ju hong, Ju He, Qing pi, Zhi shi, Zhi ke, Fo shou, Xiang yuan,
and other citrus herbs,
remember to consider the possibility of the patient's having
a citrus sensitivity or allergy.
• The term "adjusts
the middle Jiao" refers to an herb's ability to
re-establish the proper ascent and descent of Qi by
the spleen and stomach.
• Also consider these Qi moving herbs
from other categories, as appropriate: An Xi Xiang [Open Orifices],
Bai Jie Zi [Resolve Phlegm], Bai Dou Kou [Aromatic Transform Damp],
Bing Lang [Kill Parasites], Bo He [Acrid, Cool], Cao Dou Kou [Aromatic
Transform Damp], Du Huo [Expel Wind-Damp], E Zhu [Move Blood], Gua Lou
Pi [Resolve Phlegm], Hou Po [Aromatic Transform Damp], Jiang Xiang
[Move Blood], Lu Lu Tong [Move Blood], Rou Dou Kou [Astringent], Ru
Xiang [Move Blood], San Leng [Move Blood], Sha Ren [Aromatic Transform
Damp], Yan Hu Suo [Move Blood], Yu Jin [Move Blood], Zi Su Ye [Acrid,
Warm].
|
Chen Pi
(Ju Pi)
Citrus peel
(usually
Tangerine or
Mandarin Orange)
Citrus
reticulata,
C. tangerina, C.
erythrosa
"Aged
Peel"
Ju Hong
Red part of Citrus
peel
Ju He
Citrus seed
Qing Ju Ye
Bluegreen Citrus
leaf
|
acrid
bitter
warm
|
Sp
Lu
St
|
Regulates Qi; adjusts the
middle Jiao (acrid lifts the spleen Qi, bitter descends
the stomach Qi); dries dampness; resolves phlegm; helps the spleen to
transport; relieves the diaphragm; directs Qi downward.
• Spleen/stomach Qi
stagnation: distention in the epigastrium and abdomen,
belching, bloating, fullness, nausea, vomiting. Also used for various
other
forms of nausea and vomiting.
• Accumulation of
dampness in the middle Jiao: distention in the chest,
epigastrium, and abdomen, stifling sensation in the chest, poor
appetite, fatigue,
loose stool, thick and sticky tongue coat. An important Qi-level herb
of both
the spleen and Lung channels, it is especially appropriate for
disorders
involving both channels.
• Phlegm-damp in
the Lungs: cough with copious sputum, difficulty breathing,
stifling sensation in the chest.
• Added to tonics
to help keep their rich quality from stagnating the Qi.
• Some
effectiveness as a transdermal carrier of other substances.
• Mastitis: Chen
pi was used with Gan
cao in one study to yield good
results in
70% of the cases, usually within 2-3 days. The longer the duration of
the
mastitis, the less effective the treatment.
• Chen
pi is aged (cured) to eliminate
secondary effects and reinforce its
primary actions. Generally, the older the Chen
pi, the higher the quality and
the
more effective.
• Use with caution
when there is heat.
• Can be carried to
guard against taking on patients' sicknesses.
• Compared to Qing
pi, Chen pi has a more
harmonious nature and tends to
enter the Qi level of the spleen and Lungs. Its actions are primarily
vertical and
it is therefore used for both coughing and vomiting. Qing
pi, on the other hand,
has scattering and unblocking properties that are relatively harsh; it
is
accordingly prescribed for breaking up Qi stagnation. Its actions are
more
horizontal and it is therefore used primarily for pain.
DY:
Moderately fortifies the spleen; harmonizes the stomach, stops
vomiting;
rectifies the Qi on the right side of the body; downbears stomach Qi
counterflow.
• Three essential
therapeutic methods are used to treat phlegm-dampness:
- 1. Transforming and drying
existing phlegm or evacuating it through
expectoration.
- 2. Moving Qi - if Qi moves
with fluidity, phlegm is expelled through
expectoration and stagnant dampness, which is the origin of the
production of
phlegm, is moved and does not accumulate - thus dampness does not
congeal
into phlegm.
- 3. Supplementing the
spleen - to promote the transformation and
transportation of water and food, and prevent the accumulation of
dampness
and the engenderment of phlegm.
- Chen
pi possesses all
three essential functions for
the elimination of phlegm-dampness - it transforms phlegm, moves Qi,
and fortifies the spleen.
• Zhang Zi-he of
the (12th
century) Southern Song dynasty, said: "Chen
pi is
upbearing and floating, goes to the Lungs and spleen, influences the
upper
(body) and frees the flow."
• Chen
pi is often added to formulas
which supplement the Qi, blood, or Yin in
order to ease the assimilation of rich herbs and to avoid Qi
stagnation. It can be
systematically added to these types of formulas whenever spleen
deficiency is
suspected.
• With Ban
xia for mutual reinforcement, to
fortify the spleen, rectify the Qi,
dry dampness, transform phlegm, and stop vomiting. For such indications
as:
- 1. Cough due to an
accumulation of phlegm-dampness. (Use lime-processed Ban
xia.)
- 2. Chest oppression,
nausea, and vomiting due to stomach disharmony and
phlegm-damp stagnation. (Use ginger-processed Ban
xia and stir-fried Chen
pi.)
• With He
zi to effectively constrain the
Lung Qi, rectify the Qi, and increase
the voice. For hoarse voice, loss of voice, and chronic cough
(deficiency type)
with loss of voice and phlegm in the throat. (He
zi is contraindicated in cases
of
phlegm-heat or full patterns.)
• With Qing
pi to soothe the liver, regulate
the stomach, harmonize the liver and
spleen, harmonize the liver and stomach, rectify the Qi, and stop pain.
For
epigastric and abdominal distention and pain, chest and lateral costal
region
distention and pain due to disharmony of the liver and spleen, liver
and
stomach, or a liver depression Qi stagnation. For these indications,
uncooked or
stir-fried Chen pi
and vinegar mix-fried Qing pi
should be used. In cases of
liver-spleen disharmony, add Bai
shao, Chai hu, and Bai
zhu. This pair is also
sometimes used to treat food accumulation in the stomach, diarrhea with
abdominal distention due to liver-spleen disharmony, and premenstrual
syndrome due to liver-spleen disharmony.
• With Sang
bai pi to clear the Lungs and
transform phlegm, rectify the Qi, stop
coughing and calm asthma. For cough and asthma due to Lung heat with
abundant yellow phlegm.
• With Zhu
ru to clear and warm
simultaneously, eliminating mixed cold and
heat in the stomach. They harmonize the stomach, downbear Qi
counterflow,
and stop vomiting. The combination can be used in the formula Ju
Pi Zhu Ru
Tang for indications such as:
- 1. Nausea, vomiting, and
epigastric and abdominal distention due to spleen-stomach deficiency
mixed with cold and heat. (In actuality, the spleen is
deficient and cold or at least benefits from the use of warm
ingredients, and the
stomach is hot and requires clearing with cold medicinals.)
- 2. Nausea and vomiting
during pregnancy.
• Ju
pi vs. Chen
pi: Ju
pi is the recent skin, while Chen
pi is the aged skin. Ju
pi is very drying and acrid,
more draining and irritating to the stomach. Chen
pi
is moderate and more efficient. Chen
pi is preferred for use in
clinical practice.
Hsu:
Stomachic; expectorant; anti-emetic; regulates the intestines;
hemostatic -
strengthens capillaries; antibacterial; increases blood pressure;
stimulates the
heart; inhibits GI and uterine activity; slightly inhibits urinary
excretion.
HF:
An important herb in anti-Gu
therapy to move Qi (xing Qi)
and break
accumulation (po ji).
3-9g
Ju
Hong: Just the red part of the
peel
• Acrid, bitter,
warm. Enters the Lung and stomach chanels.
• Similar to Chen
pi, but more drying and aromatic
than Chen pi
and less
effective at harmonizing the middle and regulating the stomach and
spleen.
• Resolves phlegm,
dispels wind-cold.
• Primarily used
for vomiting, belching, phlegm-damp coughs.
DY:
Scatters cold, rectifies the Qi; resolves the exterior; dries dampness,
transforms phlegm; disperses food stagnation and distention.
• With Zi
wan to effectively dry dampness
and transform phlegm without drying
the Lungs, rectify the Qi, and stop cough. For indications such as:
- 1. Cough with profuse
phlegm and chest oppression due to accumulation of
phlegm and Qi stagnating in the Lungs.
- 2. Cough with itchy
throat, low grade fever, fear of cold, and profuse phlegm
due to wind evils attacking the Lungs.
Ju
He: The seed
• Liu: Shaped like
a testicle: guides to and treats testicular problems.
DY:
Moves the Qi; scatters nodulation; stops pain; directed toward the Jueyin
channel and the Qi division, directed toward the lower burner, into the
kidney
channel and treats shan. See Li zhi he
in this category for notes on shan.
• With Li
zhi he, these two herbs are
directed toward the liver channel and
especially to the region of the pelvis. They effectively scatter cold
and
nodulation, and stop pain. For specific indications of this
combination, see Li
zhi he in this category.
Qing
Ju Ye: Bluegreen citrus leaf
• Frees liver Qi.
|
Chen Xiang
Aquilaria sap
Aloeswood
"Sinking
Fragrance"
or "Fragrant
Dense Herb"
|
acrid
bitter
warm
|
Sp
St
K
|
Regulates Qi, relieves pain;
descends stomach Qi, adjusts the middle Jiao;
directs rebellious Qi downward, regulates the middle Jiao; warms the
kidneys,
aids them in grasping the Qi.
• Blood stasis or
cold obstruction (including from deficiency) with Qi
stagnation: distention, pain, or a feeling of pressure in the chest,
epigastrium, or
abdomen.
• Stomach or spleen
cold (including from deficiency): rebellious Qi wheezing,
vomiting, hiccups, belching.
• Kidney
deficiency: asthma, wheezing, cough with difficulty breathing.
• Particularly
useful for stagnation in the lower abdomen.
• The true herb is
expensive, very aromatic, precious - do not cook it. It is
usually powdered and taken directly.
• Powerfully
inhibits M. tuberculosis,
Shigella.
• Traditionally,
this is not just the wood of this tree, but specifically very old
wood, and, some say, wood that has been underwater for many years.
Hsu:
Antibacterial - for typhoid, dysentery; analgesic, tranquilizing
effects.
1.5-3g
|
Chuan Lian Zi
Melia fruit
Sichuan Pagoda
Tree fruit
Sichuan
Chinaberry
|
bitter
cold
sl toxic
|
Lv
St
SI
BL
|
Regulates Qi (especially
liver Qi), relieves pain; kills parasites, treats fungal
disease; clears heat; dries dampness.
• Liver Qi
stagnation or liver attacking the stomach: costal, hypochondriac,
epigastric, or abdominal pain. Also for hernial disorders. Especially
useful
when there are heat signs.
• Damp-heat Qi
stagnation: epigastric, abdominal, flank, or hernial pain.
• Roundworms,
tapeworms: abdominal pain. More effective at treating the pain
than killing the parasites.
• Particularly
useful for stagnation in the flanks and lower abdomen.
• Topical: for
fungal infections on the scalp.
• May irritate the
stomach - when given in a large dose for a long time, it injures
the mucous membrane of the stomach.
• May cause
elevation of liver enzymes.
• Must be broken up
before using.
Jin:
Safe to use in pregnancy (when indicated). Unlike some herbs in this
category, this herb is not especially drying.
Li:
When used for excess conditions, it will not irritate the stomach.
• Use as a sitz
bath for yeast infections, and as a wash for other fungal diseases.
DY:
With Yan hu suo
to clear heat, eliminate dampness, course the liver, move
the Qi and blood, and stop pain. This combination (Jin
Ling Zi San) is used for
indications such as:
- 1. Pain in the chest,
epigastrium, abdomen, and lateral costal regions due to
liver depression Qi stagnation sometimes associated with liver blood
stasis. (Use wine mix-fried Yan
hu suo and scorched Chuan
lian zi.)
- 2. Liver depression Qi
stagnation transforming into liver heat or fire.
- 3. Dysmenorrhea and
menstrual irregularities due to Qi and/or blood stasis. (Use scorched Chuan
lian zi and vinegar mix-fried Yan
hu suo.)
- 4. Heart pain due to Qi
and blood stagnation. (Use wine mix-fried Yan
hu suo and scorched Chuan
lian zi.)
- 5. Inguinal hernia or
diseases of the scrotum or testicles due to Qi stagnating
in the liver channel. (Use scorched Chuan
lian zi and vinegar mix-fried Yan
hu
suo.)
- 6. Hepatitis,
cholecystitis, and angiocholitis due to damp-heat in the liver and
gallbladder. (Use scorched Chuan
lian zi and vinegar mix-fried Yan
hu suo.)
- This combination is a
major analgesic which can be added to other
prescriptions when pain is a key manifestation of the disorder and
especially if
this pain is due to Qi stagnation and blood stasis. If there is a
headache, add Chuan xiong
and Hong hua.
If there is chest pain, add Jie
geng, Zhi ke, and Xie
bai. If there is lateral costal
pain, add Chai hu
and Yu jin.
If there is stomach
and epigastric pain, add Mu
xiang and Dan
shen. If there is lower
abdominal
pain, add Mu xiang
and Tao ren.
If there is lower abdomen pain occurring on
both sides of the abdomen in the area traversed by the liver channel,
add Wu
yao and Xiao
hui xiang.
3-9g
|
Da Fu Pi
Betel husk
Areca peel
"Big Abdomen
Peel"
|
acrid
sl
warm
|
LI
SI
Sp
St
|
Promotes the downward
movement of Qi; reduces stagnation; expels dampness;
promotes urination, reduces edema.
• Food stagnation,
Qi obstruction: epigastric and abdominal distention,
regurgitation of food, belching with acid regurgitation. Especially
useful when
these disorders are accompanied by constipation.
• Damp stagnation
in the stomach and intestines.
• Abdominal
distention with edema, especially superficial edema, or the
symptoms of food stagnation. Also for damp leg qi.
• Strengthens the
contractions and tension of the intestines.
6-9g
|
Fo Shou
Finger Citron
"Buddha
Hand"
Fo Shou Hua
Finger Citron
flower
|
acrid
bitter
warm
|
Lv
Sp
St
Lu
|
Frees the flow of liver Qi;
regulates Qi; adjusts the middle Jiao; resolves
phlegm; mildly dries dampness; harmonizes the stomach, strengthens the
spleen.
• Liver Qi
stagnation: costal, hypochondriac, or flank pain, distention in the
chest, belching.
• Spleen/stomach Qi
stagnation: distention and fullness in the epigastrium and
abdomen, epigastric pain, poor appetite, belching, nausea, vomiting.
• Lung phlegm:
cough with copious sputum. Especially useful for unrelenting
coughs with chest pain. Because its phlegm-resolving function is mild,
it is not
used in treating the early stages of externally-contracted coughs.
• This herb is
strong at moving Qi, but weak at alleviating pain.
3-9g
Fo
Shou Hua: the flower
• Similar
properties to the fruit, but milder.
• More effective
than the fruit at directing Qi downward.
• Often used for
cough and wheezing due to rebellious Lung Qi.
|
Li Zhi He
Litchee nut
(Leechee)
|
sweet
astringt
warm
|
Lv
St
|
Regulates Qi, relieves pain;
eliminates cold obstruction (particularly in the liver
channel).
• Cold obstruction
of Qi in the liver channel: lower abdominal, genital,
testicular, hernial pain, swelling (also for heat in the liver channel
when
combined with cold herbs).
• Liver Qi
stagnation: epigastric pain; abdominal pain, particularly pre-menstrual
or post-partum.
• Guides to the
genitalia; can guide herbs to the prostate for prostatitis.
• Ringworm: powder
the herb, mix with sesame oil, and apply topically.
• Must be broken up
before use.
DY:
Moves the Qi and blood; scatters cold; directed toward the Jueyin
channel
and the blood division; directed toward the lower burner, the kidney
channel,
and treats shan.
(Shan:
1. A generic term for all disease of the scrotum and
testicles. 2. Hernias, specifically inguinal hernias. 3. Severe
abdominal pain
associated with anuria and constipation. "Cold Shan"
may indicated either of
two pathologies: 1. Severe periumbilical pain and abdominal spasms
together
with spontaneous cold perspiration, fear of cold, cold limbs, a deep
tight pulse,
and sometimes, in severe cases, numbness of the limbs and generalized
stiffness
due to a stagnation and congelation of cold evils in the interior of
the abdomen. 2. Scrotal or testicular disease due to stagnation and
congelation of cold
dampness in the liver channel with pain, contracture, swelling and
hardening of
the testicles, pain radiating toward the scrotum, worsened by cold,
etc.)
• With Ju
he, these two herbs are directed
toward the liver channel and
especially to the region of the pelvis. They effectively scatter cold
and
nodulation, and stop pain. For the following indications, both herbs
should be
salt mix-fried, because salt guides the action of these herbs toward
the lower
burner, toward the pelvis, and toward the kidneys. In addition, salt
promotes
the softening of nodulations in the treatment of shan.
- 1. Inguinal hernia,
swelling and pain of the testicles, and scrotal hernia, all due
to cold Qi congealing and stagnating in the liver channel.
- 2. Piercing pain in the
pelvis due to Qi stagnation and blood stasis.
- 3. Masses in the pelvis
(chronic salpingitis, chronic salpingo-ovaritis, chronic
adnexititis, ovarian cysts, endometriosis, and fibroids) due to Qi and
blood
stagnation.
- 4. Abnormal vaginal
discharge due to vacuity cold.
- This combination is used
successfully in strangury patterns, particularly for
stone strangury and Qi strangury (Qi stagnation type), in order to
counteract
piercingly painful urination and spasms and contractures in the pelvis.
For
these indications, the combination is an auxiliary treatment and should
be added
to other standard formulas that treat strangury.
6-15g (24-30g for epigastric
pain)
|
Mei Gui Hua
Young flower of
Chinese Rose
Rosa
rugosa
|
sweet
sl bitter
warm
|
Sp
Lv
|
Promotes Qi circulation,
relieves constraint; harmonizes the blood and disperses
stasis.
• Liver/spleen
disharmony: stifling sensation in the chest, pain and distention in
the flanks and epigastrium, belching, poor appetite.
• Blood stasis:
irregular menstruation, premenstrual breast tenderness,
menstrual pain.
• Blood stasis
secondary to trauma.
• Antidotes
antimony poisoning.
• Often used in
medicinal wines and made into pastes.
• Bensky/Gamble:
When treating menstrual dysfunction, Xiang
fu is preferred
when there is scanty bleeding, while Mei
gui hua is more ideal for
excessive
bleeding.
MLT:
Used in Ayurveda for depression.
1.5-6g
|
Mu Xiang
Auklandia root
= Saussurea
or Costus
"Fragrant
Wood"
|
acrid
bitter
warm
|
Sp
St
LI
GB
|
Regulates Qi, adjusts the
middle Jiao, relieves pain; strengthens the spleen,
prevents stagnation (does not tonify Qi); adjusts and regulates
stagnant Qi in the
intestines.
• Qi stagnation in
the stomach/spleen and/or intestines (including from food
retention): distended epigastrium, borborygmus, lack of appetite,
epigastric or
abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or dysentery with tenesmus.
Because of its slightly astringent quality, this is a common herb for
treating
tenesmus.
• Liver or
gallbladder Qi stagnation: flank pain, distention, or soreness.
• Damp-heat:
distending pain in the costal/hypochondriac region, bitter taste in
the mouth, yellowish tongue coat.
• Spleen/stomach Qi
deficiency: distended epigastrium, poor appetite, vomiting,
diarrhea.
• Often included
(as with tonics) to facilitate absorption of rich or heavy
substances. Especially useful when the transformative and
transportative
functions of the spleen are weak.
• Particularly
useful for paraumbilical stagnation and stagnation in the upper
abdomen.
• The unprepared
herb is used for stopping pain, while the prepared form (fried
with wheat bran) is better for treating diarrhea.
•
Some
sources say this herb is so aromatic and bitter that it can cause
dryness.
• This herb should
only be cooked for 5 minutes (or less).
• Chuan
mu xiang - Vladimiria - is
sometimes substituted for Mu
xiang. It is
similar to Mu xiang,
but weaker.
MLT:
This herb's action comes from its volatile oils [which will
evaporate
from extended exposure to heat], therefore, add it during the last 5
minutes of
cooking.
• A small amount
helps prevent griping from purgatives.
Hsu:
Acts on the vagus nerve - stimulates the large intestine, increases
peristalsis, moderates pain and gas in the GI tract; antibacterial
properties.
HF:
An important herb in anti-Gu
therapy to move Qi (xing Qi)
and break
accumulation (po ji).
DY:
Dries dampness; arouses the spleen, disperses food stagnation.
• With Bing
lang to move the Qi, disperse
food stagnation, and stop pain. For
such indications as:
- 1. Lack of appetite,
abdominal and epigastric distention and pain aggravated
by pressure, difficult defecation or dry stools due to food stagnation
in the
stomach and intestines. (Bing
lang should be stir-fried until
scorched.)
- 2. Dysentery or diarrhea
with tenesmus and abdominal pain due to Qi
stagnation. (Use scorched Bing
lang and roasted Mu
xiang.)
- 3. Constipation or
difficult defecation due to Qi stagnation. (Use scorched Bing
lang.)
• With Huang
lian to rectify the Qi, drain
heat, dry dampness, and treat
dysentery. This combination is used in Xiang
Lian Wan for indications such as
diarrhea, bloody and purulent dysentery, abdominal pain, and tenesmus
due to
damp-heat and Qi stagnation in the large intestine. Roasted Mu
xiang should be
used.
1.5-9g
|
Qing Pi
Bluegreen Citrus
peel
(Immature Chen Pi)
"Bluegreen
Peel"
|
bitter
acrid
warm
|
Lv
GB
St
|
Frees the flow of liver Qi
(particularly in the lower Jiao); strongly regulates Qi,
breaks up stagnant Qi, dissipates clumps; disperses accumulation of
pathogens;
eliminates food retention; dries dampness, transforms phlegm.
• Liver Qi
stagnation: pain - costal, hypochondriac, breast, lower abdomen,
genital, hernial, flank.
• Food retention:
distention, pain, or a stifling sensation in the epigastrium. Can
be used for severe cases.
• Stagnant
Qi/blood: masses, lumps, liver Qi stagnation surrounding food
retention.
• Phlegm-dampness
with malarial disorders. Especially useful for breast
abscesses with this etiology.
• Raises blood
pressure.
• Much stronger
than Chen pi.
• Compared to Chen
pi, Qing
pi has scattering and unblocking
properties that
are relatively harsh; it is accordingly prescribed for breaking up Qi
stagnation. Its actions are more horizontal and it is therefore used
primarily for pain. Chen
pi, on the other hand, has a
more harmonious nature and tends to enter the Qi
level of the spleen and Lungs. Its actions are primarily vertical and
it is
therefore used for both coughing and vomiting.
• Guohui Liu:
Compared to Chai hu,
which mainly addresses liver Qi stagnation in the
upper Jiao and costal region, Qing
pi mainly addresses liver Qi
stagnation in the
lower Jiao (though neither herb's action is entirely limited
to that area).
DY:
Sinking, drastic; drains the liver and gallbladder Qi; disperses lump
glomus; moves the Qi on the left side of the body.
• Its drastic
action of breaking Qi contraindicates its long term use.
• 3g rectifies the
Qi, 6g moves the Qi, 9g breaks the Qi.
• Zhang Zi-he of
the (12th
century) Southern Song dynasty, said: "Qing
pi is
downbearing and sinking, goes to the liver and gallbladder, influences
the lower
(body) and drains."
• In combination
with Chen pi
to soothe the liver, regulate the stomach,
harmonize the liver and spleen, harmonize the liver and stomach,
rectify the Qi,
and stop pain. See Chen pi
in this category for specific indications and notes.
• When Qing
pi is small, the whole fruit is
used. It is then called Xiao
qing pi
or Xin qing pi.
3-9g
|
Shi Di
Persimmon (Kaki) calyx
|
bitter
neutral
astringt
|
St
Lu
|
Descends rebellious Qi,
eases hiccups and belching.
• Stomach Qi
rebellion: hiccups, belching. For either hot or cold patterns,
depending on the herbs with which it is combined.
DY:
With Ding xiang
to effectively warm the middle burner and scatter cold,
downbear Qi counterflow, and stop hiccups. For indications such as:
- 1. Hiccups due to cold in
the stomach.
- 2. Nausea and vomiting due
to deficiency cold in the spleen and stomach.
- For these indications,
this pair is present in Shi Di
Tang. For hiccups, add Chen
xiang.
6-12g
|
Tan Xiang
White
Sandalwood
(heartwood)
Santalum
Sandalwood
Essential Oil
|
acrid
warm
|
Sp
St
Lu
|
Regulates Qi, adjusts the
middle Jiao; disperses cold, relieves pain.
• Cold obstruction,
Qi stagnation: chest and abdominal pain.
• Stomach cold:
thin, clear, watery vomit.
• Promotes
activation of local immune system. Some people hang a small bag
of it over the chest to prevent EPI's.
• Recently used for
coronary artery disease.
• Precious and
expensive. When used in decoctions, it should be added near the
end of cooking, to preserve its aromatic compounds. Often used as a
powder. Choose cultivated sandalwood, as the wildcrafted product is
endangered.
DY:
With Dan shen
to regulate and rectify the Qi and blood, move the Qi and
blood, free the flow of the network vessels, and stop pain. For the
following
indications, wine mix-fried Dan
shen should be used:
- 1. Chest Bi
or impediment, heart diseases with severe cardiac pain due to Qi
and blood stasis. If heart blood stasis is severe, add San
qi, Hong hua, and Yan
hu suo. If Qi stagnation is
severe, add Chen xiang
and Qing mu xiang.
If there
is phlegm-damp obstruction in the chest, Gua
lou pi, Jie geng, and Zhi
ke. If
there is chest Yang deficiency, add Xie
bai, Gui zhi, and Fu
zi. If there is Qi
deficiency, add Huang qi, Zhi
gan cao, and Ren
shen.
- 2. Stomach pain due to Qi
and blood stasis.
Yoga:
Chandana:
P, V-; K or Ama+ (in excess)
• Bitter, sweet,
astringent/cooling/sweet.
• Alterative,
hemostatic, antiseptic, antibacterial, carminative, sedative,
refrigerant.
• Eye diseases,
cystitis, urethritis, vaginitis, acute dermatitis, herpes zoster,
bronchitis, palpitations, gonorrhea, sunstroke.
• Calms and cools
the body and mind; stops sweats; reduces fever.
• Applying the oil
on the third eye relieves heat and thirst and is good for fever
or overexposure to the sun.
• Helps the
awakening of intelligence, special function to help open the third
eye, increase devotion, and promote meditation.
• Aids in the
transmutation of sexual energy.
• Good for most
inflammation; good anti-Pitta
herb.
• External: as a
paste or oil for infectious sores, ulcers.
Hsu:
Diuretic; increases WBC count.
3-9g (1.5-3g as powder)
The essential oil:
K&R:
Urinary antiseptic.
• Water: UTI (in
deficient
patient), impotence, frigidity.
• Metal:
Chronic bronchitis, tuberculosis, chronic or severe diarrhea.
KAD:
An active substance of agreeable odor employed in the treatment of
subacute and chronic affections of mucous tissues, particularly
gonorrhoea after
the active symptoms have been mitigated. Chronic bronchitis, with fetid
expectoration, chronic mucous diarrhoea, chronic inflammation of the
bladder
and pyelitis are also said to be benefitted by it. It occasionally
disturbs the
gastrointestinal tract, and, like copaiba, which it was introduced to
supersede, it
will occasion cutaneous eruptions. The dose ranges from 5 to 20 drops,
in
capsules or emulsion. (Note, this essential oil is often adulterated,
due to its expense. Only genuine, steam-distilled oil should ever be
taken internally.)
|
Wu Yao
Lindera root
|
acrid
warm
|
Lu
Sp
K
BL
|
Regulates Qi, relieves pain;
warms the kidneys; disperses cold; spreads and
unblocks the Qi mechanisms, smooths the flow of Qi, facilitates the
middle.
• Cold obstruction
with Qi stagnation: distention in the chest; costal,
hypochondriac, epigastric, abdominal and hernial pain; dysmenorrhea;
borborygmus.
• Kidney/bladder
yang deficiency cold: frequent urination or incontinence.
• While generally
more restricted to cold problems, Wu
yao treats a wider area
than most herbs - for pain anywhere in the trunk from the genitals to
the chest.
• Particularly
useful for paraumbilical stagnation and stagnation in the lower
abdomen.
MLT:
Contains borneol - very penetrating and analgesic.
Hsu:
Increases intestinal peristalsis, expels gas.
DY:
Its area of pronounced action is the abdomen in general and the lower
abdomen in particular. It can guide herbs to this area.
• Warms and
scatters cold in the liver and kidney channels.
3-9g
|
Xiang Fu
Cyperus rhizome
Nutgrass
"Aromatic
Appendage"
|
acrid
sl.
bitter
sl.
sweet
neutral
(some
say
warm)
|
Lv
SJ
|
Frees the flow of liver Qi;
regulates menstruation; relieves pain.
• Liver Qi
stagnation (including with liver/spleen disharmony): pain - costal,
hypochondriac, breast, epigastric, abdominal.
• Liver Qi
stagnation: irregular menstruation, dysmenorrhea.
• Any "women's" Qi stagnation
problem.
• Particularly
useful for stagnation in the upper abdomen.
• Xiang
fu's volatile oils
contain an estrogen-like substance.
• Bensky/Gamble:
When treating menstrual dysfunction, Xiang
fu is preferred
when there is scanty bleeding, while Mei
gui hua is more ideal for
excessive
bleeding.
• Frying it in
vinegar enhances the herb's ability to enter the liver
channel and
alleviate pain.
• Frying it in wine
enables it to penetrate all the channels.
Yoga:
Musta:
pungent, bitter, astringent/cooling/pungent; P, K-; V+ (in excess)
• Stimulant,
carminative, astringent, alterative, emmenagogue, antispasmodic,
anthelmintic.
• Dispels
premenstrual congestion of blood and water, menstrual regulator;
especially good for emotional problems of PMS.
• Good digestive
stimulant for Pitta-types;
liver stimulant.
• Improves
absorption in the small intestine; stops diarrhea; useful for gastritis.
• Kills parasites;
may help candidiasis.
• Chronic fever.
MLT:
Amazonian tribes use it as birth control, maybe because an ergot-like
fungus with oxytocic properties grows on the root hairs (especially in
the
jungle).
Hsu:
Analgesic; inhibits contraction of uterus.
DY:
With Gao liang jiang
to warm the stomach and drain cold, move the Qi,
and stop pain. For indications such as pain in the epigastrium
alleviated by
warmth and pressure, chest and lateral costal distention, and nausea
due to cold
in the stomach and Qi stagnation. For these indications, the
combination is
used in Liang Fu Wan.
Vinegar mix-fried Xiang fu
should be used. In cases of
severe cold, a larger dose of Gao
liang jiang should be used. In
cases of severe
Qi stagnation (as evidenced by epigastric distention and pain
aggravated by
pressure), a greater quantity of Xiang
fu should be prescribed.
4.5-12g
|
Xiang Yuan
Citrus Vilsonii
Tanaka
|
acrid
sl bitter
sour
warm
|
Lv
Sp
Lu
|
Same properties and
indications as Fo shou,
but this herb is milder at moving
Qi and stronger at resolving phlegm than Fo
shou.
|
Xie Bai
Chinese Chive
bulb
Bakeri
|
acrid
bitter
warm
|
Lu
St
LI
|
Activates Yang/unblocks the
Yang Qi; disperses accumulation of cold, phlegm,
and dampness; regulates Qi, disperses Qi stagnation, promotes the
movement of
Qi and blood, and alleviates pain; directs Qi downward.
• Obstruction of
cold, phlegm, damp in the chest preventing the dissemination
and flow of Yang Qi: chest pain, difficulty breathing, stifling
sensation in the
chest, flank or upper back pain, coughing, wheezing. Also for blood
obstructing the heart channel, and such Western presentations as angina
and
coronary heart disease.
• Stomach Qi
stagnation or damp stagnation in the large intestine: dysentery
with tenesmus.
• Cold stagnant Qi:
epigastric fullness, distention, abdominal pain.
• Do not use long
term in cases of peptic ulcers.
DY:
Modern research shows this herb lowers serum cholesterol.
• With Gua
lou to effectively free the flow
of Yang and move the Qi, loosen the
chest and clear the Lungs, transform phlegm and scatter nodulation,
stop pain,
moisten the intestines, and free the flow of the stools. For
indications such as:
- 1. Constipation due to
fluid dryness of the large intestine and/or Qi stagnation.
- 2. Yin binding
constipation. (Constipation due to spleen-kidney Yang
deficiency or sometimes due to dryness in the large intestine caused by
an
essence-blood deficiency with pale lips, white tongue fur, and clear,
copious
urination.)
- 3. Chest Bi
with oppression of the chest and epigastrium, cough, profuse
phlegm, piercing pain in the chest radiating toward the back, and
shortness of
breath due to accumulation of turbid phlegm blocking the Qi and Yang of
the
chest. (Gua Lou Xie Bai Ban Xia
Tang - which can be favorably
combined with Er Chen Tang)
Use Gua lou
which has been stir-fried until scorched.
- 4. Chest Bi and
cardiac disease with
intense heart pain due to heart Qi and
blood stasis and deficiency of heart Yang. (Gua
Lou Xie Bai Bai Jiu Tang) For
these indications, the combination can be favorably reinforced by
adding Dan
shen, San qi, Tan xiang, and Gui
zhi. The Gua
lou should be stir-fried until
scorched.
4.5-9g (30-60g when used
fresh)
|
Zhi Shi
Immature Bitter
Orange
Zhi Ke
(Zhi Qiao)
Mature Bitter
Orange
|
bitter
acrid
sl. cold
|
Sp
St
LI
|
Strongly moves/regulates Qi;
directs Qi downward; eliminates food retention
(particularly in the large intestine), breaks up stagnation and
accumulation;
resolves phlegm; relieves distention; unblocks the bowels
• Accumulation and
stagnation: epigastric or abdominal pain and distention or
indigestion with focal distention or gas.
• Accumulation and
stagnation, including due to food retention in the large
intestine: distention in the abdomen, constipation or diarrhea with
tenesmus.
• Phlegm
obstruction with Qi stagnation: distention and fullness in the chest
and
epigastrium.
• Particularly
useful for stagnation in the chest and upper back.
• Lifts prolapse of
the stomach, uterus, or rectum. Used with Qi tonics for
gastriectasis, gastroptosis, rectal prolapse, uterine prolaspe, etc.
• Raises blood
pressure.
• Contains cirantin
(inhibits activity of periovicular hyaluronidase) which may
account for its reported contraceptive effect.
• Recent use in
Western OTC weight loss products.
• The herb may have
some use in treating cardiogenic shock.
• Liu: For urinary
stones, Zhi shi
helps the urethra relax.
Hsu:
Stimulates GI motor activities, increases digestion; contracts the
uterus;
purgative; raises blood pressure.
DY:
With Bai zhu
to supplement without producing stagnation and drain
without damaging the correct Qi, to fortify the spleen, disperse food
stagnation,
and effectively eliminate accumulations and distention. For the
following
indications, except as otherwise indicated, the two herbs should be
stir-fried:
- 1. Accumulation of food,
distention and fullness of the abdomen and
epigastrium, and difficult bowel movements due to spleen Qi deficiency
and Qi
stagnation. (Zhi Zhu Wan)
When the patient's main complaint is abdominal
and epigastric distention due to Qi deficiency and spleen deficiency
with or
without dampness, the dosage for Bai
zhu should be very high - as
much as
100g per day. In this case Bai
zhu is generally used alone.
- 2. Splenomegaly and
hepatomegaly due to Qi deficiency and stagnation.
- 3. Ptosis of the organs
(stomach, uterus, and anus) due to central Qi
deficiency. For these indications, honey mix-fried Huang
qi, stir-fried Chai
hu,
and honey mix-fried Sheng ma
should be added.
3-9g
Zhi
Ke: the mature fruit
• Bitter, cool;
enters spleen, stomach, and, Wei Li says, the san jiao.
• Milder, perhaps
more often used than Zhi shi,
especially for weak or deficient
patients - less energy than the unripe fruit and less potential to
damage the Qi.
• Frequently used
to move Qi and reduce distention and pressure.
• Stifling
sensation in the chest with belching.
• Particularly
useful for stagnation in the flanks.
• Zhi
shi is more appropriate than Zhi
ke when there is constipation.
Li:
Zhi ke
is more liver-oriented than Zhi
shi, which is more
spleen-oriented.
[Bensky/Gamble corroborates
this idea, stating that Zhi shi
is used for stagnant
Qi of the spleen and stomach while Zhi
ke is used for constrained liver
Qi with
symptoms of stagnant Qi.]
Hsu:
Stomachic; contracts the uterus; increases blood pressure.
DY:
This is one of six medicinals which have been traditionally aged for
the
purpose of reducing secondary effects and reinforcing their therapeutic
actions. Generally, the longer it is kept, the more efficient.
• With Jie
geng to effectively regulate
upbearing and downbearing, regulate the
upper and middle burners, diffuse the Lung Qi, and loosen the chest and
diaphragm. For indications such as:
- 1. Chest and diaphragm
oppression or distention or chest Bi
due to
accumulation of phlegm and Qi stagnation. (Jie
Geng Zhi Ke Tang)
- 2. Epigastric distention,
stomach rumbling, and difficult defecation due to
disturbance of ascending and descending. Note: Zhi
ke and
Jie geng do not
moisten the intestines, do not soften the stools, and do not
precipitate the
bowels. However, Zhi ke
moves and descends the Qi in the large intestine in
order to improve evacuation of the stools, while Jie
geng disperses and
descends Lung Qi. When the Lung Qi correctly descends, the large
intestine Qi
does the same. Therefore, although Zhi
ke and Jie
geng do not have a direct
action on peristalsis, they can treat constipation due to Lung-large
intestine Qi
stagnation. Hence, this pair may be used to advantageously reinforce
any
formula that specifically treats constipation.
3-9g
K&R:
(maturity not stated) Sedative (CNS), antispasmodic, expectorant,
eupeptic, sympatholytic.
• Bitter-cooling;
fire yang, wood yang.
• Fire:
tachycardia, anguish, nervousness, anxiety, insomnia, epilepsy.
• Wood:
aerophagia, dyspepsia, digestive spasms, tachycardia of emotional
origin, anxiety, insomnia.
• Good for cooling
liver fire stemming from heart fire.
|
Herbs
That Promote Blood Circulation And Dispel Blood Stasis
|
These
herbs
promote proper
circulation and dispel stasis for the recovery of normal
blood circulation. According
to Guohui Liu,
with normal use, they will not move blood in an aberrant manner (with a
few possible exceptions). Most of the herbs in the category are not
anticoagulants.
Commonly combined with:
A. Herbs that warm the
interior and disperse cold when blood stagnation is caused by cold
obstruction.
B. Herbs that clear heat and
cool the blood when blood stasis is due to congealing of the blood by
heat.
C. Herbs that eliminate
wind, cold, and damp when the channels are obstructed by invasion of
these factors.
D. Qi tonics when Qi is
deficient, and also to protect the Qi from damage by these herbs.
E. Blood tonics when blood
is deficient, and also to protect the blood from damage by these herbs.
F. Herbs that resolve phlegm
when blood stasis is caused by phlegm.
|
Other Herbs that Promote
Proper Blood Circulation, to Consider When Appropriate:
An Xi Xiang [Open
Orifices], Bie Jia [Nourish
Yin], Chi Shao [Cool
Blood], Da Huang [Promote
BM], Dang Gui [Nourish
Blood], Du Huo [Dispel
Wind-Damp], Fu Zi [Warm
Interior], Gu Sui Bu [Tonify
Yang], Gui Zhi [Acrid,
Warm], He Huan Pi [Calm
Shen], Hong Teng [Clear
Heat & Toxicity], Jing Jie Tan (charred) [Acrid,
Warm], Lu Jiao [Tonify
Yang], Mu Dan Pi [Cool
Blood], Mu Tong [Drain
Damp], Pu Huang [Stop
Bleeding], Qian Cao Gen [Stop
Bleeding], San Qi
[Stop
Bleeding], She Xiang [Open
Orifices], Wa Leng Zi [Topical
Herbs], Xie Bai [Move
Qi], Xu Duan [Tonify
Yang], Xue Yu Tan [Stop
Bleeding], Xue Jia [Topical
Herbs], Zao Jiao Ci [Resolve
Phlegm], Zi Cao [Cool
Blood].
|
Chuan Shan Jia
Anteater scales
Pangolin
"Penetrate
Mountain Scales"
|
salty
sl cold
|
Lv
St
|
Promotes blood circulation
and dispels blood stasis from the channels;
promotes lactation; relieves swelling; drains pus; unblocks
menstruation;
expels wind-dampness from the channels.
• Pangolins are
endangered. You can get the job done with another herb.
• Blood stasis: amenorrhea,
masses, Bi
syndrome, early stage carbuncles/boils
or with pus that does not drain, lumps, dysmenorrhea, lack of or
insufficient
lactation.
• Galactostasis
after childbirth.
• Toxic swellings:
abscesses, boils. Can dissolve as yet unformed pus, but it
is more useful for suppurative lesions. Can be used topically.
• Wind-damp
obstruction of channels: pain, stiffness or spasms in the limbs,
pain that prevents bending and stretching.
• When the patient
lacks breast milk and is Qi deficient, do not count on this
herb to promote lactation.
• Excellent success
as a hemostatic in surgery.
• May be useful for
the treatment of hematuria.
• May raise WBC
count.
• Traditionally
this herb is powdered and taken directly. Too expensive to
cook.
• Contraindicated
in pregnancy.
• Liu: This herb
can go anywhere in the body, and conducts other herbs to the
appropriate area.
• The unprepared
form is black. The prepared form has been fried until
yellowish.
HF:
A Sha Chong
(kill worms or parasites) herb, important in Gu
Zheng (Gu
parasites) formulas.
BF:
Useful when there is concomitant damp-heat. Stasis with damp and heat
is very common in women with endometriosis.
3-9g
|
Chuan Xiong
Ligusticum root
Szechuan Lovage
Cnidium
|
acrid
warm
|
Lv
GB
PC
|
Promotes blood and Qi
circulation; eliminates external wind; relieves pain;
moves Qi upward.
• Blood (and Qi)
stasis: irregular menstruation, amenorrhea, difficult labor,
lochioschesis, and many kinds of pain, including abdominal, chest,
flank,
hypochondriac, dysmenorrhea, pain from traumatic injury, pain from
carbuncles and boils, headaches, Bi
syndrome.
• External wind
disorders: headache, dizziness, painful obstructions, skin
disorders; wind-damp arthritis/rheumatism.
• Reaches from the
head down to the sea of blood.
• For a variety of
wind patterns (wind-cold, wind-heat, wind-dampness, etc.)
depending on the herbs it is combined with.
• Overdose may
cause vomiting and dizziness.
Hsu:
Antispasmodic, analgesic: inhibits intestinal and uterine contraction;
slightly hypotensive; tranquilizer (essential oil); antibacterial,
antifungal.
DY:
Treats the Qi within the blood; dispels stasis; in the upper body, it
goes
toward the head and the eyes; in the lower body it goes toward the sea
of
blood (uterus ["Sea of Blood" may also indicate the Chong
Mai
or liver]);
drying.
• For wind-cold
(headache, etc.), use the uncooked form.
• For menstrual
problems, pain, and inflammations, use the wine-processed
form.
• With Dang
gui to move the Qi and quicken
the blood without damaging the
blood, to nourish the blood without producing stasis, to dispel stasis
and stop
pain. For the following indications, both herbs should be
wine-processed,
though uncooked Chuan xiong
may be used in the case of headaches or
dermatological problems:
- 1. Menstrual
irregularities, dysmenorrhea, and postpartum abdominal pain
due to blood stasis that may be mixed with Qi stagnation. (Xiong
Gui San)
- 2. Rheumatic pain due to
wind-dampness and blood vacuity.
- 3. Headaches due to blood
deficiency and/or blood stasis. (Jia
Wei Si Wu
Tang)
- 4. Wounds, ulcers, or
enduring cutaneous inflammations due to Qi and blood
vacuity with Qi and blood stagnation. (Tou
Nong San)
• With Shi
gao to dispel wind, clear and
drain heat, quicken the blood and
move the Qi, and stop pain. For headaches due to wind-heat or full heat
(particularly that which is located in the Shaoyang
or Jueyin
channels). Use
unprepared Chuan xiong.
For wind-heat headaches, add herbs that dispel
wind.
• Headaches: Chuan
xiong is mainly used for
wind-dampness and wind-cold
headaches. However, it can be used for all kinds of headaches if
combined
appropriately. For wind-damp, add Qiang
huo and Bai
zhi. For wind-cold,
add Fang feng
and Jing jie.
For wind-heat, add Ju hua
and Bo he.
For blood
stasis, add Hong hua
and Yan hu suo.
For blood deficiency, add Dang
gui and Ji
xue teng.
For full heat, add Shi gao
and Zhi mu.
For Qi stagnation, add Chai hu
and Bai ji li.
For liver Yang hyperactivity, add Tian
ma and (Huai) Niu xi.
HF:
An important herb in anti-Gu
therapy to move Qi (xing Qi)
and break
accumulation (po ji).
3-10g
|
Dan Shen
Salvia root
Red Sage
"Cinnabar
Root"
|
bitter
sl cold
|
Ht
PC
Lv
|
Promotes blood circulation
and dispels blood stasis; cools the blood; relieves
swelling; mildly nourishes blood; calms the Shen; unblocks the menses.
• Blood stasis:
irregular menstruation, amenorrhea, abdominal pain after
childbirth, pain in the chest, abdomen, epigastrium, masses and pain in
the
limbs, lochioschesis.
• Blood stasis with
liver Qi stagnation: pain in the ribs or hypochondria.
• Heat in the blood
and blood stasis: carbuncles, boils.
• Febrile disease
(including Ying
level): restlessness, delirium, high fever,
eruptions, red tongue.
• Heat and blood
stasis in the heart: insomnia, palpitations, irritability,
restlessness. Also for heart/kidney Yin deficiency heat patterns.
• Primary herb for
coronary heart disease in China. (Particularly in
combination with San qi, Gui
zhi, Shan zha, etc.)
• For immune system
disorders Liu combines with Dang
gui.
• For CNS-mediated
pain, including post-stroke, combine with Huang
qi in
doses of 15-30g of each (when Qi deficiency and blood stasis are
present)
• Promotes tissue
regeneration; opens coronary arteries; reduces blood sugar; reduces
serum cholesterol; protects the liver; enhances the immune system;
vasodilator; relieves angina pectoris.
• Wine-frying the
herb enhances its blood circulating properties.
• This herb can be
compared to the formula Si Wu
Tang, though Dan
shen is
weaker at nourishing blood and stronger at moving blood than Si
Wu Tang.
• Do not use large
doses in patients predisposed to bleeding.
BII:
May improve visual acuity in glaucoma.
MLT:
Regulates cholesterol, triglycerides. Premiere herb for heart problems,
especially angina.
Hsu:
Dilates peripheral blood vessels, lowers blood pressure; strong
antibacterial properties.
DY:
Engenders new tissue; nourishes the heart.
• With Mu
dan pi to quicken the blood and
dispel stasis, cool the blood, and
eliminate deficiency heat. For indications such as:
- 1. Hematemesis, epistaxis,
metrorrhagia, purpura, and also rubella and
pruritis due to heat in the blood division.
- 2. Menstrual
irregularities, dysmenorrhea, amenorrhea, dark purple
menstrual blood with clots, and postpartum abdominal pain due to heat
in the
blood which causes blood stasis.
- 3. Continuous, low-grade
fever due to Yin deficiency heat. In this case, if
there are night sweats, use Di
gu pi instead of Mu
dan pi.
- 4. Hot, red, swollen,
painful joints due to hot Bi
or impediment.
• With San
qi to quicken the blood, dispel
stasis, nourish the heart, open the
network vessels, stop pain, and settle palpitations. For indications
such as
chest Bi
or impediment, i.e. cardiac problems with pain and severe
palpitations. For these indications, wine mix-fried Dan
shen should be used. This
combination treats heart pain no matter what the cause. This action may
be reinforced by adding Shi
chang pu, Xie bai, Gua lou pi, Gui zhi,
and Tan
xiang.
• With Tan
xiang to regulate and rectify
the Qi and blood, move the Qi and
blood, free the flow of the network vessels, and stop pain. For the
following
indications, wine mix-fried Dan
shen should be used:
- 1. Chest Bi
or impediment, heart diseases with severe cardiac pain due to Qi
and blood stasis. If heart blood stasis is severe, add San
qi, Hong hua, and Yan
hu suo.
If Qi stagnation is severe, add Chen
xiang and Qing
mu xiang. If
there is phlegm-damp obstruction in the chest, Gua
lou pi, Jie geng, and Zhi
ke. If there is chest Yang
deficiency, add Xie bai, Gui
zhi, and Fu
zi. If there
is Qi deficiency, add Huang
qi, Zhi gan cao, and Ren
shen.
- 2. Stomach pain due to Qi
and blood stasis.
• Dan
shen has "very
interesting action" on coronary heart disease, circulatory
system diseases, and hypercholesterolemia.
• Dan
shen only mildly nourishes
blood. To reinforce its supplementing
action, it should be prepared with pig or tortoise blood.
• Dan
shen is incompatible with
vinegar or any other very sour or acrid food.
IBIS:
Occasional hypersensitivity may lead to excessive bleeding or fever.
6-15g (up to 60g when used
alone or in treating vasculitis)
|
E Zhu
Zedoaria rhizome
Curcuma
zedoaria,
C. aromatica,
or C.
kwangsinensis
|
acrid
bitter
warm
|
Lv
Sp
|
Strongly promotes blood and
Qi circulation and dispels blood stasis; dissolves
accumulations, eliminates food retention; relieves pain.
• Blood stasis:
amenorrhea with abdominal pain and masses, ovarian cysts, fibroids,
epigastric masses.
• Food retention:
fullness, constriction, distention, pain in the epigastrium,
chest, and abdomen.
• Childhood
nutritional impairment.
• Controls some
cancers - particularly cervical (especially grade II and below).
• Stimulates
motility of GI tract.
• Its powerful
nature can damage the Qi (do not use for long periods).
• This is the
strongest herb in the pharmacopeia to eliminate food retention.
• Much stronger
than Ru xiang
and Mo yao
to move blood and relieve pain.
• Often combined
with San leng.
Liu says E zhu
is stronger than San leng
at
moving blood, but weaker than San
leng at moving Qi. Bensky/Gamble
says
just the opposite.
• Fry with vinegar
to enhance its blood circulating properties and stop pain.
• Kamto: San
leng + E
zhu is a great combination for
treating depression.
RW:
Carminative (a type of turmeric).
Li:
(Often with San leng)
for blood stasis in difficult skin conditions.
PCBDP:
Aromatic; stimulant; treats some tumors.
Hsu:
Some antihistamine effects; promotes resorption of coagulated blood;
inhibits cancer cell growth; stomachic.
HF:
An important herb in anti-Gu
therapy to move Qi (xing Qi)
and break
accumulation (po ji).
DY:
Breaks the Qi and quickens the blood; treats the blood within the Qi;
treats Qi stagnation which causes blood stagnation; tropism: liver,
spleen, and
Qi division.
• With San
leng to strongly and effectively
break both the Qi and blood,
regulate and rectify the Qi and blood, stop pain, and reduce food
accumulation. (Note that breaking the Qi and breaking the blood are
both
attacking methods that can damage the Zhen
Qi if used inappropriately, too
much, or for too long.) For indications such as:
- 1. Abdominal lump glomus,
hepatomegaly, splenomegaly due to blood
and/or Qi stasis. (E Leng Zhu
Yu Tang)
- 2. Amenorrhea,
dysmenorrhea, menstrual clots, and infertility due to blood
stasis. (San Leng Wan)
Both herbs should be vinegar mix-fried for these
indications.
- 3. Abdominal pain due to
food accumulation. (E Zhu Wan)
Vinegar mix-fried E zhu
should be used.
3-9g
|
Hong Hua
Carthamus flower
Safflower
"Red
Flower"
|
very
acrid
warm
|
Ht
Lv
|
Promotes blood circulation,
dispels blood stasis from the channels, opens the channels; alleviates
pain; unblocks the menses.
• Blood stasis:
dysmenorrhea, amenorrhea, postpartum abdominal pain or
dizziness, abdominal masses, lochioschesis, traumatic injury - wounds
and
pain, painful obstruction of the chest, non-suppurative sores,
carbuncles.
• Heat and blood
stasis: dark red skin eruptions, suppressed rashes, including
measles.
• Beneficial in
coronary artery disease. May also lower cholesterol.
• For
Berger's disease, combine with Ru
xiang, Mo yao, Dang gui, Tao ren.
• For angina
pectoris, often combined with Tao
ren, Dan shen, Chuan xiong.
• Usually added
near the end of cooking a decoction - should not be cooked
long.
• Contraindicated
in pregnancy.
• Bensky/Gamble: To
harmonize the blood, use 0.9-1.5g.
Chen:
Used successfully in one study to treat peptic ulcer.
DY:
In a small dose (1-2g), it can slightly nourish blood. In a moderate
dose
(3-5g), it harmonizes the blood. At the usual dose (6-10g), it quickens
the
blood. At a high dose (10-15g), it breaks blood [stasis].
• Tends to dispel
stasis in the upper part of the body and in the channels.
• With Tao
ren: Hong
hua is stronger than Tao
ren at moving blood, while Tao
ren
is stronger at dispelling stasis. Together, they complement and
reinforce each other to effectively quicken the blood, dispel stasis,
engender
blood, and stop pain. For such indications as:
-1. Cardiac and chest pain
due to heart blood stasis. (Add San
qi, Dan shen,
Xie bai, and
Gua lou pi.)
- 2. Amenorrhea,
dysmenorrhea, menstrual irregularities, and dark menstrual
blood with clots due to blood stasis. (Tao
Hong Si Wu Tang)
- 3. Fixed, stabbing, and
severe pain aggravated by pressure due to blood
stasis. The combination appears in many formulas for these indications,
based
on the location and nature of the pain (Xue
Fu Zhu Yu Tang, Tong Qiao Zhu
Yu Tang, Fu Yuan Huo Xue Tang, Shen Tong Zhu Yu Tang, etc.).
- 4. Traumatic injuries with
pain and swelling due to blood stasis. (Xiao
Zhong Zhi Tong Tang)
MLT:
Similar to, but stronger than Western Calendula.
PCBDP:
Laxative, diuretic.
Hsu:
Stimulates the uterus to contract rhythmically/tonically - particularly
effective in pregnancy - fast, long lasting effect.
3-10g (0.9-1.5 to harmonize
blood) See comments from Dui
Yao above.
|
Hu Zhang
Bushy Knotweed
root and rhizome
Polygonum
cuspidatum
"Tiger's
Cane"
|
bitter
cold
|
Lv
GB
Lu
|
Promotes blood circulation;
relieves pain; eliminates toxicity; clears heat;
drains dampness; resolves phlegm; stops coughing; slightly promotes
bowel
movement.
• Especially
indicated for a combination of phlegm, damp, heat, and blood
stasis.
• Blood stasis:
amenorrhea, traumatic injury, Bi
syndrome.
• Damp-heat:
jaundice, turbid vaginal discharge, painful urination.
• Heat-toxicity:
burns, snake bites, skin infections, carbuncles. Often the fresh
ground herb is applied topically.
• Lung phlegm-heat:
cough.
• Heat
accumulation: constipation (use 30g - discharges heat, toxicity).
• Guohui Liu:
especially useful for hepatitis.
• Many constituents (resveratrol,
piceatannol, polydatin, emodin) with medicinal properties elucidated
through modern research:
- (from the scholarly folks at Herbal Vitality of Sedona)
Anti-angiogenic (vitro), antibacterial against streptococci (vitro)/
vibrio (vivo), decreases histamine release (vitro), decreases COX-2
expression (vitro), anti-oxidant (vitro), antiviral - hepatitis B
(vitro), anti-inflammatory (vivo), anti-allergenic (vivo), protects
against burns (vivo), tyrosine kinase inhibitor, decreases oncogene
function (vitro), neuroprotective (emodin / vivo), decreases leukopenia
due to radiation (emodin / vivo), polydatin is cardioprotective (vitro)
and decreases CAM expression (vivo), resveratrol has glucose regulating
properties (vitro), inhibits cancer cell lines (vitro), decreases VEGF
activity (vivo), decreases expression of NF-KappaB, COX-2, MMP9 (vivo),
protects against bone loss (vivo), and is anti-inflammatory (vivo);
piceatannol is hypolipidemic (vivo); stilbenes cause apoptosis of
leukemic cells (vitro).
• Antiviral,
antibacterial.
• Promotes
leukocyte proliferation for leukopenia (particularly due to
radiation or toxic chemicals).
• Contraindicated
in pregnancy.
9-30g
|
Ji Xue Teng
Millettia or
Spatholobus root
and vine
Ji Xue Teng Jiao
|
bitter
sl
sweet
warm
|
Lv
Ht
Sp
|
Promotes blood circulation; mildly
nourishes blood; relaxes the tendons;
activates the collaterals, dispels stasis from the channels and
collaterals;
unblocks the menses.
• Blood stasis:
irregular menstruation, slow menstrual flow, dysmenorrhea, Bi
syndrome.
• Blood stasis with
blood deficiency: amenorrhea.
• Wind-dampness
with blood deficiency or blood stasis: numb extremities,
lumbar pain, knee pain, generalized joint soreness.
• Blood stasis or
wind-stroke: weak extremities in the elderly, or paralysis and
vertigo.
• For leukopenia
from chemotherapy, radiation, aplastic anemia - combined
with Dang gui, Bai shao, Shu
di huang.
• Hong
teng - Sargentodoxa - (an herb
that clears heat and eliminates toxicity)
is used as this herb in many parts of China. It has none of Ji
xue teng's
blood-nourishing properties or the ability to relax the tendons.
Efforts should be
taken to procure the correct herb if Ji
xue teng's unique
properties are desired.
Hsu:
Hypotensive.
SD:
May help antidote lead poisoning.
9-15 (to 30g in severe cases)
Ji
Xue Teng Jiao:
• This is Ji
xue teng made into an enriched
syrup by concentrating it and
adding malt sugar syrup and extracts of Hong
hua, Niu xi, Xu duan, and black
beans.
• Slightly sweet,
astringent, aromatic, warm.
• Similar effect to Ji
xue teng,
but stronger at nourishing blood.
• Dissolve it into
a strained decoction.
4.5-9g
|
Jiang Huang
Turmeric rhizome Curcuma
longa
"Ginger
Yellow"
|
acrid
bitter
warm
|
Lv
Sp
St
|
Strongly promotes blood
circulation; dispels blood stasis from the channels
and collaterals; relieves pain; unblocks menstruation; disperses
wind-cold;
promotes Qi circulation.
• Blood stasis:
pain in the shoulder, chest, hypochondria, abdomen, and
amenorrhea, dysmenorrhea. Especially effective for shoulder pain.
• Wind-cold-dampness: Bi
syndrome, especially in shoulders, limbs.
• Blood stasis due
to cold from deficiency.
• Topical: stops
bleeding and pain.
• Can be made into
an ointment with oil.
• Cholagogue.
• Stimulates the
uterus.
• Lowers blood
pressure.
• One study showed
piperine (the active pungent compound in black pepper - hu
jiao
- and pippali - bi bo)
can dramatically increase the absorption of
curcumin (perhaps as much as 2000%). [Planta Med. 1998 May;64(4):353-6.
Influence
of piperine on the pharmacokinetics of curcumin in animals and
human volunteers.]
MLT:
Increases bile flow, reduces liver enzymes SGOT and SGPT, prevents
and dissolves gall stones.
• Anti-inflammatory, analgesic for
sports injury, musculoskeletal trauma,
inflammatory bowel disease, arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis.
BII:
Contains curcumin - a powerful and safe anti-inflammatory; protective
against cancer development.
• Possible uses in:
atherosclerosis, cancer, gallbladder disease (curcumin
increases bile acid output over 100%, and greatly increases the
solubility of
bile - may prevent and treat gall stones), rheumatoid arthritis,
general
inflammation.
Yoga:
Haridra:
K-; P, V+ (in excess)
• Stimulant,
carminative, alterative, vulnerary, antibiotic while improving
digestive flora.
• Gives the energy
of the Divine Mother and grants prosperity.
• Cleanses the
chakras, purifies the channels of the subtle-body.
• Helps stretch the
ligaments, good for the practice of hatha yoga.
• Promotes proper
metabolism.
• Topical: sprains,
strains, bruises, itching.
Hsu:
Increases the detoxifying abilities of liver.
• Stimulates the
uterus to contract (paroxysmally).
• The ethanol
extract is hypotensive.
CHA:
(Karen S. Vaughan, 8-30-2001) Fungal infections of the feet: soaking
the feet in a turmeric footbath is part of Ayurveda and is also done in
traditional Hawaiian medicine.
3-9g
|
Jiang Xiang
Dalbergia
heartwood
"Descending
Fragrance"
|
acrid
warm
|
Ht
Lv
Sp
St
|
Promotes blood and Qi
circulation, dispels blood stasis; stops bleeding;
relieves pain.
• Blood stasis:
pain in the chest, hypochondria, pain and bleeding in trauma,
fractures, sprains, contusions.
• Spleen and
stomach Qi stagnation: epigastric and abdominal pain.
• Topical: for
lacerations.
• Coronary heart
disease.
• Bensky/Gamble
classifies this with herbs that stop bleeding.
HF:
An An Shen
(spirit calming) herb, important in Gu
Zheng (Gu
parasite)
formulas (because of emotional disturbance common in patients with Gu).
6-9g (1.5-3g directly as
powder)
|
Liu Ji Nu
Artemisia
anomala
Anomala
"Liu's
Resident
Slave"
|
bitter
warm
|
Ht
Sp
|
Dispels blood stasis;
unblocks menstruation; alleviates pain.
• Blood stasis:
amenorrhea, post partum abdominal pain; falls, fractures,
contusions, sprains.
• Acute viral
hepatitis: icteric or anicteric phase. Rapidly improves the
appetite.
• Topical: as a
powder/ointment for contusions, bleeding from wounds, and
especially burns. In one study, an ointment made from the herb was
beneficial
in treating all 24 cases of second- and third-degree burns, with
healing
occurring in three days to three weeks.
3-9g
|
Lu Lu Tong
Sweetgum fruit
Liquidambar
"All Roads
Open"
|
bitter
neutral
|
Lv
St
|
Promotes blood and Qi
circulation; opens the middle Jiao; unblocks the
channels; promotes urination.
• Stagnation:
Epigastric pain, abdominal distention, irregular, scanty menses.
• Wind-damp Bi
syndrome with pain and stiffness of the lumbar region and
knees.
• Edema with
difficult urination.
• Doctrine of
signatures: resembles a pollen grain or mast cell - useful for
allergic disorders. Also, Li:
its tiny points indicate its ability to guide to small
places (sinuses, channels, etc.).
Hsu:
Anti-allergic effect, cures urticaria and allergic rhinitis.
3-9g
|
Mao Dong Qing
Ilex root
Rough-haired Holly
Ilex
pubescentis
|
bitter
astringt
neutral
|
|
Hsu:
Clears heat and toxicity; invigorates blood circulation; promotes flow
of the channels.
• Wind-heat EPI;
Lung heat: cough; water distention in the larynx; tonsilitis. An
ingredient in the popular patent remedy Gan Mao Ling.
• Dysentery.
• Coronary disease;
thrombotic infarction; vasculitis.
• Anti-tussive;
bacteriostatic; expectorant; hypotensive; dilates coronary
arteries; probably has antiviral properties.
60-120g (to 500g for
phlebitis)
|
Meng Chong
Tabanus
Gadfly
|
bitter
sl toxic
sl cold
|
Lv
|
Powerfully promotes blood
circulation and removes blood stasis.
• Blood stasis:
amenorrhea, traumatic injury, masses.
• May cause
diarrhea (which can be beneficial if there is blood stasis in the
intestines).
• This is the
strongest herb to promote blood circulation in the pharmacopeia.
Hsu:
Anticoagulant and hemolytic effects.
1.5-3g
|
Mo Yao
Myrrh
Commiphora
myrrha
Gugglipid
|
bitter
neutral
|
Ht
Lv
Sp
|
Promotes blood circulation,
dispels blood stasis, relieves pain; relieves
swelling; promotes tissue regeneration; relaxes the tendons.
• Blood stasis:
dysmenorrhea, amenorrhea, epigastric pain, Bi
syndrome,
traumatic injury, carbuncle pain, appendicitis, immobile abdominal
masses,
abdominal pain, chest pain, sores, swellings.
• Topical:
non-healing carbuncles, ulcers, sores.
• Stomatitis,
gingivitis, laryngitis.
• Stronger for
severe pain (e.g. angina pectoris) than Ru
xiang.
• Better than Ru
xiang at removing blood stasis.
• May lower
cholesterol and prevent plaque.
• Stimulates
gastrointestinal motility.
• Antifungal.
• Fry with vinegar
to enhance its blood circulating properties.
• Related to the
Ayurvedic herb Guggul.
JC:
Tonic, stimulant, powerful antiseptic and disinfectant (mucus
membranes), vulnerary (healing), expectorant, emmenagogue, astringent,
carminative, purgative (large dose), cardiac stimulant.
• Increases WBC
count.
• Enhances the
eliminative function of the mucus membranes of the bronchi
and genitourinary tract.
DY:
The uncooked herb is irritating to the stomach and mucus membranes.
Yoga:
Bola:
K, V-; P+ (in excess)
• Bitter,
astringent, sweet/heating/pungent.
• Alterative,
emmenagogue, astringent, expectorant, antispasmodic,
rejuvenative, analgesic, antiseptic; prevents decay, reverses aging,
rejuvenates
the mind and body.
• Closely related
to Guggul (Commiphora mukul).
• Dispels old,
stagnant blood from the uterus.
K&R:
Anti-inflammatory, astringent, immune stimulant, epitheliogenic.
• Metal: clears
phlegm from the
mucus membranes.
• For bronchitis,
urinary tract infections, pharyngitis, gingivitis, skin ulcers.
• Increases WBC
count.
PCBDP:
Lowers lipids, cholesterol; inhibits platelet aggregation; appears to
activate the thyroid gland (animal studies).
IBIS:
Anticatarrhal, antimicrobial, antiseptic, astringent, carminative,
expectorant, stimulant.
• [Western] Dosage:
tincture: 2 - 5 mL.
• Mucous membranes
pale and lax; tonsils enlarged and spongy; throat pale
and tumid; chronic bronchitis with profuse secretion of mucus or
muco-pus,
difficult to expectorate; soreness and sponginess of gums; ptyalism;
weight
and dragging in pelvis in females; leukorrhea; muscular debility
(Felter and
Scudder, p. 483)
• External: spongy
and bleeding gums; sore throat with aphthous or sloughing
ulcers; chronic pharyngitis with tumid, pallid membranes and elongated
uvula; spongy, enlarged tonsils (Felter and Scudder, p. 483)
• Internal:
enfeebled conditions with excessive mucous secretion, especially in
the bronchial and renal mucosa; chronic bronchitis; chronic gastritis;
atonic
dyspepsia (Felter and Scudder, p. 483); pharyngitis; respiratory
catarrh;
common cold; furunculosis; mouth ulcers; gingivitis (British Herbal
Pharmacopoeia, p. 73)
• Contraindicated
during pregnancy (Felter and Lloyd, p. 1300) due to its
emmenagogue and abortifacient effects (Brinker, Farnsworth)
3-12g
BII
(Guggulipid, from Guggul, Commiphora
mukul): Lowers cholesterol and
triglycerides - cholesterol typically will drop 14-27% in 4-12 weeks
while
triglycerides will drop 22-30%.
• Increases the
liver's metabolism of LDL and uptake of LDL from blood.
• Standard dosage
is 25 mg of guggulsterone [a component] TID.
• Non-toxic, safe
in pregnancy.
• Beneficial in
acne vulgaris.
• May inhibit
platelet aggregation.
• Useful in
atherosclerosis, however the high dosage required of the crude
herb or extracts can lead to side effects and therefore pure guggulipid
(guggulsterone) should be used.
|
Niu Xi
(Huai Niu Xi)
Achyranthes root
"Ox Knee"
Chuan Niu Xi
Cyathula
"Sichuan Ox
Knee"
|
bitter
sour
neutral
|
Lv
K
|
Promotes blood circulation,
dispels blood stasis; tonifies the liver and
kidneys; strengthens the sinews and bones, benefit the joints; promotes
urination; conducts blood, fire/heat/Yang, and herbs downward; clears
damp-heat in the lower Jiao; unblocks the menses.
• Blood stasis:
irregular menstruation, dysmenorrhea, amenorrhea, abdominal
pain after childbirth, traumatic injury, lochioschesis.
• Liver and kidney
deficiency: weak, sore lower back, and lower limbs
(knees).
• Liver Yang
rising, upper body bleeding, or flare-up of fire: hematemesis,
epistaxis, toothache, mouth sores, headache, dizziness, bleeding gums,
blurred
vision.
• Lower Jiao
damp-heat: knee pain, lower back damp Bi
syndrome, painful
urinary dysfunction, vaginal discharge, stones, hematuria.
• Lower Jiao blood
stasis (damp-heat): urethral pain, hematuria.
• In its raw form,
it is better at promoting blood circulation.
• When it is
cooked, it is more tonic. In its raw form it is more blood-moving.
• Lowers blood
pressure - sometimes used in very high doses for this purpose.
Hsu:
Analgesic, antispasmodic (GI), diuretic, hypotensive (temporary
vasodilation), anti-allergic action
9-15g
Chuan
Niu Xi: Cyathula
• Sweet, bitter,
neutral; enters liver, kidneys.
• Expels wind;
drains dampness; invigorates the channels and blood.
• Stronger to move
blood and less tonifying than Huai niu xi.
• Pain due to
wind-dampness - especially lower back pain.
• Atrophy and spasm
in the lower extremities.
• Painful urination
with blood in the urine.
• Amenorrhea,
abdominal masses.
4.5-9g
|
Ru Xiang
Frankincense
Mastic
Boswellia
carterii
"Fragrant
Milk"
|
acrid
bitter
warm
|
Ht
Lv
Sp
|
Promotes blood and Qi
circulation; relieves pain; relieves swelling; promotes
tissue regeneration; relaxes the sinews, invigorates the channels.
• Blood stasis:
dysmenorrhea, amenorrhea, epigastric, chest, abdominal pain, Bi
syndrome, traumatic injury, carbuncle pain, appendicitis, early stages
of
carbuncles, sores, swellings, wind-damp Bi
syndrome, rigidity, spasms, angina
pectoris. Often used with Mo
yao (in studies, for chest pain).
• Pain, redness,
swelling of the gums, mouth, and throat.
• Topical: as
powder or ointment to reduce swelling, generate flesh, alleviate
pain, and promote healing of non-healing carbuncles, ulcers, and
traumatic
injuries.
• Can easily
exhaust the Qi.
• Better than Mo
yao at relaxing the tendons.
• Fry with vinegar
to enhance its blood circulating properties.
Hsu:
Strong antibacterial properties.
DY:
The uncooked herb is irritating to the stomach and mucus membranes.
• Ru
xiang is superior to Mo
yao for simultaneously moving Qi
and blood and
freeing the flow of the network vessels to treat Bi
with loss of articular
mobility and contracture of the sinews.
3-9g
BII:
on a constituent, boswellic
acids:
• Osteoarthritis:
several mechanisms of anti-arthritic action, including
inhibition of inflammatory mediators, prevention of decreased
glycosaminoglycan synthesis, and improved blood supply to joint tissues.
400mg boswellic acids TID
|
San Leng
Sparganium
rhizome
(or
Scirpus)
"Three
Edges"
|
bitter
acrid
neutral
|
Lv
Sp
|
Strongly promotes blood and
Qi circulation, and dispels blood stasis; relieves
pain; dissolves accumulations.
• Blood stasis:
amenorrhea with abdominal pain, post-partum abdominal pain,
abdominal masses, dysmenorrhea.
• Food retention
and stagnant Qi: (severe) distending pain in the epigastrium
and abdomen.
• Often combined
with E zhu.
Liu says San leng
is stronger than E Zhu
at
promoting Qi circulation, but weaker than
E zhu at promoting blood
circulation. Bensky/Gamble says just the opposite.
• Used with E
zhu in oncology (useful in
hepatic carcinoma in one study).
• Kamto: San
leng + E
zhu is great combination for
depression.
HF:
An important herb in anti-Gu
therapy to move Qi (xing Qi)
and break
accumulation (po ji).
DY:
With E zhu
to strongly and effectively break both the Qi and blood,
regulate and rectify the Qi and blood, stop pain, and reduce food
accumulation. For specific indications and notes on this combination,
see E
zhu in this category.
3-9g
|
Shui Zhi
Leech
Hirudo
|
bitter
salty
sl toxic
neutral
|
Lv
BL
|
Strongly dispels
blood stasis;
reduces immobile masses.
• Blood stasis:
amenorrhea, traumatic injury, masses.
• Wind-stroke.
• Hypercholesterolemia.
• Coronary heart
disease.
• Shui
zhi eyedrops are very effective
for acute conjunctivitis. (May cause
transitory pain upon application, but no other side effects.)
• Hirudin (a
component): anticoagulant (especially in ethanol extract) - is
denatured by heat. Therefore, the herb should not be cooked long, if at
all. Leech extracts (hirudin) are tremendously popular in Chinese
hospitals, used for everything Warfarin (Coumadin) is prescribed
for.
• Leech secretes a
histamine-like substance that acts as a vasodilator.
• Contraindicated
in pregnancy.
• Some say the herb
should be toasted until yellow, then powdered and taken
directly.
• Guohui Liu says:
Much stronger than Tu bie chong.
Bensky/Gamble say:
More moderate than Tu bie chong
but with a more sustained effect.
MLT:
Hirudin interferes with the clotting effect of thrombin on fibrinogen.
1.5-6g
|
Si Gua Luo
Luffa
Dried skeleton of
vegetable sponge
"Net of String
Melon"
|
sweet
neutral
|
Lu
St
Lv
|
Expels wind; invigorates the
channels; expels phlegm; expels summer-heat;
promotes urination; benefits the breasts.
• Damp-heat
obstruction of the channels and muscles: chest and flank
soreness, pain and soreness in the muscles and sinews, stiffness in the
joints. Also for traumatic injury.
• Lung heat: cough
with high fever, chest pain, and sputum that is difficult to
expectorate.
• Summer-heat:
fever, scanty urine.
• Swollen, painful
breasts; insufficient lactation; breast abscess.
• Antitussive and
expectorant (though not as strong as the vine if the same
plant).
• Doctrine of
signatures: its affinity for the muscles and sinews is reflected in
its sinewy, fibrous makeup.
6-12g (up to 30g when used
alone)
|
Su Mu
Sappan wood
Caesalpinia
sappan
|
sweet
salty
sl acrid
neutral
|
Lv
Ht
Sp
|
Promotes blood circulation;
dispels blood stasis from the channels; relieves
pain; reduces swelling; stops bleeding.
• Blood stasis:
amenorrhea, abdominal pain after childbirth, pain and swelling
of traumatic injury - falls, fractures, contusions, sprains.
• Excessive
post-partum bleeding with dizziness, vertigo, and shortness of
breath.
• Similar to Hong
hua but not often used - usually
for fractures and sprains.
• Antibiotic:
particularly against staph, salmonella.
• Contraindicated
in pregnancy.
Hsu:
Analgesic; inhibitory effect on the CNS; tranquilizer - a small dose
can
induce sleep; shortens blood coagulation time.
3-10g
|
Tao Ren
Peach kernel Prunus
persica
(or P.
davidiana)
|
bitter
neutral
|
Ht
LI
Lv
Lu
|
Promotes blood circulation,
dispels blood stasis; moistens the large intestine,
promotes bowel movement; unblocks the menses.
• Blood stasis:
dysmenorrhea, abdominal pain after childbirth, traumatic
injury, flank pain, Lung abscess, intestinal abscess with immobile
abdominal
mass.
• Large intestine
dryness: constipation.
• Alcohol
extractions have a weak anticoagulant effect.
• Traditionally
this herb is used with its peel. To promote bowel movement,
remove the tip.
• Contraindicated
in pregnancy.
• Sometimes double
kernels occur (they look like "Siamese twin"
kernels) -
these are said to be toxic.
Hsu:
Anticoagulant, antiphlogistic, detoxicant, laxative.
DY:
Tends to dispel blood stasis in the lower part of the body, in the
abdomen, and in the organs; very slightly nourishes blood.
• Like Xing
ren, Tao
ren is slightly toxic. The
toxicity is localized in the
superficial skin and the tip of the seed. The preparation, scalded Tao
ren,
eliminates this toxicity. However, in this form, Tao
ren is less powerful at
quickening the blood and dispelling stasis.
• With Hong
hua: Hong
hua is stronger than Tao
ren at moving blood, while Tao
ren
is stronger at dispelling stasis. Together, they complement and
reinforce each other to effectively quicken the blood, dispel stasis,
engender
blood, and stop pain. For specific indications and notes on this
combination,
see Hong hua in
this category.
4.5-10g
|
Tu Bie Chong
(Di Bie Chong,
Zhe Chong)
Eupolyphaga
Wingless
Cockroach
"Land Soft-Shelled
Turtle"
|
salty
sl toxic
cold
|
Lv
Ht
St
|
Strongly dispels
blood stasis;
promotes regeneration of tendons and bones.
• Blood stasis:
amenorrhea, abdominal pain after childbirth, masses, numb and
swollen tongue.
• Sprains,
fractures, contusions, lacerations.
• Acute lumbar
strain: toast, grind and take as a powder (1-1.5g).
• Coronary artery
disease
• For numb and
swollen tongue, grind 6g herb with 3g table salt and apply
directly.
• Usually ground
and put into a tea bag (will float otherwise).
• Soak in wine and
then dry-fry to enhance the herb's effect.
• Contraindicated
in pregnancy.
• Liu: Weaker than Shui
zhi. Bensky/Gamble: More intense
but shorter-acting
than Shui zhi. Tu bie chong
is used more for treating channel-level problems. The two herbs are
often used together.
• Kamto: Ideal for
stroke "“ guides to brain. (This is the large, winged
cockroach actually)
HF:
For cancer: (doctrine of signatures) cockroaches go where the nastiest
stuff is and eat it.
3-6g
|
Wang Bu Liu Xing
Vaccaria seed
(Ficus
pumila,
Hypericum
sampsoni, and Vicia
sativa also used,
each with unique properties)
"King Who Does
Not Stay But
Departs"
|
bitter
neutral
|
Lv
St
|
Promotes blood circulation,
invigorates the channels; dispels blood stasis;
reduces swelling; promotes lactation; unblocks menstruation; slightly
promotes urination.
• Blood stasis:
dysmenorrhea, amenorrhea; galactostasis after childbirth,
mastitis.
• Swellings: benign
prostatic hypertrophy/prostatitis, testes, breasts.
• Topical: herpes
zoster (shingles) - use a paste of the toasted, powdered seeds
mixed with sesame oil. Apply locally once or twice a day and leave on
for (at
least) 30 minutes. Avoid open sores.
• Used as ear
seeds, particularly for the treatment of gall stones.
• Stimulates the
uterus.
• Pound before
decocting or fry until it pops like popcorn.
3-30g
|
Wu Ling Zhi
Flying Squirrel
feces
(Pteromys or
Trogopterus)
"Fat of the Five
Spirits"
|
bitter
sweet
warm
|
Lv
Sp
|
Promotes blood circulation;
relieves pain; dispels blood stasis; stops bleeding.
• Blood stasis:
pain - dysmenorrhea, abdominal pain after childbirth, chest,
epigastric, or abdominal pain; lochioschesis, amenorrhea, uterine
bleeding.
• Childhood
nutritional impairment with focal distention.
• Often combined
with Pu huang
in Shi Xiao San
for pain (usually
dysmenorrhea with bleeding).
• Dry fry the herb
to stop bleeding.
• Vinegar fry it to
enhance its blood circulating properties.
• Often decocted in
cheesecloth or a tea bag.
• Bat (Pteropus)
feces is sometimes used as this herb.
CHA:
Heiko Lade, 3-19-01: No one in China has used the correct Wu
ling zhi
for about 20 years because the habitats where flying squirrels used to
live are
virtually non-existent now, and it is almost an extinct species.
Instead they
use the feces of a wild field rat.
MLT:
For fibroids, uterine or ovarian cysts, tumors.
Hsu:
Analgesic - relaxes spasm of smooth muscle; antibacterial
(tuberculosis), antifungal.
3-10g
|
Yan Hu Suo
Corydalis rhizome
|
acrid
bitter
warm
|
Ht
Lv
Sp
Lu
St
|
Promotes blood and Qi
circulation, relieves pain.
• Blood and Qi
stagnation: pain - chest, abdomen, epigastrium, limbs, hernial,
trauma, and especially dysmenorrhea. This is the premier analgesic herb.
• Can be used for
any kind of pain when combined appropriately.
• Treats ulcers.
• Possesses 1% the
analgesic strength of opium.
• Some hypnotic effects; used
to promote sleep for insomnia.
• Toast or fry in
vinegar to enhance its blood circulating properties.
• Use as a powder
for a stronger effect.
Jin:
Focuses on the liver.
RW:
Greatly reduces the tremors of Parkinson's disease, chorea
minor, and
other forms of ataxia.
NAH:
Contains the alkaloid bulbocapriine,
which has been used for
Parkinson's, Meniere's, convulsions.
Hsu:
Tranquilizer, analgesic, spasmolytic, anti-ulcerative agent.
DY:
When used alone or with small amounts of other herbs, use up to 50g in
decoction or 10g directly as powder.
• Stops pain in the
whole body - the upper and lower, interior and exterior.
• A medicinal for
the qi within the blood. It moves the Yang aspect of the
blood. It disperses Qi stagnation in the blood and blood stagnation in
the Qi. It is, therefore, a medicinal which quickens simultaneously the
Qi and blood,
but which, nevertheless, has more of its action on the blood than the
Qi.
• With Chuan
lian zi to clear heat, eliminate
dampness, course the liver, move
the Qi and blood, and stop pain. This combination (Jin
Ling Zi San) is used
for indications such as:
- 1. Pain in the chest,
epigastrium, abdomen, and lateral costal regions due to
liver depression Qi stagnation sometimes associated with liver blood
stasis. (Use wine mix-fried Yan
hu suo and scorched Chuan
lian zi.)
- 2. Liver depression Qi
stagnation transforming into liver heat or fire.
- 3. Dysmenorrhea and
menstrual irregularities due to Qi and/or blood stasis. (Use scorched Chuan
lian zi and vinegar mix-fried Yan
hu suo.)
- 4. Heart pain due to Qi
and blood stagnation. (Use wine mix-fried Yan
hu
suo and scorched Chuan
lian zi.)
- 5. Inguinal hernia or
diseases of the scrotum or testicles due to Qi stagnating
in the liver channel. (Use scorched Chuan
lian zi and vinegar mix-fried Yan
hu suo.)
- 6. Hepatitis,
cholecystitis, and angiocholitis due to damp-heat in the liver
and gallbladder. (Use scorched Chuan
lian zi and vinegar mix-fried Yan
hu
suo.)
- This combination is a
major analgesic which can be added to other
prescriptions when pain is a key manifestation of the disorder and
especially if
this pain is due to Qi stagnation and blood stasis. If there is a
headache, add Chuan xiong
and Hong hua.
If there is chest pain, add Jie
geng, Zhi ke, and Xie
bai.
If there is lateral costal pain, add Chai
hu and Yu
jin. If there is
stomach and epigastric pain, add Mu
xiang and Dan
shen. If there is lower
abdominal pain, add Mu xiang
and Tao ren.
If there is lower abdomen pain
occurring on both sides of the abdomen in the area traversed by the
liver
channel, add Wu yao
and Xiao hui xiang.
4.5-12g
|
Yi Mu Cao
Leonurus
Chinese
Motherwort
"Benefit Mother
Herb"
Chong Wei Zi
Leonurus seed
|
acrid
bitter
sl cold
|
Ht
Lv
BL
|
Promotes blood circulation,
dispels blood stasis; regulates the menses;
reduces masses; promotes urination, relieves swelling and edema.
• Blood stasis:
irregular menstruation, slow flow, amenorrhea with lower
abdominal pain, lochioschesis and abdominal pain after childbirth,
infertility,
immobile abdominal masses, premenstrual abdominal pain.
• Edema with scanty
urination, especially with hematuria.
• Acute systemic
edema, especially when accompanied by hematuria.
• Damp-heat in the
lower Jiao.
• Benign prostatic
hypertrophy, prostate cancer, testicular pain.
• Contracts the
uterus.
• Opens the
coronary artery, treats coronary artery disease.
• Lowers blood
pressure.
• Generally
contraindicated in pregnancy.
MLT:
Also for acute and chronic nephritis; postpartum uterine bleeding;
incomplete involution of uterus; myocardial infarction: increases
circulation
to the coronary artery, lowers heart rate, improves microcirculation,
prevents
platelet agglutination.
• Cook 27g Yi
mu cao with 9g Dang
gui and take in 3 doses to help
restore the
womb after childbirth.
K&R:
(L. cardiaca)
Cardiotonic; stimulates oxytocin; antispasmodic; mild
diuretic.
• Fire yin.
• Precordial pain,
palpitations, cardiopathy, heart disease.
• Amenorrhea,
dysmenorrhea; contracts and clears the uterus postpartum.
• PID - improves
circulation in the lower abdomen.
• Relieves edema
from nephritis; hematuria from renal calculi.
• Insomnia; goiter;
epilepsy.
• Recent use in
China as a morning-after contraceptive.
• Lowers blood
viscosity and platelet aggregation rate.
• The extract is
used for headache, insomnia, vertigo, peripheral circulatory
paresthesias.
JC:
(L. cardiaca)
Emmenagogue, heart tonic, diaphoretic, tonic, nervine,
antispasmodic, aperient, hepatic, diuretic.
• May be the best
heart tonic known. Calms and supports the heart and
nerves, may be used in large doses. Beneficial as a healing tonic in
recovering
from debilitating fever where other tonics are inadmissible.
• Chest cold,
cramps, pains: foment over affected area and take internally.
• Delayed
menstruation: give the syrup in hot water. When normal flow is
re-established, take cold as a tonic.
• Influenza, severe
colds, low fevers: give as hot as can be taken until the
patient perspires freely.
• Acute and chronic
heart problems (palpitations, endocarditis, pericarditis,
intermittent pulse, etc.), epilepsy, nervous exhaustion, spasms,
twitching,
chorea, neuralgia, spinal disease, indigestion, liver affections,
vaginitis
(douche).
PCBDP:
Chinese studies show anti-platelet aggregation action, lowers blood
lipids, inhibitory effects on pulsating myocardial cells.
RW:
(L. cardiaca)
Antithyroid: for hyperthyroidism, palpitations, tachycardia.
MW:
(L. cardiaca)
Doctrine of signatures: has "goose tongue" leaves -
a
signature for rhythm
- for the heart - palpitations.
• Also a good
spinal remedy - for spinal irritation.
Hsu:
Stimulates the uterus, increases flexibility and tonicity of uterus
(much
weaker than pituitary hormones); diuretic; hypotensive; antibacterial.
DY:
Slightly nourishes blood - just enough to not damage the blood when
used to dispel stasis.
• Must be used in
relatively high dosage (15-30 or more).
9-60g (to 120g for edema in
glomerulonephritis)
Chong
Wei Zi: the seed
• Sweet, slightly
cold.
• Dispels blood
stasis, but is also astringent and tonic; cools the liver;
brightens the eyes.
• For excessive
menstruation/uterine bleeding.
• Liver heat: for
red, painful, swollen eyes, pterygium.
3-9g
|
Yu Jin
Curcuma tuber
(Curcuma
longa, C.
kwangsinensis, C.
aromatica, C.
zedoaria)
"Constrained
Metal"
|
acrid
bitter
cold
|
Ht
Lv
GB
Lu
|
Promotes blood and Qi
circulation, dispels blood stasis; promotes circulation
of liver Qi; relieves pain; clears heart heat; cools the blood; opens
the orifices
of the heart; normalizes the function of the gallbladder and relieves
jaundice.
• Qi or blood
stasis which has created heat.
• Liver Qi
stagnation and blood stasis: pain in the chest, hypochondria, costal
region, and abdomen, irregular menstruation, dysmenorrhea, masses in
the
abdomen.
• Blockage of the
heart by damp-heat: distention in the chest and epigastrium,
fuzzy head.
• Blockage of heart
by stagnant phlegm and Qi: seizures, mania, mental
depression, anxiety, agitation.
• Liver Qi
stagnation heat: hematemesis, hematuria, epistaxis during
menstrual period.
• Gallbladder
disorders: damp-heat, jaundice, gall stones, hepatitis.
• Lung heat.
• Topical and
internal: pain related to traumatic injury, chronic sores.
• Viral hepatitis:
effective at alleviating pain, treating jaundice, and reducing
organomegaly.
• There are two
main types of Yu jin: Chuan yu jin
("River Constrained
Gold") is less commonly used, is considered to be milder, and
is usually used
for patients who are relatively weak; Guang
yu jin ("Broad
Constrained
Gold") is the more commonly used variety.
MLT:
Use with Shi chang pu
for mental derangement, the effects of
intoxicating drugs such as marijuana, and lack of focus.
Hsu:
Promotes production and secretion of bile; stimulates motor activities
of
the stomach; stimulates gastric secretions and appetite.
HF:
A Sha Chong
(kill worms or parasites) herb, important in Gu
Zheng (Gu
parasites) formulas.
4.5-9g
|
Yue Ji Hua
Partially-opened
Chinese Tea Rose
Rosa
chinensis
"Moon Season
Flower"
|
sweet
warm
|
Lv
|
Promotes blood circulation;
regulates menstruation; reduces swelling.
• Blood stasis:
scanty menstruation, amenorrhea, chest pain, abdominal pain
and distention.
• Swelling: neck
swellings, scrofula.
• With brown sugar:
for amenorrhea or scanty menstruation with abdominal
pain, emotional stress, and constipation.
3-6g
|
Zang Hong Hua
(Xi Hong Hua)
Saffron
Crocus sativa
stigma
|
|
|
• Similar to Hong
hua but much stronger and much
more expensive.
• It is used in
relatively severe cases, mainly for painful obstruction of the
chest.
• Used for
depression. Extensive research in Iran (main global producer) looks
very
promising.
• Topical for acne.
• Regulates
menstruation.
• Eases cough and
asthmatic breathing.
• Reduces fever and
inflammation.
• Not to be
confused with Meadow Saffron (Colchicum autumnale) which is
toxic.
1-3g in decoction or
0.5-1.5g eaten directly
|
Ze Lan
Lycopus Bugleweed
"Marsh
Orchid"
|
acrid
bitter
sl
warm
|
Lv
Sp
|
Promotes blood circulation
(without damaging Zhen Qi), dispels blood stasis;
promotes urination, relieves edema; frees the flow of liver Qi; opens
the
channels; unblocks the menses.
• Blood stasis:
irregular menstruation, dysmenorrhea, amenorrhea, abdominal
pain during menses and after childbirth, masses in the abdomen,
traumatic
injury, abscess, pain and swelling, pain in the chest and hypochondria,
carbuncles.
• Edema over the
face and body, dysuria, particularly post partum.
• Postpartum
painful urinary dysfunction.
• Cardiotonic
effect.
• Also for
prostatitis/benign prostatic hypertrophy.
• Topical: for pain
and swelling, traumatic injury, abscesses.
• Very safe herb.
• In some parts of
China, Pei lan
(Eupatorium) is sometimes used as this herb. (Pei
lan does not promote blood
circulation.)
HF:
An important herb in anti-Gu
therapy to move Qi (xing Qi)
and break
accumulation (po ji).
K&R:
Thyroid inhibitor, pituitary inhibitor (TSH, gonadotropins, prolactin),
sympatholytic. Fire yang.
• Tachycardia and
arrhythmia especially with hyperthyroidism.
• Hormonal
influence to treat various prostate and ovary disorders.
RW:
Antithyroid: for milder hyperthyroidism: small doses, takes 3-4 weeks
for good effect (mainly helps palpitations). Use with Leonurus.
3-15g (up to 30g topically)
|
Zi Ran Tong
Pyrite
"Natural
Copper"
|
acrid
neutral
|
Lv
K
|
Dispels blood stasis,
relieves pain; promotes regeneration of bones and
sinews.
• Blood and Qi
stasis caused by injury: swelling, pain, and especially
fractures.
• Has been used
successfully for endemic goiter.
• Decoct for at
least 30 minutes or take directly as powder.
• Major known
constituents include: ferrous disulfide, copper, nickel, arsenic.
Due to arsenic content, probably toxic.
3-15g (0.3-0.6g directly as
powder)
|
Herbs
That Subdue Liver Yang And Extinguish Liver Wind
|
These herbs each possess any
of four major actions:
1. Clear Liver Heat.
2. Subdue Liver Yang.
3. Extinguish Liver Wind.
4. Calm/Anchor the Shen.
These herbs are commonly
combined with:
A. Herbs that clear heat or
reduce fire from the liver when there is liver heat leading to Yang
rising or liver wind.
B. Liver and kidney Yin
tonics when liver wind is due to Yin deficiency of the liver and
kidneys.
C. Herbs that quiet the Shen
when there is Shen disturbance.
D. Herbs that resolve phlegm
when liver wind stirs up phlegm and blocks the channels and collaterals.
|
Bai Ji Li
(Ci Ji Li)
Tribulus fruit
Puncture vine
Caltrop
Tribulus
terrestris
|
bitter
acrid
neutral
|
Lv
Lu
|
Subdues the liver, anchors
the yang; frees the flow of liver Qi; eliminates
external wind, dispels wind-heat; promotes vision; stops itching.
• Liver yang
rising: headache, dizziness, vertigo, hypertension.
• Liver Qi
stagnation: distention in the chest, costal region, and flanks,
postpartum galactostasis or insufficient lactation.
• Wind: skin
eruption with itching, hives, vitiligo.
• Wind-heat: red,
swollen, painful eyes, increased tearing; nasal congestion.
• Promotes
urination.
• Lowers blood
pressure.
• Recent Western
use as "herbal Viagra" to improve libido and
erectility.
• Guohui Liu:
Useful for Liver attacking transversely, causing bloating, etc. (15-30g)
Yoga:
Gokshura:
sweet, bitter/cooling/sweet; VPK=
• Diuretic,
lithotriptic, tonic, rejuvenative, aphrodisiac, nervine, analgesic.
• Cools and soothes
the membranes of the urinary tract; stops bleeding.
• Rejuvenative to Pitta,
calms Vata.
Invigorating for postpartum women.
• Difficult or
painful urination, edema, kidney or bladder stones, chronic
cystitis, nephritis, hematuria, gout, rheumatism, lumbago, sciatica,
impotence, infertility, seminal debility, venereal disease, cough,
dyspnea,
hemorrhoids, diabetes.
Hsu:
Hypotensive, sedative.
DY:
Upbearing and dispersing; calms the liver, resolves depression.
• With Sha
yuan zi to regulate upbearing
and downbearing and the liver and
kidneys. Together, they course the liver and rectify Qi, resolve
depression
and calm the liver. They harmoniously supplement the liver and kidneys
-
they enrich the kidneys and secure the essence, nourish the liver and
brighten
the eyes. For such indications as:
- 1. Vertigo, unclear vision
due to liver and kidney deficiency. (Use salt mix-fried Bai
ji li - this alleviates the
draining and dispersing characteristics of the
herb and reinforces its supplementing aspect.)
- 2. Lumbar pain, seminal
emission, premature ejaculation, frequent urination
due to kidney deficiency. (Use salt mix-fried or stir-fried Sha
yuan zi.)
- 3. Abnormal vaginal
discharge due to kidney deficiency.
6-12g
|
Dai Zhe Shi
Hematite
"Red Stone from
Dai
County"
|
bitter
cold
|
Lv
Ht
Pc
|
Subdues the liver,
suppresses liver Yang rising; clears liver heat; descends
the Qi of the Lungs and stomach, strongly directs rebellious Qi
downward;
cools the blood; stops bleeding; anchors the Shen.
• Stomach Qi
rebellion: belching, hiccups, vomiting. Use when Ban xia is
not enough. This herb is not appropriate for morning sickness of
pregnancy.
• Failure of Lung
Qi to descend: wheezing, asthma.
• Liver Yang
rising, liver fire: headache, dizziness, tinnitus, pressure around
the eyes.
• Hematemesis,
epistaxis. Primarily for bleeding due to heat, but can also be
used for bleeding due to cold from deficiency when combined with
appropriate herbs.
• Should be boiled
for approximately 30 minutes before adding other herbs.
• Often calcined or
pulverized after soaking in vinegar.
• Major known
constituents include diferric trioxide, aluminum, silicon,
magnesium, tin.
• Bensky/Gamble
classifies this with herbs that anchor the Shen.
MLT:
For short term use only - likely contains traces of arsenic.
9-30g
|
Di Long
Earthworm
Lumbricus
"Earth
Dragon"
|
salty
cold
|
Lv
Sp
BL
Lu
|
Removes obstructions from
the channels and collaterals; relieves asthma,
calms wheezing; clears heat; extinguishes liver wind; stops spasms and
convulsions; promotes urination.
• Lung heat
obstruction: asthma, wheezing. Clears Lung heat.
• Liver wind:
convulsions with high fever, seizures - can be used alone.
• Damp-heat: Bi
syndrome with red, painful, swollen joints.
• Obstruction of
channels and collaterals: hemiplegia, sequelae of wind-stroke, for
either hot or cold (with appropriate combination) Bi.
• Bladder heat:
painful urination or retention of urine, cystitis, urinary stones,
edema.
• Liver Yang
rising: hypertension. Lowers blood pressure. Over 90%
effective for essential hypertension in one study.
• Hot, manic type
schizophrenia. (Recent use)
• Temporarily
lowers men's sperm count.
• May temporarily
lengthen the penis.
• May inhibit the
effects of histamine on smooth muscle.
• This
herb's effectiveness is enhanced by washing it in wine.
• This
herb's ability to treat spasms and convulsions (compared to Ling
yang
jiao and Gou
teng) focuses mainly on its
ability to open up and penetrate.
• Doctrine of
signatures: earthworms' (and other insects')
ability to remove
obstructions is indicated by their skill at wriggling through small
places or
plowing right through the earth.
• A very safe herb.
MLT:
Insects [and worms] represent the essence of pure neurological instinct
reaction that is akin to the manifestation of involuntary reflexes such
as
spasms, shaking, and stroke. Described as "strange
proteins," they seem to
have a corrective effect on the nervous system. Customarily
administered as
a powder in capsules.
Hsu:
Antipyretic, hypotensive (probably by direct action on CNS),
bronchodilator, stimulates the uterus, small intestine and large
intestine.
5-15g
|
Gou Teng
Uncaria stem and
thorns
Uncaria
rhynchophylla, U.
sinensis, and related
species
"Hook
Vine"
Cat's Claw
|
sweet
sl. cold
|
Lv
Pc
Ht
|
Clears liver heat; subdues
liver yang; extinguishes liver wind, alleviates
spasms; releases the exterior.
• Liver wind:
convulsions, tremors, seizures, eclampsia. Especially useful
when due to intense heat.
• Liver heat:
distention and pain in the head, red eyes.
• Liver Yang rising
(including Yin deficiency patterns): dizziness, vertigo,
irritability, blurry vision.
• Wind-heat: fever,
headache.
• Lowers blood
pressure. For hypertension take 30g twice a day. Especially
useful when due to liver Yang rising. If there is liver Yin deficiency,
combine with Bai shao
- 2:1::Gou Teng:Bai Shao
(i.e. 15g Bai shao
BID). Gou teng's
hypotensive effect diminishes if it is cooked too long. Old stems,
without thorns, have no hypotensive effect.
• Similar to Ling
yang jiao, but while antelope
horn enters the blood level, Gou
teng
enters the Qi level and is especially useful for problems secondary
to externally-contracted wind-heat.
• Do not cook
longer than 10 minutes.
• It is
traditionally believed that the more hooks and less stems, the stronger
the herb.
• Contains rhynchophylline
- a non-competitive NMDA receptor antagonist (anesthetic) and calcium
channel blocker.
Hsu:
Hypotensive - inhibits vasomotor center, dilates peripheral blood
vessels; sedative, inhibits the CNS; prevents epilepsy; antiviral -
especially
against respiratory viruses.
6-15g
Cat's Claw /
Uña de Gato - Uncaria
tomentosa (from the upper Andes
in
Peru):
This species grows much
larger than the Chinese forms. The bark is used.
Its similarity (or lack
thereof) to Gou teng
has not been clearly established.
Major claims are that it is
an immune enhancer, antiviral/antibiotic, anti-inflammatory,
antispasmodic. Satya Ambrose uses it (as the extract under the
trade name Samento or Saventaro) to treat Lyme disease. Shown in
studies to
fight the progression of Alzheimer's disease (better when
combined with
Ginkgo leaf and Gotu Kola).
Recently, there has been
some controversy over the constituents TOA's
(tetracyclic oxindole alkaloids) and POA's (pentacyclic
oxindole alkaloids).
Numerous sources claim TOA's are ineffective or even harmful,
while the
medicinal potency of the plant comes from the POA's.
Consequently, there
are products which claim to be TOA-free and/or which maximize
POA's.
SD:
Cat's claw is one of several dozen herbs being promoted these
days as an
effective treatment, even a potential cure, for cancer, AIDS, chronic
fatigue
syndrome, candida infection, arthritis, and other disorders for which
modern
medicine is often unsatisfactory. The broad spectrum of action claimed
for
these herbs is not an impossibility, as the disorders that are said to
be treated
involve the immune system: there could be a central regulatory
mechanism
affected by a natural compound that leads to improvements for many
patients
with various diseases. The suggestion that the herbs produce dramatic
effects
or are curative rather than merely helpful is more problematic, as
clinical
evaluations of several such materials have failed to confirm many of
the
claims that were based on individual case studies.
Cat's claw seems
exotic because it is a native Indian remedy from the
mountains of Peru. Yet, there is no evidence that it is any more
valuable than
less exotic items from China, India, Europe, or the U.S. which were
previously considered exotic. Apparently, the root bark of the plant
has been
used by the aborigines in the area where it grows for gastric distress,
skin
diseases, arthralgia, and cancer. It is not clear how accurately cancer
was
diagnosed (in most medical traditions, cancers, abscesses, and
non-malignant
swellings were lumped together), nor what effect this herb had in
native
hands, nor whether it was only one of several remedies provided in
combination to the patient. The "claw" which
characterizes this vine may
have been selected by "doctrine of signatures" as
something that could
penetrate and puncture a lump or grab the cause of localized pain. In
China,
the related plant Uncaria
rhynchophylla (gouteng), is said
by native healers
to effectively treat headaches: the hook on the vine indicates that it
can go in
and grasp the pain to pull it out. This explanation may also come after
the
observation of effects, as an aid to memory: Chinese research confirms
that
the herb can treat certain types of headache, especially that
associated with
hypertension.
The active components of
cat's claw are mainly alkaloids, glycosides
(triterpenes and procyanidins), and tannins. The oxindole alkaloids of
the
stem (including the hooks) are the same as those found in the Chinese
plant
that is far more intensively analyzed. Rhynchophylline, the main
alkaloid, has
been made into a drug in China for treating hypertension and headache
due to
vascular constriction. The alkaloids in the root bark of
cats' claw are in the
same category as rhynchophylline, but are slightly differently. The
claim
made by some investigators appears to be that these unique alkaloids
are
responsible for the ability of the plant to treat cancer and to inhibit
viral
infections. Enhancement of phagocytosis in
vitro was reported in 1985 by
Wagner, a European researcher who has focused efforts on revealing
immune-enhancing actions of natural products (his work with echinacea,
eleutherococcus, and the liver-protective herb sylibum is frequently
reported
in the alternative medicine literature). However, it is not clear that
sufficient
amounts of such alkaloids are consumed so that one would obtain this
effect
nor how strong the effect might be. Based on his research experience,
Wagner believes that polysaccharides, terpenoids, alkaloids, and
polyphenolic compounds from plants have immunostimulating activity.
The triterpenoids of
cat's claw have been shown to have an anti-inflammatory
effect. This effect is not surprising: dozens of plants with
triterpenoids have an anti-inflammatory action; triterpenoid compounds
often
have a steroidal structure. Other materials have been isolated from the
herb,
such as oleanolic acid (which has anti-allergy actions), but the
amounts are so
small as to make their presence insignificant in relation to the herbal
activity
in clinical practice. Clearly, one can find numerous compounds in this
plant
and attribute healthful activities based on in
vitro tests that require large
amounts of the compounds, but that doesn't mean one is likely
to obtain
those effects from oral consumption of recommended amounts (e.g., 20
grams by decoction or infusion, much less by ingestion of encapsulated
powders) of the crude herb.
In a patent application for
use of cat's claw alkaloids for immune-modulatory
effects against cancer, other alkaloids with similar effects obtained
from other
plants are mentioned, such as berbamine and matrine, ingredients
identified
from common Chinese herbs (e.g., hu-chang and sophora) that boost
certain
immune responses and which can be used in the treatment of cancer
(Chang
and But 1987). The question that arises is this: is it worthwhile
collecting a
species that has a limited growing range for which the root bark may be
the
key ingredient, and which is quite expensive, rather than using readily
available plants that are less expensive and are already cultivated and
which
have far more supporting research for the intended application? The
patent
application also lists more than a dozen phenols/quinones and terpenes
as
examples of natural substances "with stimulating effect on
the
immunological system."
That aside, one can examine
carefully the research to date. In one study
(Aquino, et al. 1991), anti-inflammatory compounds were isolated. In
rat paw
inflammation experiments (usually used in the study of potential
anti-arthritis
remedies), dosages of 2 g/kg of the dried bark (corresponds to typical
human
dosage of 140 grams of the herb) were used, and the most active
isolated
fractions were able to inhibit the rat paw edema by about 40%. Aspirin
is a
lot easier to use and more effective and although aspirin may cause
gastric
irritation, so might the isolated components of cat's claw.
The common,
cultivated Chinese herb tang-kuei, has an anti-inflammatory action that
is
slightly greater than that of aspirin, weight for weight.
Antiviral activity of
quinovic acid glycosides from cat's claw were also
analyzed (Aquino, Simone, and Pizza, 1989). As the authors of the study
report: "an inhibitory effect against VSV [vesicular
stomatitis virus] was
evident for all the nine compounds tested, although at relatively high
concentrations with respect to the toxic dose...." In other
words, the antiviral
activity was weak unless you approach the point where the herbal
components would kill the cells as well. Before one reaches cell
killing by a
compound, severe side effects would tend to be observed clinically. The
authors continue: "almost all these quinovic acid glycosides
were inactive
against rhinovirus type IB infection...." These same authors
mention in their
introduction the antiviral action of glycyrrhizin (from licorice). This
and
other components from readily-available and inexpensive herbs have been
demonstrated effective in treating viral infections; for example,
glycyrrhizin
can cure a portion of clinical cases of chronic hepatitis B infection
and it has
been shown, in vitro,
to inhibit HIV.
The potential antitumor
activity of cat's claw remains pure speculation. In a
paper about the constituents of various Uncaria species
in Peru, it was
suggested (de Matta, et al.) that catechin in the root bark may be
responsible
for the effect. Catechin is believed to be anticarcinogenic, but it is
obtained
from dozens of other herbs (it is often found in barks) that are much
more
easily obtained (rhubarb is the main source used in Chinese anticancer
studies). In a recent evaluation of antimutagenic effects (Rizzi, et
al., 1992), it
was speculated that cat's claw acts as an antioxidant, thus
potentially
reducing the incidence of transformation to cancer cells via an
oxidation
reaction. Yet, there are dozens of antioxidants already identified
which have
this property, many of which have useful nutritional benefits (e.g.,
vitamins C
and E, selenium, cysteine) and which are inexpensive and readily
available.
While these are thought to be useful in reducing cancer risk, their
impact on
existing cancers is minor.
To get around the rather
poor outcomes found in laboratory experiments and
the availability of alternative sources for materials for which similar
claims
could be made, promoters of cat's claw resort to hyperbole.
Philip Steinberg,
a nutritional consultant, proclaims it a "wondrous herb from
the Peruvian
Rainforest," and refers to an article by a chiropractor,
Brent Davis, who
proclaims it a "world class herb." The patent
issued more than five years ago
is trotted out as primary evidence of its value. Indeed,
cat's claw has been
sold in Europe, but an analysis of the capsules of product show that it
is
extremely low in the supposed active components compared to reference
samples from Peru (Stuppner, Sturm, and Konwalinka, 1992) so that any
claims made for it are likely placebo effects.
To promote the product, "The Cat's
Claw Quarterly" was generated.
As
illustration of its irresponsible reporting, the 10 page first issue
carries not
one author's name. Keplinger, the holder of the
above-mentioned patent is
reported to have been treating AIDS patients in Europe. He proclaims
benefits were observed as follows: "within twenty days
treatment there were
positive signs in the immune system." Anyone working with
AIDS knows
that the manifestations of the disease is highly variable and that few,
if any,
patients stick to only one remedy at any time; besides that, there was
no way
to show "positive signs" in the immune system
within twenty days back then
(in 1987, two years before this first issue of the newsletter). An
herbal
correspondence course devotes lesson 26 to cat's claw, as
part of the larger
section on "killing cancer." All that is offered is
a rambling narrative of the
author's attempt to track down information on cat's
claw (one section is
headed "very little written about cat's
claw"). As an example of successful
use of the herb for cancer, here is one story he relates from Austria,
where
Keplinger works: Male 14-year-old [with lymph leukemia]. Chemotherapy
was applied. However, patient suffered extreme discomfort.
Cat's claw given.
Three week's later, blood values improved. Patient more
active. Since the
blood condition improved so much, they thought this was because of the
chemotherapy. So they increased the dosage of chemotherapy. The blood
test
did not reveal further pathology. The patient is now considered a
mostly
healthy child." That certainly shows that cat's
claw is effective against cancer
by the contorted reasoning methods employed by such writers.
Chemotherapy, which is effective in many cases of childhood leukemia,
by
this reasoning came out poorly in this report. In a letter to Townsend
Letter
for Doctors (an informal and unreviewed magazine), Steinberg claims
that
one Peruvian physician spoke at an international congress on
traditional
medicine "about his and his colleagues' successes
with Uncaria tomentosa and
other herbs in
treating 14 types of accurately diagnosed cancer in 700
patients." The suggestion to be taken by the unsuspecting
reader is that it was
this herb that was responsible for the undefined successes. One wonders
what
these physicians actually did and what was actually said about the
results.
Cat's claw may
indeed be a good remedy for gastritis (one wouldn't be able
to determine that from the current literature, however: gastritis
isn't as
interesting as cancer and AIDS). Herbal therapies for gastritis are
relatively
easy for native herbalists to select, because the effects are usually
prompt.
There are hundreds of other gastritis remedies available; its just a
matter of
whether or not the gastritis sufferer will try them. If the first they
try is cat's
claw, it may well be one they can say works for them.
At this time, there is no
evidence that cat's claw has significant
immunological properties. It may have such properties, but there are
potential
problems with promoting it for this application. First, it appears that
the tops
of the plant, which mainly contain rhyncophylline in the stem and
tannins in
the leaves, are probably not effective for this purpose. In China,
where
immune regulators are a central area of concern, Uncaria species
are not
counted among them. When purchasing powdered materials, it is difficult
to
know if one is getting the right species (importers already caution
that you
buy their species of cat's claw and not an alternative one, Uncaria
guaianensis, available on the
Peruvian market), much less the right plant part.
If the root bark, which may have relatively unique compounds, is to be
used,
then the plants must be dug up, and we have one more case of damage to
the
rain forest plants. It has been suggested that the upper bark might
have the
same activity as the root bark, and it is possible, with vines, to
collect the tops
and still have the plant grow back. However, a careful analysis of the
vine
bark must be made and one must be assured of getting just this part
(there
isn't much bark on this plant). But, why bother? There are so
many
established immune-regulating herbs already available that putting
great
effort into this one seems unappealing.
What about the current
research status? In the U.S., this is being trusted to
practitioners of natural medicine untrained or poorly trained in
clinical
evaluations who are to report on the effects in their patients
(who are almost certainly
taking other remedies at the same time) under the
general heading of conducting a "clinical trial."
These practitioners will no
doubt claim benefits seen in numerous patients, as they have in the
past for
each remedy that has been brought out for informal evaluation by
practitioners untrained in research methodology. In Austria, Dr.
Keplinger is
said to be using a medicine extracted from the vine along with AZT in
AIDS
patients. His results (from the past eight years of experience) are
being
reported not in medical journals but in newspapers, such as El Comercio
(Lima). In Peru, researchers are making a sincere effort to analyze the
ingredients and effects of the plant. As reported in journals, the
observed
effects have been quite limited and the activities can be explained by
compounds and mechanisms that do not require one use cat's
claw. Yet, an
American distributor says that "Cat's claw promises
to become a major
therapeutic agent worldwide in the very near future due to its unusual
and
significant health-stimulating properties."
It is quite unfortunate that
the diligent efforts of Peruvian researchers are
being largely ignored in favor of the outlandish claims of
chiropractors,
nutritional consultants, and writers of informal correspondence
courses.
Desperate AIDS and cancer patients, as well as others, may be taken in
by
this (that is, after all, what the effort is all about), and spend
their limited
resources on this potentially endangered rain forest remedy when
better-studied, more effective, and less expensive remedies are
available to them.
This is the ongoing problem with alternative medicine: uncritical
acceptance
of remedies promoted by persons with limited knowledge, but strong
financial interests, and unreliable enthusiasm. If cat's claw
is a legitimate
contributor to treatment of serious illnesses, then let the scientific
knowledge
be compiled and analyzed and then compared to what is known about other
plant remedies before it is touted as the newest remedy for cancer and
AIDS.
Appendix: Other Uncaria
Species
Uncaria vines are native to
Japan, China, Vietnam, and the Malaysian
peninsula. Among the species used in China, interchangeably, are U.
rhyncophylla, U.
macrophylla, U.
hirsuta, U.
sessifructus, U.
formosana, and U.
scandens.
The branch and stem are used for their nerve-inhibiting actions,
associated with the alkaloid components. They are thus applied as a
sedative,
anticonvulsant, hypotensive, and analgesic. In Vietnam, U.
tonkinensis is
used; the bark of the vine is considered useful in lowering fever; it
is said that
the bark contains no alkaloids, but does contain catechin and
catechutannic
acid. In Malaysia, Uncaria
gambir is used. The top of the
plant is rich in
tannins and is not very suitable for internal use (except temporarily
to treat
dysentery). Rather, it is applied topically for its antiseptic action
(attributable
to tannins) and some analgesic effects (probably due to the alkaloids).
The
roots are considered a remedy for intestinal inflammation, which is a
common application of tannins. Such compounds may also have a positive
effect on gastritis and urethritis, conditions for which
cat's claw has been
claimed to be of use.
|
Jiang Can
(Bai Jiang Can)
Silkworm (Bombyx)
infected with Beauveria
bassiana
|
salty
acrid
neutral
|
Lv
Lu
|
Eliminates external wind,
eases itching and relieves pain; extinguishes liver
wind, relieves spasms and convulsions; resolves phlegm, dissipates
nodules;
clears heat, dissipates stagnant heat.
• Wind: skin
eruption with itching.
• Liver wind or
wind-phlegm-heat: convulsions, facial paralysis, deviation of
the mouth and eyes in wind-stroke, seizures.
• Liver heat or
attack of the liver channel by wind-heat: headache, red eyes,
sore, swollen throat, loss of voice.
• Stagnant heat:
carbuncles, sore throat, toothache.
• Phlegm
accumulation: lumps, scrofula, nodules.
• Use raw for
dispersing wind-heat, otherwise dry fry.
• Compared to Wu
gong and Quan
xie in the treatment of wind and
spasms, Jiang can
is most appropriate for those due to phlegm-heat.
• Pound before
cooking.
Hsu:
Hypnotic, antispasmodic, stimulates adrenal cortex.
3-9g (0.9-1.5g as powder or
pill)
|
Jue Ming Zi
Cassia seed
Fetid Cassia seed
"Seeds of Realized
Brightness"
|
sweet
bitter
sl. cold
|
Lv
LI
K
|
Clears liver heat; expels
wind-heat; promotes vision; moistens the large
intestine, promotes bowel movement.
• Liver heat or
liver channel wind-heat: red, swollen, itchy, painful eyes with
photophobia and increased tearing. Especially useful when liver heat is
accompanied by constipation.
• Heat or dryness
in the large intestine (especially from liver Yin deficiency):
constipation.
• Used to prevent
atherosclerosis: lowers blood pressure and serum
cholesterol.
• Hypercholesterolemia: in one
study of 100 patients (mean value 246.9
mg%, and as high as 484) given Jue
ming zi decoction, 85% had
normal
values within 2 weeks. 98% were normal within 4 weeks.
• Can counteract
the constipating effects of some other herbs in this category
(such as Mu li).
• Compared to Ju
hua, Jue
ming zi is better at clearing
liver fire and
benefitting the kidneys; Ju hua
more effectively pacifies the liver and
disperses wind-heat.
• Dry fried:
tonifies the liver and is used for eye problems due to liver and
kidney deficiency.
• Antibiotic effect.
• Bensky/Gamble
classifies with herbs that drain fire.
• Bensky/Gamble: Do
no t use with Huo ma ren;
not recommended when
there is diarrhea or hypotension.
MLT:
Pan roast and powder, and use as a coffee substitute for hypertension.
9-15g (up to 30g alone)
|
Ling Yang Jiao
Antelope Horn
Shan Yang Jiao
Mountain Goat horn
|
salty
cold
|
Lv
Ht
|
Clears liver heat; subdues
liver yang (remarkably); extinguishes liver wind;
promotes vision; clears heat and toxicity; clears damp-heat; quiets the
Shen.
• Liver wind:
convulsions, spasms - infant, epilepsy, other seizure disorders,
including for recalcitrant fevers, internal wind due to intense heat.
• Liver Yang
rising: dizziness, vertigo, headache, blurry vision, red eyes,
photophobia, hypertension, spasms, convulsions.
• Liver fire: red
eyes, headache.
• Heart blockage by
heat and toxicity with liver wind stirring: high fever,
unconsciousness, delirium, involuntary limb movement.
• Wind-damp-heat: Bi
syndrome.
• Doctrine of
signatures: Antelopes and mountain goats live (and thrive) at
high altitudes. The herb is useful for Yang that rises, like the peak
of a
mountain, and also for mountain sickness - increases resistance to a
low
oxygen environment.
• Less effective
than Xi jiao
(rhinoceros horn) at clearing heat and toxicity,
but more effective at relieving spasms and extinguishing wind. The two
horns are used together in severe cases of coma and convulsions due to
high
fever (however, rhinoceros horn should no longer be used, given
rhinos'
endangerment).
• Take directly as
powder or pills.
• Ling yang jiao is
similar to Gou teng,
but while Gou teng
enters mainly the
Qi level, Ling yang jiao
enters the blood level, relives toxicity, and treats heat
in the blood
Hsu:
Antipyretic, anticonvulsive - tranqulizing, antispasmodic - inhibits
CNS.
0.9-3g (directly)
Shan
Yang Jiao: Mountain Goat horn
• For ecological
considerations, this herb may be used in place of Ling
yang
jiao.
• Mountain goat
horn is much weaker - use10 times the dose of antelope horn
that would be used.
9-60g
|
Mu Li
Oyster Shell
|
salty
astringt
sl. cold
|
Lv
Ht
K
|
Subdues the liver and
suppresses rising liver yang; anchors the Shen; benefits
the Yin and anchors floating Yang; softens and disperses hardness,
nodules,
stagnation of phlegm and fire; astringes and controls body fluids;
neutralizes
acid (calcined form) and alleviates (stomach) pain.
• Liver yang rising
(including with Yin deficiency): restlessness, insomnia,
palpitations, dizziness, vertigo, tinnitus, bad temper, red, flushed
face
• stagnation of
phlegm and fire: masses, lumps, swollen lymph nodes and
glands, scrofula, goiter.
• Weak constitution
(deficiency only - steaming bone disorder or following a
warm febrile disease): seminal emission, leukorrhea, uterine bleeding,
spontaneous or night sweats.
• Acidity:
heartburn, excessive stomach pain with sour taste (Bensky/Gamble
recommends the calcined form for this, while Liu says to swallow 10g
uncooked, non-calcined Mu li).
Note: Mu li
contains a high amount of
calcium carbonate. The carbonate acts as a pH buffer in the stomach,
but
calcium is a stimulus for acid secretion in the stomach (because it is
soluble
only at a low pH). At best, Mu
li is a branch treatment for
acidity. As
antacids go, Mu li
- and all antacids which contain calcium - may be inferior
to those comprised of other mineral carbonates (such as sodium
bicarbonate -
baking soda).
• Muscle cramps: by "softening
hardness" - anecdotally useful as a
standalone herb, even in the common form of oyster shell calcium pills.
Also beneficial for restless legs.
• Useful in
treating night sweats due to tuberculosis.
• Weaker than Long
gu to quiet the Shen, but
stronger than Long gu
to
subdue liver Yang.
• "Slipperier" than Long
gu.
• For astringing
body fluids, use the calcined form, Duan
mu li. For all other
purposes use the unprepared form (note Bensky/Gamble says to use the
calcined form for neutralizing acid).
• Cook for 20-30
minutes longer than other herbs.
• Bensky/Gamble
classifies with herbs that anchor the Shen.
• Some sources
claim Mu li
works synergistically with Bei
mu, Gan cao, Niu
xi, and Yuan
zhi, and that it has adverse
effects when combined with Ma
huang, Wu zhu yu, and Xi xin.
Hsu:
Astringent, sedative, analgesic, antioncotic.
• Use 90-120g for
neck lymphadenitis.
DY:
With Huang qi
to supplement Qi, constrain Yin, secure the exterior, and
stop perspiration. For indications such as:
- 1. Spontaneous
perspiration due to Qi or Yang deficiency. (Mu
Li San) Use calcined Mu
li.
- 2. Night sweats due to Yin
deficiency. (This combination is appropriate for
moderate Yin deficiency. In cases of deficiency fire, this pair cannot
be used
alone.)
- 3. Spontaneous and
nighttime perspiration due to Qi and Yin deficiency. (Mu
Li San) Use calcined Mu
li.
15-30g
|
Quan Xie
Scorpion
Buthus
|
acrid
salty
neutral
toxic
|
Lv
|
Extinguishes liver wind,
relieves convulsions; eliminates external wind;
cleans and dissipates stagnation of (fire) toxicity, dissipates
nodules; removes
obstruction from channels and collaterals, relieves pain.
• Liver wind,
wind-phlegm: convulsions (acute or chronic infant), tetany, tics,
deviation of the mouth and eye in wind-stroke, tremors, opisthotonos,
seizures. This herbs is among the most effective at eliminating wind.
• External wind:
convulsions due to tetanus (wind invades wound).
• Stagnation of
toxicity: carbuncles, lumps, toxic sores, swellings - includes
topical use - follows the theory "use toxin to attack
toxin."
• Obstruction of
channels and collaterals (blood stasis): stubborn headaches,
migraines, Bi
syndrome.
• Lowers blood
pressure; tranquilizer.
• Weaker
anticonvulsive effect than Wu
gong. Compared to Wu
gong and Jiang
can
in the treatment of wind and spasms, Quan
xie is most appropriate
when there is heat.
• Start with a very
low dose and slowly raise it (if necessary).
• Often combined
with Wu gong.
• Contraindicated
for internal wind due to blood deficiency; pregnancy.
LL:
Essential for a serious headache - always consider this herb.
MLT:
For cancer/tumors: powder Quan
Xie with Wu
gong and Jiang
can,
suspend in water in a cloth bag while cooking an egg in the water. Eat
the
egg and drink the broth.
Hsu:
Antispasmodic (weaker than Wu
gong), antifungal, sedative.
2-5g or 0.9-1.5 of just the
tail (0.6-0.9g directly as a powder)
|
Shi Jue Ming
Abalone shell
Haliotis
"Stone Sense
Brightness"
|
salty
cold
|
Lv
K
|
Clears liver heat; subdues
the liver and suppresses rising liver yang; promotes
vision, dispels superficial visual obstruction.
• Liver yang
rising: dizziness, vertigo, headache, hypertension.
• Liver fire: red
and swollen eyes, nebulas, blurry vision, optic neuritis,
photophobia, pterygium.
• Topical
ophthalmic: apply as a very fine powder to eyes.
• If the digestion
is poor, use only 15g.
• Decoct for about
one hour longer than other herbs.
9-30g
|
Tian Ma
Gastrodia rhizome
"Heavenly
Hemp"
|
sweet
neutral
|
Lv
|
Subdues the liver and
suppresses liver Yang rising; extinguishes liver wind,
relieves convulsions; eliminates wind-damp; relieves pain.
• Wind-phlegm or
liver Yang rising: dizziness, also headaches, migraines. This is
perhaps the best herb for dizziness in the pharmacopeia.
• Liver wind:
convulsions, trembling, epilepsy, tonic-clonic spasms,
opisthotonos, tetany, wind-stroke - including with hemiplegia,
dizziness, and
numbness of the extremities.
• Wind-damp: Bi,
pain and numbness of the lower back and extremities.
• High doses can
cause nausea and vomiting.
• Since this herb
is expensive, some deceitful sellers in China will steam
potatoes to shrink them and then sell them as Tian
ma.
• Some advise
against using this herb in cases of Yin deficiency (such as liver
wind due to liver Yin deficiency), claiming that it is warm and dry,
however, MLT
says: similar to Gou teng,
but its sweet flavor gives it Yin tonic
properties.
Hsu:
Anticonvulsive, cholagogue.
3-10g (0.9-1.5g directly as
powder)
|
Wu Gong
Centipede
Scolopendra
|
acrid
warm
toxic
|
Lv
|
Extinguishes liver wind,
relieves convulsions; eliminates external wind;
cleans and dissipates stagnation of toxicity; removes obstruction from
channels and collaterals, relives pain, dissipates nodules.
• Wind, tetanus:
acute or chronic infant convulsions, opisthotonos, spasms,
seizures, lockjaw.
•
Stagnation
of toxicity: carbuncles, lumps, nodules, neck lumps, sores,
poisonous snake bites, stings. Used internally and topically.
• Blood stasis,
obstruction of channels: stubborn headaches, migraines, Bi
syndrome, impotence. Directs herbs to the penis.
• Very effective at
treating diphtheria (used with Gan cao in study).
• Antifungal.
• Possesses
anti-tumor effects (in vitro).
• Effective for
submandibular lymphadenitis.
• Some sources say
to remove the legs and head - only use the trunk and tail.
• May cause stomach
upset.
• Often combined
with Quan xie.
• Stronger than Quan
xie and Jiang
can for wind and spasms. Since
it is
warm, is most appropriate for wind-cold. It is superior to the other
two in the
topical treatment of toxic swellings.
• Doctrine of
signatures: Its form indicates its ability to direct to the penis and
treat impotence. Liu: "Like an arrow that directs herbs to
the penis." Bugs,
in general, are adept at squirming into small places, and are useful
for
opening blockages and freeing the channels.
• Usually taken
directly in powder form (often in capsules).
• Contraindicated
in pregnancy.
Hsu:
Antibacterial, hypotensive, antispasmodic.
0.9-3g (0.6-1g as powder or
pill)
|
Zhen Zhu
Pearl
Margarita
|
sweet
salty
cold
|
Ht
Lv
|
Anchors the Shen; clears
liver heat; eliminates superficial visual obstructions;
sedates the heart; settles tremors, convulsions, and palpitations;
astringes,
promotes tissue regeneration; enhances the skin.
• Shen disturbance
or liver wind: palpitations, childhood convulsions,
seizures.
• Disharmony of
heart and Shen: easily frightened or angered.
• Liver heat: red,
swollen eyes, nebulas, pterygium, blurred vision.
• Skin: take 1-2g
internally daily to enhance skin.
• Topical: for
non-healing ulcers, macerated areas (usually throat or gums);
applied to the eyes as a very fine powder or in eye drops for nebulas;
applies
to the skin to soften, refine, and enhance its color.
• Often cooked with
tofu and water for two hours prior to being ground into
powder.
• Bensky/gamble
classifies with herbs that anchor the Shen.
Hsu:
Antihistamine, anti-allergic, diuretic.
0.3-1g usually directly as
powder/pill
|
Zhen Zhu Mu
Mother of Pearl
|
salty
cold
|
Lv
Ht
|
Subdues the liver and
suppresses any type of liver Yang rising; clears liver
heat; promotes vision; anchors the Shen.
• Liver Yang rising
and liver Yin deficiency: headache, dizziness, vertigo,
tinnitus, restlessness, insomnia, seizures.
• Liver Yin
deficiency: blurry vision.
• Liver heat: red
eyes, photophobia.
• Topical: promotes
healing of canker sores.
• Commonly used as
a cheap substitute for Zhen zhu,
though it is much less
effective.
• Must be cooked
longer than other herbs.
• Difficult to
digest (like all shells and minerals).
• Bensky/Gamble
classifies with herbs that anchor the Shen.
• As a topical
facial exfolliant. One source claims machine grinding produces
a powder too fine to exfolliate effectively. Hand grinding may be
preferable.
MLT:
Promotes healing, generates flesh.
• Topical for
acne/blemishes.
15-30g
|
Herbs
That Open The Orifices And Induce Resuscitation
|
• These herbs are
to be used only for excess conditions (heat, toxicity, phlegm, etc.).
They are forbidden for Yang or
Qi collapse.
• These herbs are
very acrid and have the potential to damage the Qi.
• Also consider: Niu
huang, Zao jiao, Yu jin, herbs
which resolve phlegm (Bai fu
zi, Dan nan xing...)
• These herbs are
commonly combined with:
A. Herbs that clear heat and
eliminate toxicity when loss of consciousness is due to (Xue
level) heat and toxicity.
B. Herbs that disperse cold
and promote Qi circulation when loss of consciousness is due to cold
phlegm (this is not
common).
|
An Xi Xiang
Benzoin
(Resin of Styrax
benzoin and other
Styrax species)
"Peaceful Rest
Fragrance"
|
acrid
bitter
neutral
|
Ht
Lv
Sp
|
Opens the orifices; promotes
Qi circulation; promotes blood circulation.
• Delirium or coma
with a stifling sensation and focal distention in the chest
and abdomen.
• Qi and blood
stagnation: pain in the chest and abdomen.
• Tinctures of the
herb have been shown to directly stimulate the mucosa of
the respiratory tract and promote expectoration.
• Difficult to
procure in the U.S.
Hsu:
Stimulates CNS; stimulating expectorant - when dissolved in hot
water and inhaled, directly stimulates the mucosa of the respiratory
tract,
increases secretions, promotes discharge of phlegm.
• Inhaling too high
a concentration can irritate the nose, eyes, and throat.
PCBMP:
Antiseptic, expectorant, astringent.
• Topical: on
wounds, ulcers (including of the mouth) to protect and
disinfect.
• Inhale for
coughs, bronchitis, colds.
0.3-1.5g (in pills and
powders)
|
Bing Pian
Borneol
(Natural form is from
Dryobalanops
aromatica or Blumea
balsamifera)
"Ice
Slice"
|
acrid
bitter
sl. cold
|
Ht
Sp
Lu
|
Clears heat; relieves pain;
dissipates nodules and stagnant fire; alleviates
itching; aromatically opens the orifices, revives the spirit.
• Used topically
(especially for heat) for eye, throat, skin, and mouth
problems: toothache, sore throat, pain and swelling of the throat,
mouth
ulcers, carbuncles, eczema (with Qing
dai, Shi gao, sesame oil),
sores,
scabies, neuralgia, photophobia, excessive tearing. Commonly used
topically to regenerate flesh.
• Loss of
consciousness and convulsions due to various causes, primarily
heat and toxicity.
• Mildly stimulates
the peripheral sensory nerves.
• Has a stimulatory
effect on the higher centers of the brain.
• Similar in action
to She xiang,
but weaker.
• Never cook or
expose to heat.
• Natural borneol
is Mei pian.
It is safe, most effective, but difficult to
procure. Most borneol is synthetic and should probably not be taken
internally, except perhaps in very small doses.
Hsu:
Antibacterial, antifungal; stimulates CNS.
SD:
The Chinese traditionally obtained their borneol (as an isolate) mainly
from Dryobalanops aromatica
and from Blumea balsamifera.
The latter is
used as the herb Ainaxiang
(fragrant herb that looks like artemisia), which is
rich in borneol and also contains limonene, camphor, and other
terpenoid
compounds. The extracted borneol (longnaoxiang; fragrant dragon's
brain;
also known as bingpian [ice slice] referring to the appearance of the
finished
product) is considered to be suitable for abdominal and chest pains,
intestinal parasites, phlegm congestion, and fevers. Blumea is in the
same
plant family (Labiatae) as capillaris, chrysanthemum, and saussurea,
which
also contain important terpenes.
Borneol and bornyl acetate
are ingredients in the following herbal materials:
cardamon, magnolia, nutmeg, turmeric, ginger, liquidambar, lindera,
camphor oil. These herbs are all used in the treatment of pain
syndromes.
Three forms of borneol were
mentioned in the Bencao Gangmu: aifen
(powdery borneol), the crude product aipian
(the refined substance, now
known as bingpian),
and aiyu,
a by-product of distillation. The material was
obtained from Blumea grown in the southern part of China, primarily
Hainan Island (near Canton), or from imported material (from Borneo in
Indonesia) derived from Dryobalanops.
Borneol was originally used as a
carminative to reduce fevers and alleviate digestive distress. It was
also said
to inhibit worms. Another name given to borneol was longnaoxiang
(dragon
camphor fragrance), referring to its alchemical applications (the term
"nao"
also means brain).
Today borneol is classified
as an agent for opening blocked orifices, and is
described as pungent, bitter, and slightly cold. It is indicated for
severe
obstruction of the orifices (that may cause coma or convulsive
diseases), for
heat syndromes, and for pain. Although not often mentioned as useful
for
this purpose, borneol is a common addition to treatments for lung
diseases
in modern clinical practice. It is also applied topically (usually with
other
substances) for a wide range of conditions, mainly for swelling in the
throat,
mouth sores, ear infections, cervical erosion, psoriasis, boils, pain,
and eye
diseases.
Because the resin is
strongly aromatic and, partly, because of its historically
high price (which has been reduced in recent years, in part due to the
availability of the synthetic version), the recommended dosage is quite
small. Many herb guides list the internal dosage as 30 to 100 mg, taken
in
powders or pills (if added to a decoction, it will all evaporate). The
Pharmacopeia of the PRC indicates 150 to 300 mg per day. It appears
that
Chinese Herbal Medicine: Materia Medica by Bensky and Gamble has an
error in reporting of dosages, indicating 300 to 900 mg per day, a
higher
recommendation than virtually all other sources.
TOPICAL APPLICATIONS OF
BORNEOL
Borneol is used in greater
frequency for topical applications than for internal
use. Those applications are numerous, but especially apply to injuries,
burns, rheumatic pains, hemorrhoids, skin diseases, and ulcerations of
the
mouth, ear, eye, and nose. Borneol (or camphor) is almost always used
in
complex formulas, and typically comprises 1.6 to 8.5 percent of the
total
prescription. Because topical preparations are often difficult to make
in
convenient form on the spot, they are frequently used as patent
remedies.
In the English-Chinese
Encyclopedia of Practical Traditional Chinese
Medicine, vol. 4, a recipe for treating purulent otitis media is:
borneol 20% , dragon bone
33%, alum 20%, kaempheria (camphor root)
27% , one pig gallbladder. The powdered materials are applied in the
ear
once per day. Kaempheria (shannai)
is a relative of ginger that contains
borneol and camphor. Traditionally, kaempheria is used topically for
toothache and internally for warming the spleen and stomach to treat
cold
pain in the abdomen, vomiting, and diarrhea.
The Manual of Dermatology in
Chinese Medicine provides the following
examples of special preparations with borneol for application to the
skin:
Luhui
Binz Zhu Weifu Ji: 1 fresh
aloe-vera leaf, 0.3-1.0 grams borneol, a
pinch of pearl powder: mash the ingredients together and apply 1-2
times
daily for herpes zoster sores.
Bing
Shi Dan: 30g calcined gypsum
powder, 0.6g borneol powder: combine
and apply to herpes zoster pustules.
Di
Yu Er Cang Hu Gao: 18g each of
phellodendron, red atractylodes
(cangzhu),
and xanthium, 36g sanguisorba, 3g menthol, and 1.5g each of
calomel and borneol: grind to powder, combine with petroleum jelly, and
apply to skin 2-3 times daily for atopic dermatitis.
Dong
Chuang You: combine 5g borneol
and 15g camphor with 100g dried
chili peppers: grind the borneol and camphor into powder and add to a
hot
water extract of chili pepper (steep peppers in hot water for 10 hours
in
closed container, string and then add alcohol to precipitate solids
that are
removed). Add glycerine and apply the ointment 3-4 times daily to the
affected area (but not ulcerated lesions) for treating frostbite.
Qing
Liang Fen: combine powdered
talcum (120g), licorice (20g) and
borneol (12g): sprinkle on affected area 3-5 times daily for treatment
of
sunburn causing erythema, wheals, or itching.
Dahuang
Bingpian Fang: combine 100g
rhubarb powder and 20g borneol
in 250g table vinegar: let steep for 7 days; apply to affected sites 3
times
daily for seborrheic dermatitis.
Dingxiang
Bingpian San: combine 30g cloves
with 6g borneol: grind to
powder and apply to underarms 1-2 times daily to treat sweat odor.
TOXICITY
The California Health
Department, Food and Drug Branch, has raised
concerns about the safety of borneol in patent remedies. Guanxin
Suhe Wan,
because it is currently available in the form of small capsules, might
be
accidentally taken in some overdose, but it seems unlikely that anyone
would consume several times the 3 capsule recommended amount.
For references purposes,
borneol is included in the amount of either 1% or
2% in some of the Seven Forests herb formulas made available from ITM
for prescription by practitioners. In 700 mg tablets, this corresponds
to 7-14
mg of borneol per tablet. With daily dosing of 6-18 tablets (the upper
dose
being the highest recommended in the ITM literature and twice the
highest
amount suggested on the label), the amount of borneol taken in one day
can
range from 42 mg (6 tablets, 1%) to 252 mg (18 tablets, 2%). The amount
of
borneol is either below or within the range suggested by the Chinese
Pharmacopoeia (100-300 mg), and corresponds well with recommendations
in various Materia Medica guides (which have dosages as low as 30 mg).
The Seven Forests formulas, used as examples of traditional-style
prescriptions, have about the same concentration of borneol (1-2%) as
does
ordinary cardamon seed. Cardamon, including sharen
and baidoukou,
commonly used as a medicinal as well as food spice, typically contains
2-3% essential oil, for which borneol and camphor, as well as closely
related
chemical compounds, are the primary constituents.
The concern about borneol
apparently stems from a worry about camphor
oil.
0.3-0.9g (taken directly)
|
She Xiang
Musk
(Secretions from the
Musk Deer)
|
acrid
warm
|
Ht
Sp
Lv
|
Promotes blood circulation,
relieves pain and swelling, dissipates clumps;
intensely opens the orifices, revives the spirit, unblocks closed
disorders; induces labor, hastens delivery, facilitates passage of
stillborns.
• Heart misted by
phlegm or heat, heat entering the pericardium in warm-febrile disease,
or other disorders which impair consciousness: loss of
consciousness, coma, convulsions, delirium, fainting, stupor, closed
disorders, tetanic collapse, phlegm collapse, seizures.
• Blood stasis:
pain - acute chest and abdominal pain, Bi
syndrome, trauma,
toxic sores, carbuncles, immobile palpable masses, coronary artery
disease,
angina pectoris - comparable to nitroglycerine. For blood stasis
disorders, it
is used topically (in plasters, compresses) as well as internally.
• To discharge the
placenta or fetus, combine with it with Rou
gui.
• Powerfully
anti-inflammatory.
• Thought to
stimulate the CNS in small doses and inhibit it in large doses.
• Strongly
stimulates the uterus; stimulates the heart.
• Possesses male
hormone-like effects.
• Raises blood
pressure.
• Musk deer are
endangered and importation is illegal. Most commercially
available musk is synthetic or is collected from raised deer.
• Due to its
expense, this herb is never cooked.
• This is the most
intensely aromatic and penetrating substance in the
materia medica.
• Contraindicated
in pregnancy and in cases of Yin deficiency heat.
• Helps other herbs
cross the blood-brain barrier. Useful for brain conditions
such as cancer and migraines.
0.6-1.5g
|
Shi Chang Pu
Acorus rhizome
(A.
gramineus)
similar to
A.
calamus (Calamus,
Sweetflag)
|
acrid
warm
|
Ht
St
Lv
|
Opens the orifices; calms
the Shen; vaporizes phlegm; resolves damp;
adjusts the stomach/harmonizes the middle Jiao; brightens the eyes;
improves hearing; benefits muteness; mildly induces resuscitation.
• Damp-phlegm
obstruction of the heart and sensory orifices: fuzzy head,
loss of consciousness, dizziness, forgetfulness, dull senses, seizures,
stupor,
phlegm blockage of the ears including deafness.
• Damp accumulation
with Qi stagnation: chest, epigastric, and abdominal
fullness and pain.
• Damp/phlegm in
the middle Jiao which disturbs the mind.
• Used internally
or externally for wind-cold-dampness: Bi
syndrome,
trauma, sores.
• Potential use in
ADD/ADHD (e.g., Seven Forests Acorus Tablets).
• Increases
digestive secretions, relaxes intestinal spasm.
• Ulcerations of
the cornea: with Hu po, Gou qi
zi, and Ju
hua.
• Hoarseness with
accompanying sputum in the throat or swollen,
edematous vocal cords: with Jie
geng and Shi
hu.
• This
herb's ability to open the orifices is secondary to its
general, aromatic
action in vaporizing phlegm.
• Powdered herb can
be blown up the nose in emergency situations.
• Used in Ayurveda
to antidote marijuana.
• Contains
β-asarone, which has been show to be carcinogenic to
animals in
laboratory studies. These studies do not conclusively demonstrate any
danger from standard therapeutic doses in humans. Also,
β-asarone is
destroyed by prolonged cooking. Traditionally, Shi
chang pu is long-cooked with
other herbs.
DY:
Some materia medica maintain that Shi
chang pu opens the nine portals
(the seven sensory orifices plus the anus and urethra). It is
particularly
effective for sensory or psychological problems such as deafness,
tinnitus,
nasal obstruction, blurred vision, loss of consciousness,
slow-wittedness,
loss of memory, dementia, and psychoses.
• Shi
chang pu is incompatible with
meat, lamb's blood, and Yi
tang.
• With Chan
tui to effectively rouse the
spirit and open the portals. For
vertigo, tinnitus, and deafness due to obstruction of the portals.
• With Ci
shi to enrich the kidneys, calm
the liver, diffuse impediment, open
the portals, and sharpen the hearing. For indications such as:
- 1. Tinnitus and/or
deafness due to Yin deficiency or deficiency fire. (Use
vinegar dip-calcined Ci shi.)
- 2. Headaches, vertigo,
heart palpitations, vexation and agitation, and
insomnia due to Yin deficiency causing Yang hyperactivity. (Use
unprepared Ci shi.
However, it is important to know this form can cause
abdominal pain. Therefore, the dosage should be moderate [15g] and it
should be combined with Shen
qu.)
• Shi
chang pu is a generic name which
covers three distinct medicinal
substances:
- 1. Jiu
jie chang pu - Anemone
altaica: Transforms phlegm;
eliminates
wind-phlegm; opens the orifices. To treat sensory or psychological
disorders due to phlegm confounding the orifices of the heart, Jiu
jie chang pu
is the most appropriate and effective of these various medicinals.
- 2. Xian
chang pu or Xi
ye chang pu - Acorus
gramineus var. pulsillus: Is
prescribed fresh
(Xian)
and clears heat; transforms phlegm-heat; used for
loss of consciousness due to febrile disease or accumulation of
phlegm-fire.
- 3. Shi
chang pu - Acorus
gramineus: Transforms phlegm;
eliminates
dampness; stimulates hunger.
- Bai
chang pu or Shui
chang pu - Acorus
calamus [Sweetflag] is
substituted for Shi chang pu
by the majority of importers. This has a similar
action to Shi chang pu,
but is less powerful.
HF:
A Sha Chong
(kill worms or parasites) herb, important in Gu
Zheng
(Gu
parasites) formulas.
Hsu:
Stimulates secretion of digestive juices, prevents abnormal
fermentation in the GI tract; analgesic - relieves spasms of intestinal
tract
smooth muscle; sedative; antifungal; diuretic.
JTCM:
For insomnia, particularly after history of using sleeping pills which
have blocked the orifices of the heart with phlegm: use Wen
Dan Tang plus Shi
chang pu, Yuan
zhi, He
huan pi.
In Ben Cao Gan Mu, Shi chang pu
is
said to tonify the heart Qi.
• Somnolence: when
due to spleen Qi sinking, preventing the clear Yang
from reaching the head, add Shi
chang pu to Bu
Zhong Yi Qi Tang. When
due to phlegm-heat flaring up and blocking the orifices of the heart,
add Shi
chang pu to Huang
Lian Wen Dan Tang.
• Fresh Shi
chang pu juice can be dropped
into the ear to unblock the ear
and disperse EPIs.
• Tongue stiffness
after wind-stroke.
• Hoarse voice,
loss of voice, difficulty speaking: fresh herb gives better
results than dry - use 15g fresh slices in tea (particularly effective
with Chao
yi, Xuan shen, Ma bo).
• Leukorrhea: in Ben
Cao Gan Mu, it is said that Shi
chang pu can treat
uterine bleeding and leukorrhea. Use Hua
Zhuo Tiao Jin Tang for
dampness and imbalance of the Chong
and Dai Mai: Shi chang pu
15g/day, Chao yi ren
30, Cang zhu
10, Bai zhu
10, Che qian zi
10, Chao huang qin
12.
• Inhibits growth
of fungus. Especially good for women with both digestive
disorders and leukorrhea.
• Short cook to
preserve the volatile oil which calms the mind.
MLT:
With Yu jin
for mental derangement, the effects of intoxicating drugs
such as marijuana, and lack of focus.
Yoga: Vacha,
meaning "speaking" the power of the word, of
intelligence or
self-expression that this herb stimulates.
• Pungent, bitter,
astringent/heating/pungent; V, K-; P+
• Stimulant,
rejuvenative, expectorant, decongestant, nervine,
antispasmodic, emetic.
• Colds, coughs,
asthma, sinus headache, sinusitis, arthritis, epilepsy, shock,
coma, memory loss, deafness, hysteria, neuralgia.
• Used by Vedic
seers.
• Rejuvenates the
brain and nervous system, purifies and revitalizes.
• Rejuvenates Vata
and secondarily, Kapha.
• Clears the subtle
channels of toxicity and obstructions.
• Promotes cerebral
circulation, increases sensitivity, sharpens the memory,
enhances awareness.
• Sattvic
nature.
• Helps transmute
sexual energy, feeds Kundalini.
• Apply paste to
the forehead for headaches, on joints for arthritis.
• Take nasally for
congestion, polyps, to revitalize prana.
• Take with fresh
ginger to counter its emetic properties.
• Take powder
nasally to resuscitate from shock or coma.
• Caution with
bleeding.
RW:
Aromatic bitter; powerful stomach tonic, encourages its secretions;
stimulates the appetite for any type of anorexia.
• Chew the herb to
help quit smoking.
• Tonic effect on
the mucus membranes of the mouth and throat, and
stimulates saliva.
• Put bits of the
herb into a piece of cloth for a teething baby to chew on.
• Topical: the oil
is refreshing and stimulating - for tired feet, varicose veins,
more.
PCBMP:
Chinese studies show the herb to be anti-arrhythmic, hypotensive,
vasodilatory, anti-tussive, antibacterial, and expectorant.
• The American
variety may be preferable to the Chinese kind, since it
contains less or no β-asarone (a carcinogen) and is also more
aromatic, with
superior spasmolytic activity.
MW:
Opens the sinuses (as in nasya oil) and third eye.
• Good for slow
speaking, voice sounding impacted, or when the voice is
wearing out, especially due to smoking or singing. Acts on the trachea.
• Post-stroke:
inability to speak.
• Joint pain.
IBIS:
(A. calamus)
• Qualities:
aromatic, pungent, bitter, sweet, warm, dry.
• Affinities:
mucous membranes.
• Actions:
carminative, diaphoretic, sialogogue, spasmolytic, stomachic.
• Therapy:
encourages secretory action of stomach; anorexia nervosa; lack
of appetite in asthenic, young girls; children with umbilical colic;
children
with appetite disorders; tones mucous membrane lining mouth and throat;
to
stop smoking; teething children (Weiss, pp. 44-45); acute and chronic
dyspepsia; gastritis; gastric ulcer; intestinal colic (British Herbal
Pharmacopoeia, p. 14). Increases appetite, improves digestion.
• Use with caution
during pregnancy due to emmenagogue effect (Lust,
Farnsworth)
• Potential
hallucinogen (Kinghorn; Lewis and Elvin-Lewis; Schultes and
Hofmann, p. 201) [large dose of the fresh herb]
• Isolated
constituents, beta-asarone and safrole, have been shown to be
carcinogenic (Duke, pp. 14-15)
CHA:
(Karen S Vaughan, 8-30-2001)
(Regarding the concern of
β-asarone carcinogenicity:)
Traditionally, in Mideastern
and European herbalism, the Acorus
calamus
was candied, thus cooked for a long period, which would reduce the
beta-asarone. Native Americans did chew the raw root as well as infuse
and
decoct it, but the dosage would tend to be self-limited as the taste
can
become unpleasant after prolonged chewing. (And I believe that the
native
American calamus species are somewhat milder.) However, in large doses
sweet flag can be mildly hallucinogenic and quite emetic.
The Mongolians, who brought
calamus to Russia in the 13th century, were
known for planting the stronger Indian and Chinese versions of the root
near
water sources in order to keep the drinking water pure. It's nickname
"Mongolian Poison" appears to be a slur against the Mongols rather than
a
reference to the plant, which was considered benign. However, this
tradition
made more use of the antiseptic qualities of calamus.
The live plant was
introduced into Europe in 1565 and widely distributed by
the botanist Clausius. It was decocted for food stagnation, and for
problems
of the liver, gallbladder, kidney, bladder and for malaria. Leaves were
burned as an aromatic disinfectant and insectide. The roots were burned
to
clear the air from typhus, cholera and influenza. It was used topically
and in
alcohol solution as a disinfectant, for scrofula and for ulcerous skin
conditions.
In Ayurveda, Acorus
calamus is known as Vacha
and is generally used as a
dried powder. This probably leads to a partial dispersion of the
essential
oils. It is considered light and drying and is frequently used for
epilepsy and
as a gargle for acute tonsilitis. It can be boiled with milk to reduce
the
mucous-producing properties of the milk. It is also used to counteract
the
effects of constant marijuana smoking.
One note which may account
for the California ban: sweet flag oil is
widely used as an aromatic wine adulturant.
The FDA frowns upon the sale
and use of calamus and has issued directives
to certain herb dealers not to sell it to the public. (An FDA directive
is
simply a polite word for a threat of hassling without a law to back
it.) At
present there are no federal laws against calamus.
3-9g (up to 15g)
|
Su He Xiang
Resin of Rose Maloes
Liquidambar sap
Styrax
"Revive and Join
Fragrance"
|
sweet
acrid
warm
|
Ht
Sp
|
Opens the orifices and
penetrates thru turbidity; opens up areas of constraint
and clears away filth.
• Closed disorder,
phlegm blockage, epidemic toxic disease. Especially
indicated for cold disorders.
• Stifling
sensation, cold, fullness, and pain in chest and abdomen.
• Expectorant by
irritating the respiratory mucosa.
• Compared to the
other herbs in this category, Su
he xiang is particularly
useful for wind-stroke with collapse due to phlegm.
• When taken
internally this herb is always administered in powder or pill
form.
• Topical: with
olive oil for scabies, also has some effect on eczema.
• Misleadingly
called Styrax,
this herb is actually the resin of Liquidambar
orientalis (Rose Maloes) - see An
Xi Xiang.
• Difficult to
procure in the U.S.
PCBDP:
Antiseptic, expectorant, stimulant.
• Inhale for
cough/cold.
• Topical for
wound/ulcer.
Hsu:
Antibacterial, anti-inflammatory - promotes healing of ulcers.
0.3-1g
|
Herbs
That Quiet the Shen
Part 1: Herbs That Nourish
And Calm
|
These herbs are commonly
combined with:
A. Herbs that nourish blood
and Yin when there is Yin or blood deficiency of the heart.
B. Herbs that clear heat
from the heart when there is excess heart heat or fire.
C. Herbs that subdue liver
Yang when there is liver Yang rising.
D. Herbs that clear heat from the Stomach, when there is Stomach
heat/fire disturbing the Shen.
|
Also Consider, When
Appropriate, Herbs From Other Categories That Nourish and Quiet or
Anchor the Shen:
Bai He
[Nourish
Yin], Da Zao [Tonify
Qi], Dai Zhe Shi [Subdue
Liver], Dan Shen [Move
Blood], Fu Ling/Shen [Drain
Damp], Fu Xiao Mai [Astringent], Lian
Zi [Astringent], Long Yan Rou [Nourish
Blood], Mu Li [Subdue
Liver], Ren Shen [Tonify
Qi], Shi Chang Pu [Open
Orifices], Tian Zhu Huang [Resolve
Phlegm], Wu Wei Zi [Astringent],
Xi Xian Cao [Expel
W-D], Xi Jiao [Cool
Blood], Zhen Zhu [Subdue
Liver], Zhen Zhu Mu [Subdue
Liver].
|
Bai Zi Ren
Biota seed
Thuja
orientalis
= Platycladus
= Biota
Chinese
Arborvitae
|
sweet
neutral
|
K
LI
Ht
Sp
|
Nourishes heart blood;
quiets the Shen; moistens the large intestine, promotes
bowel movement.
• Heart blood
deficiency: insomnia, palpitations, forgetfulness, anxiety,
irritability (most effective herb for heart blood deficiency insomnia).
• Large intestine
dryness due to Yin or blood deficiency: constipation,
especially in the elderly, debilitated, and in post-partum women.
• Yin deficiency:
night sweats.
• More oily than Suan
zao ren - caution with loose
stools, phlegm.
• This herb must be
crushed before cooking.
• When used
topically, it is dry-fried until the oil seeps out.
DY:
Supplements heart Qi and blood; quiets the Hun, Po,
and Shen;
boosts the
intelligence.
• With Suan
zao ren for mutual
reinforcement, to effectively nourish both the
liver and the heart, tranquilize the heart, and quiet the spirit. For
indications
such as:
- 1. Palpitations, profuse
dreams, and insomnia due to heart blood (and Qi)
deficiency. (Tian Wang Bu Xin
Dan) Defatted Bai
zi ren and stir-fried Suan
zao ren should be used.
- 2. Constipation with dry
stools due to blood deficiency and intestinal fluid
insufficiency.
6-18g
|
He Huan Pi
Albizzia bark
Mimosa tree
"Collective
Happiness Bark"
He Huan Hua
Albizzia flower
|
sweet
neutral
|
Ht
Lv
|
Quiets the Shen; relieves
mental stress and depression; relieves constraint;
promotes blood circulation; dissipates swelling; alleviates pain; calms
the five
organs and promote happiness.
• Anger,
restlessness, insomnia, poor memory, constrained emotions,
irritability (when using it for insomnia, it is especially indicated
when due to
Qi problems [usually constraint]).
• Blood stasis:
trauma, carbuncle, internal abscess, pain and swelling.
Li:
Nourishes heart blood.
Hsu:
Tonic, stimulant, analgesic, anthelmintic, diuretic, oxytocic action.
9-30g
He
Huan Hua: the flower
• Sweet, neutral.
• Same functions as
the bark, though generally stronger overall, more moving
to the Qi, and promotes the free flow of stagnant liver Qi.
• Primarily for
depression, constrained emotions, irritability, insomnia,
especially when accompanied by epigastric pain and feelings of pressure
in the
chest.
• There are at
least four different plants used as this herb, including albizzia
flower, which consists of many pink hairs when fresh and becomes brown
when dry, and several unrelated others. Many practitioners prefer the
substitute
species to the "true" herb.
6-15g
|
Ling Zhi
(Chi Zhi,
Dan Zhi)
Ganoderma
Reishi mushroom
Mushroom of
Immortality
|
bitter
sweet
warm
|
Ht
Lv
Lu
|
Chen:
Nourishes the heart and calms the Shen; stops coughing and arrests
wheezing, dispels phlegm; tonifies Qi and nourishes blood.
• Restless Shen,
spleen Qi and heart blood deficiency: insomnia, forgetfulness,
fatigue, listlessness, poor appetite.
• Cough and asthma,
difficulty sleeping due to dyspnea, profuse sputum. With Ku
shen
and Gan cao
in the simplified ASHMI formula for asthma.
• Qi and blood
deficiency, weak digestion: poor appetite, listlessness, loose
stools, fatigue, dizziness, soreness of lower back. Can be used alone.
• Antineoplastic
activity: by enhancing immune function. Increases monocytes,
macrophages, and T-lymphocytes. Increases production of tumor necrosis
factor, interleukin, and interferon.
• Cardiovascular:
increases cardiac contractility, lowers blood pressure,
increases resistance of cardiac muscle to hypoxia.
• Antibiotic
properties, broad spectrum, and inhibits E. coli, B. dysenteriae,
Pseudomonas spp., pneumococci, streptococci (type A), staphylococci,
and
others.
• Hepatoprotective,
antidiabetic, antitussive, expectorant, sedative, analgesic,
and anti-asthmatic effects.
Hsu:
Nourishes, supplements, tonifies, eliminates toxicity, astringes,
disperses
accumulation.
• For deficiency
fatigue, neurasthenia, insomnia, bronchial cough in elderly,
cancer.
SNBCJ:
The six colors of Ling zhi
are the first six herbs listed in the superior
class section of the Shen Nong
Ben Cao Jing. [only red and
black are
commonly available in the U.S.] The color of the mushroom indicates its
flavor and affinities, based on five element correspondences.
• Of all varieties,
the SNBCJ
says, "Protracted taking may make the body light,
prevent senility, and prolong life so as to make one
immortal."
• Qing
zhi (green/bluegreen) is sour
and mainly affects the liver.
• Huang
zhi (yellow) is sweet and mainly
affects the spleen.
• Bai
zhi (white) is acrid and mainly
affects the Lungs.
• Purple also
exists (Zi zhi),
which is not associated with any single element.
• Hei
zhi (black) is salty and
balanced. It mainly treats urinary dribbling block,
it disinhibits the water passageways, boosts kidney Qi, frees the nine
orifices,
and sharpens the hearing
• Chi
zhi (red) [the most common form
available, and the one which is used to
calm the Shen] is bitter and balanced. It mainly treats binding in the
chest,
boosts the heart Qi, supplements the center, sharpens the wits, and
[causes
people] not to forget. Its other name is Dan
zhi (Cinnabar Ganoderma).
GIRI:
Enhances the immune system; contains carcinostatic component
(β-(1-3)-D-Glucan); antitumor (interferon-inducing) activity;
reduces blood pressure;
lowers serum cholesterol; lowers serum glucose; inhibits platelet
aggregation;
treats hepatitis; promotes robustness.
• Historical
reputation as a cancer cure.
• Appearance varies
tremendously, based on culture conditions - six major
colors, four major shapes.
• Once extremely
rare. Now mass cultivated on bed logs or sawdust.
Amato:
Anti-inflammatory. May reduce the inflammation which is a critical
factor in Alzheimer's and cardiovascular disease.
CHA:
(Karen S Vaughan, 8-26-2000): The ganodermas (black G.
lucidum, red G.
lucidum, G.
oregonense, G. tsuga, G. adspersum and
G. applanatum) are
tonic, immune strengthening, protect against cancer, have anti-tumor
properties, calm the spirit, protect and clear heat from the central
nervous
system, open the heart, lower serum cholesterol and are good for
adrenal
fatigue and for depression and anxiety. They enter all five zang
organs. They
have anti-allergic effects, inhibiting histamine production and
stabilizing
immunoglobulin levels. They lower blood pressure, are antioxidant,
antiviral
and antibacterial. Combining with astragalus, atractylodes and Ren
shen
increase phagocytosis, promote immune globulin formation, promote
lymphocyte transformation, and induce the generation of interferon.
Chinese
mountain climbers use Ling zhi
to alleviate altitude sickness by oxygenating
the blood.
I learned from a Thai doctor
with a cancer practice, Santi Rosswong, to make a
water decoction of Ganoderma
lucidum (Ling
zhi) with 10% cordyceps [Dong
chong xia cao] for stamina. But
since the polysaccharides in ganoderma are
quite long, it has been shown to be more effective if the decoction is
taken
with not less than 500 mg of vitamin C, and 5 mg of folic acid each
time. (The
vitamin C is based upon Japanese research by Morishige and the folic
acid is
based upon Santi's clinical experience.) Take several tablespoons (or
more)
every three hours. The most important dose is just before retiring,
which
should be larger. Take the folic acid and vitamin C with each dose.
There are two types of
tinctures. One uses a concentrated decoction and adds
alcohol to stabilize it. When I make it, I learned from Chris Hobbs to
shoot for
25% alcohol to protect the polysaccharides, to ensure that I got
between 22%
and 28%, the lower number for spoilage and the upper number being a
maximum for the polysaccharide protection. This appears to be the best
formulation for immune system effects. The other way is to use a high
alcohol
formation to get the triperetenes, but I understand that this destroys
the
polysaccharides and differs significantly from the constituents
extracted in
traditional uses or from powdered extracts. It may have stronger CNS
effects
however. I know several herbalists who make a high alcohol tincture and
add
it to the subsequently decocted marc to get the best of both (and they
understand that the high alcohol just makes the polysaccharides clump
together
but does not destroy them). There is not a consensus.
Ling
zhi has various steroidal
compounds, long chain polysaccharides, bitter
triperetenes such as ganodermic acid and some volatile oils. Unlike
Echinacea
which activates macrophages, ganoderma is not believed to stimulate the
immune system directly. It is probably an immune regulator rather than
an
immune stimulant. Ling zhi
mushrooms get to the bone marrow and induce
the marrow to put on more nucleated marrow cell mass, according to Jia.
The
marrow then increases B-cell production, which in turn increases
antibodies. The DNA and RNA made in the bone marrow increases
production of
lymphocytes. This very deep immune nourishing means that it may be
appropriate for AIDS patients although the patient should not suffer
from
undue dampness. For cancer therapy, combined with other fu
zheng herbs, Ling
zhi can
be quite useful, even for patients undergoing chemo and radiation.
Hobbs recommends low dose decocted ganoderma with cinnamon bark and
orange peel as a tonic drink (for those not suffering from undue
dampness) and
I find that preparation, with roasted dandelion or chicory, combines
well with
coffee, helping neutralize coffee's negative effects.
PLB:
Some sources (including Subhuti Dharmananda of ITM) indicate that
when ethanol is introduced to a water extract of Ling zhi (at greater
than 25%
by volume) the polysaccharides are not destroyed, but precipitated.
Therefore,
in a bottle of Ling zhi
extract with over 25% ethanol, the polysaccharides are
likely to be stuck to the sides of the bottle or settled at the bottom
(or they are
still stuck in the manufacturer's vessels). When attempting
to deliberately
concentrate the polysaccharides, this is a useful phenomenon. Water
extracts
may be treated with up to 99% ethanol so polysaccharides - a
greyish-white
powder - can be claimed. For normal use, hot water extracts are best,
and should be preserved with less than 25% ethanol (or as much
glycerine as you like).
1.5-15g or more (some say
15g is the minimum effective daily dose)
|
Suan Zao Ren
Zizyphus seed
Sour Jujube seed
"Sour Date
Seed"
|
sweet
sour
neutral
|
Ht
Lv
GB
Sp
|
Nourishes heart Yin and
liver Yin/blood; quiets the Shen; astringes sweat.
• Heart and liver
blood or Yin deficiency: insomnia, palpitations.
• Liver Yin
deficiency with Yang rising: irritability.
• Weak
constitution: spontaneous or night sweats.
• Sedative,
hypnotic.
• Tolerance
develops (abates with a break).
• Lowers blood
pressure.
• Raw:
stronger sedative; can clear heat and treat insomnia due to Yin
deficiency heat. May make some patients too sleepy.
• Dry-fried:
more effective for spontaneous sweats.
• Often combined
with Hou po
(Suan zao ren:Hou po
::2:1), Chen pi,
or other
herbs to counteract its greasiness.
• Can be taken
alone, 4g 1-2 hours before bed for insomnia.
• Should be ground,
or at least broken, before use.
Hsu:
Stimulates the uterus, caution in pregnancy; inhibits the CNS.
BII:
Suan Zao Ren Tang
is as effective as some benzodiazepenes for
nervousness, anxiety.
DY:
Nourishes heart Yin and blood; quiets the Hun
and Shen;
supplements the
liver and gallbladder; treats heart palpitations due to gallbladder
deficiency.
• With Bai
zi ren for mutual reinforcement,
to effectively nourish both the liver
and the heart, tranquilize the heart, and quiet the spirit. For
indications such
as:
- 1. Palpitations, profuse
dreams, and insomnia due to heart blood (and Qi)
deficiency. (Tian Wang Bu Xin
Dan) Defatted Bai
zi ren and stir-fried Suan
zao ren should be used.
- 2. Constipation with dry
stools due to blood deficiency and intestinal fluid
insufficiency.
9-20g
|
Shou Wu Teng
(Ye Jiao Teng)
Polygonum
multifl. vine
(aerial portion of He Shou
Wu)
"Vine to Pass
Through the
Night"
|
sweet
sl bitter
neutral
|
Ht
Lv
|
Nourishes the heart and
blood; unblocks the channels; quiets the Shen;
alleviates itching.
• Yin or blood
deficiency: insomnia, irritability, and especially dream-disturbed sleep
• Blood deficiency
(with channel blockage): general weakness, soreness, pain,
numbness.
• Topical: use as a
wash for itching and rashes.
• I have found it
unusually effective, even as a single herb, for insomnia.
MLT:
Sore, aching, tired limbs from blood deficiency with internal wind.
9-30g
|
Yuan Zhi
Polygala root
Chinese Senega
"Profound
Will"
or "Long-term
Memory"
|
acrid
bitter
sl warm
|
Lu
Ht
(K)
|
Quiets the Shen; relieves
mental stress; resolves phlegm; opens the orifices of
the heart; disperses swelling; reduces abscesses; improves the memory;
supports the Jing; disperses stagnant heart Qi, helps the heart and
kidney
communicate.
• Insomnia,
palpitations, disorientation, poor memory, mental stress,
restlessness, especially with brooding or constrained, pent-up emotions.
• Blockage of
orifices of the heart by phlegm: mental disorders, fuzzy-
headedness, epilepsy, emotional and mental disorientation.
• Lung phlegm:
cough with copious sputum, especially when difficult to
expectorate.
• Carbuncles,
boils, abscesses, sores, swollen and painful breasts: (uncommon
use) - used in powdered form and applied topically or taken with wine.
• Stimulates animal
uteri.
• Excessive amounts
can cause nausea and vomiting.
• Caution with
peptic ulcer, gastritis.
Li Shi Zhen:
This herb reaches the kidneys, improves the memory, supports
the Jing.
Li:
Warm and drying - caution with Yin deficiency.
DY:
Use honey-fried or licorice-processed to avoid irritation to gastric
mucous
membranes and nausea.
MLT:
Similar to various Western species, including Western Senega Snake
root.
6-9g
|
Herbs
That Quiet The Shen, Part 2: Heavy Substances
That Anchor The Shen
|
Ci
Shi
Magnetite
(Oxides of Iron,
also Magnesium
and Aluminum)
"Magnetic
Stone"
|
acrid
salty
cold
|
Lv
Ht
K
|
Anchors and quiets the Shen;
subdues liver Yang rising; nourishes the kidneys
and liver; brightens the eyes and promotes hearing; brings Qi from Lung
to the
kidneys (aids the kidneys in grasping the Qi).
• Hyperactive liver
Yang due to liver Yin deficiency: restlessness, insomnia,
palpitations, dizziness, headache, convulsions, tremors.
• Fear: convulsions
in children.
• Liver/kidney Yin
deficiency: blurry vision, tinnitus, poor hearing or deafness.
• Kidney Qi
deficiency: asthma.
• Caution for long
term use: probably contains heavy metals.
• Very difficult to
digest.
• Be cautious of
damage to the (anatomical) liver and heart.
• Usually prepared
by being fired, dipped in vinegar, then pulverized.
• Generally cooked
20-30 minutes longer than other herbs.
DY:
Should be systematically combined with Shen
qu (which "enables the
digestion of metals") so it can be digested.
• With Shi
chang pu to enrich the kidneys,
calm the liver, diffuse impediment,
open the portals, and sharpen the hearing. For indications such as:
- 1. Tinnitus and/or
deafness due to Yin deficiency or deficiency fire. (Use
vinegar dip-calcined Ci shi.)
- 2. Headaches, vertigo,
heart palpitations, vexation and agitation, and
insomnia due to Yin deficiency causing Yang hyperactivity. (Use
unprepared Ci shi.
However, it is important to know this form can cause abdominal pain.
Therefore, the dosage should be moderate [15g] and it should be
combined
with Shen qu.)
Hsu:
Inhibits the CNS; stimulates formation of blood cells (hemopoietic).
9-30g (1-3g directly as
powder)
|
Hu Po
Amber
Succinum
|
sweet
neutral
|
Ht
Lv
BL
|
Anchors and quiets the Shen;
relieves convulsions, tremors, and palpitations;
promotes blood circulation; dispels blood stasis; promotes urination;
reduces
swelling and promotes healing.
• Shen disturbance:
insomnia, palpitations, excessive dreams, forgetfulness,
anxiety, seizures; also for childhood convulsions and seizures.
• Blood stasis:
amenorrhea, pain from trauma, palpable immobile masses;
coronary heart disease.
• Scanty, difficult
urination or retention of urine, hematuria.
• Sores,
carbuncles, ulcerations of the skin, swelling and pain around the
scrotum or vulvular area.
• Generally not
cooked.
0.9-3g (directly as powder
or pill)
|
Long Gu
Fossilized Bone
(usually mammal
vertebrae and extremities)
"Dragon
Bone"
Long Chi
Fossilized Teeth
"Dragon
Teeth"
|
sweet
astringnt
sl cold
|
Ht
Lv
K
|
Anchors and quiets the Shen;
subdues the liver; suppresses liver Yang rising;
astringes and controls any body fluids.
• Heart/shen
agitation: insomnia, palpitations, epilepsy, depression, mania,
anxiety.
• Liver Yang
rising: dizziness, restlessness, irritability, easily angered, blurry
vision, vertigo.
• Deficiency/weak
body constitution: spermatorrhea, leukorrhea, uterine bleeding, night
sweats, spontaneous sweating, vaginal discharge.
• Topical: powdered
and calcined for non-healing carbuncles, furuncles, sores
and ulcerations.
• Its sedative
property is probably due, in part, to its richness in calcium.
• Drier than Mu
li and stronger to settle the
Shen, better for tremors.
• Often used with Mu
li to harness rising Yang.
• Use Long
gu raw to settle and calm the
Shen.
• Use the calcined
form as an astringent for preventing leakage of fluids and
for non-healing sores.
• Cook 20-30
minutes longer than other herbs.
Hsu:
Anti-inflammatory, expectorant, hemostatic, astringent.
DY:
Quiets the Hun.
15-30g
Long
Chi: fossilized teeth
• Astringent, cool.
• Basically same as Long
gu,
but more sedating, and especially good for
palpitations with anxiety, insomnia, and dream-disturbed sleep.
9-15g
|
Sheng Tie Luo
Iron filings
"Raw Iron
Leavings"
|
acrid
cool
|
Ht
Lv
|
Calms the liver; sedates the
Shen.
• Withdrawal-mania,
delirium from febrile disease, palpitations, insomnia,
being easily startled or prone to anger.
• Decoct for an
extra 60-90 minutes.
• Note high doses
of iron are toxic, particularly to children.
9-30g
|
Zhu Sha
Cinnabar
Mercuric Sulfide
"Vermillion
Sand"
|
sweet
cold
toxic
|
Ht
|
Anchors and quiets the Shen;
clears heat and eliminates toxicity from the
heart; sedates the heart; prevents putrefaction; expels phlegm and
clears heat.
• Shen disturbance
/ hyperactive fire in the heart: insomnia, hot sensation in the
chest, palpitations, restlessness, anxiety, convulsions. Depending on
the herbs
with which it is combined, it can be used for treating patterns of heat
excess,
phlegm-heat, or blood deficiency.
• Heat and
toxicity: carbuncles.
• Topical: mouth
sores, sore throat, snake bite, carbuncles.
• Wind-phlegm
dizziness and Lung heat
• Especially
indicated in cases resulting from fright and anxiety.
• Antiseptic
• Use only the
recommended dosage, take for a short time.
• Contraindicated
in patients with a Western diagnosis of liver or kidney
disease.
• To avoid mercury
poisoning, DO NOT HEAT this herb.
Jin:
Can substitute Hu po
when Zhu sha
is unavailable or inappropriate. [Or
illegal]
Liu:
Temporary use of appropriate dose when indicated is harmless.
Li:
"[When overused] this herb makes people stupid."
0.3-2.7g (directly as powder
or pill, or added to strained decoction)
|
Zi Shi Ying
Fluorite
(Calcium Fluorite)
Amethyst also
used
"Purple Stone
Radiance"
|
sweet
warm
|
Ht
Lv
|
Sedates the heart; settles
tremors and palpitations; warms the Lungs; directs Qi
downward; warms the womb.
• Heart blood
deficiency or liver Yang rising: disorientation, trauma, insomnia,
anxiety, convulsions.
• Lung deficiency
cold: cough, wheezing, copious sputum.
• Deficiency cold
of the womb: excessive menstruation, uterine bleeding,
infertility.
• Best herb in the
category for palpitations and irritability due to Yang rising
and excessive heart fire due to blood deficiency.
• Cook 20-30
minutes longer than other herbs.
6-15g
Gem
Essence of Fluorite:
receptivity; grounding of excess energies.
IBIS:
Amethyst:
• Qualities: cell
and molecular alteration, energizes transmutation, attunes one
with higher self/potential, releases habits and thought patterns,
improves
self-esteem, soothes central nervous system, helps remove parasites.
• Traditional uses:
alcoholism, overindulgence, gout, diabetes, urinary
problems essence: Amethyst energizes, cleanses and heals with a
vibration of
love energy. Aids spiritual opening in a grounded way.
• Spiritual:
transmutation potential, service to humanity, giving, spiritual
stimulant.
|
Blood
Tonics
|
• Herbs in this
category are rich and tend to be greasy. Use caution when there is
accumulation of dampness in the
middle Jiao.
• These herbs are
commonly combined with Qi tonics since Qi is necessary for blood
production. They may also be combined with herbs to support their
digestion (e.g., sha ren, chen pi, mu xiang, ji nei jin, shen qu, etc.)
by promoting Qi circulation in the middle jiao.
The two major
approaches to nourishing blood are:
1. Build blood directly with
blood tonics.
2. Strengthen the digestive
system (spleen Qi) to enhance the body's production of
blood.
(A formula such as Dang Gui
Bu Xue Tang, which is just Huang Qi [30g] and Dang Gui [9g], is a
simple example of both approaches.)
• Also consider, as
appropriate: Qi tonics, Yin tonics, Jing tonics; Gou
qi zi, Sang shen, Bai zi ren, Ji xue teng, Dan
shen, etc.
|
Bai Shao Yao
White Peony root
|
bitter
sour
sl cold
|
Lv
Sp
|
Nourishes blood; astringes
Yin; softens the liver (by nourishing and astringing
liver blood); relieves pain; subdues liver Yang rising; regulates the
menses;
adjusts the Ying and Wei; separates a mixture of Yin pathological
factors.
• Blood deficiency:
irregular menstruation, abdominal cramps during
menstruation, uterine bleeding, vaginal discharge.
• Yin deficiency
leading to floating Yang: night sweats, spontaneous sweating.
• Liver blood
deficiency: hypochondriac pain, costal pain, spasm in the limbs.
• Liver Qi
stagnation, liver attacking the spleen/stomach: flank, chest,
epigastric,
or abdominal pain.
• Liver Yang
rising: dizziness, headache.
• Ying/Wei
disharmony: exterior wind-cold from deficiency patterns with
continuous sweating that does not resolve the problem.
• Painful spasms in
the abdomen, cramping pain or spasms in the hands and feet,
abdominal pain associated with dysenteric disorders.
• Vaginal
discharge, spermatorrhea.
• The liver, the
general, can easily become stiff, stagnant, overpowering - Bai
shao
softens it.
• This herb has a
downward energetic.
• May lower blood
pressure.
• Use raw to pacify
the liver. Dry-fry the herb to nourish the blood and harmonize
the Ying
and Wei.
• Never to be
combined with Li lu.
• Compared to Dang
gui, both are used for pain and
blood deficiency patterns. Bai
shao is more appropriate for
blood deficiency accompanied by heat, while Dang
gui
is used more for blood deficiency accompanied by cold.
MLT:
Antispasmodic, blood moving.
• King's American
Dispensatory
(Lloyd/Felter)lists indications of this herb as "chorea,
epilepsy, spasms, various nerve affections"
PFGC:
Can astringe heat that has floated to the upper warmer and entice it
down
and drain it via urine.
• Due to its bitter
essence, it can enter the gallbladder and boost bile production.
• Excellent at
purging liver/gallbladder heat, eliminating tenesmus in dysentery or
treating eye disorders involving swelling and pain.
• With Fu
zi, it can astringe escaping
original Yang and entice it back to the lower
Jiao (must use a high dose of Bai
shao in this case).
HF:
A supplement with an anti-Gu
nature, possessing acrid, toxin-resolving
qualities, useful in Gu Zheng
(Gu
parasites) formulas.
Hsu:
Anti-spasmodic, analgesic, CNS sedative, antibacterial, may help
prevent
development of gastric ulcer.
DY:
Harmonizes the constructive Qi; constrains and protects Yin; nourishes
the
blood and constrains Yin without attracting nor blocking evils in the
interior;
nourishes stomach Yin; relieves tension, stops pain; tropism: the Yin
division.
• With Chai
hu to drain the liver without
damaging liver Yin, nourish the liver
without causing liver depression Qi stagnation, regulate the spleen,
stop pain
effectively, harmonize the interior and exterior, and constrain Yin
while upbearing
Yang. For such indications as:
- 1. Liver depression Qi
stagnation causing disharmony between Qi and blood.
- 2. Vertigo, unclear
vision, chest and lateral costal oppression, pain, and
distention due to liver depression Qi stagnation or to disharmony
between the
exterior and interior.
- 3. Menstrual
irregularities, dysmenorrhea, breast distention, low-grade fever
during the menses, premenstrual syndrome, and fibrocystic breasts, all
caused by
liver depression Qi stagnation or disharmony between the liver and
spleen.
• The combination
of Bai shao
and Chai hu
is effective for the treatment of liver
and digestive problems caused by liver depression Qi stagnation or
liver-spleen or
liver-stomach disharmony, such as subacute or chronic hepatitis,
hepatomegaly,
cholecystitis, gallstones, enteritis, and colitis.
• With Chi
shao to nourish the blood,
constrain Yin, stop pain, cool the blood
without causing blood stasis, and drain and nourish the liver. For
indications such
as:
- 1. Persistent low-grade
fever due to heat in the blood. (Add Sheng
di, Di gu pi,
and Mu dan pi.)
- 2. Dry mouth and tongue,
red and painful eyes due to insufficiency of fluids or
Yin caused by residual heat. (Wine mix-fry both herbs and add Xiang
fu and Dang
gui.)
- 3. Lateral costal and
chest pain, abdominal pain and conglomerations due to
blood stasis or liver depression Qi stagnation.
- 4. Menstrual
irregularities or amenorrhea caused by blood stasis, blood
deficiency, and/or liver depression Qi stagnation.
• With Gan
cao to engender Yin (sour +
sweet), calm the liver, fortify the spleen,
supplement Qi and blood, harmonize the liver and spleen, soothe the
sinews, and
stop pain. In this combination, 6-10g Gan
cao and 10-15g (up to 60g) of Bai
shao
can be used. For indications such as:
- 1. Weakness in the lower
limbs and spasms and pain in the limbs due to
disharmony between the Qi and the blood which causes inadequate
nourishment
of the sinews and vessels.
- 2. Abdominal pain due to
liver-spleen disharmony. If either disorder is
accompanied by cold signs, use wine mix-fried Bai
shao and mix-fried Gan
cao. If the disorder is
accompanied by heat signs, use raw Bai
shao (or Chi
shao) and
raw Gan cao.
- 3. Headaches due to blood
deficiency. (Add He shou wu, Bai ji li,
and Jiang
can.)
• The combination
of Bai shao
and Gan cao
is very effective for numerous
problems accompanied by spasms and pain, such as gastritis or colitis,
spasm of
the gastrocnemius muscle in the leg, contraction of the limbs,
tendinitis, lateral
costal pain, and hiccups or stubborn vomiting caused by spasm of the
diaphragm.
• With Gui
zhi to harmonize Yin and Yang,
the Qi and the blood, and the
constructive and the defensive. This combination drains without
damaging Yin,
while constraining without retaining evils. They harmonize the vessels,
relieve
tension and stop pain, as well as support stomach Yin and spleen Yang,
while
regulating the spleen and stomach. For indications such as:
- 1. Common cold with fever,
shivers, slight perspiration, no thirst, headache, thin
white tongue fur, and a floating, moderate pulse or, in other words, a
wind-cold
exterior pattern with disharmony between the constructive and the
defensive.
(Take Gui Zhi Tang.
10 minutes later, eat very hot rice porridge, and stay well
covered in bed to promote perspiration.)
- 2. Spontaneous
perspiration and/or night sweats accompanied by fear of wind
and cold, a cold feeling in the low back, and frequent catching of
colds due to
disharmony between the constructive and the defensive. (Use stir-fried Gui
zhi.)
- 3. Chest and cardiac area
pain due to heart Yang deficiency and disharmony
between the Qi and blood. (Use 15-30g Gui
zhi. In case of very cold limbs, Fu zi
can be added.)
- 4. Abdominal pain with
spasms and cramps due to deficiency cold and
disharmony between the Qi and blood. (Dose Bai
shao:Gui zhi::2:1. Use honey
mix-fried Gui zhi
and wine mix-fried Bai shao.)
- 5. Pain and/or numbness of
the limbs due to disharmony between the Qi and
blood. (Use stir-fried Gui zhi
and wine mix-fried Bai shao.)
- 6. Vomiting and weakness
during pregnancy accompanied by fear of cold, lack
of appetite, nausea and a weak pulse in the cubit position due to
disharmony of the
spleen and stomach and the constructive and defensive. (Use stir-fried Gui
zhi and
wine mix-fried Bai shao.)
- 7. Weakness in the
elderly, during convalescence, postpartum, and post-operatively with
fatigue and lack of strength, fear of wind, and slight perspiration
due to disharmony between the constructive and the defensive. (Use
stir-fried Gui
zhi.)
• In cases of
vertigo, uncooked Bai shao
should be used.
• In cases of
liver-spleen disharmony causing diarrhea, Bai
shao should be stir-fried until
yellow.
• In cases of
gynecological problems, wine mix-fried Bai
shao should be used.
• In cases of chest
or lateral costal pain, abdominal pain, or pain in the stomach
area, wine mix-fried Bai shao
should be used.
6-30g
|
Dang Gui
Angelica
sinensis
root
"State of
Return"
|
sweet
acrid
warm
|
Lv
Ht
Sp
|
Nourishes blood; promotes
blood (and Qi) circulation; harmonizes the blood;
relieves pain; moistens the large intestine; regulates the menses;
disperses cold;
reduces swelling; expels pus; generates flesh.
• For any form of
blood deficiency.
• Blood deficiency
and stagnation: irregular menses, dysmenorrhea, amenorrhea.
• Blood deficiency:
ashen face, tinnitus, blurry vision, palpitations.
• Blood deficiency
with chronic wind-damp Bi
syndrome.
• Blood deficiency
and cold: abdominal pain.
• Blood stasis
(especially with cold from deficiency): pain, traumatic injury, Bi,
carbuncles/boils.
• Blood deficiency
leading to large intestine dryness: constipation.
• Useful for some
sores or abscesses (where blood deficiency and stasis are
involved).
• Dang
gui's combination of
nourishing and moving qualities means that it can
nourish blood without blocking it and it can move blood without
depleting it.
• Injected into
acupoints in China for pain (neuralgias, ischemic, arthritis - this
form of therapy is not used for acute pain, tumors, infections).
• May reduce
vascular plaque formation.
• Compared to Bai
shao, both are used for pain and
blood deficiency patterns. Bai shao
is more appropriate for blood deficiency accompanied by heat, while Dang
gui is used more for blood
deficiency accompanied by cold.
• Doctrine of
signatures (to my eye, anyway [PLB]): shaped like a uterus.
• The four parts of Dang
gui:
• Dang
Gui Tou: head of the root. Most
tonifying, less ability to promote blood
circulation. DY:
Quickens the blood and stops bleeding. Often stir-fried until
carbonized to reinforce its hemostatic action.
• Dang Gui Shen:
body of the root.
Slightly more tonifying than moving.
• Dang Gui Wei:
tail of the root.
More moving than tonifying. DY:
Quickens the
blood and breaks blood stasis. This part if often wine-processed to
reinforce its
action.
• Dang
Gui Xu: the beard of Dang
gui - the rootlets of the main
and secondary
roots. DY:
Dang gui xu
quickens the blood and frees the flow of the network
vessels. This part is often wine-processed to reinforce its action.
• Quan
Dang Gui: the entire root,
which includes the four parts mentioned above. DY:
It harmonizes the blood. Li Dong Yuan said, "The head stops
bleeding and is
directed upwards. The body nourishes the blood and is fixed to the
center. The
tails break the blood and flow downward. The whole root quickens the
blood and
treats everything."
MLT:
Rich in nutrients, including vitamin B-12, folic acid, biotin.
• Stimulates
hematopoeisis; also has antiplatelet action.
• One compound
stimulates the uterus while another relaxes it and increases DNA
synthesis and growth of uterine tissue.
• For all forms of
anemia, including pernicious.
BII:
Regulates estrogen, tones the uterus.
Yoga:
Choraka:
VPK=; P+ (in excess)
• Tonic,
emmenagogue, rejuvenative (especially for Vata),
diaphoretic,
antispasmodic, analgesic, anti-arthritic.
• Topical: for
wounds, ulcers, itching, and to nourish and beautify the skin.
Hsu:
The non-volatile water-soluble compounds stimulate uterine muscle,
while
the volatile oil inhibits (relaxes) uterine muscle.
• Therefore, to
contract the uterus, decoct for a long time (cook off the volatile
oil).
• To relax the
uterus, add Dang gui
at the end and cook over low heat and/or for
short duration.
PFGC:
Li Dong Yuan said the head of Dang
gui controls bleeding and
entices its
effect to go upward, the body nourishes blood and keeps its effect in
the central
region, and the tail cracks blood and causes its effect to go down. The
entire plant
[taken as a whole] vitalizes blood but does not much move around the
body.
• With Chuan
xiong, Dang
gui gains the momentum of
budding growth and
nourishment.
• With Bai
shao, the combination is an
essential remedy to rescue Yin and
astringe Yang.
• Dang
gui can harmonize blood in cases
of Qi rebellion resulting in coughing -
once the blood is harmonized, the Qi will descend.
• Dang
gui can disperse cold stasis
causing diarrhea, abdominal pain, lumbar pain,
or headache.
• For disorders of
the Chong Mai
manifesting in Qi counterflow and internal
distress.
• Disorders of Dai
Mai
manifesting in abdominal pain and a sensation of the
lumbar region being submerged in water.
• Dry skin due to
undernourished flesh and muscles.
• Can moisten Lung
dryness, can smooth aggravation of liver wood.
• Its moistening
effect reaches all tissues and muscles.
• Can move blood
and control bleeding - useful for hematemesis and epistaxis (for
this use, it is best to fry it in vinegar to emphasize its descending
effect.
• Its ability to
disperse the surface is weak, but it is still an excellent remedy to
dispel wind (by moving blood) - good for post-partum seizures.
HF:
A supplement with an anti-Gu
nature, possessing acrid, toxin-resolving
qualities, useful in Gu Zheng
(Gu
parasites) formulas.
DY:
Dispels stasis; downbears the Qi, stops cough, and calms asthma.
• Dang
gui is probably the best Chinese
herb for treating blood stasis due to blood
deficiency or accompanied by blood deficiency.
• Dang
gui, or rather Quan
dang gui (whole Dang
gui), harmonizes the blood.
Harmonizing the blood is a term which (in the Chinese materia medica)
is almost
specific to Dang gui.
This is because Dang gui
is one of the few medicinal
substances which nourishes and moves the blood simultaneously (other
substances which possess both properties only mildly nourish the blood).
• To stop cough and
calm asthma, the whole herb (Quan
dang gui) should be
used.
• Dang
gui and Shu
di are probably the two most
effective medicinal substances
for treating constipation due to blood deficiency. Dang
gui you, the oil extracted
from Dang gui,
is particularly indicated for nourishing the blood, moistening
dryness, moistening the intestines, and promoting defecation.
• With Chuan
xiong to move the Qi and quicken
the blood without damaging the
blood, to nourish the blood without producing stasis, to dispel stasis
and stop pain. For the following indications, both herbs should be
wine-processed, though
uncooked Chuan xiong
may be used in the case of headaches or dermatological
problems:
- 1. Menstrual
irregularities, dysmenorrhea, and postpartum abdominal pain due to
blood stasis that may be mixed with Qi stagnation. (Xiong
Gui San)
- 2. Rheumatic pain due to
wind-dampness and blood vacuity.
- 3. Headaches due to blood
deficiency and/or blood stasis. (Jia
Wei Si Wu Tang)
- 4. Wounds, ulcers, or
enduring cutaneous inflammations due to Qi and blood
vacuity with Qi and blood stagnation. (Tou
Nong San)
• With Huang
qi to supplement the Qi to
strongly engender and transform blood,
to effectively supplement the Qi and blood. For the following
indications, wine
mix-fried Dang gui
and honey mix-fried Huang qi
should be used. Also, the
whole Dang gui
root (Quan dang gui)
or the body of Dang gui
(Dang gui
or Dang
gui shen) should be used. The
dosage of Dang gui
for the following indications
should be relatively low if there is Qi deficiency and weakness in the
middle
burner.
- 1. Delayed menstruation (a
long cycle), postpartum weakness, agalactia due to
Qi and blood deficiency. (Shi
Quan Da Bu Tang)
- 2. Low-grade fever caused
by blood deficiency. (Dang Gui
Bu Xue Tang) Wu
Kun of the Ming dynasty said, "When the blood is full, the
body is cool. When
the blood is vacuous, the body is warm."
- 3. Sores and welling
abscesses that do not heal, due to blood and Qi deficiency. (Tou
Nong San)
- 4. Numbness of the limbs
due to deficient blood not nourishing the sinews.
- 5. Various hemorrhages due
to Qi not containing the blood within the vessels. (Dang
Gui Bu Xue Tang)
• With Shu
di to nourish blood, enrich Yin,
supplement the liver and kidneys,
downbear the Lung Qi and promote Qi intake by the kidneys, stop cough,
and
calm asthma. For indications such as:
- 1. Chronic cough and/or
asthma due to Yin deficiency of the kidneys associated
with blood deficiency. If there is blood deficiency, Qi lacks its root.
This can
create an imbalance in the upbearing and downbearing function of the Qi
with
Lung Qi deficiency. If the kidneys are weak, they cannot insure their
function of
Qi intake. This then results in Qi counterflow and asthma. For these
indications,
this combination can be found in Jin
Shui Liu Jun Jian.
- 2. Blood deficiency. (Si
Wu Tang)
- 3. Constipation due to
blood deficiency.
PCBDP:
In a clinical trial, it was shown to be effective in improving abnormal
protein metabolism in 60% of patients with chronic hepatitis or
cirrhosis of the
liver, and it increased the erythrocyte and platelet count in many
patients.
3-15g
|
E Jiao
Ass Hide
Gelatin
|
sweet
neutral
|
Lu
Lv
K
|
Stops bleeding; nourishes
blood; nourishes Lung Yin and moistens the Lungs.
• Any bleeding
leading to blood deficiency: hematemesis, hemafecia, epistaxis,
uterine bleeding, consumptive disorders with coughing of blood.
• Blood deficiency:
dizziness, palpitations, sallow face, vertigo, insomnia.
• Liver Yin
deficiency: restlessness, insomnia.
• Lung Yin
deficiency: dry cough, asthma.
• Increases
WBC's for cancer, anemia.
• Greasier than Shu
di (commonly combined with
herbs such as Pei lan, Huo
xiang, etc.).
• The substance of
choice for blood deficiency with concurrent loss of blood.
• Usually dissolved
into a strained decoction or wine, or used in pills.
MLT:
Regularly taken by older women to counteract symptoms of dryness
associated with aging.
Hsu:
Aids in blood clotting, increases RBC count and amount of hemoglobin in
the blood, aids against shock due to external wounds.
DY:
With Huang lian
to drain fire and enrich Yin according to the method of
draining the south (i.e. fire) and supplementing the north (i.e.
water), reestablish
the interaction between the heart and kidneys, quiet the spirit, and
treat dysentery
damaging Yin. For indications such as:
- 1. Vexation, agitation,
and insomnia due to febrile disease which has damaged
Yin, deficiency fire, or heart and kidneys not communicating. (Huang
Lian E
Jiao Tang) Unprepared, or, even
better, wine-processed Huang
lian should be
used.
- 2. Dysentery which damages
Yin with pus and blood in the stools due to damp-heat in the large
intestine.
- This is a key pair for
heart-kidney disharmony, with symptoms mentioned above,
plus many psychological disorders, loss of memory, profuse dreams, and
tendency to wake up easily and frequently.
• Some treatises
say that when E jiao is
stored and aged, it is of superior quality. It is then called Chen
e jiao.
• E
jiao has a remarkable ability to
promote red blood cell production.
3-15g
|
He Shou Wu
Polygonum
multiflorum
root
"Mr.
He's Black
Hair"
|
bitter
sweet
astrngnt
sl
warm
|
Lv
K
|
Nourishes blood; augments
the Jing; secures the Jing and stops leakage; tonifies
the liver and kidneys; eliminates toxicity and treats malaria; relieves
fire toxicity;
moistens the large intestine and promotes bowel movement; eliminates
internal
wind and expels wind from the skin (through nourishing blood).
• Jing and
blood/Yin deficiency: dizziness, blurry vision, early greying of the
hair,
weakness of the lumbar region and knees, soreness in the extremities,
insomnia,
seminal emission, uterine bleeding.
• Jing leakage:
nocturnal emission, premature ejaculation, vaginal discharge.
• Jing and blood
deficiency: chronic malaria, carbuncles, lumps, constipation.
• Fire toxicity:
carbuncles, neck lumps, goiter, sores, scrofula.
• Blood deficiency:
wind rash with itching.
•
Bensky/Gamble: compared
to Shu di, He shou wu
is thought to focus more on
the liver, while Shu di
focuses more on the kidneys.
• PLB:
when He shou wu
is prepared with black beans, its action is focused more
on the kidneys.
• He
shou wu is drier than Shu
di. It does not have Shu
di's viscous, cloying
properties, does not impair digestion, and is acceptable for use with
mild
dampness.
• Weaker than Shu
di at nourishing blood,
stronger than Shu di
at nourishing Jing.
• Use the prepared
form to nourish Jing and blood and tonify the liver and
kidneys.
• Use the dry form
to moisten the large intestine for constipation and for its
anti-inflammatory action.
• Lowers serum
cholesterol.
• Widely used for
hypertension and coronary heart disease.
• Do not cook this
herb in a steel vessel - it alters the chemistry of the herb.
• This herb is also
known (mistakenly) as Fo ti
tieng.
MLT:
Often steamed with black soy beans and yellow rice wine (giving it a
reddish-brown color) to increase its tonic properties.
• Its chemistry
resembles human adrenocorticoids.
• Contains much
lecithin (may be responsible for the herb's
cholesterol-controlling effects).
• Reduces the heart
rate while slightly increasing circulation of blood through the
heart.
• Very good for
lumbar pain from blood/Jing deficiency.
HF:
A supplement with an anti-Gu
nature, possessing acrid, toxin-resolving
qualities, useful in Gu Zheng (Gu
parasites) formulas.
BF:
In He Shou Wu Lu
(Song of He Shou Wu),
it is said that this herb boosts the
Qi.
• In Dian
Nan Ben Cao, it is said that
this herb astringes the Jing and hardens the
kidneys.
• In Kai
Bao Ben Cao, it is said that
this herb mainly treats scrofula, disperses
welling abscesses and swellings, treats head and face wind sores and
the five
kinds of hemorrhoids, stops heart pain, boosts the blood and qi,
blackens the hair,
brightens the color of the cheeks, and also treats various women's
postpartum and
abnormal vaginal discharge diseases (several of these patterns involve
damp-heat).
Yoga:
P, V-; K and ama+ (in excess)
• Tonic,
rejuvenative, aphrodisiac, astringent, nervine.
• For anemia,
neurasthenia, impotence, low back pain, enlarged lymph glands,
arteriosclerosis, diabetes.
• With Gotu kola to
counteract aging (He shou wu
for the tissues, Gotu kola for
the mind).
Hsu:
Purgative (by anthraquinone derivatives) - stimulates intestinal
peristalsis;
inhibits increase in serum cholesterol, decreases absorption of
cholesterol from
the alimentary canal, prevents retention of lipid in serum or inhibits
deposition of
lipid on inner membrane of arteries; antiviral; cardiotonic.
9-30g
|
Long Yan Rou
Longan fruit
"Dragon Eye
Flesh"
|
sweet
warm
|
Ht
Sp
|
Tonifies Qi and nourishes
blood of the spleen and heart; calms the Shen.
• Heart and spleen
blood and Qi deficiency: insomnia, palpitations, poor memory,
dizziness.
• Especially for
problems associated with excessive pensiveness or overwork.
• Often eaten alone
or taken as an infusion.
LL:
Very warm.
6-15g (to 30)
|
Shu Di Huang
Rehmannia root
(Wine-cooked)
"Cooked Earth
Yellow"
|
sweet
sl
warm
|
Lv
Ht
K
|
Nourishes blood and Yin;
supports the Jing and marrow.
• Blood deficiency:
sallow face, dizziness, insomnia, palpitations, irregular
menstruation, uterine bleeding, postpartum bleeding.
• Kidney Yin
deficiency: tidal fever, night sweats, seminal emission, steaming
bone disorder, wasting and thirsting disorder (may correspond with
diabetes), low
back and joint pain, vertigo.
• Jing and
blood/Yin deficiency: weak lumbar region, knees and lower
extremities, dizziness, poor hearing and vision, early greying of hair.
• Very greasy - can
cause nausea and damage the digestion (often combined with
or toasted with Chen pi
and Sha ren).
• Shu
di's function to
nourish the Jing is not as strong as Lu
rong.
• May lower blood
pressure and serum cholesterol.
• Bensky/Gamble:
compared to He shou wu, Shu di
is thought to focus more on
the kidneys, while He shou wu
focuses more on the liver. [Though preparing He
shou wu with black soy beans
enhances its action on the kidneys.]
PFGC:
Treats asthma due to Yin deficiency and failure of the kidneys to
absorb
Qi.
• Taxation cough.
• Kidney deficiency
leading to inhibition of the kidneys' filtering process,
causing
decreased urination and eventually edema.
• Treats injury to
the Yin layer of all organ networks.
Hsu:
Cardiotonic; dilates renal blood vessels, diuretic; hypoglycemiant.
Yoga:
P, V-; K and Ama
+
• Tonic,
rejuvenative, aphrodisiac, demulcent, laxative, emmenagogue.
• For weak kidneys,
lumbar pain, sexual debility, irregular menses, cirrhosis,
anemia, hair loss, diabetes, senility.
DY:
With Dang gui
to nourish blood, enrich Yin, supplement the liver and
kidneys, downbear the Lung Qi and promote Qi intake by the kidneys,
stop cough,
and calm asthma. See Dang gui
for specific indications and notes.
• Shu
di and Dang
gui are probably the two most
effective medicinal substances
for treating constipation due to blood deficiency.
• Shu
di is incompatible with animal
blood, onions, chives, turnips, radishes, and
garlic.
9-30g
|
Qi
Tonics
|
These
herbs are commonly
combined with:
A. Blood tonics, because
blood is the mother of Qi.
B. Herbs that promote Qi
circulation "“ for when there is stagnation (which may be due
to Qi deficiency) and also to prevent stagnation as a result of
ingestion of these rich herbs.
|
Bai Zhu
White
Atractylodes
rhizome
|
bitter
sweet
warm
|
Sp
St
|
Tonifies spleen Qi; dries
dampness; promotes urination; stabilizes the exterior,
stops sweating; calms the fetus; resolves water retention and phlegm.
• Spleen (or
stomach) Qi deficiency with dampness: diarrhea, fatigue,
distention in the epigastric region and abdomen, poor appetite,
vomiting,
constipation.
• Failure of the
spleen to transform and transport food: retention of water and
dampness: edema, cough, difficult breathing, nausea, vomiting,
dizziness,
reduced urination.
• Auxiliary herb
for damp Bi
syndrome.
• Spleen Qi
deficiency leading to failure of the Wei
Qi to control the pores:
spontaneous sweating.
• Spleen Qi
deficiency: threat of miscarriage.
• For constipation
due to spleen Q deficiency and dampness, use 30g Bai
zhu
alone.
• Elevates
prothrombin time.
• Use raw to dry
dampness and promote urination.
• Dry-fry to
strengthen the spleen and tonify Qi.
• Scorch to
strengthen the spleen and stop diarrhea.
Li:
Very warm and dry.
PFGC:
Increases the appetite, enhances processing of ingested food.
• Best herb for
tonifying spleen Qi (Yang).
• Controls
excessive sweating due to spleen dampness.
• Can stimulate
sweating because a strong spleen will facilitate sweating if
there is a need for it.
• All disorders
involving water accumulation and dampness will resolve when
the spleen is built up.
• Bai
zhu should not be used in
excessive cold-damp when water pathogens
drown the entire central region of the body (must tonify kidney Yang).
• Unprocessed, it
can disperse blood between the lumbar region and umbilicus
that runs disorderly in the vessels and causes Qi counterflow and
internal
distress.
• Treats weakness
or pain in the extremities caused by a dilapidated spleen.
• With rising and
dispersing herbs, it can regulate the liver.
• With sedating
herbs, it can nourish the heart.
• With cooling,
moistening herbs, it can tonify the Lungs.
• With herbs that
moisten Yin, it can tonify the kidney system.
DY:
Disperses swelling.
• Bai
zhu is incompatible with black
carp, peaches, plums, coriander, and
Chinese cabbage.
• To fortify the
spleen and supplement the Qi, bran stir-fried Bai
zhu is
prescribed. To dry dampness and disinhibit urination, unccoked Bai
zhu is
used.
• With
Fu ling, the two herbs reinforce
each other to effectively supplement
the spleen and dry dampness, percolate dampness, and disinhibit
urination. For such indications as:
- 1. Edema due to
accumulation of dampness, due in turn to spleen deficiency.
(Bai Zhu San)
- 2. Fatigue, weakness in
the limbs, lack of appetite, loose stools or diarrhea
caused by spleen deficiency with accumulation of dampness. (Shen
Ling Bai
Zhu San)
- 3. Vertigo, blurred
vision, and/or heart palpitations due to phlegm-dampness.
(Ling Gui Zhu Gan Tang)
- 4. Chronic cough due to
phlegm-dampness and spleen deficiency. (Liu
Jun Zi
Tang)
• With Huang
qin to clear heat stirring the
fetus, dry dampness, and fortify the
spleen to contain the blood and the fetus. For uterine bleeding during
pregnancy, threatened miscarriage, nausea and vomiting during pregnancy
caused by heat or damp-heat associated with spleen deficiency which is
incapable of containing the blood within the vessels. For these
indications, the Bai zhu
should be bran stir-fried, and the Huang
qin should be stir-fried until
scorched.
• With
Zhi shi to supplement without
producing stagnation and drain without
damaging the correct Qi, to fortify the spleen, disperse food
stagnation, and
effectively eliminate accumulations and distention. For the following
indications, except as otherwise indicated, the two herbs should be
stir-fried:
- 1. Accumulation of food,
distention and fullness of the abdomen and
epigastrium, and difficult bowel movements due to spleen Qi deficiency
and
Qi stagnation. (Zhi Zhu Wan)
When the patient's main complaint is
abdominal and epigastric distention due to Qi deficiency and spleen
deficiency
with or without dampness, the dosage for Bai
zhu should be very high - as
much as 100g per day. In this case Bai
zhu is generally used alone.
- 2. Splenomegaly and
hepatomegaly due to Qi deficiency and stagnation.
- 3. Ptosis of the organs
(stomach, uterus, and anus) due to central Qi
deficiency. For these indications, honey mix-fried Huang
qi, stir-fried Chai
hu, and honey mix-fried Sheng
ma should be added.
• Dong
bai zhu is Bai zhu harvested in
the winter. Instead of having a drying
nature, it has a moistening one. It fortifies spleen Yang and nourishes
spleen
Yin, moistens the intestines, and treats constipation.
Hsu:
Pronounced and long-lasting diuretic effect; sedative; lowers blood
sugar; stomachic.
4.5-9g
|
(Bai) Bian Dou
Dolichos
Hyacinth bean
"Flat
Bean"
|
sweet
sl.
warm
|
Sp
St
|
Resolves dampness; clears
summer-heat; mildly tonifies spleen Qi.
• Spleen Qi
deficiency: loose stool or diarrhea, poor appetite, fatigue, copious
leukorrhea, loud stomach growling.
• Summer-heat:
especially with vomiting, diarrhea.
• Can tonify spleen
Qi without blocking the Qi.
• Can resolve damp
without damaging Yin.
• Use dry-fried to
strengthen the spleen, untreated to clear summer-heat.
• Some say this
herb can nourish spleen Yin.
• Bensky/Gamble:
clear summer-heat category.
MLT:
Must be cooked - uncooked, it can inhibit the enzymes trypsin and
amylase (this effect is significantly but not completely resolved by
cooking).
• Eat 50g boiled
each day for gastroenteritis.
9-21g
|
Ci Wu Jia
Eleutherococcus
senticosus root
|
|
|
Tonifies Qi, nourishes the
heart; promotes blood circulation.
• Generally
indicated for any pain.
BII:
Adaptogen: increases humans' ability to withstand adverse
physical
conditions, increases mental alertness and work output, increases
quality of
work under stressful conditions, and improves athletic performance.
Also has
adaptogenic activity in disease states.
• Virtually nontoxic.
• Useful mainly in fatigue,
depression, immunodepression.
PPP:
Assists the body to counteract and adapt to stress of many origins;
restores and strengthens the body's immune response;
increases vitality.
• Improves mental
and physical performance.
• Used to minimize
the effects of stress in those subject to chronic illness or to
environmental or occupational stress: spares the adrenal glands,
promotes self-repair mechanism to enhance resistance to radiation and
chemical carcinogens. Compared to Ren shen, Ren shen confers a direct
resistance to cells by altering
cell physiology whereas the improved survival from eleutherococcus is
via an
indirect action on the whole organism.
• Used to improve
performance and minimize the effects of stress in athletes. In studies,
improved speed of runners, maximal work capacity of athletes, and
enhanced muscle strength.
• Enhances immune
function, especially natural killer cells and T-helper cells.
Stimulates immunity against bacteria and viruses.
• May heighten
protective activity of the anticoagulant system, improve repair
of heart muscle. May provide greater oxygen metabolism and increase
conversion of fat into glycogen for energy. May counter the effects of
cerebral
ischemia. Atherosclerotic patients and those with rheumatic heart
lesions
show an improvement in cardiovascular function and general well-being
when
taking eleutherococcus.
• Patients with
chronic bronchitis, pneumoconiosis, and pneumonia show
improved well-being and Lung capacity when taking eleutherococcus.
• Eleutherococcus
lowers blood pressure in hypertension and raises low blood
pressure (e.g. in hypotensive children).
• Cancer:
Eleutherococcus enhances non-specific immunity and minimizes
side effects from radiation, chemotherapy, and surgery, improves
healing and
well-being.
• Eleutherococcus
has been found to inhibit spontaneous malignant tumors and
tumors induced by a number of carcinogens. It also led to decreased
transplantability of tumors in mice and inhibition of metastases in
some cases. Components of eleutherococcus exert an antiproliferative
action upon some
cancer cells. Eleutherococcus potentiates the effect of some cytotoxic
drugs,
thereby reducing the amount of drug needed. Eleutherococcus lowered the
occurrence of chromosomal mutations and increased the survival rate of
plants
exposed to mutagens.
• Convalescence
after antibiotic therapy: Eleutherococcus has demonstrated a
beneficial effect on antibiotic-induced diarrhea during convalescence.
• Adjuvant
treatment in dysentery.
• Compared to Panax
[true Ginseng]: Unlike ginseng, eleutherococcus rarely
causes excitation or a stress-like syndrome in patients.
Eleutherococcus has a
more general effect on immunity than ginseng. Eleutherococcus causes a
more
profound increase in stamina than ginseng.
• Caution:
sometimes species of Periploca - an inferior and toxic herb - are
substituted for eleutherococcus.
• Recommended
regime for healthy people is a course of 6 weeks followed by
a 2 week break. For treatment of specific illnesses, continuous use is
preferable.
|
Da Zao
Jujube
Zizyphus
Red Chinese Date
"Big
Date"
|
sweet
warm
|
Sp
St
|
Tonifies spleen Qi;
nourishes blood; calms the Shen; reduces herbs' side
effects (mild action), moderates and harmonizes the harsh properties of
other
herbs.
• Spleen/stomach Qi
deficiency: poor appetite, loose stool, fatigue, shortness
of breath (good for children).
• Blood deficiency:
mental depression.
• Restless organ
disorder: wan appearance, irritability, severe emotional
lability.
• Good for
eruptions, hives, bleeding.
• Stronger than Gan
cao to tonify Qi.
• Closely related
to Suan zao ren.
• Seems to
normalize the liver (enzymes, recovery from toxicity).
Hsu:
Anti-ulcer activity.
DY:
Harmonizes and protects the stomach.
• With Sheng
jiang to move the defensive Qi,
nourish the constructive Qi,
harmonize the constructive and defensive, fortify the spleen, and
harmonize
the middle burner. For indications such as:
- 1. Perspiration, fear of
wind, and fever due to disharmony between the
constructive and defensive Qi. (Gui
Zhi Tang)
- 2. Fatigue, lack of
strength, abdominal pain, and lack of appetite due to
disharmony between the constructive and defensive Qi. (Xiao
Jian Zhong
Tang)
- This pair helps insure the
proper assimilation of the active principles of other
medicinal substances. These are the two main harmonizing herbs in
Chinese
medicine.
• With Ting
li zi to powerfully drain the
Lungs, disinhibit urination, and
drastically evacuate phlegm without damaging Yin or the stomach.
Together,
they downbear Qi and calm asthma. For indications such as asthma, cough
with stertor, wheezing, a swollen face, and oliguria due to
accumulation of
phlegm in the Lungs. (Ting Li
Da Zao Xie Fei Tang)
• Da
zao can be used as a harmonizing
medicinal with herbs that are
incompatible with Gan cao,
such as Gan sui, Yuan hua, Da
ji, and Hai
zao, or
in case of edema, anuria, or hypertension.
PCBDP:
Emollient, sedative, antitussive, anti-allergic (increases cyclic AMP
and GMP in leukocytes), nutritive; may inhibit anaphylaxis; in
vitro anti-tumor
activity.
3-30g (3-12 dates)
|
Dang Shen
Codonopsis root
"Group
Root"
|
sweet
neutral
|
Sp
Lu
|
Tonifies Lung Qi; tonifies
spleen/middle Jiao Qi; mildly nourishes body fluids;
mildly nourishes blood.
• Spleen Qi
deficiency: fatigue, poor appetite, loose stool, lassitude, diarrhea,
vomiting, weak limbs, chronic illness, prolapse of stomach, uterus, or
rectum.
• Lung Qi
deficiency: chronic, weak cough, shortness of breath, weak voice
(also with copious sputum due to spleen Qi deficiency).
• Injury of body
fluids and Qi in febrile disease: shortness of breath, thirst,
wasting and thirsting disorder.
• Blood deficiency:
dizziness, sallow face, palpitations.
• Pathogenic
influences with significant concurrent Qi deficiency: combine Dang
shen
with herbs to release the exterior, drain damp, etc.
• Raises RBC count
and hemoglobin.
• Dang
shen is similar to Ren
shen, but not as strong. In most
cases of Qi
deficiency, it can be effectively substituted for
Ren shen. In cases of
deficiency of both spleen and Lung Qi, it is even preferred. However, Ren
shen is imperative for collapsed
Qi or devastated Yang. When replacing Ren
shen with Dang
shen, use about 3 times as much Dang
shen as you would use
of Ren shen.
• Compared to Yi
tang, Dang
shen is indicated for
deficiency-induced cough
with profuse sputum, while Yi
tang is more for a
non-productive deficiency-induced cough.
• Heiner Fruehauf
believes this herb is what was historically used as Ren
shen
(not ginseng).
• Heiner Fruehauf
believes this herb has some potential to exacerbate Gu
parasite infections. If the Gu symptoms worsen
after
administering Dang shen,
consider it as a possible cause.
Hsu:
Hypotensive; dilates peripheral blood vessels; inhibits adrenal cortex
activity.
SD:
May help antidote lead poisoning. Has also been widely used for its
immune enhancing effects. It is reported to have the same basic action
as
ginseng, and it is especially good for building up the red blood cells.
DY:
Tends to supplement the middle burner and Yin.
• With Huang
qi to powerfully supplement the
Qi, to effectively supplement
the Qi of the middle burner and the exterior defensive. For indications
such
as:
- 1. Chronic illness leading
to Qi vacuity.
- 2. Rectal and uterine
prolapse and gastric ptosis due to central Qi fall. (Bu
Zhong Yi Qi Tang)
- 3. Lack of appetite, loose
stools, fatigue, lack of strength, and spontaneous
perspiration due to Qi deficiency.
- 4. Low-grade fever due to
Qi vacuity. (Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang)
- To supplement the middle
burner, these two herbs should be honey mix-fried. In case of loose
stools or diarrhea, one should prescribe rice stir-fried Dang
shen.
In case of spontaneous sweats, one should prescribe unprepared Huang
qi.
• Dang
shen does not directly nourish
the blood and fluids. It supplements the
spleen which is the latter heaven or postnatal root, the origin of Qi,
blood,
fluids and humors, and acquired essence.
9-30g
|
Feng Mi
Honey (light)
|
sweet
neutral
|
Sp
Lu
LI
|
Tonifies spleen Qi; relaxes
muscles to relieve pain; moistens the Lungs, stops
coughing; moistens the large intestine, promotes bowel movement.
• Spleen Qi
deficiency: fatigue, poor appetite, abdominal and epigastric pain.
• Lung Yin
deficiency: dry cough, dry throat.
• Large intestine
dryness: constipation, especially in the elderly (take 30-60g in
warm water or with cucumber).
Li:
Honey has a quite cool nature.
• Other sugars: red
is quite warm, brown is warm, white is slightly warm or
neutral, rock is slightly cool.
15-30g
|
Gan Cao
Licorice root
"Sweet
Herb"
|
sweet
neutral
|
all,
esp.
Ht
Lu
Sp
St
|
Tonifies spleen Qi; moistens
the Lungs to stop coughing, eases difficult
breathing; relaxes the muscles, eases spasms to relieve pain; clears
heat;
eliminates toxicity; conducts herbs into the twelve channels;
coordinates herbs:
reduces side effects of some herbs, antidotes some poisons, harmonizes
cold
and warm herbs, protects the spleen from cold herbs, mitigates the
purging
function of purgatives and lightens other violent qualities of herbs.
• Spleen Qi
deficiency: poor appetite, loose stool, fatigue, shortness of breath.
• Spasm and pain in
the epigastrium, abdomen, limbs (including when due to
malnutrition or cold).
• Fire-toxicity:
carbuncles, poisoning from food or herbs, sores, sore throat.
• Used internally
and externally to antidote poisons.
• Heat or cold in
the Lungs: coughing and wheezing.
• Increases
duration and strength of effects of cortisol: useful for low adrenal
function.
• Anti-inflammatory
effects (glycyrrhetinic acid [weaker than cortisol]).
• Useful for
chronic asthma. Used with Ku
shen and Ling
zhi in the simplified
ASHMI formula for asthma.
• Relieves and
prevents ulcers (DGL can be used if there is concern of sodium
retention and the resulting hypertensive effect).
• May possess
anti-neoplastic effects.
• Can cause water
retention: aldosterone-like effects, decreased urination,
decreased sodium excretion - long-term use may cause hypertension
and/or
edema.
• Zhi
gan cao: honey fried - more
tonic, better than the raw herb for
moderating spasms. This form is used in most cases, except when
clearing
heat and toxicity (for which the raw herb is preferred).
• Raw Gan
cao is more detoxifying and heat
clearing than the prepared form.
• Gan
cao shao: tips of the root - can
disinhibit urination and free strangury.
HF:
A supplement with an anti-Gu
nature, possessing acrid, toxin-resolving
qualities, useful in Gu Zheng
(Gu
parasites) formulas.
SD:
May help antidote lead poisoning.
DY:
With Bai shao
to engender Yin (sour + sweet), calm the liver, fortify the
spleen, supplement Qi and blood, harmonize the liver and spleen, soothe
the
sinews, and stop pain. For indications such as:
- 1. Weakness in the lower
limbs and spasms and pain in the limbs due to
disharmony between the Qi and the blood which causes inadequate
nourishment of the sinews and vessels.
- 2. Abdominal pain due to
liver-spleen disharmony. If either disorder is
accompanied by cold signs, use wine mix-fried Bai
shao and mix-fried Gan
cao. If the disorder is
accompanied by heat signs, use raw Bai
shao (or Chi
shao) and raw Gan
cao.
- 3. Headaches due to blood
deficiency. (Add He shou wu, Bai
ji li,
and Jiang
can.)
• The combination
of Bai shao
and Gan cao
is very effective for numerous
problems accompanied by spasms and pain, such as gastritis or colitis,
spasm
of the gastrocnemius muscle in the leg, contraction of the limbs,
tendinitis,
lateral costal pain, and hiccups or stubborn vomiting caused by spasm
of the
diaphragm.
• Gan
cao can moderate the cold nature
of Hua shi
and protect the middle jiao,
while Hua shi
can prevent stasis due to the sweet flavor of Gan
cao. As a pair,
they clear heat, eliminate summer-heat, disinhibit urination without
damaging
the middle burner, and free strangury. For such indications as:
- 1. Fever, vexation,
agitation, thirst, vomiting, diarrhea, and dysuria due to
attack of summer-heat with internal and external heat. (Liu
Yi San)
- 2. Turbid strangury.
- 3. Stone and/or sand
strangury.
- For these indications, Gan
cao shao is superior to regular Gan
cao.
• With Jie
geng to clear heat, transform
phlegm, disinhibit the throat and stop
pain, evacuate pus, and resolve toxins.
- 1. Pulmonary abscess with
cough, expectoration of profuse, purulent phlegm,
and chest oppression and pain due to heat stasis in the chest. (Jie
Geng Tang)
- 2. Pain, redness, and
swelling of the throat due to heat (deficient or excess,
external or internal).
- 3. Loss of voice and/or
hoarse or husky voice.
- For indications 2 and 3,
the combination can be reinforced by adding He
zi,
as in He Zi Tang.
For these indications, in cases of Lung dryness, honey mix-fried Jie
geng should be used.
• Gan
cao is incompatible with pork,
seaweed (particularly Hai zao),
and
Chinese cabbage.
• In cases of
edema, oliguria, anuria, or hypertension, the dosage of Gan
cao
must be moderate (3-6g) and its administration should be of short
duration. In
other cases, for prolonged administration, a dosage of 10g per day
should not
be exceeded.
• Note: Sionneau
lists the usual dosage of Gan
cao at 6-10g.
K&R:
Anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic, immune strengthener, estrogenic,
luteotropic, antispasmodic, antiulcerative, vagolytic, febrifuge,
antitussive,
aldosterone stimulant, MAOI, stimulates the adrenal cortex.
• Improves fat
digestion, reverses degeneration of liver cells by improving
detoxification - for fatty liver, chronic hepatitis, to lower
cholesterol.
• Increases
interferon production.
• Eye drops: for
conjunctivitis, blepharitis.
• Chronic gum
infections.
• Prolonged use is
suitable only for the water yin type (since it can lead to K+
loss and edema).
• Earth, water, and
metal yin.
• Earth:
GI ulcer and spasm, glossitis, stomatitis, herpes simplex infection,
tooth plaque.
• Water:
low immune function, depression, chronic infection, gonadal
insufficiency, trichomonas infection.
• Metal:
recurring, chronic respiratory tract infection, cough.
BII:
Heals peptic ulcers (DGL preferred), estrogenic activity,
aldosterone-like
action (can cause sodium retention and hypertension - a high potassium,
low
sodium diet may prevent this), anti-inflammatory (cortisol-like
action), anti-allergic, antihepatotoxic, antineoplastic, expectorant,
antitussive, antiviral.
• Possible use in:
HIV (seems to halt progress of the disease, may prevent
decline of CD4s and CD8s), aphthous stomatitis (mouthwash), eczema,
heartburn, hepatitis, inflammation, menopausal symptoms, periodontal
disease.
JC:
Aperient, demulcent, emollient, pectoral, slight stimulant, sialogogue,
expectorant.
• Laxative or
mildly purgative (by dose) to the entire intestinal tract: a
moderate dose makes liquid stools within 3-12 hours (3-6 on an empty
stomach).
• Useful for
hemorrhoids.
• Healing to the
glandular system.
• Heals mucous
membranes.
Yoga:
Yashti Madhu
(honey stick): V, P-; K+(if used long term)
• Demulcent,
expectorant, tonic, rejuvenative, laxative, sedative, nourishes the
brain, increases cerebrospinal fluid.
• Sattvic
- calms the mind, nurtures the spirit.
• A large dose is a
good emetic for cleansing the Lungs and stomach of Kapha.
Hsu:
Detoxifies bacterial toxins, poisonous foods and drugs, toxins of
metabolic products.
• Antispasmodic,
inhibits gastric secretions caused by histamine, anti-inflammatory,
antitussive, antiallergic, antiulcerative, expectorant,
adrenocortical hormone-like effects.
HF:
(The words of Zhang Xichun:) If processed, the tonic properties of
licorice become enhanced, while if left unprocessed, it not only
tonifies the
center, but also disinhibits. It is therefore appropriate for the
treatment of
cholera. The theory that raw licorice has a disinhibiting effect can
easily be
proven in clinical practice. I once treated the child of a Mr. Wang
from
Kaiyuan. Endowed with a weak spleen and stomach, the boy suffered from
serious indigestion and kept throwing up his food. Also, his urination
was
inhibited, producing edema in virtually every part of his body, as well
as a
large and distended belly. I prescribed fine licorice powder, to be
mixed with
an equal amount of the Western drug Pepsinum. I had him take one qian
(3g)
of this mixture three times per day. After several days, the vomiting
stopped,
the urination returned to normal, and the swelling and distention
disappeared.
My friend Wei Ziba made it a
habit to put some licorice in his teapot every
day, pour hot water over it, and drink it like a tea. After about ten
days, he
noticed that both his stool and his urination started to get quite
busy, and he
stopped drinking the licorice water. When he saw me later, he related
this to
me and asked why an herb that is usually thought of as a tonic can
disinhibit
urination and bowel movements. I answered: "When cooked or processed,
licorice tonifies; when used unprocessed, it disinhibits. Even though
you put
the herb into a teapot with hot water, it never got cooked. Therefore,
its effect
was still close to the raw herb, and therefore could disinhibit."
Li Zibo told the story of a
child suffering from abdominal pain. The doctor
said that frequent consumption of licorice decoction could cure the
problem. Because the patient drank too much of the licorice decoction,
urination became
inhibited and symptoms of edema and abdominal distention emerged. The
boy lived close to the train station, where there were always wagons
loaded
with licorice. His sister often brought some of it home so they could
chew on
it, and as this became a daily habit, his edema and distention
gradually
disappeared.
These examples demonstrate
that the functions of unprocessed licorice and
processed or cooked
licorice are fundamentally different. When working with
licorice, therefore, shouldn't we always consider the raw or
processed/cooked
state of the herb as an integral part of the prescription?
CHA:
(Karen S Vaughan, 11-17-2000):
As far as I can determine
blood pressure has never been known to be raised
from properly prescribed herbal preparations containing licorice root,
of either
the European or Chinese varieties. It has however been found to be
raised in
persons consuming large quantities of (real) licorice candy such as
Panda
licorice, at doses as low as 1 ounce candy daily and can also be
attributable to
(real) licorice flavored alcoholic drinks. Candy consumption and
extrapolation
from constituent data are the root of warnings about licorice and blood
pressure. Quantity and refinement issues are both factors with licorice
candy. There is a significant difference in aqueous extractions and
alcohol extractions
in licorice. My information is that one would need 10-45 grams per day
[to
raise blood pressure], which is a lot of licorice. There are cases of
persons
who have unusual sensitivity (almost allergy) to licorice, plain or DGL
which
may manifest with high blood pressure. I find oedemic, not diuretic
indications for licorice in my western sources. Reduced excretion of
potassium (and its replacement) can be achieved with the addition of
dandelion
to formulas. Some constituent information which may or may not be
relevant
to aqueous extractions of Gan
cao: One active ingredient in
licorice,
glycyrrhizin, and it main gut metabolite in humans, glycyrrhetic acid,
both
prolong the effects of cortisol, by creating an aldosterone-like
agonist effect,
thereby causing sodium retention and potassium depletion at the distal
tubule
in the nephron. Those on blood pressure medicines such as Lasix
(furosemide)
or hydrochlorothiazide, heart medicines such as Lanoxin (digoxin), or
cortisone-type drugs, including prednisone may be susceptible to
cross-reactions from constituents in licorice, especially in
concentrated extracts,
candy or licorice liqueurs. For over forty years, glycyrrhizin has been
a
prescription drug in Japan to treat inflammatory illnesses such as
ulcers and
chronic liver disease. It is also used to decrease allergic reactions
to other
drugs. Glabridin, which is not water extracted, but may be present in
other
preparations, has strong antioxidant properties. Researchers using a
highly
refined licorice extract suggest that chemicals in glycyrrhizin called
triterpenoids may be effective against cancer. They may block the
production
of a prostaglandin that may be responsible for stimulating the growth
of cancer
cells - and help get rid of cancer-causing invaders. Triterpenoids have
been
shown in test tubes to stunt the growth of rapidly multiplying cells,
like cancer
cells, and they may even help precancerous cells return to normal.
Glycyrrhetic acid is also antitumoral in low doses in estrogen
sensitive
cancers, operating by tying up estrogen receptors. Large doses(>
300mg
extract, >2 gm powder, or >4 ml fluid extract) of
licorice may, however, show
more of the estrogenic effects due to the higher availability of the
isoflavones. The antagonistic effects occur by competing for receptor
sites, but once all
empty sites are filled, there is no greater antagonistic effect. There
is some
early indication for use in AIDS treatment but the research is
difficult to
interpret accurately. The American species (Glycyrrhiza lepidota) does
not
share the potential for blood pressure elevation in concentrated doses
that
European and Asian species have.
2-12g
|
Huang Qi
Astragalus root
Milk-vetch
|
sweet
sl.
warm
|
Sp
Lu
|
Tonifies spleen Qi and Lung
Qi; lifts spleen Qi (raises the Yang Qi of the
spleen and stomach); tonifies defensive (Wei) Qi; protects/stabilizes
the body
surface and eliminates pathogenic factors from the surface; discharges
pus;
promotes tissue regeneration; promotes urination, relieves edema;
regulates
water metabolism; nourishes blood (via Qi); can connect the Lungs and
spleen.
• Lung and spleen
Qi deficiency: poor appetite, loose stool, fatigue, shortness
of breath.
• Spleen Qi
sinking: chronic diarrhea, uterine bleeding, prolapsed rectum,
stomach, or uterus.
• Wei Qi
deficiency: spontaneous sweating, frequent EPI's.
• Qi and blood
deficiency: non-healing carbuncles, boils, post-partum fever;
also used in recovery from severe loss of blood.
• Spleen failing to
transform and Lung failing to dominate the water passages:
edema, scanty urination, retention of water, dampness, obesity.
• Used often for
wind-stroke (with Hong hua,
Dang gui, Chuan xiong).
• When appropriate:
for wasting and thirsting, paralysis, numbness of the
limbs.
• Chronic
ulcerations or sores due to deficiency that have formed pus but have
not drained or healed well.
• Appropriately
combined, it may be used for excessive sweating associated
with Qi, Yin, or Yang deficiency.
• Its function to
stabilize the exterior may be used to produce a therapeutic
sweat when diaphoretics do not work.
• Vasodilator:
lowers blood pressure.
• Compared to Dang
shen and Ren
shen, Huang
qi focuses more on the
superficial aspects of the Qi (especially Wei Qi), is better for
warming and
raising the Qi and tonifying the Qi to improve metabolism, whereas Dang
shen
and Ren shen
focus more on the source Qi. Tonification is more complete
when these substances are used together.
• Fry (dry or with
honey) to focus the herb's action on tonifying Qi and raising
Yang (rather than securing the exterior, promoting urination, and
reducing
swelling).
•
Liu
tends to use a minimum of 30g per day.
MLT:
When combined with Gan cao,
it regulates blood sugar - useful for both
diabetes and hypoglycemia.
HF:
A supplement with an anti-Gu
nature, possessing acrid, toxin-resolving
qualities, useful in Gu Zheng
(Gu
parasites) formulas.
BII:
Enhances T-lymphocyte function, may enhance macrophage phagocytic
function, increases NK cell activity.
PFGC:
Unprocessed: fortifies the surface: will bring sweat if there is none
(when the body is too weak to expel pathogens), and will astringe sweat
if
there is too much (by stabilizing the surface).
• Processed:
produces blood, generates muscles, accelerate formation of
(transformation of toxins into) and expulsion of pus - good for boils.
• Purely Yang in
nature - best for the surface, Yang-collapse, weak eruptive
force behind skin problems. Ginseng is more for water exhaustion and
problems of Qi diffusion, while astragalus is more for fire exhaustion
with the
inability of Qi to reach the upper and outer regions of the body.
Hsu:
Effective for nephritis, especially in treating proteinuria.
• Vasodilator,
improves blood circulation to the skin, antibacterial,
hypotensive, diuretic.
DY:
Fills the interstices; secures the exterior; fluid and mobile.
• With Dang
gui to supplement the Qi to
strongly engender and transform
blood, to effectively supplement the Qi and blood. For the following
indications, wine mix-fried Dang
gui and honey mix-fried Huang
qi should be
used. Also, the whole Dang gui
root (Quan dang gui)
or the body of Dang gui
(Dang gui
or Dang gui shen)
should be used. The dosage of Dang
gui for the
following indications should be relatively low if there is Qi
deficiency and
weakness in the middle burner.
- 1. Delayed menstruation (a
long cycle), postpartum weakness, agalactia due
to Qi and blood deficiency. (Shi
Quan Da Bu Tang)
- 2. Low-grade fever caused
by blood deficiency. (Dang Gui
Bu Xue Tang) Wu Kun of the Ming
dynasty said, "When the blood is full, the body is cool. When
the blood is vacuous, the body is warm."
- 3. Sores and welling
abscesses that do not heal, due to blood and Qi
deficiency. (Tou Nong San)
- 4. Numbness of the limbs
due to deficient blood not nourishing the sinews.
- 5. Various hemorrhages due
to Qi not containing the blood within the
vessels. (Dang Gui Bu Xue Tang)
• With Fang
feng to supplement the defensive
Qi without retaining external
evils in the body, to drain external evils without damaging correct Qi
and
without causing perspiration, to secure the exterior, prevent invasion
by
external evils, and stop perspiration. This combination appears in Yu
Ping
Feng San for indications such
as:
- 1. Spontaneous
perspiration due to exterior deficiency.
- 2. Tendency to contract
EPIs frequently due to defensive Qi deficiency.
- Yu
Ping Feng San should not be used
to treat wind affections that are already
established. This combination is too astringent once the evil Qi and
the
defensive Qi are already struggling. Its use might, in this case,
retain the
external evil inside the body.
- The pair Fang
feng and Huang
qi, when combined with Zhi
ke, yields good
results in the treatment of prolapse of the rectum, external
hemorrhoids,
flatulence, and abdominal distention. For rectal prolapse, the best
approach is
to add 3g Fang feng and
6g Zhi ke
to Bu Zong Yi Qi Tang.
• With Dang
shen to powerfully supplement
the Qi, to effectively supplement
the Qi of the middle burner and the exterior defensive. For specific
indications
and notes, see Dang shen
in this category.
• With Fu
xiao mai to supplement Qi,
nourish the heart, clear heat, secure the
exterior, and stop perspiration. For indications such as spontaneous
sweating
due to exterior deficiency. (Mu
Li San) Use stir-fried Fu
xiao mai.
• With Fu
zi for mutual reinforcement, to
supplement the Qi and warm the
Yang, return Yang, secure the exterior, and stop perspiration. For
indications
such as cold spontaneous perspiration accompanied by aversion to cold,
cold
limbs, lassitude of the spirit, a pale tongue with white fur, a fine,
weak pulse,
and in severe cases, profuse sweating, loss of consciousness, and a
minute
pulse due to Yang deficiency or Yang collapse.
• With (Han)
Fang ji to simultaneously drain
and supplement, to support the
correct Qi and drain evil Qi at the same time, to regulate the
upbearing and
downbearing of the Qi mechanism and strongly promote diuresis. For the
following indications, the combination is found in Fang
Ji Huang Qi Tang:
- 1. Edema due to wind-water
with fever, fear of wind, edema predominantly
in the upper body and face, joint pain, scanty urination, and a
floating pulse. If
wind attacks the exterior and blocks the Lung Qi, this causes a
disturbance in
the Lungs' diffusing and downbearing function. Therefore,
because the water
passageways are not regulated, dampness is not moved downward. Thus,
there
is accumulation of dampness in the upper body and edema appears.
- 2. Rheumatic pain due to
damp Bi
with heavy limbs, joint numbness, and
sometimes swollen joints.
- 3. Chronic nephritis and
cardiac disease with edema due to Qi deficiency and
accumulation of dampness.
• With Mu
li to supplement Qi, constrain
Yin, secure the exterior, and stop
perspiration. For indications such as:
- 1. Spontaneous
perspiration due to Qi or Yang deficiency. (Mu
Li San) Use
calcined Mu li.
- 2. Night sweats due to Yin
deficiency. (This combination is appropriate for
moderate Yin deficiency. In cases of deficiency fire, this pair cannot
be used
alone.)
- 3. Spontaneous and
nighttime perspiration due to Qi and Yin deficiency. (Mu
Li San) Use calcined Mu
li.
• Huang
qi pi is outer bark of Huang
qi. It has a greater affinity
than Huang qi
does for the exterior, and is more potent for securing the exterior,
stopping
perspiration, disinhibiting urination, and treating edema.
9-60g
|
Ren Shen
Ginseng root
"Man
Root"
Ren Shen Lu
Ginseng
neck/head
Ren Shen Ye
Ginseng leaf
|
sweet
sl. bitter
sl.
warm
|
Sp
Lu
(K
Ht)
|
Powerfully tonifies the
source Qi; tonifies Lung Qi; tonifies spleen and
stomach Qi; generates body fluids, eases thirst; benefits heart Qi;
calms the
Shen; slightly nourishes Yin; improves wisdom; the red form (steamed)
tonifies Yang.
• Qi collapse (as
after severe vomiting, diarrhea, bleeding): cold sweats,
shallow breathing, shortness of breath, cold limbs, weak and feeble
pulse.
• Ren
shen can be used alone after
severe blood loss.
• Spleen Qi
deficiency: fatigue, poor appetite, distended epigastrium, chest, or
abdomen, vomiting, chronic diarrhea, prolapse of stomach, uterus, or
rectum.
• Lung Qi
deficiency: shortness of breath, spontaneous sweating, weak pulse,
labored breathing, wheezing (usually also a concurrent failure of the
kidneys to
grasp the Qi).
• Body fluid
injury: thirst, wasting and thirsting disorder, injury of body fluids
by high fever and profuse sweats.
• Heart Qi/blood
deficiency: palpitations, anxiety, insomnia, forgetfulness,
restlessness, lots of dreams.
• Adaptogenic:
long-term use makes one better able to deal with stressors
(temperature changes, fatigue, infection, etc.).
• Has both
stimulatory and sedative effects on the CNS.
• Accelerates
transmission of nerve impulses, shortens latency period of nerve
reflexes.
• Can improve
myocardial utilization of nutrients and cardiac function.
• Increases
synthesis of proteins and nucleic acids.
• Diabetes: may
lower blood sugar and glucosuria, seems to act synergistically
with insulin.
• Cultivated forms
of ginseng are called Yuan shen.
• Ginseng cured in
rock candy, Bai shen/Tang shen
is used for Qi and Yin
deficiency patterns, especially for the spleen/stomach.
• The small
inexpensive rootlets are called Shen
xu.
• Fresh-dried
ginseng, Sheng shai shen
can nourish Yin, and is similar to Xi
yang shen (American Ginseng).
• When cured by
steam, ginseng turns red - Hong
shen - and is warmer, for Qi
and Yang deficiency (can rescue devastated Yang).
• Most Korean
ginseng is stronger than Chinese and is usually the red form.
• The white form is
generally cooler than red.
• Quality is
difficult to determine. One measure is that tap root and all lateral
rootlets are intact and unbroken, though others dispute the
significance of this
factor. Another measure is the straightness of the root (where
straighter is
better). Size and age are the most general indicators of potency. Wild
is
considered better than cultivated.
• Because of its
expense, the herb is often decocted separately in small
amounts of water in a double boiler.
• The antidote for
ginseng overdose (with symptoms such as headache,
insomnia, palpitations, and a rise in blood pressure) is mung bean soup.
Jin:
Use 30-50g alone (especially the red form) to stop bleeding from
(spleen)
deficiency.
PFGC:
Can be used for fevers: where the patient's righteous Qi is
constitutionally weak and pathogens are trapped inside.
• Can be used for
any deficiency - even with heat or bleeding.
• With Sheng
ma, it can drain Lung fire.
• With Fu
ling, it can drain kidney fire.
• With Mai
men dong, it can boost the pulse.
• With Huang
qi and Gan
cao, it can lower fever.
• Useful for
deficiency pain.
• The imperial herb
for slight Yin deficiency with severe Yang deficiency
leading to steaming sensations due to the Yin not being able to contain
the
vital fire.
• Can nourish Yin
and produce blood.
• (In the proper
context:) it boosts earth to generate metal, brightens the eyes,
opens the heart, invigorates mental clarity, nourishes the Jing,
supplements the
Shen, controls palpitations, resolves thirst, dispels restlessness,
opens the
channels, boosts the pulse, breaks up accumulations, eliminates phlegm,
cures
all conditions involving Qi deficiency and blood injury.
• Not for Yin
deficiency fire causing asthma and coughing.
HF:
Patients with Gu Zheng
(Gu
parasites) tend to react negatively to Ren
shen.
Hsu:
Acts synergistically with insulin to lower blood sugar; antidiuretic;
lowers blood cholesterol; increases protein synthesis; stimulates sex
hormones;
cardiotonic.
CHA:
(Al Stone, 9-26-2000)
I. Yuan Shen
("Garden Ginseng," meaning cultivated ginseng)
A. Hong
Shen ("Red
Root") Its color is brown and red. It is slightly
transparent. After cleaning, it is steamed two to three hours, then
oven dried or
sun dried. This is the most common variety of Yuan
shen. Its smell is very
pleasant, with a slight bitter taste.
B. Bian
Tao Shen ("Edge Long
Root") Similar to red ginseng in color and
quality. It is longer that red ginseng with a greater diameter. Its
branch, too is
longer and wider. This suggests a better quality medicine than red
ginseng. C. Tang Shen
("Sugar Root") First the Yuan
shen is placed into boiling
water for
3 to 7 minutes, then placed into cold water right away to soak for
about 10
minutes, then sun dried. Liu
huang (sulfur) is burnt beneath
the ginseng to
smoke it. The essence of the Liu
huang passes into the ginseng
via the smoke.
This may be a preservative for the ginseng to keep it free of worms.
They use a
special needle to puncture tiny holes in the root. Then they place the
ginseng
into highly concentrated sugar water for more than 24 hours. Then the
ginseng
is placed under direct sunlight to dry it out. Then they beat the
ginseng with a
wet towel to soften, and repeat the process from the punching of the
holes.
Once it has been in the sugar water again for 24 hours it is rinsed off
and sun-
or oven-dried. The color becomes a lighter yellow/white. The smell is
pleasant. The taste is sweet and slightly bitter.
D. Bai
Ren Shen ("White Man
Root") Quality and shape is a kind of like sugar shen.
Most of the time it has a good shape (straight) and is very white. It
is
longer than red ginseng. The ginseng's beard (the long hairy roots at
the end of
the branches) is short, but very brittle.
E. Sheng
Shai Shen ("Raw
Sun-dried Root") This kind of ginseng is washed
until clean and then partially dried by placing in the sun for one day
(one full
day of very clear, brilliant sunshine). The next day, it is smoked with
Liu
huang, possibly as a
preservative. Then the sun-drying process is continued
until completely dried. The color is mostly yellow, a little brown. It
is crisp
and lighter now. The smell is pleasant. The taste is bitter.
F. Bai
Gan Shen ("White Dry
Root") The superficial skin of the root is
scratched off. The color is light yellow or white. It is called
"white" because it
has been made lighter by the scraping of the skin. Quality and shape
are
similar to Sheng shai shen.
G. Qia Pi Shen
("Strangled Skin Root") The
method of preparation is similar to Tang
shen: Put ginseng into boiling
water
for 3 min, then remove until cold, then replace into the boiling water.
Repeat
until the it has been bathed three times. At this point, root will be
30% done.
Then, put the it into boiling water for 20 minutes. Remove it, let it
cool, and
punch tiny holes in it as with Tang
shen. Then place it into
slightly sweetened
sugar water (nowhere near as concentrated as for Tang
shen). Then remove
and oven dry. This will cause the skin to separate from the meat. Then
use a
bamboo knife to make small indentations into the root, very
superficial. The
smell if pleasant. The taste is slightly sweet and slightly bitter as
typical
ginseng.
H. Da
Li Shen ("Great Force
Root") Take fresh raw ginseng for several
seconds and remove. [sic] Then dry very well beneath the sun (as many
days
as necessary until fully dry). This is the most natural form of
ginseng. This
kind of ginseng is not often exported because it has a short shelf
life. It is the
strongest and least prepared. It has a slightly yellow color and is
slightly
transparent. The beard and branches are cut off to leave only the best
part of
the ginseng, however the head is left on for consumers to better assess
the
quality of the herb. This root is hard and crisp. Smell is pleasant,
taste is
bitter.
II. Ye
Shan Shen ("Wild Mountain Grown
Root")
The shape looks like garden
ginseng. The body of the root is wider and shorter.
Usually there are two major branches to the body, which makes the root
look
like a body with two legs. In the head you will find numerous
concentric
wrinkles. The legs tend to be curved, not straight like garden ginseng.
The
root beard (small rootlets) is much longer than that of garden ginseng
- one or
two times the length of the "legs" of the root. The beardy roots also
have
pearly spots on them. This is the biggest difference between wild and
cultivated ginseng - them pearly whites. Wild ginseng's color (of the
whole
body) is a light yellow. The skin of the root is very soft. Its natural
smell
(before cooking) is stronger than garden ginseng. It is sweet, with a
light bitter
quality also. The preparation procedures are different. There are three
methods
of preparation (see above for details): 1. Sheng
shai shen 2. Tang
shen 3. Qia
pi shen
Wild Ginseng of the best
quality is very large and juicy, full of liquid. Wrinkles that are
small and compact are better than wide and thick wrinkles.
Longer head is better than a short one. The more pearls on the beard
roots the
better.
III. Korean Ginseng [Gao
Li Shen or Chao
Xian Shen]: Korean ginseng, of
course, grows in Korea. It, too, comes in both wild and garden
varieties. The
more northern, the better, though it is grown in the South as well.
Bei
Zhi Shen ("Fork in the Road
Straight Root"). Probably named because the
herb is a little bigger and the legs resemble a "Y" in the road. These
roots have
a stronger tonification function.
Production: There is Korean red ginseng and Korean white ginseng. Red
is
better, stronger than white. Preparation is the same as Chinese
ginseng.
SD:
Ginseng (Panax ginseng)
has been a prominent herb in Chinese medicine
for at least twenty centuries. Due to scarcity of the herb at various
times, its
use has been restricted and substitute herbs have replaced it in
certain
prescriptions. For example, in China, most prescriptions that would
otherwise
contain ginseng are made with the less-expensive herb codonopsis.
Classically, ginseng is used
to restore vital energy (qi) and to generate fluids
(especially for the stomach). A major use was for the recovery from
debilitating feverish diseases which parched the body fluids and
drained
energy. It was also relied upon as a sedative and longevity tonic.
Through
extensive experience with its use, the number of indications for it
increased.
The diversity of ginseng actions that were claimed was the basis for
its original
description as a panacea by Western visitors to China centuries ago.
The
official genus name, Panax,
comes from the word panacea. When Western-style research was initiated
in the Orient on a large scale following World War
II, ginseng became the primary subject. Its chemical constituents were
analyzed, and numerous physiologic actions were determined. These
include
reduction of stress reaction, normalization of blood pressure and blood
sugar
levels, increase in endurance, improved mental functions, resistance to
disease
(and to chemicals and radiation), longer life span, and anti-tumor
activities.
Much of the ginseng research
during the past few years has done little more
than reconfirm previous findings about ginseng's ability to
normalize body
functions. These general findings are displayed in Appendix 1. Different
dosages, methods of
preparation, and testing situations are tried out in some of
the recent studies. Sometimes the results appear contradictory, but as
the
information accumulates, many of the results can be reasonably
explained. The
current thrust of research is in three areas: immune system actions,
cardiovascular effects, and hormonal effects.
IMMUNE
SYSTEM STUDIES
At the Institute of
Traditional Chinese Medicine in Jilin Province (where
ginseng is grown), researchers in the pharmacology department evaluated
the
effects of ginseng on immune responses. The immune responses of mice
were
tested with different dosages of ginseng extracts obtained either from
the leaf
or the root of ginseng. Significant changes in the response of the
reticuloendothelial (RES) system were found,especially with moderate
doses
of the root extracts. Larger doses did not improve the response. RES
cells are
the immune system components that devour foreign organisms without
leaving
their original sites in the liver, spleen, and other tissues of the
body. When
tumors were implanted in mice, the response of the immune system was
notably improved by the ginseng extracts and this caused a reduction of
tumor
weight by 1/3 to ½. Levels of antibodies in the blood were
also significantly
increased when the mice, injected with foreign blood cells, had
received
ginseng pre-treatment. In these experiments, ginseng was administered
daily
for five to ten days prior to testing the immune system responses. In
human
patients undergoing cancer therapies with radiation or chemical agents,
it was
shown that the anti-cancer effects of these therapies were increased.
Ginseng
administration accelerated recovery of the immune system and the
function of
the bone marrow (producing red blood cells) in these patients. As a
result of
these investigations, ginseng extracts are now used to treat patients
with
chronic hepatitis (who often suffer further depression of immunity due
to
steroid treatment) and those who have undergone cancer therapies.
A distant relative of
ginseng, eleuthero ginseng (Eleutherococcus
senticosus),
is used in Chinese hospitals to treat cancer patients undergoing
chemotherapy.
It protects the immune system and is used in the Soviet Union as a
preventive
for colds and flu.
THE
HORMONAL
SYSTEM
It was established by modern
research in the 1970's that ginseng relieves stress
on the adrenal glands. It has recently been proven that both ginseng
and deer
antler, a Chinese health tonic often combined with ginseng, affect
luteinizing
hormone (LH). In laboratory experiments at the Department of Physiology
at
Jianxi Medical College, animals were given ginsenosides from ginseng
and the
active fraction from deer antler. Luteinizing hormone secretion
increased
dramatically, about ten fold. This hormone influences the menstrual
cycle in
women and it stimulates testosterone secretion in men. Ginseng and
antler
extracts were also shown to increase testosterone secretion in males;
this can
help overcome impotence and will have an influence on muscular
development. In the laboratory experiments, a 45"“ 90%
increase in
testosterone levels was found. Ginseng and deer antler have been used
for
centuries in Chinese remedies for menstrual disorders and for male
impotence;
this research confirms their efficacy. Luteinizing hormone is produced
by the
pituitary gland, so it is proposed that ginseng and deer antler
ingredients do not
have a direct hormonal action but instead influence the production of
hormones by the body. In Italian studies of ginseng activity on the
glands and
hormone secretions in mice, the findings suggested that ginseng has a
strong
influence on the hypothalamus and pituitary glands, and that the
adrenal effects
of ginseng that are often noted were linked to these glands. Ginseng
extracts of
varying strength were given to normal rats and to rats who had their
adrenal
cortex removed. Based on the biochemical and histological evaluation of
their
spleen, liver, thymus, and other organs, it was suggested that ginseng
induced
the pituitary to release ACTH (a steroid hormone also produced by the
adrenal
cortex), which influenced the functions of the organs. It is generally
agreed by
researchers today that ginseng exerts its effects on what is called the
"pituitary,
hypothalamus, adrenal axis." The term indicates the
coordinated functions of
these three glands in regulating metabolism, response, and homeostasis.
Furthermore, this set of interacting glands may have been indirectly
recognized
for centuries by the Chinese as a functional unit influencing stress,
aging,
sexual function, and overall vitality. In the translation of Chinese
medical
terminology to Western terminology, this functional unit has been
assigned to
the "kidney." Hence, one hears Chinese medical
specialists frequently
speaking of kidney functions we never otherwise associate with the
kidney. In
fact, the functional unit appears to rely heavily on the pituitary,
hypothalamus,
adrenal axis. As a result of the hormone research, we have a clearer
picture of
the ancient science of Oriental medicine. The hormonal effects are
usually
noted with higher dosages of ginseng. In one of the Swiss studies of
athletes
using relatively low ginseng dosage (equal to 1.0 grams of ginseng per
day),
hormone levels were monitored and no significant change was observed.
Studies demonstrating a strong hormonal effect used the equivalent of
about
3.0 grams per day of ginseng. During a double-blind study of the
effects of
ginseng conducted by the Institute for Traditional Medicine in the
U.S., it was
noted that large doses of ginseng (3.0"“4.5 grams per day)
appeared to
influence the menstrual cycle of women. Reports of altered cycle length
or
change in bleeding pattern during menstruation were made by 29% of the
women receiving ginseng daily for three weeks. For the purpose of
regulating
menstruation, ginseng is usually combined with tang-kuei and other
Chinese
herbs, and not used alone.
CARDIOVASCULAR
IMPACT
Until recently, Chinese
dogma held that ginseng was to be reserved for those
who were ill and for those who are showing the effects of aging. Korean
and
Japanese experience, however, suggests that ginseng can be taken
everyday as
a preventive health tonic. Now, research shows clearly that one need
not be ill
to use ginseng: even the healthiest among us may have cause to use it.
Athletes, whether beginning joggers or Olympic contenders, agree that
ginseng
helps them overcome the strain and drain of exercise. A recent Swiss
study
conducted by Dr. Anton Kirchdorfer shows how ginseng helps. Thirty
athletes
were given exercise tests on a programmed exercycle to assure a
specific level
of muscle work. The heart rate and lactate concentration in the blood
was
measured before, immediately after, and for several minutes following
the
exercise. Strong exertion for eight minutes raised the athletes heart
rate from
an average value of about 70 to 155. During recuperation, their heart
rate
slowly returned to normal over a period of about 20 minutes; their
heart rates
fell below 100 after 4"“5 minutes. The athletes were then
given ginseng daily
for 9 weeks. The material used was a standardized extract of active
constituents called "ginsenosides." The tests were
conducted again, using the
same amount of exercise. Their pulse rates this time increased to only
140, and
during recuperation their heart rates fell below 100 within just 3
minutes, and
were back to normal in 5 minutes. Lactate (the by-product of muscular
oxygen
utilization that causes pain following exercise) was measured during
the same
tests. Before using ginseng, the lactate levels of the athletes
increased from 2.0
before exercise to 10.5 afterwards, without returning to normal levels
even
after 20 minutes. Following 9 weeks of ginseng administration, lactic
acid
levels only reached 6.2 at their highest point, and decreased to normal
in about
twenty minutes. The lower heart rate and quicker return to normal
suggests
improved oxygen utilization and faster clearance of lactate. Additional
measurements taken during this same research program demonstrated that
reaction time was improved and pulmonary function was greatly enhanced.
The effects of ginseng given for 9 weeks persisted for about three
weeks after
ginseng use was ceased. This persistence of herbal effects following
long-term
administration has been shown with other herb products. Traditionally,
herbalists recommend a short break of one to two weeks when patients
are
using herbs for an extended period of time. This may be one way of
getting the
maximum advantage of the herbs used. The findings in this Swiss
research are
consistent with a previous double-blind study using the same ginseng
extracts
with 120 members of sports clubs. In that study, conducted by I. Forgo
in
Switzerland, significant improvements in pulmonary function, reaction
time,
and overall vitality (as self-evaluated) were found. These effects were
especially noted in the 40"“60 age group, less so in the
30"“40 age group. The
study lasted 12 weeks. The results obtained with athletes confirm
laboratory
animal studies that have been conducted in the past. Animals forced to
perform
vigorous exercise utilized less of their stored glycogen, fatigued less
quickly,
and generally performed better if they were first administered ginseng.
Ginseng has been shown to increase the time which animals could keep up
vigorous exercise by as much as 100%. Athletic-oriented research was
conducted in China with tien-chi ginseng. Tien-chi ginseng is a close
relative
to ordinary ginseng, but it grows in a different climate, produces a
harder root,
and has somewhat different active constituents. The following is a
summary of
findings: 1. Under usual circumstances, pulse rates of weight lifters
the
morning after a day of intensive weight lifting did not return to
normal levels.
If they took tien-chi ginseng, on the other hand, their morning pulse
did return
to normal. 2. The pulse rate of swimmers following a medium-load
training
session was about 170, and after 2"“3 minutes rest, it was
reduced to about 120.
But if tien-chi ginseng was taken, the pulse right after swimming only
reached
about 125, and returned to normal rates (about 70) after 2"“3
minutes. 3.
Differences between those not taking tien-chi ginseng and those taking
tien-chi
ginseng increased as use of the ginseng was continued over a longer
period of
time. The experiments were continued for 7 weeks (compared to 9 and 12
weeks for the Swiss studies). The study results with Panax
ginseng and tien-chi ginseng
are clearly similar to each other; further, they are similar to those
obtained by Soviet researchers with eleuthero ginseng. Eleuthero
ginseng is a
distant relative of these plants; it is a woody shrub, with
significantly different
chemical constituents, but is used in much the same way as Panax
ginseng.
Soviet athletes regularly use eleuthero ginseng extract as a health
tonic. With
regard to oxygen consumption, these three types of ginseng have all
been
successfully tested in the treatment of oxygen deficit among Chinese
workers
transferred to the high plateau of Tibet (average altitude: 14,000
feet). This
application follows up laboratory animal studies measuring response and
survival rate of animals subjected to very low pressure atmosphere.
Thus, it
does not seem to be a critical concern as to which kind of ginseng is
used for
this purpose. Some athletes prefer to use several types of ginseng at
once.
Tien-chi ginseng has the advantage of resolving bruises and other
injuries that
often occur during sports activities, so it may be especially useful to
those just
starting an exercise program and those involved in more vigorous sports
for
that reason. It is gratifying for researchers to see human trials
yielding results
similar to those obtained during laboratory animal tests; this suggests
that the
models used in the laboratory were properly chosen.
THE
ACTIVE
CONSTITUENTS OF
GINSENG
One problem with earlier
ginseng research is that each scientist might utilize a
different quality of ginseng and there may be no data indicating the
content of
the material that was used. Today, there are established chemical
assays to
assure that ginseng used in studies is of good quality. In fact, for
the purpose of
scientific precision, most researchers are using standardized ginseng
extracts
(the amount of selected active ingredients are standardized). Nearly
all ginseng
researchers claim that ginseng's actions are attributable to
the combined effect
of its glycoside components called ginsenosides (they were previously
called
panaxosides). These components have a structure similar to steroid
hormones,
but as indicated by research cited above, they do not have a direct
hormonal
action; rather, they influence the production of hormones.
Eleutherosides, the
glycoside components found in eleuthero ginseng, generally do not have
a
steroid structure. There are at least ten ginsenosides present in Panax
ginseng and tien-chi ginseng in
quantities that can have a notable physiologic effect.
Eleuthero ginseng contains at least seven eleutherosides. If the
ginsenosides
are isolated individually and tested in laboratory animals, it is found
that each
has a somewhat different, and sometimes opposite effect. The balancing
action
of ginseng"”for example, lowering blood pressure in those with
hypertension
and raising blood pressure in those with hypotension"”is
thought to be due to
the complex interaction of different glycoside effects. Thus, to get
the desired
balancing action of ginseng, it is necessary to utilize the complete
set of
glycosides. Depending upon the species of ginseng and other factors,
its
content of glycosides ranges from about 4% to 12% (tien-chi ginseng has
the
highest levels). White ginseng has the lowest levels of ginsenosides
because,
during the drying process, enzymes in the ginseng roots break down
these
active ingredients. Red ginseng is prepared by a steaming process that
prevents
this breakdown of constituents. Ginsenoside content, both total amount
and
distribution amongst the different types of ginsenoside, is used as a
measure of
ginseng quality. Chinese researchers working with flowers of eleuthero
ginseng at the Department of Pharmacology, Shanghai College of
Traditional
Chinese Medicine, demonstrated that the oil fraction had a high
activity in
reducing stress. Laboratory animals exposed to low oxygen environment
or
high levels of physical activity performed much better if they received
eleuthero flower oil than if they did not. Thus, the oil components,
which are
different than the glycosides, may be of importance. All parts of the
ginseng
plant contain a small amount of oils. Furthermore, polysaccharides have
been
isolated from ginseng and eleuthero ginseng. These components are
valuable
in enhancing immune system functions. Polysaccharides of similar nature
found in medicinal mushrooms such as ganoderma and shiitake, and in
Chinese herbs with actions similar to ginseng, such as astragalus, have
all been
shown to boost weakened immune responses. It is important to note that
the
same polysaccharides that enhance immune responses also tone down
aberrant
immune responses associated with autoimmune diseases. Interestingly, a
plant
unrelated to ginseng, Gynostemma
pentaphyllum, was recently shown
to
contain several ginsenosides. This plant has become an important
therapeutic
agent in China during the 1990's, being used to help improve
immune system
functions in cancer patients. The clinical benefits of this herb
suggests that the
ginsenosides are the most important of the immune-enhancing agents in
ginseng.
From the information
presented above, it should be evident that ginseng is to
be taken for a period of time before one expects to see substantial
results.
Some people experience immediate effects, but in general, the use of a
ginseng
product should continue for at least one week to one month before one
looks
for notable changes in health and performance. A two to three month
period of
use may be ideal. Nearly everyone can use ginseng, but experienced
Chinese
herbalists recommend that persons with the following conditions do not
use
ginseng except under the advice of a professional: persons with
extremely high
blood pressure, those who tend to get spontaneous nose bleeds, women
with
excessive menstrual bleeding, and persons who experience a hot and dry
feeling frequently. Ginseng is one of the few Oriental herbs that can
be used by
itself with good results. However, outside of Korea, where it is
frequently used
as a single herb remedy, ginseng is most often used in combination with
other
herbs.
Effects
of
Ginseng from
Earlier Research Studies
Blood Pressure: hypertension
patients experience a reduction of blood pressure
using low to moderate doses of ginseng; hypotensive patients experience
an
increase of blood pressure using moderate to large doses of ginseng.
Blood Sugar: diabetic
patients experience some lowering of blood sugar with
prolonged use; at least one month.
Central Nervous System:
calming action in cases of insomnia in low dosage,
stimulant action in cases of lethargy, poor digestion, chill, and
mental dullness
in larger doses.
Stress: reduces stress
reaction, including depletion of vitamin C, glycogen, and
protein, and preserves life against many physical (e.g., temperature,
low
oxygen, radiation), chemical (e.g., liver toxins), and biological
(e.g., viral)
stresses.
Active
Constituents of
Ginseng
Panaxosides and
Eleutherosides: these are glycosides that have been
intensively studied. They seem to have many of the central nervous
system and
cardiovascular effects.
Polysaccharides: these are
highly branched chains of sugar molecules; they
appear to have a normalizing effect on immune system functions.
Phenolic Compounds, other
complex alcohols, and organic acids: these have
been recently studied; it is suggested that they contribute an
anti-aging effect
and reduce fatigue.
Fixed and Volatile Oils:
these have an anti-stress effect and are sedative in
nature.
Vitamin and Mineral
Components: ginseng contains B vitamins and a number
of minerals; however, it is unlikely that the amounts contained in the
average
daily dose of ginseng have much health impact. Nonetheless, ginseng can
be
classified as a nutritious food. Some authorities believe that ginseng
was
originally eaten raw or in soups as a food which provided energy and
quenched
thirst.
1-9g (or more for shock) For
Qi collapse, cook 30-60g for one hour and drink
Ren
Shen Lu: the neck/head of root
• Mild emetic (rare
use): used to induce vomiting to eliminate phlegm for
epilepsy.
• Also for food
stagnation and phlegm with deficiency.
Ren
Shen Ye: the leaf
• Bitter, slightly
sweet, cold.
• Clears
summer-heat; generates body fluids.
• Treats deficiency
heat/fire.
• Summer-heat with
thirst.
• Injury to fluids
from febrile disease.
• Lung heat:
hoarseness.
• Stomach Yin
deficiency fire: toothache.
• Drunkenness.
|
Shan Yao
Dioscorea
Chinese Yam
"Mountain
Herb"
|
sweet
sl.
astringent
neutral
|
Lu
Sp
K
|
Tonifies spleen, stomach,
Lung, and kidney Qi and Yin; slightly controls body
fluids; benefits both the Yin and the Yang of the Lungs and kidneys.
• Spleen Qi
deficiency: poor appetite, loose stool, fatigue, spontaneous
sweating.
• Lung Qi/Yin
deficiency: cough, difficulty breathing.
• Kidney Qi
deficiency: seminal emission, copious leukorrhea, frequent
urination.
• Slowly lowers
blood sugar.
• For diabetes
(Lung, stomach, kidney Qi deficiency or Qi and Yin deficiency): up to
250g per day, decocted and taken as a tea.
• Powder and make
into jook to build spleen Qi and appetite.
• Use raw to tonify
the Yin, dry-fry to strengthen the spleen.
• In some damp
patients, Shan yao's
astringent quality contraindicates its use.
Li:
Useful for nasal dripping - astringes.
PLB:
Recent studies indicate that orally consumed diosgenin is not converted
to progesterone in the human body. Does not have hormonal effects.
Yoga:
Aluka:
V, P-; K+ (in excess)
• Nutritive tonic,
aphrodisiac, rejuvenative, diuretic, antispasmodic, analgesic.
• For impotence,
senility, hormonal deficiency, infertility, colic, nervous
excitability, hysteria, abdominal pain, cramps.
9-60g (up to 250g/day for
wasting and thirsting disorder)
|
Tai Zi Shen
Pseudostellaria
root
"Prince
Root" or "Child Root" or
"Son of the
Emperor Root"
|
sweet
sl. bitter
neutral
|
Sp
Lu
|
Tonifies Lung Qi and spleen
Qi; produces body fluids.
• Spleen and Lung
Qi deficiency: poor appetite, fatigue, palpitations,
spontaneous sweating.
• Lung Yin
deficiency: cough and thirst.
• Thirst and injury
to fluids after a febrile disease.
• Unrelenting fever
or summer-heat in children.
• Used with Wu
wei zi to treat "neurasthenia": fatigue, lassitude,
depression,
anxiety, etc.
• Similar to Xi
yang shen, but gentle - weaker
than Xi yang shen
at tonifying
both Qi and Yin.
• Can often be used
as a substitute for Ren shen, especially in cases of liver
Yang rising.
• Contraindicated
for use with Li lu.
MLT:
Very similar to Starflower (Trientalis
borealis) of the Pacific
Northwest
United States.
9-30g
|
Yi Tang
Maltose
Grain Malt extract
|
sweet
warm
|
Sp
Lu
St
|
Tonifies spleen Qi; relaxes
the muscles to relieve pain; moistens the Lungs;
stops coughing.
• Spleen Qi
deficiency (including by overexertion): poor appetite, fatigue,
shortness of breath.
• Lung Yin
deficiency: dry, nonproductive cough, difficult or slow, labored
breathing, weak voice.
• Spleen cold and
Yang deficiency: abdominal pain (relieved by warmth and
pressure), excessive salivation, pale tongue, white coating, deep, slow
pulse.
• Not usually a
chief herb for Qi tonification. Used to make a formula taste
better.
• Weaker than Gan
cao at relaxing the muscles to
relieve pain.
• Compared to Dang
shen, while Dang
shen can be used for a
deficiency-induced cough with profuse sputum, Yi
tang is indicated more for a
non-productive deficiency-induced cough.
• Contraindicated
with vomiting, abdominal distention due to damp-heat,
phlegm-heat cough, infant malnutrition.
• Preparation:
barley malt is cooked with rice flour (glutinous or non-glutinous) or
wheat flour.
• Rich in minerals.
• Dissolve in a
strained decoction at the very end of cooking.
CDT:
Made from grains such as glutinous or non-glutinous rice, wheat,
millet,
barley, maize, through fermentation.
• Performs
functions listed above plus detoxifies.
• Spleen and
stomach deficiency with loss of appetite, fatigue, abdominal pain:
decoct with cinnamon twig, common peony, ginger, dates, licorice.
• Lung deficiency
with dry cough, sore throat, shortness of breath: take Yi
tang
alone or steamed with turnip juice until it melts.
• Poisoning or
unwanted reaction caused by overdose of Fu
zi or Wu
tou: take Yi
tang
immediately.
• Taken chewed,
sucked, or decocted.
30-60g
|
Yang
Tonics
|
• These herbs are
generally contraindicated in cases of hyperactive Yin deficiency fire.
Most are contraindicated
when an excess, exterior, or heat condition exists. Compared to the
category of herbs that warm the interior, Yang
tonics are mostly sweet, many slightly nourish Yin, and most are slower
acting than the interior-warming herbs to
activate Yang. Herbs that warm the interior may be used for excess
cold, can restore collapsed Yang, are mostly hot
and acrid, and mainly activate
but do not so much tonify
Yang.
• Yang tonics are
often combined with a small amount Yin nourishing herbs to give the
Yang some substance to "cook" or "cling to." (The
formula Jin Gui Shen Qi Wan is a good example of this principle, though
it utilizes Interior Warming herbs [Fu Zi, Rou Gui] instead of Yang
tonics.)
|
Ba Ji Tian
Morinda root
|
acrid
sweet
sl
warm
|
K
Lv
|
Tonifies kidney Yang
(without blocking Qi); eliminates wind-damp (including in the
bones); strengthens sinews and bones.
• Kidney Yang
deficiency: impotence, frequent urination, infertility (male or
female),
irregular menses, premature ejaculation, urinary incontinence, cold and
pain in the
lower abdomen, weak and sore lower back, muscular atrophy.
• Kidney Yang
deficiency plus attack of wind-damp: weakness or pain in the lumbar
region, knees, backs of the legs; bony Bi.
• Best used for
cases of Yang deficiency with cold-damp.
Hsu:
Antibacterial, hypotensive, has effects resembling those of cortical
hormones.
6-15g
|
Bu Gu Zhi
Psoralea fruit
"Tonify Bone
Resin"
|
acrid
bitter
v.
warm
|
K
Sp
|
Tonifies kidney Yang;
controls Jing and urine; tonifies and warms spleen Yang, stops
diarrhea; helps the kidneys grasp the Lung Qi.
• Kidney Yang
deficiency: impotence, cold and pain in the lumbar region and knees,
weak lower back and extremities, premature ejaculation; frequent
urination, urinary
incontinence, enuresis, nocturnal emissions without dreams.
• Spleen Yang
deficiency (usually with kidney Yang deficiency): severe, chronic
diarrhea, borborygmus, abdominal pain.
• Kidneys fail to
grasp the Lung Qi: wheezing.
• This herb can be
hard on the stomach, but is still sometimes used cautiously for
cold deficiency of the stomach.
• Topical:
alopecia, psoriasis, vitiligo (especially in combination with UV
light),
fungus.
• May dilate
coronary vessels.
• With Chi
shi zhi, it can stop menorrhagia.
• Bu
gu zhi's
kidney-tonifying properties are more pronounced than its spleen-warming
qualities. The opposite is the case with
Yi zhi ren.
• Crush before
using.
Jin:
Modern research shows hormonal (estrogen-like) effects.
• Uses in acne
formula.
DY:
Strengthens true Yang; warms the cinnabar field.
• With Hu
tao ren to supplement metal and
water, to effectively constrain the Lung
Qi and promote the intake of Qi by the kidneys, stop cough, and calm
asthma. For
the following indications, salt-processed Bu
gu zhi should be used:
- 1. Cough, dyspnea, and
asthma due to kidney Yang deficiency.
- 2. Lumbago, impotence,
seminal emission, constipation, frequent and abundant
urination, and enuresis due to kidney Qi deficiency.
• With Rou
dou kou to supplement spleen and
kidney Yang, secure the intestines, and
stop daybreak or "cock-crow" diarrhea. For
indications such as:
- 1. Chronic diarrhea due to
spleen-kidney Yang deficiency. (Si
Shen Wan) Use salt
mix-fried Bu gu zhi
and roasted Rou dou kou.
- 2. Daybreak diarrhea with
abdominal pain and rumbling noises due to spleen-kidney Yang
deficiency. (Er Shen Wan)
• Bu
gu zhi is incompatible with pork
blood.
Hsu:
Dilates coronary arteries, stimulates the heart, increases rate and
function.
• Antibacterial
(tuberculosis).
• External use
promotes production of melanin - used to treat calluses and warts.
• May have
anti-cancer effects - inhibits artificially-induced tumors.
• Therapeutic
action against Tinea versicolor
and psoriasis.
3-9g
|
Dong Chong Xia Cao
Cordyceps mushroom
(and, traditionally, the
carcass
of the caterpillar
it parasitized)
"Winter Bug
Summer Herb"
Jin Chan Hua
Cordyceps on
Cicada
|
sweet
warm
|
K
Lu
|
Tonifies Lung Yin and kidney
Yang; stops bleeding; resolves phlegm.
• Kidney Yang
deficiency: impotence, seminal emission, weak and sore lumbar
region, knees, and lower extremities.
• Lung Yin
deficiency: asthma and cough with bleeding, chronic bronchitis,
pulmonary tuberculosis, consumptive cough with blood-streaked sputum.
• Because it
tonifies both Yin and Yang and is a very safe substance, it can be
taken
over a long period of time.
• Often cooked with
duck (or other meats) for a stronger tonic effect.
• Doctrine of
signatures: for impotence - this mushroom (after invading the
insect's
body with its mycelia) bursts forth from the caterpillar's
head.
• Different species
of cordyceps fungi parasitize hundreds of different insects and
also decaying wood. Dong chong
xia cao is specifically the
species that grows on
the caterpillar or pupa Hepialus
varians. The whole
caterpillar-mushroom
combination is very expensive. High quality, more affordable lab-grown
fungus is
now widely used.
Hsu:
Bronchodilator, sedative, antibacterial, antifungal.
4.5-12g
Jin Chan Hua: Cordyceps
sobolifera - Cordyceps growing
on Cicada.
• Tonifies Lungs,
improves vision.
• Kamto Lee:
Specific guiding herb for lung cancer.
|
Du Zhong
Eucommia bark
|
sweet
warm
|
Lv
K
|
Tonifies the kidneys and
liver, strengthens tendons and bones; holds and calms the
fetus; promotes smooth circulation of Qi and blood.
• Kidney and liver
deficiency: weak, sore lumbar region and knees, Wei syndrome,
fatigue, frequent urination.
• Kidney and liver
deficiency: threatened or habitual miscarriage, restless fetus; cold
deficient kidney patterns with bleeding during pregnancy.
• Liver/kidney Yang
deficiency cold: impotence, frequent urination.
• Lowers blood
pressure: for hypertension, dizziness, lightheadedness from liver
Yang rising.
• Compared to Xu
duan, Du zhong is more effective
when the problem is due
primarily to deficiency, while Xu
duan is used more to treat lower
back pain with
significant aspects of both wind-damp and kidney deficiency.
• Fry in salt water
to increase kidney-tonification properties.
Hsu:
Hypotensive - the fried herb is more potent, and the decoction is
better than the
tincture.
• Analgesic.
• Can decrease
absorption of cholesterol.
DY:
Secures the Chong Mai.
• The major herb to
treat lumbar pain. Can be used for all types - excess or
deficiency, hot or cold - when combined appropriately with other herbs.
• With Xu
duan for mutual reinforcement,
to supplement the liver and kidneys,
strengthen the sinews and bones, stop metrorraghia during pregnancy,
and quiet the
fetus. For indication such as:
- 1. Aches and pains,
stiffness, lumbar pain, and weakness of the lower limbs due to
kidney-liver deficiency. (Du
Zhong Wan) Salt mix-fry both
herbs.
- 2. Knee and lumbar pain
due to wind-dampness.
- 3. Metrorrhagia during
pregnancy and threatened miscarriage accompanied by
lumbar pains due to kidney deficiency. (Salt mix-fry both herbs.)
- 4. Traumatic lumbar pain. (Qian
Jin Bao Yun Dan) Use salt
mix-fried Du zhong
and wine mix-fried Xu duan.
• Du
zhong is more powerful than Xu
duan at supplementing the liver
and kidneys,
strengthening the sinews, bones, and lumbar area. But Xu
duan promotes circulation
within the vessels, dispels blood stasis, and knits together fractured
bones and torn
ligaments.
6-15g
|
E Guan Shi
Tubular Stalactite
tip
"Goose Neck
Stone"
|
sweet
warm
|
Lu
|
Strengthens Yang; transforms
phlegm; descends Qi; benefits Qi; promotes lactation.
• Yang deficiency
with phlegm: cough and wheezing, emphysema.
• Insufficient
lactation.
• Doctrine of
signatures: its ability to direct Qi downward is indicated by its
consistent downward growth.
• Crush or powder
before use.
• Excessive or
prolonged use can stagnate stomach Qi.
• Bensky/Gamble: In
most cases this herb is fossilized Balanophylla species (coral).
• Contraindicated
in cases of wheezing with blood.
• Cook 30 minutes
longer than other herbs.
9-30g
|
Ge Jie
Gecko
|
salty
neutral
|
Lu
K
|
Tonifies Lung Qi and kidney
Yang; nourishes Jing and blood.
• Lung Qi
deficiency: cough.
• Kidney Yang
deficiency (fails to grasp the Lung Qi): asthma.
• Also for a
combination of the two above syndromes, and consumptive cough, blood
streaked sputum.
• Kidney Yang
deficiency: impotence, daybreak diarrhea, frequent urination.
• Often made into a
tonic wine - commonly using one male and one female gecko.
• The tail is
considered the most effective part.
• The head and feet
are usually not used in decoctions.
Joe Coletto:
May counteract the destructive effect of steroids on the adrenals.
3-7g directly as powder or
9-15g in decoction
|
Gou Ji
Cibotium
rhizome
"Dog
Spine"
|
bitter
sweet
warm
|
Lv
K
|
Tonifies the liver and
kidneys; strengthens the lumbar region and knees, sinews and
bones; eliminates wind-damp; stabilizes the kidneys.
• Liver and kidney
deficiency: stiffness, soreness, weakness of the knees, feet, lower
back, spine, and lower extremities.
• Wind-cold-damp
obstruction: pain, soreness, numbness; also swelling of the legs.
• Kidney
deficiency: urinary incontinence, vaginal discharge.
• Similar to Du
zhong, but milder to tonify the
kidneys and liver.
• Compared to Ba
ji tian, this herb is drier.
4.5-15g
|
Gu Sui Bu
Drynaria rhizome
"Mender of
Shattered Bones"
|
bitter
warm
|
Lv
K
|
Promotes bone and sinew
regeneration; promotes blood circulation; tonifies the
kidneys; stop bleeding; stimulates hair growth.
• Kidney
deficiency: lumbar pain, weak feet, lumbar region, knees, tinnitus,
poor
hearing, toothache, bleeding gums, chronic diarrhea.
• Traumatic injury:
falls, fractures, contusions, sprains. Especially good for
ligamentous injuries and simple fractures. Also used to help regain
strength during
the convalescent phase following injuries.
• Topical
(tincture): for hair loss/alopecia, corns, warts (soak 100g herb in 1 L
white
wine for at least a week).
• Stronger than
Xu duan at promoting blood
circulation, but weaker at tonifying the
liver and kidneys.
• Treats adverse
effects of streptomycin in patients with a sensitivity to it: headache,
dizziness, numbness of the tongue, tinnitus, hearing loss.
6-18g
|
Hu Lu Ba
Fenugreek seed
Trigonella
|
bitter
warm
|
K
Lv
|
Warms the kidneys; disperses
damp and cold, alleviates pain; increases lactation.
• Kidney Yang
deficiency with cold accumulation or stagnation Qi: abdominal or
flank distention and pain or hernial disorders.
• Cold-damp leg qi:
soreness, numbness, weakness, edema.
• Prevents and
treats mountain sickness (in studies, was effective in about 1/3 of the
subjects).
• May be useful in
some forms of insomnia.
K&R:
Hypoglycemiant, adrenal cortex stimulant, digestive tonic, lymphatic
detergent, improves digestive absorption, eliminates intestinal mucus.
• Earth yin, metal
yin.
• Earth:
digestive aid, hypoglycemiant, good for emaciation.
• Metal:
neuromuscular stimulant, good for emaciation (including diabetic),
malnutrition, anemia, frigidity, impotence.
• Water:
impotence, frigidity, lumbar pain, dysmenorrhea.
• Opera singers
used for centuries to clear excess phlegm from the throat.
• Claimed equal to
quinine in preventing fever.
• Topical: for
cellulitis.
• Chronic
prostatitis, impotence.
BII:
May lower blood lipids (LDL, VLDL and trigylcerides): atherosclerosis.
• Diabetes: may
improve glucose tolerance.
Yoga:
Methi:
bitter, pungent, sweet/heating/pungent; V, K-; P+
• Stimulant, tonic,
expectorant, rejuvenative, aphrodisiac, diuretic.
• Hypo-function of
the liver, seminal debility, dysentery, dyspepsia, chronic cough,
allergies, bronchitis, flu, convalescence, dropsy, toothache,
neurasthenia, sciatica,
arthritis.
• Take gruel to
improve milk flow and hair growth.
• Use paste for
boils, ulcers, non-healing sores.
• Caution in
pregnancy.
PCBDP:
Trigonelline significantly inhibits liver carcinoma in mice, is used in
China
for cervical cancer.
3-9g
|
Hu Tao Ren
(Hu Tao Rou)
Walnut (nut)
"Barbarian Peach
Pit"
|
sweet
warm
|
K
LI
Lu
|
Tonifies kidney Qi,
strengthens the back and knees; warms the Lungs, tonifies Lung
Qi; helps the kidneys grasp the Lung Qi; moistens the large intestine,
unblocks the
bowels.
• Kidney Yang
deficiency: weak, cold, painful lumbar region, feet, knees, frequent
urination.
• Lung cold and Qi
deficiency: cough, asthma.
• Lung and kidney
deficiency: wheezing.
• Large intestine
dryness: constipation, especially in the elderly or that from injured
fluids following a febrile disease.
• Also used to
dissolve/expel urinary stones.
• Use as a paste
for contact, seborrheic, and atopic dermatitis.
• Its function to
tonify Yang is very mild.
• The skin of the
nutmeat is astringent. Eat this in order to help the kidneys grasp the
Lung Qi. To promote bowel movement, remove this skin.
Jin:
Eat in pregnancy for constipation. Also helps the baby's
brain develop.
DY:
Invigorates Yang; calms or levels asthma; warms and supplements the
life gate.
• With Bu
gu zhi to supplement metal and
water, to effectively constrain the Lung Qi
and promote the intake of Qi by the kidneys, stop cough, and calm
asthma. For the
following indications, salt-processed Bu
gu zhi should be used:
- 1. Cough, dyspnea, and
asthma due to kidney Yang deficiency.
- 2. Lumbago, impotence,
seminal emission, constipation, frequent and abundant
urination, and enuresis due to kidney Qi deficiency.
9-30g (eaten)
|
Jiu (Cai) Zi
Allium seed
Chinese Leek
|
acrid
sweet
warm
|
Lv
K
|
Tonifies kidney Yang;
controls Jing; warms the stomach, stops vomiting.
• Kidney Yang
deficiency: impotence, weakness, cold and pain in lumbar and knee,
urinary incontinence.
• Kidney Qi
deficiency: seminal emission, frequent urination, copious leukorrhea.
• Stomach cold:
vomiting.
• Must crush before
use.
3-9g (decoctions, pills, and
powders)
|
Lu Jiao Jiao
Gelatin of Mature
Deer Antler
Lu Jiao Shuang
Antler dregs
|
sweet
salty
sl
warm
|
Lv
K
|
Tonifies liver blood and
kidney Jing; stops bleeding.
• Kidney Yang
deficiency: intolerance to cold, cold extremities, impotence, seminal
emission, infertility, frequent urination, dizziness, weak lumbar
region and knees,
fatigue.
• Kidney Yang
deficiency cold: hematemesis, epistaxis, hematuria, uterine bleeding.
• Non-healing
Yin-type carbuncles.
• Do not cook -
melt into a warm decoction or yellow wine.
• Can be combined
with Chen pi
to counteract its greasiness.
Li:
Strong blood tonic, great for chemotherapy patients.
6-12g
Lu
Jiao Shuang: the dregs left over
after boiling Lu jiao jiao
• Sweet, slightly
warm.
• Much weaker than Lu
rong to tonify Jing and blood,
but has a stronger retaining
effect.
• Mainly for cold
deficient uterine bleeding and vaginal discharge.
• Topical: to stop
bleeding.
|
Lu Rong
Deer Antler
(young velvet)
Lu Jiao
Mature Antler
|
sweet
salty
warm
|
Lv
K
|
Tonifies kidney Yang;
slightly nourishes kidney Yin; nourishes Jing and blood,
supports the brain; strengthens tendons and bones; tonifies the Du
Mai (governing
vessel); regulates the Chong
Mai (penetrating vessel) and Ren
Mai (conception
vessel), and stabilizes the Dai
Mai (girdle vessel).
• Kidney Yang
deficiency: intolerance to cold, cold extremities, impotence, seminal
emission, infertility, frequent, clear urination, dizziness, sore and
weak lumbar
region and knees, fatigue, lightheadedness, tinnitus.
• Jing and blood
deficiency: mental and physical retardation or deformity, weak
tendons and bones, failure to thrive, learning disabilities,
insufficient growth,
Down's syndrome, rickets - especially in children.
• Kidney Yang
deficiency with cold in the Chong,
Ren, and Dai
Mai: copious
leukorrhea, uterine bleeding, infertility with a cold womb.
• Qi and blood
deficiency: chronic ulcerations or Yin-type boils (those that are
concave, ooze a clear fluid, and do not heal).
• Diuretic.
• Doctrine of
signatures: the antler is an extension of the deer's Du
Mai.
• It is important
to start with a low dose and slowly increase it. If too much is taken
at the beginning, the Yang can rise, leading to internal wind with
dizziness and red
eyes, or it can injure the Yin, leading to deficiency fire and even
hemorrhage.
• Antler products
are generally too valuable to cook. Take as powder or in wine.
• All antler
products are contraindicated in cases of Yin deficiency heat.
• Contains pantocrinum:
can regulate arrhythmias, improve poor circulation, increase
work capacity, improve sleep and appetite, decrease rate of muscle
fatigue.
MW:
Lyme disease is caused by the same spirochete which lives on deer and
stimulates their antlers to grow.
Hsu:
Raises RBC count and hemoglobin, promotes growth and development,
cardiotonic, increases uterine tonicity.
1-3g (take directly, divided
into two or three doses over the course of the day)
Lu
Jiao: 2-3 year old antler
• Salty, warm;
enters liver and kidney.
• Weaker than Lu
rong to tonify, but also
promotes blood circulation, reduces
swelling.
• Good for kidney
Yang deficiency with blood stagnation.
• Non-healing
fractures.
• Toxic sores and
swellings.
• Breast abscesses.
• Pain from blood
stasis and deep pain in the lower back.
5-10g
|
Rou Cong Rong
Cistanche stem
Broomrape
|
sweet
salty
warm
|
K
LI
|
Tonifies kidney Yang;
moistens the large intestine, promotes bowel movement;
warms the womb.
• Kidney Yang
deficiency: impotence, infertility, weakness and cold pains in the
lumbar region and knees, urinary incontinence, posturinary dripping,
spermatorrhea.
• Large intestine
dryness: constipation .
• Deficiency cold
womb: infertility, excessive uterine bleeding, vaginal discharge.
• Stronger than Ba
ji tian to tonify Jing and blood
and to moisten the large intestine.
• Sticky, but not
greasy - a large dose will not hurt the spleen.
• Tonifies the Yang
yet is not drying; its effects are moderate.
• Treated with salt
for frequent urination or spermatorrhea.
• Increases
secretion of saliva.
• Currently in
protected status. Becoming increasingly difficult to find in U.S.
Jin:
Tonifies both the kidneys and spleen. Not drying like some other Yang
tonics.
Hsu:
Laxative, hypotensive.
9-21g
|
Sha Yuan Ji Li
(Sha Yuan Zi,
Sha Ji Li)
Astragalus seed
|
sweet
warm
|
Lv
K
|
Tonifies kidney Yang;
controls Jing; nourishes liver Yin to improve vision.
• Kidney Yang
deficiency: lumbar pain, impotence, seminal emission, frequent
urination, urinary incontinence, copious leukorrhea, premature
ejaculation.
• Liver Yin (and
kidney) deficiency: poor or blurry vision.
• Compared to Tu
si zi, Sha yuan ji li focuses
more on improving the vision, whereas Tu
si zi
focuses more on tonification.
Hsu:
Antidiuretic, stimulates uterine contraction.
DY:
Astringing (secures the essence); harmoniously supplements Yin and Yang.
• With Bai
ji li to regulate upbearing and
downbearing and the liver and kidneys. Together, they course the liver
and rectify Qi, resolve depression and calm the liver. They
harmoniously supplement the liver and kidneys - they enrich the kidneys
and
secure the essence, nourish the liver and brighten the eyes. For such
indications as:
- 1. Vertigo, unclear vision
due to liver and kidney deficiency. (Use salt mix-fried Bai
ji li.)
- 2. Lumbar pain, seminal
emission, premature ejaculation, frequent urination due to
kidney deficiency. (Use salt mix-fried or stir-fried Sha
yuan zi.)
- 3. Abnormal vaginal
discharge due to kidney deficiency.
6-15g
|
Suo Yang
Cynomorium
stem
"Lock
Yang"
|
sweet
warm
|
Lv
K
LI
|
Tonifies kidney Yang;
moistens the large intestine, promotes bowel movement; nourishes blood
and Jing; strengthens the sinews.
• Kidney Yang and
Jing deficiency: infertility, impotence, spermatorrhea, weakness
of the lumbar region and knees, weakness of the tendons and bones,
frequent
urination.
• Large intestine
dryness (Qi and blood deficiency): constipation.
• Jing and blood
deficiency: weakness of the sinews, motor impairment, paralysis,
muscular atrophy.
• Doctrine of
signatures: for impotence - see morphology of the stem.
• Stronger than Rou
cong rong at tonifying kidney
Yang, but weaker at moistening
the large intestine and promoting bowel movement.
4.5-15g
|
Tu Si Zi
Cuscuta seed
Chinese Dodder
|
sweet
acrid
neutral
|
Lv
K
|
Tonifies kidney Yang; mildly
nourishes kidney Yin; controls Jing and urine;
improves vision; tonifies spleen Qi to stop diarrhea; calms the fetus.
• Kidney Yang
deficiency: impotence, frequent urination, tinnitus, copious
leukorrhea, weak and sore lumbar region and knees, nocturnal emission
without
dreams.
• Liver and kidney
Yin deficiency: blurry vision, seeing spots, dizziness, tinnitus.
• Habitual or
threatened miscarriage.
• Spleen Qi
deficiency (with concurrent kidney deficiency): diarrhea or loose
stools,
poor appetite.
• Do not count on
this herb for tonification of spleen Qi - use it when there is also
kidney Yang/Qi deficiency.
• Compared to Sha
yuan ji li, Tu
si zi focuses more on
tonification, whereas Sha yuan
ji li focuses more on improving
the vision.
• Because this herb
is a parasite of some agricultural crops, it must usually be
sterilized before entry into the United States.
MLT:
A tonic specific for low sperm count and inactivity of sperm.
Hsu:
Cardiotonic, hypotensive, stimulates the uterus, decreases the size of
the
spleen, inhibits intestinal activity.
9-15g
|
Xian Mao
Curculigo
rhizome
Golden eye-grass
"Immortal
Grass"
|
acrid
sl toxic
hot
|
K
Lv
|
Tonifies kidney Yang - can
reach and tonify the Ming Men;
eliminates cold and
damp.
• Kidney Yang
deficiency: impotence, nocturnal emission, urinary incontinence, cold
in the chest and abdomen, infertility from cold Jing or cold womb.
• Cold-damp Bi:
cold and pain in the lumbar region, knees, abdomen, a sense of
weakness in the bones and sinews.
• Especially useful
for cold abdominal or lower back pain.
• Often taken
soaked in wine by itself.
• Compared to Ba
ji tian and Yin
yang huo, Xian
mao is stronger and harsher. It
should not be taken long term.
• Toxic reactions,
such as swelling of the tongue, can occur. This can be alleviated
with a decoction of Da huang,
Huang lian, and Huang
qin.
MLT:
For menopausal symptoms from deficiency of both Yin and Yang.
• Use as an
alternative to Fu zi
and Rou gui
when they would be too heating and
stimulating.
3-10g (10g for impotence)
|
Xu Duan
Dipsacus
Teasel root
"Restore What is
Broken"
|
bitter
sweet
acrid
sl
warm
|
Lv
K
|
Promotes tendon and bone
regeneration, generates flesh; tonifies the liver and
kidneys; promotes blood circulation, alleviates pain; stops uterine
bleeding; calms
the fetus.
• Liver and kidney
deficiency: weak lumbar region, knees and legs, stiff joints,
seminal emission, uterine bleeding, threatened miscarriage with
bleeding, restless
fetus.
• Topical or
internal: for trauma, sores, pain, swelling, Bi
syndrome (especially of the
lumbar region and limbs).
• Given its ability
to control excessive menstrual bleeding, its Yang nature, and its
ability to support a fetus, Kou
believe this herb has a progesterone-supporting effect
and in high doses (30-60g), he says it effectively treats estrogen
dominance.
• Tonifies without
causing stagnation.
• Much milder than Du
zhong at tonifying the liver and
kidneys.
• Compared to Du
zhong, Xu duan is used more to
treat lower back pain with
significant aspects of both wind-damp and kidney deficiency, while Du
zhong is
more effective when the problem is due primarily to deficiency.
• Fry in vinegar to
enhance its ability to promote blood circulation and alleviate pain.
• Roasting with
salt facilitates its entry into the kidney channel.
• Dry-fry or char
for excessive uterine bleeding.
• Powder for
topical application.
Hsu:
Induces eruption of pus, stops bleeding, promotes tissue regeneration,
analgesic
effect on patients with carbuncle dermatosis.
DY:
Stops metrorrhagia during pregnancy.
• With Du
zhong for mutual reinforcement,
to supplement the liver and kidneys,
strengthen the sinews and bones, stop metrorrhagia during pregnancy,
and quiet the
fetus. For specific indications and notes, See Du
zhong in this category.
MW:
For torn, stretched or wrenched joints, especially in large people who
throw
joints out with force. Chronic muscle inflammation, limitation of
movement, great
pain. Widespread arthritis, stiffness, incapacitation.
• Nerve irritation,
sciatica.
• Intermittent
fever.
• Regarding its
literal translation, "restore what is broken," it
can be used for
anything "broken" in one's life, so that
a part of one's path cannot become manifest. "For
people who had a use but lost it." Helplessness, loss of
purpose.
• Powerful remedy
for Lyme disease ("deer syphilis") and Lyme-like
diseases. Deer
appreciate this plant for relieving a disease they carry the vector for.
• MW dosing: 1-3
drops tincture 1-3 times daily. If this produces an aggravation, the
dose may be lessened. Caution: may cause a healing crisis first
(perhaps syphilis-like, genital rash, etc.).
• Doctrine of
signatures: The thorny stalks are a signature for tension and nerve
irritation. The tall, hard stalks which remain strong through the
winter seem to
indicate an affinity for the bones. At intervals along the stem the
opposite leaves
merge to form a cup which holds water after a rain - a remedy for
joints and the
kidney essence.
6-30g
|
Yang Qi Shi
Actinolite
"Stone for
Raising the Yang"
|
salty
sl
warm
|
K
|
Tonifies kidney Yang; warms
the womb.
• Kidney Yang
deficiency: impotence, infertility, spermatorrhea, premature
ejaculation, cold, soreness, weakness and pain in the lumbar region and
knees.
• Cold womb:
infertility, uterine bleeding.
• Increases female
libido.
• Not for long term
use.
• Contains oxides
of iron, calcium, and magnesium, plus about 50% silica.
• Usually calcined.
3-9g
|
Yi Zhi Ren
Black Cardamom
Alpinia
oxyphylla
Bitter-seeded
Cardamom
"Benefit
Intelligence Nut"
|
acrid
warm
|
Sp
K
|
Warms the spleen, stops
diarrhea, promotes food intake for the stomach; controls
saliva (spleen and kidney Qi); warms the kidneys to control urine and
Jing.
• Spleen and kidney
cold and Yang deficiency: vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain.
• Middle Jiao Qi
deficiency: poor appetite, copious saliva (not for excess salivation
due to heat forcing out fluid).
• Kidney Yang
deficiency: seminal emission, frequent and copious urination, urinary
incontinence, dribbling.
• Cold entering the
spleen and kidneys: abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea.
• Excessive saliva
and thick, unpleasant taste in the mouth: Yi
zhi ren is better for
cold conditions while Pei lan
is better for hot conditions.
• Yi
zhi ren's
spleen-warming properties are more pronounced than its kidney-tonifying
qualities. The opposite is the case with Bu
gu zhi.
• Crush before use.
Hsu:
Stomachic, antidiuretic, inhibits salivation.
DY:
With Fu ling
to fortify the spleen, secure the kidneys, reduce urination, and stop
diarrhea. For indications such as:
- 1. Strangury with
chyluria, milky, turbid urine, and dysuria due to deficiency cold
in the kidneys or kidney Qi not securing with imbalance in the function
of
transformation of the bladder. (Use salt mix-fried Yi
zhi ren)
- 2. Diarrhea due to
deficiency cold of the spleen and kidneys. Particularly watery
diarrhea. Use Yi zhi ren
which has been stir-fried until scorched.
3-9g
|
Yin Yang Huo
(Xian Ling Pi)
Epimedium
"Horny Goat
Weed"
|
acrid
sweet
warm
|
Lv
K
(Sp)
|
Tonifies kidney Yang;
eliminates wind-damp; tonifies Yin and Yang to harness
rising liver Yang.
• Kidney Yang
deficiency: impotence, seminal emission, frequent urination,
forgetfulness, withdrawal, weak, painful, cold lumbar region and knees.
• Wind-cold-damp:
pain or numbness in the limbs, spasms or cramps in the hands
and feet, joint pain.
• Liver/kidney
deficiency with subsequent liver Yang rising: low back pain,
dizziness, menstrual irregularity.
• Sexual effects:
increases sexual activity, sperm production, desire; androgen-like
effects on testes, prostate and levator ani.
• May possess
expectorant and antitussive qualities.
• Watch out for
arisal of heat symptoms from use of this herb - contraindicated with
Yin deficiency heat. Very drying.
• Particularly
useful for Bi
syndrome in patients with waning Ming
Men fire.
• Often steeped in
wine for kidney Yang deficiency or painful obstruction.
Jin:
Also warms spleen Yang.
Hsu:
Aphrodisiac (stimulates secretion of semen, indirectly promoting sexual
desire).
• Hypotensive -
dilates peripheral blood vessels, inhibits vasomotor center in the
brain.
• Antitussive,
expectorant, anti-asthmatic effects.
• Small doses are
diuretic, large doses are antidiuretic.
6-15g
|
Zi He Che
Human Placenta
"Purple River
Vehicle"
|
sweet
salty
warm
|
Lu
Lv
K
|
Nourishes blood; tonifies
Qi; tonifies the kidneys and liver, nourishes Jing; promotes
lactation.
• Kidney Qi and
Jing deficiency: infertility, impotence, seminal emission, soreness in
the lumber region, dizziness, tinnitus, lightheadedness.
• Qi and blood
deficiency (especially postpartum): thin muscles, pallor, scanty
lactation.
• Lung and kidney
Qi deficiency: asthma/wheezing (especially useful between acute
attacks); consumption with night sweats, emaciation, debility, chronic
wheezing and
cough.
• Unremitting
seizure disorders.
• Cancer with
severe anemia: use fresh placenta with Huang
qi and Dang
gui.
• May enhance
immune function: HIV, TB.
• Used for bleeding
from factor XIII deficiency.
• Enhances wound
healing.
• May be of benefit
in COPD.
• Cooler and weaker
at nourishing Jing than Lu rong,
but stronger at nourishing
blood.
• Placenta from
China is usually from animals. Also is usually bleached. Dried
placenta is normally dark red, since it's full of blood. If
collected from women,
should be sure any potential blood-borne pathogens are killed.
Hsu:
Anti-infectious: increases the body's immune resistance,
anti-allergic actions, contains a substance which acts as an antibody
against measles, influenza.
• Inhibits
precipitation of fat in the liver.
• Stimulates the
testes, stimulates production of chorionic hormones, stimulates
production of female sex hormones, including for pregnancy.
1.5-4.5g
|
Yin Tonics
|
• These herbs are
used to nourish Yin, produce body fluids, and moisten dryness.
• They are often
combined with herbs that clear deficiency heat.
• Since many of
these herbs are moist and cool, caution should be taken in cases of
spleen Qi deficiency or
accumulation of dampness in the middle Jiao.
• Wei Li:
Yin tonics are an important component in herbal formulas for lowering
diastolic blood pressure and controlling
hyperthyroidism.
|
Bai He
Lily bulb
"Hundred
Meetings"
|
sweet
sl cold
|
Lu
Ht
|
Moistens the Lungs,
generates body fluids, stops coughing; clears heat from the
Lungs and heart; calms the Shen.
• Lung heat and/or
dryness: cough, including with bleeding, sore throat.
• Heart heat with
Shen disturbance: palpitations, insomnia with lots of dreams,
restlessness, irritability, intractable low-grade fever.
• Can be used alone
for insomnia due to Lung Yin deficiency.
• Not as strong as Mai
men dong at nourishing Lung Yin.
DY:
Nourishes heart Yin.
• Sweet and cold,
but moistens without being slimy.
• With Zhi
mu to moisten the Lungs and
clear heat, nourish the heart and quiet the
spirit. For such indications as:
- 1. Vexation and agitation,
insomnia, vertigo, thirst related to a warm disease
which has damaged Yin or due to Yin deficiency with deficiency heat.
- 2. Dry cough, vexation and
agitation after a warm disease.
- 3. Lily disease.
• Bai
He Syndrome - "Lily
disease," named for the major herb that treats it, is a
form of mental depression with depressed emotions, anxiety,
taciturnity, a desire
to sleep without being able to, a desire to walk without being able to,
and a
subjective feeling of cold or hot. It follows either a warm disease, in
which case
it is of sudden and recent onset, or emotional problems which have
damaged heart Yin, in which case it is enduring and progressive in
nature.
• Bai
he is also effective for
numerous psychological and cardiac imbalances
related to heart Yin deficiency: palpitations, deep cardiac pain with a
feeling of
emptiness in the cardiac region, insomnia, profuse dreams, vexation,
agitation,
neurasthenia.
• When dry cough is
predominant, honey mix-fried Bai
he should be used.
• If vexation and
agitation or insomnia is predominant, uncooked Bai
he should
be prescribed.
HF:
An An Shen
(spirit calming) herb, important in Gu
Zheng (Gu
parasite)
formulas (because of emotional disturbance common in patients with Gu).
9-30g
|
Bai Mu Er
Wood Ear
mushroom
Tremella
"White Wood
Ear"
|
sweet
bland
neutral
|
Lu
St
|
Nourishes stomach Yin;
moistens the Lungs; generates body fluids; nourishes
Lung Yin.
• Yin deficiency
with Yang rising, especially with emaciation, heat in the five
centers (five hearts hot).
• Lung consumption.
• Lung heat: dry,
nonproductive cough or blood-streaked sputum.
Li:
Useful for chronic hepatitis with Yin deficiency; boosts the immune
system.
3-9g
|
Bie Jia
Turtle Shell
(salt-water, soft-shelled,
dorsal
aspect)
Bie Jia Jiao
Turtle Shell
Gelatin
|
salty
cold
|
Lv
Sp
|
Subdues liver Yang;
nourishes liver Yin; softens and resolves masses; promotes
blood circulation; promotes menstruation.
• Liver Yin
deficiency leading to liver wind stirring: trembling, convulsions.
• Yin deficiency:
low grade fever or fever in leukemia after chemotherapy,
steaming bone disorder, night sweats, consumption.
• Masses or lumps
in chronic malaria.
• Chest and flank
accumulations causing pain and amenorrhea.
• Heat in the
blood: excessive menstruation.
• Cirrhosis: Bie
jia softens hardness (of the
liver).
• Not as strong a
tonic as Gui ban,
and unlike Gui ban, Bei jia
does not tonify the
kidneys. However, Bie jia
is more effective at treating palpable abdominal
masses, and is less apt (than Gui
ban is) to cause stagnation.
• Cook 30 minutes
longer than other herbs.
• Liu: stronger
than Gui ban
at subduing rising liver Yang (but see below)
DY:
Clears heat from the Yin division; dispels stasis and scatters
nodulation.
• Better than Gui
Ban at clearing deficiency heat,
but inferior at subduing Yang.
With Gui
ban to make Yin and Yang
interact, to enrich Yin, clear deficiency
heat, subdue Yang, extinguish wind, and stop tremors. For such
indications as:
- 1. Tidal fever, steaming
bones, and night sweats due to Yin deficiency heat. (Use vinegar
dip-calcined Gui ban.)
- 2. Weakness of the limbs,
involuntary trembling of the hands and feet, and a red
tongue with little or no fur due to a warm disease which has damaged
the fluids
and which causes internal wind of the deficiency type.
- 3. Headaches, vertigo,
head distention and tinnitus due to ascendant
hyperactivity of liver Yang.
- 4. Hypertension due to Yin
deficiency which causes Yang to rise.
- 5. Abdominal
conglomeration, such as hepatomegaly and splenomegaly. (Use
vinegar dip-calcined Bie jia.)
• Bie
jia is incompatible with peach
and amaranth.
9-30g
Bie
Jia Jiao: Bie
jia gelatin
• Compared to Bie
jia, this is richer, more
cloying, a strong Yin and blood tonic.
• Commonly used for
consumption from deficiency, or exhausted Yin and blood
with tidal fever and internal movement of liver wind.
• Dissolve in hot
water or a strained decoction.
3-9g
|
Gou Qi Zi
Lycium fruit
Wolfberry
|
sweet
neutral
|
Lv
K
Lu
|
Nourishes kidney and liver
Yin; brightens the eyes; mildly moistens the Lungs,
nourishes Lung Yin; mildly supports Jing; mildly tonifies Yang.
• Kidney and liver
Yin or blood deficiency: dizziness, vertigo, poor vision,
weakness in the lumbar region and knees, sore back and legs, seminal
emission,
low-grade abdominal pain, wasting and thirsting disorder, consumption.
• Kidney and liver
deficiency where Jing and blood fail to nourish the eyes:
blurred vision, poor visual acuity, dizziness.
• Lung Yin
deficiency: cough (including consumptive patterns).
• Beneficial in
male sterility.
• May protect liver
cells and hasten recovery from damage by chemicals.
• Contains
extremely potent anti-oxidant pigments.
• Bensky/Gamble
classifies this herb as a blood tonic.
Li:
Important herb for sedating liver Yang.
Hsu:
May help promote regeneration of liver cells and inhibit precipitation
of fat
in liver cells.
• Hypoglycemiant;
hypotensive.
DY:
With Ju hua
to effectively nourish and supplement the liver and kidneys,
clear heat, calm the liver, and brighten the eyes. For indications such
as blurred
vision, diminished visual acuity, "moving black spots in
front of the eyes," fire
sparks in the eyes, photophobia, dry eyes with distention and headache,
and pain
in the lower back and knees due to liver-kidney deficiency. For these
indications,
the combination is present in Qi
Ju Di Huang Wan. Bai
ju hua should be used. Ju
hua carries the action of Gou
qi zi toward the eyes.
• In cases of loose
stools or diarrhea due to Qi deficiency or spleen Yang
deficiency, it is worthwhile to prescribe stir-fried Gou
qi zi in order to lessen its
slightly cold and moistening nature, which tends to damage the spleen.
However,
when prepared this way, the herb tends to be weaker at nourishing the
liver and
kidneys, blood and Jing.
6-18g
|
Gui Ban
Turtle Shell
Testudinis
(freshwater /
land, hard
shelled, mainly
ventral aspect)
Gui Ban Jiao
Turtle Shell
Gelatin
|
sweet
salty
cold
|
Lv
K
Ht
|
Nourishes liver and kidney
Yin; subdues liver Yang rising; tonifies the kidneys to
strengthen the bones; mildly nourishes heart blood; cools the blood,
stops uterine
bleeding; softens hardness; expels stasis; aids in difficult births.
• Stirring of wind
due to liver Yang rising as a result of Yin deficiency: facial
spasms, hand and foot tremors.
• Yin deficiency
heat: fever.
• Kidney
deficiency: weakness of the lumbar region and feet, retardation in
children, poor skeletal development, failure of fontanel to close.
• Heart blood
deficiency: palpitations, insomnia, anxiety, poor memory.
• Heat in the
blood: uterine bleeding or excessive menstruation.
• Non-healing sores
and ulcers.
• Hypertension due
to Yin deficiency.
• First choice for Wei
syndrome due to kidney and liver Yin deficiency
• Some ancient
sources say Gui ban
is contraindicated in pregnancy since it
softens hardness, expels stasis, and aids in difficult births - but can
be used
appropriately when baby is due.
• Doctrine of
signatures: the turtle is so Yin it hardly moves; regarding its ability
to aid in childbirth, it helps coax the turtle (baby) out of its shell
(mother).
• Crush before use.
• Frying in vinegar
focuses its effects on the liver and makes it easier to crush.
• Cook 30 minutes
longer than other herbs.
DY:
Makes the heart and kidneys and the Ren
Mai and Du
Mai communicate.
• Better than Bie
Jia at subduing Yang, but less
effective at clearing deficiency
heat.
• With Bie
jia: See Bie
jia in this category for
properties and indications of the
combination.
Hsu:
Antipyretic, analgesic.
9-30g
Gui
Ban Jiao: Gui ban gelatin
• Same functions as Gui
ban,
but is richer, more cloying, stronger to nourish Yin,
and stops bleeding.
• Beneficial for
uterine bleeding due to kidney Qi deficiency.
• Dissolve in wine
or a strained decoction.
3-9g
|
Mo Han Lian
(Han Lian Cao)
Eclipta
|
sweet
sour
cold
|
Lv
K
|
Cools the blood; stops
bleeding; mildly nourishes kidney and liver Yin; sharpens
the senses.
• Kidney and liver
Yin deficiency: dizziness, early greying of the hair, blurry
vision, vertigo.
• Yin deficiency
heat: hematemesis, hemafecia, epistaxis, uterine bleeding,
coughing up blood, and especially hematuria.
• Beneficial for
diphtheria.
• Topical: for
hemorrhage.
• Similar in
actions to Sheng di,
but not greasy - a better choice when the patient
has a digestive disorder.
• Han
lian cao's function
to nourish Yin is quite limited.
Hsu:
Antibacterial, hemostatic, blood cooling, possibly anti-inflammatory.
DY:
Nourishes the lower and upper parts; enriches Yin and blackens the hair.
• With Nu
zhen zi to effectively
supplement the liver and kidneys, cool the blood
and stop bleeding, and blacken the hair. For the following indications,
this
combination, Er Zhi Wan,
should be prepared with wine-steamed Nu
zhen zi.
- 1. Liver-kidney deficiency
heat.
- 2. Vertigo, dizziness,
insomnia, and loss of memory due to liver-kidney
deficiency with Yin and blood not nourishing the upper part of the body.
- 3. Premature greying of
the hair and beard due to kidney essence deficiency.
- 4. Nosebleed, bleeding
gums, hemoptysis, hematemesis, hematuria, and
metrorrhagia due to Yin deficiency heat which forces the blood out of
the vessels. Han lian
cao's action of
cooling the blood and stopping bleeding is not very
strong. The combination can be strengthened for these purposes by
adding Sheng
di, Mu dan pi, Ce bai ye, and Qian
cao gen.
9-15g (to 30g when fresh)
|
Hei Zhi Ma
Black Sesame
seed
|
sweet
neutral
|
Lv
K
|
Nourishes blood; supports
Jing; moistens the large intestine, promotes bowel
movement; extinguishes wind (due to blood deficiency).
• Blood deficiency,
body fluid deficiency, or Yin deficiency: constipation (good
for the elderly).
• Blood and Jing
deficiency: early greying of the hair, dizziness.
• Internal wind due
to blood deficiency: headache, dizziness, numbness.
• This herb is only
a weak tonic, but it has no side effects.
• Very rich in
calcium.
• Sesame oil:
excellent for massage, non-comedogenic, bacteriostatic.
Yoga:
Tila:
V-; P, K, or Ama
+ (in excess)
• Rejuvenative
tonic for Vata.
• Sattvic.
Hsu:
Purgative, lowers blood sugar.
9-30g
|
Huang Jing
Polygonatum
sibiricum
rhizome
Siberian
Solomon's Seal
"Yellow
Essence"
|
sweet
neutral
|
Sp
Lu
K
|
Nourishes Lung Yin; tonifies
spleen Qi, nourishes spleen Yin; mildly nourishes
kidney Yin and Jing.
• Lung Yin (and Qi)
deficiency: dry cough.
• Kidney Jing
deficiency: weakness and soreness in the lumbar region and knees,
dizziness, weakness in the lower extremities, lightheadedness.
• Spleen and
stomach Qi deficiency: poor appetite, fatigue, weak pulse, lassitude.
• Spleen and
stomach Yin deficiency: dry mouth, poor appetite, loss of taste, dry
stool, dry, red tongue.
• Lung, stomach,
and kidney Yin deficiency: diabetes/wasting and thirsting
disorder.
• Very safe, will
not trap an EPI in the body, not greasy. Liu: "Typical Taoist
herb."
• Can be taken
long-term.
• May lower blood
pressure.
• Beneficial in
tuberculosis.
• The raw form
(less used) is more of a Yin tonic than a Qi tonic.
• The prepared form
(common), which is wine-steamed, is more of a Qi tonic
than a Yin tonic.
• Bensky/Gamble
classify this herb as a Qi tonic.
• Michael Tierra
compares this herb, rather than Yu
zhu, to American
Solomon's
Seal (an error?), and considers American Polygonatum to be as good or
better
than the Chinese variety.
Li:
Good non-warming immune tonic.
Hsu:
Antifungal, antibacterial, hypotensive, hypoglycemiant.
HF:
An An Shen
(spirit calming) herb, important in Gu
Zheng (Gu
parasite)
formulas (because of emotional disturbance common in patients with Gu).
6-18g
|
Luo Han Guo
Momordica fruit
"Arhat
Fruit"
Luo Han Ye
Momordica leaf
|
sweet
neutral
|
Lu
Sp
|
Moistens and cool the Lungs;
dissipate nodules.
• Hot coughs,
especially in cases of Lung Yin deficiency.
• Phlegm nodules in
the neck, such as scrofula.
• Recently used as
the source of a low-calorie sweeter.
Hsu:
Diuretic, vasodilator - coronary and renal; strengthens capillaries,
anti-inflammatory.
9-15g (½ to 2
pieces of fruit)
Luo
Han Ye: leaf
• Similar to the
fruit.
• Chronic throat
problems, chronic bronchitis.
|
Mai Men Dong
Ophiopogon
tuber
"Lush Winter
Wheat"
|
sweet
sl.
bitter
sl. cold
|
Lu
Ht
St
|
Nourishes Yin; moistens the
Lungs, stops coughing; generates Yin and body
fluids for the stomach; clears heat from the heart to ease
restlessness; moistens
the intestines.
• Lung heat and Yin
deficiency: dry cough, thick, difficult to expectorate sputum,
coughing up blood.
• Stomach Yin
deficiency: dry mouth, thirst.
• Heart heat and
Yin deficiency or ying-level febrile disease: restlessness,
insomnia, irritability, worse at night.
• Yin deficiency or
aftermath of a febrile disease: constipation, dry mouth,
irritability.
• Can reach the
upper and middle Jiaos.
• May lower blood
sugar.
• For Lung heat and
dryness, compared to Tian hua
fen and Tian
men dong, Mai
men dong is best when the origin
is heart fire (Tian hua fen
is best when the
origin is stomach heat and Tian
men dong is best when the origin
is kidney Yin
deficiency)
• Frying the herb
in wine reduces its cold properties, which is indicated when the
herb is used in tonic formulas.
DY:
Compared to Tian men dong, Mai men dong
is better for Lung/stomach Yin
deficiency, and better for nourishing the heart and quieting the spirit.
Hsu:
Antipyretic, antitussive, expectorant, cardiotonic, diuretic,
hypoglycemiant,
antibacterial, may have anti-inflammatory properties.
6-15g
|
Nu Zhen Zi
Ligustrum
Privet fruit
"Female Chastity
Seed"
|
sweet
bitter
cool
|
Lv
K
|
Nourishes kidney and liver
Yin; clears liver heat; improves vision; clears Yin
deficiency heat.
• Kidney and liver
Yin deficiency: dizziness, weak lumbar region and knees,
premature aging, early greying of the hair, diminished visual acuity,
blurry vision,
tinnitus.
• Yin deficiency
heat: fever.
• No greasy side
effects - good for Yin deficient patients with poor digestion.
• This herb is not
a powerful Yin tonic.
• Doctrine of
signatures: black and shaped like a kidney - nourishes the kidneys.
JTCM:
Lowers serum cholesterol; improves blood supply to the heart.
• Acne: may help by
regulating endocrine function.
• Lowers blood
sugar.
• Treats cirrhosis
of the liver.
• Hyperthyroidism.
• Brown spots on
the skin.
MLT:
Immune tonic to counter effects of radiation and chemotherapy.
Hsu:
Cardiotonic, purgative, nutritive, may inhibit tumor growth.
DY:
With Han lian cao
to effectively supplement the liver and kidneys, cool the
blood and stop bleeding, and blacken the hair. See Han
lian cao in this category
for specific indications and notes on this combination.
4.5-15g
|
Sang Ji Sheng
Mistletoe
(parasitizing
Morus)
Viscum/Taxillus
or
Loranthus
"Mulberry
Parasite"
|
bitter
neutral
|
K
Lv
|
Tonifies the liver and
kidneys; strengthens the tendons and bones; expels wind
and dampness; nourishes blood; calms the fetus/womb; benefits the skin.
• Liver and kidney
Yin deficiency (with or without wind-damp): soreness and
pain in the lower back and knees, joint problems, numbness, weakness
and
atrophy of the sinews and bones.
• Wind-dampness: Bi
syndrome with some lumbar region and knees.
• Restless fetus,
uterine bleeding, threatened miscarriage in pregnancy.
• Blood deficiency:
dry, scaly skin.
• Hypertension.
• Diuretic
component.
• Wine-fry the herb
to strengthen its ability to expel wind-dampness.
Li:
Drunk alone as tea by elderly in China, "Tonifies
everything."
MLT:
Versatile for back and joint pains, stiffness from various causes,
especially
for those who develop gradual stiffness and aching pain of the lower
back with
difficulty bending at waist.
Hsu:
Lowers serum cholesterol, diuretic, antibacterial, pronounced antiviral.
RW:
(host not specified)
• Hypertension:
parasympathetic stimulant, vasodilator.
Definite benefit in
hypertension, however, "oral use cannot provide effective
treatment for arterial hypertension, nor can too much be expected as
regards
reduction in blood pressure, and certainly no lasting effect... yet
practitioners and
patients repeatedly find it has excellent subjective effects on
headaches,
dizziness, loss of energy, irritability and other symptoms connected
with
hypertension..." No unpleasant side effects, non-toxic in
usual dosage, gentle,
good for extended treatment of slightly or moderately raised blood
pressure,
which will go down in the course of treatment. Ideal treatment for
blood pressure
of about 160/100. Best prepared as a cold water extract: pour 1/4 liter
cold water
over 2-4 teaspoons chopped herb, let stand overnight and drink in
morning. prepare another cup to be drunk at night.
Patients are very fond of
this three herb blend: equal parts mistletoe, (Western)
hawthorn flowers and leaves (to improve coronary circulation), melissa
(lemon
balm) leaves (as a cardiac sedative). Take 1 cup morning and night,
prepared by
infusing 2 teaspoons of the mixture for 5-10 minutes, taken in sips
while still
warm. May be sweetened with honey.
• Cancer: extensive
literature available on commercial extracts (e.g. Iscador). Unlike
cytostatic drugs, mistletoe extracts are non-toxic, well tolerated.
Reported
to reduce tumor size and improve patients' general condition.
Used mainly after
surgery and radiation.
• Arthritis:
mistletoe preparations (e.g. Plenosol) are injected into the joint.
PCBDP:
Cardiac tonic; antineoplastic (binds to DNA, inhibits protein
synthesis).
For various cancers
(including lung, ovary).
JC:
Nervine, antispasmodic, tonic, slight narcotic, diuretic, emmenagogue,
emetic.
• Used in all
problems caused by weakness of or a disordered state of the nervous
system. Quiets, soothes, and tones the nerves, lessens cerebral
excitement, helps
febrile conditions.
• Useful in
weakness of female generative organs, incites uterine contractions.
• Gives tone in
cardiac affections. possesses non-injurious properties.
• For hysteria,
epilepsy, uterine hemorrhages, amenorrhea, dysmenorrhea, heart
troubles (especially in typhoid fever), hypertension, convulsions,
delirium,
nervous debility, fits, nervousness, chorea (St. Vitus'
Dance), cardiac edema,
cholera.
9-60g
|
Sang Shen
Morus fruit
Mulberry
|
sweet
cold
|
Ht
Lv
K
|
Nourishes blood and Yin;
generates body fluids; moistens the large intestine.
• Heart, liver, and
kidney Yin/blood deficiency: dizziness, diminished vision,
tinnitus, insomnia, premature greying of hair.
• Injury of body
fluids: thirst.
• Yin and blood
deficiency: constipation with dry stool (good for the elderly).
• Yin deficiency:
wasting and thirsting disorder.
• Use prepared form
for blood deficiency.
• Bensky/Gamble
categorize this herb as a blood tonic.
6-15g
|
Sha Shen
(Bei Sha Shen)
Glehnia root
"Sand
Root"
Nan Sha Shen
Adenophora
|
sweet
bland
sl. cold
|
Lu
St
|
Clears heat; nourishes Lung
Yin; produces body fluids for the stomach; moistens
the Lung and stops coughing; moistens the exterior.
• Lung heat with
Yin deficiency: dry, nonproductive or bloody cough, hoarseness.
• Stomach body
fluid injury due to heat in febrile disease: poor appetite, dry
mouth and throat, thirst, accompanying constipation.
• Dry itchy skin,
especially when worse with cold, dry weather.
• A key herb for
Lung and stomach Yin deficiency.
• Sha
shen usually implies Bei
sha shen.
Li:
Good for depression. Nourishes spleen Yin so it can fight off attack by
the
liver.
Hsu:
Antipyretic, analgesic (ethanol extract), slight expectorant.
MLT:
Nearly the same as Xi yang shen,
but cheaper.
HF:
An An Shen
(spirit calming) herb, important in Gu
Zheng (Gu
parasite)
formulas (because of emotional disturbance common in patients with Gu).
9-15g
Nan
sha shen (Adenophora) is weaker
at nourishing Yin and Qi and does not generate fluids, but is better
than Bei sha
shen at stopping coughs.
|
Shi Hu
Dendrobium
"Bushel of
Stone"
(usually the
cheaper
Ephemerantha is
substituted)
|
sweet
sl. cold
|
St
K
|
Generates body fluids for
the stomach; nourishes stomach Yin, mildly nourishes
kidney Yin; clears heat; brightens the vision; strengthens the lower
back.
• Stomach Yin
deficiency or injury of stomach body fluids by heat: dry mouth,
thirst, stomach ache, dry heaves, shiny tongue, intractable fever,
wasting and
thirsting disorder.
• Kidney Yin
deficiency: prolonged low grade fever (do not count on Shi
hu alone
in cases of kidney Yin deficiency).
• Can trap an EPI
in the body and prolong the sickness. If there is a chance of
EPI, Mai men dong
or Yu zhu
is a better choice.
• Premier herb for
stomach Yin deficiency: stronger than Mai
men dong at
nourishing stomach Yin.
• The true herb
is effective at lowering blood pressure, even in small
doses.
• The true herb is
quite difficult to obtain in the U.S., and is very expensive, though it
is also very popular with some practitioners.
Hsu:
Stimulates smooth muscle contraction of the small intestine, increases
its
tonicity, promotes peristalsis and gastric secretion.
• Slightly
antipyretic and analgesic.
6-15g
|
Tian Men Dong
Asparagus tuber
"Lush Winter
Aerial Plant"
|
sweet
bitter
very
cold
|
Lu
K
|
Clears heat and reduces fire
from the Lungs; nourishes Lung and kidney Yin;
moistens dryness.
• Lung heat or fire
and Yin deficiency: dry cough with small amount of sticky
sputum or cough with bleeding.
• Injury of Yin by
heat: dry mouth and thirst.
• Lung and kidney
Yin deficiency: wasting and thirsting disorder, consumption,
low-grade afternoon fever.
• Large intestine
dryness: constipation.
• Reaches the upper
and lower Jiaos.
• Often used with Mai
men dong to treat both the
mother and son.
• Has a viscous,
cloying nature - can easily produce stagnation.
• Antibiotic
effects.
• May help leukemia.
• Said to engender
love and compassion.
• For Lung heat and
dryness, compared to Tian hua
fen and Mai
men dong, Tian
men dong is superior when the
origin is kidney Yin deficiency (Tian
hua fen is
best when the origin in stomach heat and Mai
men dong is best when the origin
is
heart fire)
DY:
Compared to Mai men dong, Tian men dong
is better for Lung/kidney Yin
deficiency, and better for clearing and moistening.
Yoga:
Shatavari: "who possesses 100 husbands" -
named such because
it is so
tonic and rejuvenative to the female reproductive organs.
• P, V-; K and ama+
(in excess); Sattvic.
• Sexual debility,
especially of the female organs, infertility, impotence,
menopause, diarrhea, dysentery, stomach ulcers, hyperacidity,
dehydration, lung
abscess, hematemesis, cough, convalescence, cancer, herpes, leukorrhea,
chronic
fevers.
• A rasayan
for Pitta,
for the female reproductive system, and for the blood.
• Demulcent for dry
and inflamed membranes.
• Topical:
emollient for stiff joints, neck, muscle spasm.
• Contains many
female hormones.
PCBMP:
Diuretic, laxative, cardiac tonic and sedative.
• Also for neuritis
and rheumatism.
Hsu:
Antibacterial, antitussive, diuretic, laxative.
6-15g
|
Xi Yang Shen
American
Ginseng
Panax
quinquefolium
"Western Seas
Root"
|
bitter
sweet
cold
|
Ht
Lu
K
|
Nourishes Yin; tonifies Qi;
clears heat/fire; generates body fluids.
• Lung Yin
deficiency fire: difficulty breathing, cough with sputum and blood,
loss of voice, wheezing.
• Injury of Lung
and stomach Yin and Qi: fatigue, thirst.
• Yin deficiency:
dry mouth and tongue, chronic unabating fever.
• Aftermath of
febrile disease: weakness, irritability, thirst.
• Good for
tuberculosis.
• Good for patients
with heat and Qi/yin deficiency.
• Much weaker than Ren
shen at nourishing Qi.
• Not to be
combined with Li lu.
• Do not cook this
herb in an iron pot. Often cooked separately from other herbs
in a double boiler.
HF:
An An Shen
(spirit calming) herb, important in Gu
Zheng (Gu
parasite)
formulas (because of emotional disturbance common in patients with Gu).
2.4-9g
|
Yu Zhu
Polygonatum
odoratum or
P.
officinale
rhizome
Solomon's Seal
"Jade
Bamboo"
|
sweet
neutral
|
Lu
St
|
Nourishes Yin; moistens
dryness; produces body fluids for the stomach;
extinguishes wind; softens and moistens the sinews.
• Lung and stomach
Yin deficiency: dry cough, dry mouth, thirst, irritability,
steaming bone disorder, wasting and thirsting with intense hunger and
constipation.
• Wind-heat attack
with a Yin deficient constitution: fever, sore throat, cough,
thirst.
• Insufficient
fluids leading to wind: pain and spasm of the sinews.
• Yin deficiency
plus internal wind: dizziness.
• Not cloying, will
not trap EPIs in the body.
• Use raw to clear
heat.
• Steam until it
turns black (more like Huang jing) to nourish Yin and tonify the
middle Qi.
• Useful in
treatment of second- or third-degree heart failure.
• Weaker than Shi
hu at nourishing stomach Yin. Yu
zhu is a better choice when
there is stomach Yin xu with an EPI.
• Weaker than Tian
men dong at clearing heat, but
does not have the disadvantage
of Tian men dong's
severely cloying nature which can easily produce stagnation.
Hsu:
Laxative, diuretic, lowers blood sugar, may have adrenocortical
hormone-like effects.
Yoga:
Meda, Mahmeda:
VPK=; K or ama+ (in excess)
• Nutritive tonic,
rejuvenative, aphrodisiac, demulcent, expectorant, hemostatic.
• Tonic to Vata
and Pitta
and to semen and reproductive tissue.
• For debility,
infertility, impotence, chronic bleeding, diabetes, consumption, dry
cough, dehydration, malnutrition, burning sensation, broken bones,
inflamed
mucus membranes.
MW:
Muscular and skeletal problems: loosens or tightens ligaments as
necessary, keeps adjustments in place, corrects tension, feeds and
lubricates
ligaments, tendons, muscles, and attachments, joins and seals broken
bones,
decalcifies unhealthy deposits and spurs, strengthens and harmonizes.
• Also for bruises,
burns, sores.
• Wolf medicine:
wolves eat this for indigestion.
• Helps build up
intestinal bacteria; soothes and coats mucosa.
• Gentle regulator
of heart muscle, mild cardiac tonic.
• Its berries are
poisonous.
PCBDP:
Astringent, demulcent, tonic.
9-15g
|
Astringent
Herbs
|
•
These
herbs are
used to control sweating, diarrhea, coughing, bleeding, leukorrhea, and
urination; and to retain Qi,
blood, body fluids, Yin, Yang, and Jing.
• These herbs treat only
the branch
of diseases. The root - usually deficiency of Qi, blood, Yin, or Yang -
should be
treated concurrently. Most of the herbs in this category are
contraindicated in cases of leakage due to excess - e.g.,
heat, accumulation of dampness, exterior syndromes.
|
Chi Shi Zhi
Red Kaolin (clay)
Halloysite
"Crimson Stone
Resin"
|
sour
sweet
astrngnt
warm
|
LI
St
Sp
|
Astringes the large
intestine; stops diarrhea; stops bleeding; promotes wound
healing.
• Yang deficiency
cold: chronic diarrhea, dysentery, especially with blood and
mucus (not for damp-heat) or chronic uterine bleeding, excessive
menstruation,
leukorrhea, bleeding prolapsed rectum.
• Topical: for
bleeding from trauma, chronic non-healing sores, weeping damp
sores.
• Usually calcined
before use.
Hsu:
Anti-diarrheal, absorbs abnormally fermented food in the intestines and
protects intestinal mucosa; hemostatic.
SD:
May help antidote mercury poisoning.
9-30g
|
Chun Gen Pi
(Chun Pi)
Ailanthus bark or
root bark
|
bitter
astrngnt
cold
|
LI
St
|
Clears heat; dries dampness;
stops leukorrhea; astringes the intestines; stops
bleeding; kills parasites.
• Chronic diarrhea
or dysenteric disorders (research shows very effective for
acute bacillary dysentery), especially those due to damp-heat.
Particularly
useful when there is blood in the stool.
• Damp-heat:
chronic vaginal discharge.
• Menorrhagia or
uterine bleeding.
• Roundworms.
• Topical: for
itchy, tinea-like rashes.
3-15g
|
Fu Pen Zi
Rubus
Raspberry
(unripe)
"Overturned
Basin"
|
sweet
sour
sl
warm
|
Lv
K
|
Tonifies and stabilizes the
kidneys, controls Jing and urine; assists Yang,
improves vision.
• Kidney Yang
deficiency: seminal emission, frequent urination, urinary
incontinence, enuresis.
• Kidney and liver
deficiency: blurry vision, impotence, soreness of the lower
back.
• Estrogen-like
effects: may be useful in hormonal imbalance (e.g. acne) - as in
Hong Jin's acne formula.
• Astringes without
trapping pathological factors.
• The name "overturned basin" may
refer to this
herb's efficacy at treating
urinary incontinence. After this herb cures the incontinence, the basin
(bedpan
or toilet) can be turned over because it is empty or is no longer
needed.
4.5-9g
|
Fu Xiao Mai
"Floating"
Wheat
(light grains)
"Floating Little
Wheat"
|
sweet
cool
|
Ht
|
Tonifies Qi; clears heat;
nourishes the heart, calms the Shen; stops sweating.
• Yin, Yang, or Qi
deficiency: night sweats or spontaneous sweating.
• Yin deficiency:
tidal fever.
• Palpitations,
insomnia, irritability, emotional instability, disorientation
associated with restless organ disorder.
• Enuresis in
children.
• Can be used raw
or dry-fried until aromatic.
• Very safe herb.
• Fu
xiao mai may antagonize a
wheat/gluten sensitivity - keep this in mind
with sensitive patients.
DY:
With Huang qi
to supplement Qi, nourish the heart, clear heat, secure the
exterior, and stop perspiration. For indications such as spontaneous
sweating
due to exterior deficiency. (Mu
Li San) Use stir-fried Fu
xiao mai.
• With Ma
huang gen to supplement the Qi,
nourish the heart, secure the
exterior, clear heat, and stop perspiration. The combination is found
in Mu Li
San for indications such as:
- 1. Spontaneous or profuse
perspiration due to Qi deficiency.
- 2. Night sweats due to Yin
deficiency.
• These are
under-developed grains of ripe wheat which float when the wheat is
washed.
• Xiao mai (Huai xiao mai)
is the
heavy, full grains which sink when washed. Xiao
mai
is better than Fu xiao mai
for nourishing the heart and quieting the
Shen for visceral agitation, vexation, sadness.
• Fu
xiao mai is the blighted grains
which, when dried, float on the surface of
the water when washed. Fu xiao
mai is superior to Xiao
mai for stopping
perspiration by astringing, eliminating heat (deficiency), and treating
spontaneous perspiration, night sweats, or the feeling of heat in the
bones.
• Stir-fried Fu
xiao mai is more powerful than
uncooked Fu xiao mai
at
stopping sweating.
• Wheat from
southern China is reputed to be warm, while that from the north
is believed to be cool.
• Chen
xiao mai is wheat which has been
stored and aged. This is preferred by
some practitioners, since the more recent wheat, freshly harvested, is
too warm
in nature. This warmth is lost when aged.
• Bai
mian is wheat flour. When
stir-fried (Chao mian)
it supplements the
spleen and stops diarrhea.
9-15g (DY:
to 30g)
|
Hai Piao Xiao
Cuttlefish bone
|
salty
astrngnt
sl
warm
|
Lv
K
St
|
Stops bleeding and
leukorrhea; controls Jing; neutralizes acid, relieves pain;
promotes tissue regeneration; resolves dampness; stops diarrhea.
• Bleeding: uterine
bleeding, hematemesis, hemoptysis, bleeding from trauma;
especially useful for bleeding from deficiency patterns.
• Kidney
deficiency: nocturnal emission, leukorrhea, spermatorrhea.
• Acid reflux,
epigastric pain, peptic ulcer, foul burps (take uncooked powder).
• Deficiency:
chronic diarrhea or dysentery with pain around the navel.
• With rice wine
for malaria.
• Topical: chronic,
non-healing skin ulcers, damp rashes of long duration,
eczema.
• Topical: for
bleeding (may be mixed with starch). In tooth extraction,
epistaxis, and surgery - is a more effective hemostatic than either
plain sponges
or gelatin sponges.
4.5-12g
|
He Zi
Chebulic
Myrobalan fruit
Terminalia
Chebula
Haritaki
|
bitter
sour
astrngnt
neutral
|
Lu
LI
St
|
Astringes the Lungs and
large intestine; descends Lung and large intestine Qi;
eases the throat; stops coughing.
• Chronic diarrhea
or chronic dysentery due to deficiency (can be used for both
hot and cold patterns when combined appropriately).
• Lung deficiency:
chronic cough, asthma, wheezing, hoarse voice or loss of
voice (can be used for cough due to phlegm-fire obstructing the Lungs,
when
appropriately combined).
Yoga:
Haritaki:
means it carries away all diseases and is sacred to Shiva (also
called Abhaya:
promotes fearlessness).
• All tastes but
salty; mainly astringent/heating/sweet; VPK=
• Rejuvenative,
tonic, astringent, laxative, nervine, expectorant, anthelmintic.
• For cough,
asthma, hoarse voice, hiccups, vomiting, hemorrhoids, diarrhea,
malabsorption, abdominal distention, parasites, tumors, jaundice,
spleen
disease, heart disease, skin disease, itching, edema, nervous disorders.
• Caution with
severe exhaustion, emaciation, or dehydration.
• One of most
important Ayurvedic herbs.
• Rejuvenates Vata,
regulates Kapha,
only aggravates Pitta
in excess.
• Feeds the brain
and nerves, imparts the energy of Shiva (pure awareness).
• Heals ulcerated
membranes.
• Regulates the
colon: based on dosage, corrects either diarrhea or constipation;
improves digestion and absorption.
• Promotes voice
and vision.
• Aids longevity,
increases wisdom and intelligence.
• Raises prolapsed
organs, checks excess discharges: including spermatorrhea,
menorrhagia, sweating, leukorrhea, etc.
• Reduces
accumulated and congested Vata.
• Triphala, 3
fruit formula: laxative
and balancing bowel tonic: haritaki
(rejuvenates Vata),
amalaki (rejuvenates Pitta)
and bibhitaki (rejuvenates Kapha).
HF:
A Sha Chong
(kill worms or parasites) herb, important in Gu
Zheng (Gu
parasites) formulas.
Hsu:
Antibacterial, antiviral, antispasmodic, protects ulcerations of mucosa
caused by enteritis or dysentery bacteria.
3-9g
|
Jin Ying Zi
Rosehip
"Golden Cherry
Fruit"
|
sour
astrngnt
neutral
|
K
BL
LI
|
Stabilizes the kidneys,
controls Jing and urine; astringes the large intestine,
stops diarrhea.
• Kidney
deficiency: spermatorrhea, frequent urination, urinary incontinence,
copious leukorrhea.
• Kidney and spleen
deficiency: chronic diarrhea or dysentery, prolapsed
rectum or uterus, excessive uterine bleeding.
• May lower
cholesterol, may reduce atherosclerosis.
• Rich in vitamin C.
MLT:
Acute postpartum uterine hemorrhage (take some of the stem and leaf
along with the fruit).
BII:
Beneficial for kidney stones.
Hsu:
Antibacterial, antiviral, (extract) quite effective for treating
uterine
prolapse.
DY:
Stops abnormal vaginal discharge.
• With Qian
shi to effectively supplement
the kidneys, secure the essence,
reduce urination, fortify the spleen, and stop diarrhea and abnormal
vaginal
discharge. This combination, Shui
Lu Er Xian Dan, is used for
indications
such as:
- 1. Chronic diarrhea due to
spleen-kidney deficiency. (Use bran stir-fried Qian
shi.)
- 2. Urinary incontinence,
enuresis, frequent micturition, and nocturia due to
kidney Qi deficiency.
- 3. Chronic white vaginal
discharge due to spleen-kidney deficiency.
- 4. Seminal emission and
premature ejaculation due to kidney Qi not securing.
4.5-9g
|
Lian Zi
Lotus seed
|
sweet
astrngnt
neutral
|
Sp
K
Ht
|
Tonifies spleen Qi; stops
diarrhea; tonifies kidney Qi, controls Jing; nourishes
the heart, calms the Shen.
• Spleen Qi
deficiency: chronic diarrhea, poor appetite (caution when Qi
deficiency has led to Qi stagnation).
• Kidney Qi
deficiency: spermatorrhea, premature ejaculation, excessive
uterine bleeding, vaginal discharge.
• Heart deficiency:
restlessness, insomnia, palpitations, irritability.
• Especially useful
for lack of communication between the heart and kidneys.
• Common dietary
therapy (use up to 60g).
• Lian
zi should have its heart (Lian
xin) removed.
• All parts of the
lotus plant are medicinal. The lotus is the source of at least
eight distinct herbs.
Yoga:
(see also Ou jie, Lian xin,
Lian fang) Padma,
Kamala, Pushkara, more
names (this is India's most sacred plant, the symbol of
spiritual unfoldment).
• Sweet,
astringent/cooling/sweet
• P, V-; K+ (in
excess).
• Nutritive tonic,
rejuvenative, aphrodisiac, astringent, hemostatic, nervine, cardiac and
seminal tonic.
• Calms the mind,
subdues restless thoughts and dreams.
• Helps open the
heart [fourth] chakra: for heart chakra disorders [PLB:
e.g.,
afraid to love, to feel with the heart, to connect with others, to
listen to the
heart, difficulty being compassionate, emotionally closed, no sense of
boundaries around intimacy, impropriety, especially around intimacy "“
see also
five element interpretations of fire imbalance].
• Good for devotion
and aspiration, improves speech, helps stop stuttering and
improves concentration.
• Diarrhea,
bleeding disorders, menorrhagia, leukorrhea, impotence,
spermatorrhea, venereal disease, heart weakness.
• As a food, 5g can
be taken three times daily, with basmati rice or other tonics
such as Shatavari
and Ashwagandha,
suitably spiced and sweetened.
• The lotus is
sacred to Lakshmi, the goddess of prosperity, and brings spiritual
and material abundance.
Hsu:
Relaxes smooth muscle; dilates coronary artery.
6-15g
|
Ma Huang Gen
Ephedra root
"Hemp Yellow
Root"
|
sweet
neutral
|
Lu
|
Stops sweating.
• Yin, Yang, or Qi
deficiency: night sweats, spontaneous sweating, post-partum
sweating.
• Similar to Fu
xiao mai but stronger (they are
often combined).
• Ma
huang gen closes the pores.
• It can be used
topically.
Hsu:
Hypotensive, dilates peripheral blood vessels.
3-10g
|
Nuo Dao Gen Xu
Glutinous Rice root
|
sweet
neutral
|
K
Lv
Lu
|
Stops sweating due to
deficiency.
• Qi or Yin
deficiency: spontaneous sweating or night sweats.
• Yin deficiency:
fever.
Hsu:
Suppresses sweating; sedative; tonic.
15-60g
|
Qian Shi
Euryale seed
Foxnut
|
sweet
astrngnt
neutral
|
Sp
K
|
Tonifies spleen Qi,
eliminates dampness; tonifies kidney Qi, controls Jing.
• Spleen Qi
deficiency (and dampness): chronic diarrhea (especially good for
children and often cooked in soup).
• Kidney
deficiency: nocturnal emission, premature ejaculation, leukorrhea,
spermatorrhea, urinary frequency or incontinence.
• Deficiency or
damp-heat: vaginal discharge.
• Stronger than Lian
zi to tonify kidney Qi and
control Jing.
DY:
Stops diarrhea and abnormal vaginal discharge, reduces urination.
• With Jin
ying zi to effectively
supplement the kidneys, secure the essence,
reduce urination, fortify the spleen, and stop diarrhea and abnormal
vaginal
discharge. For specific indications of this combination, see Jin
ying zi in this
category.
9-15g (to 30g in severe
cases)
|
Rou Dou Kou
Nutmeg
Myristica
"Fleshy
Cardamom"
|
acrid
warm
|
Sp
St
LI
|
Warms the middle Jiao;
promotes Qi circulation; alleviates pain; astringes the
large intestine, stops diarrhea.
• Spleen and
stomach or spleen and kidney Yang deficiency cold: chronic
diarrhea, daybreak diarrhea (not for damp-heat patterns).
• Yang deficiency
cold with Qi stagnation: distention and pain of the
epigastrium and abdomen, poor appetite, vomiting.
• Preparation:
smash on paper and allow the paper to soak up the oil (otherwise
will exacerbate diarrhea); very small doses of the oil (0.03-0.2 mL)
directly
stimulate the gastrointestinal tract.
• Roast to increase
its ability to warm the middle Jiao and stop diarrhea.
• One constituent,
myristicin, is an MAO inhibitor and a hallucinogen in large
doses.
Yoga:
Jatiphala:
V, K-; P+
• Pungent/heating/pungent.
• Astringent,
carminative, sedative, nervine, aphrodisiac, stimulant.
• For poor
absorption, abdominal pain and distention, diarrhea, dysentery,
intestinal gas, insomnia, nervous disorders, impotence.
• Increases
absorption in the small intestine.
• Reduces high Vata
in the colon and nervous system.
• Calms the mind
(500 mg in warm milk before sleep).
• Tamasic:
in excess it can dull the mind.
DY:
Scatters cold; disperses distention.
• With Bu
gu zhi to supplement spleen and
kidney Yang, secure the intestines,
and stop daybreak or "cock-crow" diarrhea. For
indications such as:
- 1. Chronic diarrhea due to
spleen-kidney Yang deficiency. (Si
Shen Wan) Use salt mix-fried Bu
gu zhi and roasted Rou
dou kou.
- 2. Daybreak diarrhea with
abdominal pain and rumbling noises due to spleen-kidney Yang
deficiency. (Er Shen Wan)
PCBDP:
Spasmolytic, anti-emetic, orexigenic, topical anti-inflammatory.
• Decreases
prostaglandin levels in the colon, PGE2
inhibitor - has been used
successfully in Crohn's disease.
1.5-9g
|
Sang Piao Xiao
Mantis egg case
|
sweet
salty
neutral
|
Lv
K
|
Mildly tonifies kidney Yang;
controls Jing and urine.
• Kidney Yang
deficiency (leading to failure of the kidneys to control the
orifices): enuresis, spermatorrhea, frequent urination, urinary
incontinence,
copious leukorrhea (not for damp-heat), nocturnal emissions (especially
when
not accompanied by dreams).
• This is the herb
of choice for bed wetting in children.
Hsu:
Suppresses urination and sweating.
3-9g
|
Shan Zhu Yu
Cornus fruit
Asiatic Cornelian
Cherry
Dogwood fruit
|
sour
sl
warm
|
Lv
K
Ht
|
Tonifies kidney and liver
Yin; astringes the lower Jiao; astringes sweat; slightly
tonifies kidney Yang; stabilizes the kidneys, controls Jing; stops
excessive
sweating, supports what has collapsed; stabilizes the menses; stops
bleeding
(weak); may mildly nourish Jing.
• Kidney and liver
deficiency: dizziness, vertigo, weakness of the lumbar
region and knees, impotence.
• Yang collapse or
Qi collapse: shock, excessive sweating.
• Kidney Qi
deficiency: seminal emission, urinary incontinence, profuse
sweating.
• Deficiency:
excessive uterine bleeding, prolonged menstruation.
• Difficult to
digest.
Li
calls Shan zhu yu
the "Ginseng for the Kidneys," and claims this herb
is
more of a tonic than an astringent.
PFGC:
For alternating hot and cold (not Shaoyang) due to internal injury to
the Jueyin
liver system - e.g. extreme liver deficiency causing sudden sensation
of
heat and cold, and dangerous loss of sweat.
Hsu:
Diuretic, antibacterial, antihistamine actions.
3-12g (30-200g in shock)
|
Shi Liu Pi
Pomegranate
rind
Shi Liu Gen Pi
Pomegranate root
bark
|
sour
astrngnt
warm
sl toxic
|
St
LI
K
|
Astringes the large
intestine, stops diarrhea; kills parasites; stabilizes the
kidneys, controls Jing.
• Chronic diarrhea
or chronic dysentery (not for acute), rectal prolapse.
• Abdominal pain
due to rouundworms (only when worms give rise to chronic
diarrhea) - not strong as Shi
jun zi.
• Roundworms,
tapeworms, topical for ringworm.
• Kidney
instability: spermatorrhea, premature ejaculation, excessive uterine
bleeding, vaginal discharge.
• Amebic dysentery.
• Not for early
stages of diarrhea.
• Should not be
taken with oils or fats, in order to prevent absorption of toxin
into the system.
• Use charred to
stop bleeding.
3-9g
Shi
Liu Gen Pi: the root bark
• Much stronger at
killing parasites, especially tapeworms and roundworms,
than Shi liu pi.
JC:
(various parts, especially the root bark) Anthelmintic (taeniafuge,
vermifuge), astringent, refrigerant, antibilious, anticancerous.
• Use the rind for
sore throat.
Yoga:
Dadima:
(rind, root bark, fruit)
• Sweet variety:
VPK=
• The sour variety
may aggravate Pitta.
The sweet variety may increase Ama.
• The rind is
anti-inflammatory to the mucus membranes.
• Use as a douche
for leukorrhea.
• Topical (paste)
for sores, ulcers, hemorrhoids.
• All parts are
stomachic, anthelmintic, especially the root bark.
Hsu:
Antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal.
1.5-9g
|
Wu Bei Zi
Gall of Chinese
Sumac
(caused by the
insect Melaphis)
|
sour
salty
cold
|
K
LI
Lu
|
Astringes Lung Qi; stops
coughing; astringes the large intestine, stops diarrhea;
controls leakage of fluids; absorbs moisture; reduces swelling; relives
fire
toxicity.
• Lung deficiency:
chronic cough.
• Chronic diarrhea,
dysenteric disorders, chronic blood in the stool, rectal
prolapse.
• Leakage:
nocturnal emission, spermatorrhea, excessive sweating, bleeding.
• Topical: as a
powder or wash for sores, ringworm, toxic swellings, damp and
ulcerated skin.
• Topical: for scar
tissue.
• Topical: apply as
a paste to the navel for night sweats (from tuberculosis in
one study) or asthma.
• Antibiotic
against a wide range of bacteria and some viruses.
Hsu:
Hemostatic, antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, stimulates the CNS,
regulates the cardiovascular system - improves blood circulation,
hypotensive.
JTCM:
It was recorded in Ben Cao Gan
Mu that Wu
bei zi can astringe the
Lungs, drain fire, transform phlegm, dissipate red swellings, eliminate
toxicity,
astringe non-healing ulcers, and lift prolapse of the anus, uterus and
intestines. Modern scientific research shows that Wu
bei zi contains tannic acid
which has
can coagulate proteins and blood locally, promoting the healing of
ulcers.
• Mouth Ulcers:
Recurrent mouth ulcers are
difficult to treat. Dry Wu bei
zi powder often
produces results within a week. Apply the powder 5 to 6 times a day.
Usually
the pain will be reduced and ulcers will heal in 7 days.
• Hemorrhoids and
Prolapse of the Anus or Uterus:
Wu
bei zi can astringe kidney Qi.
The kidney opens to the external genital area.
So, Wu bei zi
can be used for kidney deficiency causing prolapse in the genital
area.
For hemorrhoids, after the
patient moves their bowels, clean the anus with
warm water. Put 5g Wu bei zi
powder on gauze and gently apply to the anus.
Usually hemorrhoids will heal within a week.
For uterine prolapse mix Wu
bei zi powder with sesame oil to
make a paste. Apply the paste to gauze, insert into the vagina at night
before bed, and remove
it in the morning. Recovery will usually occur within 2 weeks.
For anal prolapse, break 60g Wu
bei zi
into small pieces. Cover with water,
bring to a boil, and cook for 30 minutes. While the decoction is still
steaming,
let the steam bathe the anus. Then wash the anus with the decoction, or
sit in a
basin of the fluid for 30 minutes. The prolapse will usually be reduced
after
three washes, with total recovery in a week.
• Spontaneous
Sweats and Night Sweats:
It was recorded in Ben
Cao Bei Yao that Wu
bei zi has a strong function to
astringe the Lung. With its cool nature it can clear heat, transform
phlegm and
stop coughing, and it can also stop bleeding and sweating. Sweating is
related
to the Lungs. The umbilicus is the key point on the Ren
Mai, and the Ren
Mai
can adjust all the Yin meridians in the body. When Wu
bei zi enters this point,
it can help the Ren Mai
adjust all the Yin meridians in order to astringe
sweating.
Traditional Chinese medical
theory states that spontaneous sweats are a
symptom of Yang deficiency and that night sweats indicate Yin
deficiency, but
in the clinic this is not always true - we still need to differentiate.
However,
either type can be treated with topical herbs. The combination known as
Long
Bei San is comprised of equal
parts Wu bei zi
powder and calcined Long gu.
Mix Long Bei San
with a small amount of water, apply to the umbilicus, and
cover with an adhesive bandage. Change the application every other day.
Usually it takes 2 to 6 applications to arrest the sweating.
• Eneursis and Seminal
Emission:
Wu
bei zi secures the essence of
the kidney and the Qi of the bladder. Accordingly, it is a good herb
for the treatment of enuresis and seminal
emission caused by kidney deficiency.
For children's bed
wetting, the use of Long Bei
San provides good results. For
patients with seminal emission, combining Long
Bei San on the umbilicus
while simultaneously administering an internal formula yields better
results.
Modern research shows that Wu
bei zi contains tannic acid
which can coagulate
protein and form a thin membrane to strengthen the filtration capacity
of the
nephron tubule and increase resorption from the nephron. As a result,
it can
prevent proteinuria.
• Chronic Diarrhea
and Dysentery:
Wu
bei zi powder and white pepper
powder can be mixed with a few drops of
white wine, applied to the umbilicus, and covered with an adhesive
bandage. A hot water bottle can be used to warm the abdomen
simultaneously. The
powder should be changed every other day.
• Toothache:
Zhao Pin Su liked to use Wu
bei zi as a topical herb to
treat all kinds of
toothaches including those caused by wind-heat, stomach fire, tooth
decay, etc. Dosage ranged from 10 to 30g. He said Wu
bei zi was the best herb for the
treatment of toothache, especially when caused by tooth decay. Wu
bei zi
powder can be applied to the painful spot or it can be decocted and
gargled
with. Sometimes the toothache stops immediately. Afterwards, the
decayed
area can be filled with Ru
xiang to prevent inflammation.
• Chronic Cough due
to Lung and Kidney Qi Deficiency Caused by Excessive
Dispersion of the Lung:
(Because Wu
bei zi has very strong
astringent action, it is not indicated for
acute cough caused by an EPI.) Prepare a formula of 100g each of Wu
bei zi, Hu
tao rou, Mai
men dong,
and Wu wei zi,
grind to a powder, and give 6g twice
a day, morning and night. Two to eight weeks of treatment with the
above
combination produces good results in every case.
4.5-9g
|
Wu Mei
Mume fruit
Black Plum
"Dark
Plum"
|
sour
neutral
|
Lv
Sp
Lu
LI
|
Astringes Lung Qi; astringes
the large intestine; stops coughing and diarrhea;
generates body fluids, eases thirst; calms roundworms; stops bleeding.
• Lung Qi
deficiency: chronic cough.
• Chronic diarrhea,
chronic dysentery, blood in the stool.
• Yin deficiency
(or Qi deficiency) heat: thirst, wasting and thirsting disorder.
• Roundworms (also
for hookworms): epigastric and abdominal pain, vomiting
(must purge the patient after calming the worms with Wu
mei).
• Occasionally used
for abdominal pain and vomiting without parasites.
• Bleeding:
uterine, fecal (especially when there are accompanying symptoms
of blood deficiency including dryness, thirst, parched mouth).
• Topical (as a
paste made by powdering and mixing with vinegar, or in plaster
form): protruding lumps on the skin - warts, corns, etc.
• Bensky/Gamble:
soften the growth in hot water, remove it, then apply the
herb, cover with gauze, and change every 24 hours.
• Bacillary
dysentery.
• Stimulates
production of bile and contraction of bile duct.
• Partially char
when using to stop bleeding.
Wei Li
gives in large dose for recalcitrant skin disease, such as eczema
(20-100g).
Hsu:
Pronounced antibacterial effect, antifungal, anti-allergic effect.
BF:
Mume is a plum picked green in the fifth month. It is then preserved by
drying over a slow-baking fire for several days. In Japan, umeboshi is
made
from this same plum which is pickled with salt and Perilla leaves
(called chiso
in Japanese). According to Michio Kushi, a leading proponent of
Japanese
macrobiotics, umeboshi plums "neutralize an acidic condition and relive
intestinal problems, including those caused by microorganisms." Another
Macrobiotic teacher, Naburo Muramoto, says: "As medicine the
umeboshi
plum works miracles. Stomach aches, stomach cramps, migraines, certain
types
of headaches, and acidity are some of the minor pains these plums can
relieve.
They also counteract fatigue and act as a preventive against
dysentery."
Wu
Mei Wan with additions and
subtractions can be used for women with
severe dysmenorrhea in turn due to endometriosis with a pattern of damp
heat
stasis and stagnation, spleen qi deficiency, and even a bit of yang
deficiency.
In modern Chinese medicine,
Mume has three main uses. First, it astringes the
intestines and stops diarrhea. Secondly, it expels worms or parasites.
And third,
it engenders fluids. However, the Shen
Nong Ben Cao says that Mume
"precipitates or descends the qi, eliminates heat and vexatious
fullness, quiets
the heart, relieves pain in the limbs, treats hemilateral withering,
insensitivity,
and dead muscles, and removes green-blue and black moles and malign
diseases." Likewise, the Ri
Hua Zi Ben Cao says Mume
"eliminates taxation
[read: deficiency]...and treats one-sided withering of the skin with
numbness
and impediment." Pain in the limbs, one-sided withering, insensitivity,
and
dead muscles might certainly be describing an autoimmune condition like
MS
or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). And the Ben
Cao Tu Jing says Mume
"rules ... vacuity taxation emaciation and skinniness" which might also
describe
certain autoimmune and immune deficiency diseases. Vexatious fullness
suggests liver depression qi stagnation, the necessity of precipitating
the qi
suggests upward counterflow, eliminating heat suggests depressive heat,
and
quieting the heart, when read together with the other symptoms,
suggests yin
fire disturbing the heart spirit. Li Dong-yuan did sometimes use Mume
in his
yin fire formulas. Green-blue and black moles suggest blood stasis,
while
malign diseases means both injurious diseases and also suggests blood
stasis,
since static blood is also called malign blood.
Heiner Fruehauf says that a
number of medicinals are specifically quieting to
the spirit in gu zheng
cases. He then goes on to list a number of yin-enriching,
fluid-engendering medicinals, such as Radix Glehniae Littoralis (Bei
Sha
Shen), Bulbus Lilii (Bai
He), and Rhizoma Polygonati (Huang
Jing). Fructus
Pruni Mume likewise engenders fluids. It is also the best known of the
commonly used Chinese medicinals for treating worms or parasites.
Although
Fruehauf does not mention Mume being described in the Chinese gu
zheng
literature as a typical anti-gu medicinal. I believe it should be. In
addition, I
think the combination of Mume and Perilla is a very effective one in
clinical
practice. One can add Mume to anti-gu formulas containing Perilla
and/or eat
Japanese umeboshi plums as a condiment in their diet. (Perilla, by the
way, can
also be grown as a self-reseeding garden herb and eaten as a salad
green.)
See also BF's
commentary on Zi su ye,
where he discusses the use of Mume in
combination with dispersing herbs to prevent depletion.
3-9g
|
Wu Wei Zi
Schizandra fruit
"Five Flavor
Seed"
|
sour
warm
|
Lu
K
Ht
|
Strongly astringes Lung Qi,
stops coughing; mildly nourishes kidney Yin;
generates body fluids; stops sweating; controls Jing; stops diarrhea;
quiets the
Shen and calms the heart.
• Lung deficiency
or Lung/kidney deficiency: asthma and cough, especially
chronic (inhibits leakage of Lung Qi above, nourishes kidney Yin below).
• Yin deficiency:
night sweats.
• Yang deficiency:
spontaneous sweating.
• Body fluid
injury: thirst.
• Kidney
deficiency: seminal emission, including nocturnal, vaginal discharge,
frequent urination.
• Kidney and spleen
deficiency: chronic/daybreak diarrhea, seminal emission.
• Kidney and heart
Yin deficiency with blood deficiency: insomnia, dream-disturbed sleep,
palpitations, irritability.
• Skin disorders.
• May improve liver
function in hepatitis: reduces liver enzyme levels
(particularly SGPT).
• Stimulatory
effects: improves reflexes, stimulates respiration through a direct
effect on the CNS: helps resistance of respiratory depression from
morphine.
• Can
induce/promote labor.
• Increases visual
acuity and visual field.
• Raises acuity of
tactile discrimination.
• Adaptogenic.
• Beneficial in
neurasthenia.
• Soak in 80-proof
alcohol as a medicinal wine for itchiness and irritation of the
skin associated with a wind rash.
• Crush before
using.
• Use dry for
deficiency heat.
• Use wine-prepared
for tonification.
MLT:
Inhibits loss of physical and mental energy. Its spirit calming effects
lie
in its ability to heal and prevent loss of psycho-physiological energy.
• Useful for those
who tend to feel agitated or scattered.
• Can be taken in
wine to calm the heart/Shen.
Hsu:
Excites the CNS, increases brain efficiency, regulates the
cardiovascular system to improve circulation, antitussive, expectorant,
stimulates uterine
smooth muscle, strongly antibacterial, cardiotonic, analgesic,
cholagogue.
JTCM:
• Insomnia and
Memory Loss:
Wu
wei zi can nourish Yin and
harmonize Yang, astringe Yang into the Yin,
balance the zang-fu organs, calm the shen and strengthen the will. Li
Pei Shen
has an extensively used formula called Wu
Wei An Mian Tang, containing Wu
wei zi, Fu shen, He huan hua, and
Fa ban xia. It is very effective
at treating
stubborn insomnia.
Typical daily doses: Wu
wei zi 50g, Fu
shen 50g, He
huan hua 15g, Fa
ban xia
15g
• Chronic Fatigue
and Menopausal Symptoms:
Liu Zhen Ji often used a
large dose of Wu wei zi
to treat chronic fatigue with
difficult recovery after extreme physical labor, and menopausal
symptoms.
Typical dose for menopausal
symptoms or extreme physical exhaustion:
100g/day.
It is recorded in Yong
Yao Fa Xiang that Wu
wei zi has the function to
tonify
the source Qi and astringe dispersed Qi. Modern pharmacological
research
shows that Wu wei zi
can improve human intelligence and efficiency. At
concentrations of 5 to 10 mg in the bloodstream, Wu
wei zi
can improve the
attention and balance movement by affecting muscle chemistry. (It also
works
through enhancement of the cortex.)
Wu wei zi can stimulate the
smooth
muscle of the uterus, so it is not recommended for pregnant women.
• Prevention of
Asthmatic Bronchitis:
blockage and rebellion of Qi
in the bronchi: recurrent bronchial spasm,
shortness of breath, coughing, expectoration of mucus and wheezing
Li Zhen Lin used a method
which had been passed on in his family for the
treatment of night sweats - application of Wu
wei zi to the navel - for a
patient
who also had asthmatic bronchitis. When the night sweats were gone he
found
that the asthmatic bronchitis was cured as well. (Overall efficacy rate
is about
85%.)
Method of application: grind
raw Wu wei zi
to a powder and add 70% ethanol. Mix to form a paste and save in a
bottle. Take an egg-sized amount of paste,
put on the umbilicus, cover with plastic wrap and use tape to fix it in
place. It
is usually applied before bed and removed the following morning.
Re-evaluate
the patient after 3 20-day courses.
Pharmacological research
shows that Wu wei zi
can enhance the body's
defenses against irritants and improve function of the adrenal cortex
and the
immune system. Shen Que
[CV-8] has a biao-ne
relationship with the Du Mai,
connects with the twelve meridians, five zang and six fu organs, and
joins the
upper and lower body. Medical research shows the umbilicus is the last
place
to close during the development of the embryo. Beneath it, there is no
adipose
tissue, but a number of large blood and lymph vessels and nerves. From
an
anatomical perspective, the umbilicus is thus an excellent passage for
absorption of topical herbs. The properties of Wu
wei zi penetrate this passage
to act on the human body.
• Treatment of
Viral Hepatitis:
Research has shown that Wu
wei zi can decrease glutamine-
alanine
transaminase, the enzyme which converts glutamic acid to alanine -
necessary
for propagation of the hepatitis virus. The key components in Wu
wei zi that
can decrease glutamine-alanine transaminase are in the seed of the Wu
wei zi
fruit. So the correct way to prepare Wu
wei zi is to bake it and then
grind it into
a powder. Take the powder, 3g at a time, three times a day. It also can
be made
into pills with honey. If cooked in a decoction, it must be ground
first.
When using Wu
wei zi to lower
glutamine-alanine transaminase, we need to be
cautious. After glutamine-alanine transaminase is back to normal, we
should
decrease the dosage of the Wu
wei zi. If we use only Wu
wei zi to lower the
glutamine-alanine transaminase level, it is easy for the patient to
relapse. When
jaundice appears we should move the blood and dispel blood stasis. It
is better
to disperse the pathogen than to astringe it. Sometimes only using Wu
wei zi can trap the pathogen
inside and the disease will progress to severe jaundice or
cirrhosis of the liver. Therefore, the best way to treat hepatitis is
to combine Wu
wei zi with some herbs to move
Qi and blood and dispel blood stasis.
• Diabetes:
Wu
wei zi is very effective at
treating Type II diabetes mellitus (non-insulin
dependent). The source of the disease is related to deficiency of the
prenatal
yuan Qi and postnatal imbalance, causing kidney deficiency and leakage
of the
Jing, blood, and body fluids. Wu
wei zi's sweet taste
can strengthen the spleen,
and the sour can astringe. In this case, astringing means storage. The
kidney is
in charge of the storage of Jing, so Wu
wei zi is a key herb to tonify
the kidney
and treat diabetes. Use a large dosage of Wu
wei zi and make it into pills.
If the
patient has hypertension, add Yi
mu cao, and Huai
niu xi. If the patient has
high cholesterol and atherosclerosis, add Jue
ming zi, He
shou wu, Dan
shen,
and Shan zha.
If the patient has coronary artery disease, add San
qi, Jiang
xiang, and Tian
hua fen.
The Lung is the upper water
passage and the kidney is the lower water passage. Insufficiency of the
upper water passage and leakage from the lower water
passage are the key causes of polydipsia and glucosuria in diabetes. Wu
wei zi
enters the Lung and kidney, and it can astringe the Lung and tonify the
kidney -
this is how it can ease thirst and prevent the leakage of Jing.
• Itchiness and
Dryness of the Throat:
When treating dryness and
itchiness of the throat, the first herb to consider is Wu
wei zi. Wu wei zi
nourishes body fluids, eases dryness, and also works for
itchiness caused by allergies. When Wu
wei zi is added to Shao
Yao Gan Cao
Tang, Zhen
Yue Tang, and Yang
Ying Qin Fei Tang, the sour
flavor combined
with the sweet can produce Yin and body fluids, ease dryness and
benefit the
throat. This method is widely used in chronic pharyngitis caused by
Lung and
kidney Yin xu or dryness and itchiness of the throat after
chemotherapy. It
follows the idea that sour and sweet can produce Yin, as recorded in
the Nei
Jing.
When Wu
wei zi is added to formulas such
as Yu Ping Feng San, Jin Fang Bai
Du San, Qing
Fei San, etc., the sour flavor
of Wu wei zi
can balance the acrid
herbs such as Fang feng, Jing jie,
Bo he,
etc. In this way, we can disperse
pathogenic factors and at the same time astringe the Qi and body fluids
to stop
the itchiness of the throat. Clinically we use these combinations to
treat cough
with itchiness and dryness of the throat due to allergic pharyngitis.
• Wu
Wei Zi Can Constrict the Pupils
and Stop Tearing:
It was written in Yong
Yao Fa Xiang that Wu
wei zi can astringe dispersed Qi
and constrict enlarged pupils. It was explained in Yi
Xue Zhong Zhong Chan
Xi Lu that the sour flavor of Wu
wei zi can enter the liver, and
the liver opens to
the eyes, so Wu wei zi
can "astringe" dilated pupils. Because tears are
the fluid
of the liver, and Wu wei zi
enters the liver, it can astringe tears also. However,
it cannot treat all forms of pupil dilation and tearing. Due to its
warm nature
and sour taste, it can treat symptoms caused by liver and kidney
deficiency or
liver Qi consumption. It was recorded in Yan
Ke Liu Jin Fa Yao that Wu
wei zi
is good for treatment of eye problems caused by liver Qi stagnation,
excess heat
in the Lung, or spleen Qi xu with dampness.
Three additional guidelines
to consider when using:
1. Large doses, from 10 to
20g, can be used with no side effects from long-term
use.
2. It can be combined with a
small dose of Gan cao,
so as to blend sweet and
sour and produce Yin. This combination will strengthen Wu
wei zi's nourishing
function, and it can be taken for a long time.
3. When cooking Wu
wei zi in a decoction we must
grind it into a powder first,
just as Zhang Xi Chun said. Wu
wei zi's skin is sour
and its seed is acrid. So
as a whole (when ground to release the contents of the entire fruit and
seed) its
astringing and dispersing functions are balanced.
• Topical Use for
(Non-Healing) Ulcers:
After cleaning the surface
of the ulcer, apply a small amount of Wu
wei zi
powder and cover with sterile gauze. Change the gauze every other day.
When applied in the clinic,
we need to wait until all the toxins and unhealthy
tissue on the surface are gone. Be cautious not to apply too much
powder,
because too much will form a scab and cover the surface, which prolongs
healing time. Apply a thin enough layer of Wu
wei zi powder so that the tissue
beneath is still visible.
DY:
With Gan jiang
to effectively warm the Lungs, transform phlegm, stop
cough, and calm asthma. For indications such as cough and/or asthma
with
profuse, clear, and white phlegm due to cold in the Lungs, Lung Yang
deficiency, or phlegm-cold. For these indications, the combination is
used in Xiao Qing Long Tang
accompanied by Xi xin.
For more details on the
mechanisms of the combination of Wu
wei zi and Gan
jiang, see Gan
jiang.
1.5-9 (6-9g as tonic, 1.5-3g
for chronic cough)
|
Ying Su Ke
Opium poppy seed
capsule
Papaver
somniferum
|
sour
astrngnt
sl toxic
neutral
|
Lu
LI
K
|
Astringes Lung Qi; astringes
the large intestine; relieves pain; stabilizes the
lower Jiao.
• Lung Qi or Yin
deficiency: chronic cough.
• Spleen Yin, Qi,
or Yang deficiency: chronic diarrhea or dysentery.
• Pain: chest,
abdomen, tendons, bones, epigastrium (temporary use).
• Instability of
the lower Jiao: polyuria, spermatorrhea, vaginal discharge.
• Use raw or
vinegar-fried to stop diarrhea and pain.
• Use honey-fried
to benefit the Lungs and stop coughing.
• This herb cannot
be legally prescribed in the United States.
1.5-6g
Of the many narcotic
constituents of the opium poppy, perhaps the best known
are morphine and codeine. Morphine is a strong analgesic, hypnotic,
strong
and selective respiratory depressant (may cause respiratory arrest),
antitussive,
causes peripheral vasodilation and histamine release, very low doses
cause
constipation by various means. Morphine is the analgesic standard
against
which all other analgesics are judged. In all respects, codeine is much
weaker. It has about one-fourth the analgesic strength of morphine and
is a weaker anti-tussive, but it is more commonly used because it has
fewer side effects. All
narcotic poppy derivatives have significant abuse potential.
|
Herbs That Stop Bleeding
(Hemostatics)
|
• These herbs stop
bleeding by any of four actions:
1. Cooling the blood 2.
Astringing 3. Dispelling blood stasis 4. Warming the channels
• Herbs in this
category are commonly combined with:
A. Herbs that tonify the
spleen when bleeding is caused by spleen Qi deficiency.
B. Herbs that clear heat and
cool the blood when blooding is caused by heat in the blood.
C. Herbs that promote blood
circulation when bleeding results from blood stagnation.
D. Herbs that warm the Yang
when bleeding is due to Yang deficiency cold.
• Qi should only be
strongly tonified (in cases of bleeding) when heavy bleeding has led to
Qi collapse.
|
Other Herbs to Consider for
Stopping Bleeding, When Appropriate:
Bai
ji li, Chi shi zhi, Chun gen pi, Da huang, Dai zhe shi, Dong chong xia
cao, E jiao, Gan jiang, Gu sui bu, Guan
zhong, Gui ban, Hai piao xiao, Han lian cao, Huang lian, Huang qin,
Huang yao zi, Jiang huang, Jiang xiang, Jing
jie, Lian xin, Lu jiao jiao, Ma bo, Ming fan, Mu dan pi, Mu zei, Qing
hao, Ren shen, Sang ye, Shan zhu yu, Shi liu pi,
Shi wei, Su mu, Wu bei zi, Wu ling zhi, Wu mei, Xi jiao, Xu duan, Xue
jie, Yin chai hu, Zhi zi, Zhu ru.
|
Ai Ye
Mugwort leaf
Artemisia
argyi
or A. vulgaris
or A.
lavandulaefolia
|
bitter
acrid
warm
|
Lv
Sp
K
|
Stops bleeding; warms the
channels; disperses cold, relieves pain; warms the
womb; pacifies the fetus.
• Yang deficiency
cold: bleeding, including prolonged menstrual bleeding, uterine
bleeding.
• Cold and Yang
deficiency of the liver and kidneys: cold and pain in the
abdomen, irregular menstruation, dysmenorrhea, leukorrhea, restlessness
of the
fetus, threatened miscarriage, vaginal bleeding.
• Cold in the womb:
infertility.
• Compared to Rou
gui: both can alleviate
abdominal pain due to cold. Ai ye is
most effective when the pain is due to damp-cold. Rou
gui is most appropriate for
abdominal pain due to cold from deficiency where the extremities are
cold, as in
Yang deficiency or Yin and Yang deficiency. Also, while Ai
ye calms a fetus, Rou
gui will
stimulate it.
• The fresh,
crushed herb can be applied to warts. When used several times a day
in one study of 12 patients, warts fell off within 3-10 days.
• Antibiotic (in
vitro) against such pathogens as
staphylococcus, streptococcus,
shigella, and salmonella.
• Malaria: large
doses given for two days to malaria patients two hours before
onset of symptoms showed control of symptoms in 89% of cases, plus
negative
blood examinations for the parasite in over half of those cases.
• In its raw form,
the herb is relatively neutral and may be used for bleeding due to
heat patterns (e.g. heat in the blood) when combined appropriately.
• Char the herb to
enhance both its warming and hemostatic properties.
MLT:
The ashes from moxibustion are even more effective than the unburnt
herb
to stop bleeding. They can be effectively applied to the feet for
non-healing sores
from diabetes.
K&R:
Emmenagogue, slight tonic, stimulates secretion of pituitary
gonadotropins
(FSH and LH).
• Wood yin, earth
yin, metal yin.
• Wood:
stimulates bile secretion, increases appetite, facilitates digestion,
abortifacient (not without danger)
• Hypotension,
syncope, epilepsy, hypo-estrogenic amenorrhea, functional uterine
bleeding, menstrual cramps, neurological and psychiatric syndromes
which
originate with the liver, dyspepsia.
• Earth:
antimicrobial, estrogenic and luteotropic.
• Insufficient
menses, amenorrhea, insufficiency of corpus luteum due to anemia.
• In Russia, the
herb has been used as sedative for convulsions, epilepsy,
neurasthenia, dysmenorrhea, labor pain.
• In Japan, the
herb is used in mochi for stamina and by new mothers to stop
postpartum blood loss, to treat anemia, and to stimulate lactation.
• Amenorrhea from
general causes, especially for women with a wood deficiency
or metal deficiency constitution.
• Long reputation
as a spring tonic.
Yoga:
Nagadamani:
V, K-; P+ (in excess)
• Bitter,
pungent/heating/pungent.
• Emmenagogue,
antispasmodic, hemostatic, diaphoretic, anthelmintic, antiseptic.
• Good for sama Vata
conditions (arthritis, nervous conditions with obstructed Vata).
• Strengthens the
fetus; opens and purifies the channels (circulatory and nervous),
relieves pain; warms the lower abdomen, fortifies the uterus.
• Good for
menstrual cramps, headache.
PCBDP:
Emmenagogue, diaphoretic, choleretic, anthelmintic, diuretic,
stomachic, orexigenic.
• Amenorrhea,
anorexia, dyspepsia.
• Threadworm,
roundworm.
MW:
Good for perimenopausal women.
Hsu:
Antifungal.
Cpep:
Mugwort is an herb of the planet Venus. "Its tops, leaves, and flowers
are
full or virtue; they are aromatic, and most safe and excellent in
female disorders.
For this purpose the flowers and buds should be put into a teapot and
boiling
water poured over them, and when just cool, be drunk with a little
sugar and milk;
this may be repeated twice a day, of oftener, as occasions require. It
is boiled
among other herbs for drawing down the courses, by sitting over it, and
for
hastening the delivery, and helps to expel the afterbirth, and is good
for the
obstructions and inflammations of the mother. It breaks the stone and
provokes
water. The juice made up with myrrh, and put under as a pessary, works
the same
effects, and so does the root. Made up with hog's-grease into an
ointment, it takes
away wens, hard knots and kernels that grow about the neck, more
effectually if
some daisies be put with it. the herb itself being fresh, or the juice,
is a special
remedy upon the over-much taking of opium. The drams of the powder of
the
dried leaves taken in wine, is a speedy and certain help for the
sciatica. A
decoction made with camomile and agrimony, and the place bathed
therewith
while it is warm, takes away the pains of the sinews, and the cramp.
The moxa,
so famous in eastern countries for curing the gout by burning the part
affected, is
the down which grows upon the under side of this herb."
PJE:
As this plant is so frequently used as a charm, and is held in a
measure of
superstitious veneration by the people, it is a little difficult to
determine just
where its remedial use in native therapeutics begins. At the time of
the Dragon
Festival (fifth day of the fifth moon) the artemisia is hung up to ward
off noxious
influences. This is done either together with a Taoist charm, in which
case it is
called Ai Fu, and is hung at the head of
the principal room of the house, or
together with the Shi Chang Pu at the door; the leaves of
the latter being formed
in the shape of a sword (called Pu Chien) and placed over the door,
while a stalk
of the artemisia is hung on each door post. That this was efficacious
in at least one
instance is attested by the fact that the famous rebel, Huan Chao, gave
orders to
his soldiers to spare any family that had artemisia hung up at the
door. The moxa
is employed by buddhist priests in initiating neophytes; three rows of
three, four,
or five scars each being burned on the crown of the head with this
substance.
Many also use the moxa on a 3 day-old, burning one or more scars on the
face;
this being supposed to insure the child's living through infancy. The
places for
burning are yintang, St-1, St-2, or St-3, and GV-26.
Place artemisia in the shoes
to gain strength during long walks or runs. For this
purpose, pick it before sunrise saying ...Tollam
te artemesia, ne lassus sim in via.
a pillow stuffed with
mugwort will produce prophetic dreams. when carrying
mugwort, you cannot be harmed by poison, wild beasts, or sunstroke.
In a building, mugwort
prevents elves and 'evil thynges' from entering.
bunches of mugwort are used
in Japan by the ainus (who are they?) to exorcise
spirits of disease who are thought to hate the odor.
mugwort is carried to
increase lust and fertility, to prevent backache, and to cure
disease and madness.
Eschwey:
You know how you forget about the waking world when you're
dreaming and you forget about the dreaming world when you're awake?
Mugwort
provides the bridge of memory between the two worlds.
Holmes:
Asian mugwort (Artemisia argyi)
is not the same botanical species as the
Western mugwort, which is Artemisia
vulgaris. The latter was once
confused with
the former. Moreover, the two herbs cannot be substituted across the
board. With
its astringent, decongestant, and relaxant actions, Asian mugwort leaf
is used
primarily to stop uterine bleeding, relieve pain, disinfect and relieve
cold and Qi
constraint conditions of the uterus. Western mugwort herb, conversely,
mainly
stimulates the uterus and generally disinfects. Like most remedies in
this
subsection, Asian mugwort leaf can be seen to activate the Dai and Yang
Wei
extra meridians in its blood decongestant, astringent and hemostatic
action on the
pelvic/uterine area. This herb, moreover has the distinction of
entering the Ren
channel. This is suggested by its historical use for dysmenorrhea,
irregular cycles
and infertility, as well as in its use for asthmatic and eczematous
conditions. Two
strongly anticomplimentary polysaccharides have been recently found in
Asian
mugwort leaf, providing theoretical support for its immune stimulating
and
interferon producing activities. The use of this remedy for a range of
type I or
immediate allergic conditions is today well documented.
CHA:
(Karen Vaughan, 2-24-01):
Mugwort, harvested in late
October after flowering rather than in Summer
as in TCM, is traditionally used for dream pillows in Western
herbalism.
It is smoked as a euphoriant (for which lesser quality with high stem
content is best and the effect is stronger with repeated use). A
teaspoon
or two is eaten to induce sleep.
3-9g
|
Bai Ji
Bletilla rhizome
|
bitter
sweet
astrngt
sl cold
|
Lu
Lv
St
|
Relieves swelling; promotes
tissue regeneration; stops bleeding by astringing.
• Mainly used for
bleeding from the Lungs or stomach: hemoptysis, hematemesis,
epistaxis.
• Heat and
toxicity: carbuncles, cracks on hands and feet; also sores, ulcers,
chapped skin. Reduces the swelling of sores, helps speed resolution of
ulcers. Especially useful for chronic, non-healing ulcers. For these
indications, and for
bleeding from traumatic injury, it is usually applied topically.
• Pulmonary
tuberculosis: in 60 chronic cases which had not responded to normal
therapy, 42 were clinically cured and 13 were significantly improved
after taking Bai ji
for three months. Also successful in bronchiectasis.
• Useful as a
powder for stopping bleeding in surgery.
• Bleeding ulcers,
carefully selected cases of gastric or duodenal perforation: Stopped
bleeding in all 69 cases of bleeding ulcers in one study. Successful in
23
of 29 cases of perforated ulcers in another study. Contraindicated for
patients
who (1) do not have a definite diagnosis; (2) have recently eaten; (3)
the physical
exam reveals marked abdominal distention, reduced bowel sounds, or a
painful
rectal examination; or (4) are in unstable condition for any reason.
Some
clinicians feel Bai ji should
not be used for perforation for the following reasons:
(1) the powdered herb can increase peristalsis and therefore enlarge
the
perforation; (2) the above, together with an increase in nausea and
vomiting, can
increase leakage into the abdominal cavity; and (3) because powdered Bai
ji is
adhesive, it can cause a serious problem if it enters the abdominal
cavity.
• Topical, as a
sterile ointment: for burns.
MLT:
In powder with sesame oil for chapped, bleeding hands and feet,
wind/sunburn.
• Not for
Lung/stomach bleeding when there are true excess heat signs, external
pathogens, or with Lung abscess.
DY:
With San qi,
the two herbs act to mutually reinforce one another, and
together they effectively dispel stasis, stop bleeding, promote
granulation and
engender muscle (flesh) without producing blood stasis. For such
indications as
hemoptysis, hematemesis, and bleeding caused by trauma. For internal
use, take
3-6g of each herb, powdered, 2-3 times per day. Most bleeding can be
stopped
within two days. For gastric hemorrhages, it is advised to mix this
powder with
cool water in order to increase its vasoconstricting mechanism within
the
stomach.
3-15g
|
Bai Mao Gen
Imperata
rhizome
Woolly grass
White grass
Mao Hua
Imperata flower
|
sweet
cold
|
Lu
St
BL
SI
|
Cools the blood; stops
bleeding; clears heat; promotes urination.
• Damp-heat:
painful urination, edema, jaundice, urinary difficulty.
• Heat in the
blood: hemoptysis, hematuria, hemafecia, epistaxis, uterine bleeding.
• Stomach heat:
nausea, thirst.
• Lung heat:
wheezing.
• Acute nephritis:
found to reduce edema, lower blood pressure, normalize
examination of urine, shorten duration of the disease.
Li:
Beneficial for prostate cancer.
9-24g (to 60g when used
alone)
Mao
Hua: the flower
• Sweet, cold.
• Cools the blood,
stops bleeding.
• Heat in the
blood: epistaxis, hematemesis.
• Less effective
than Bai mao gen
for painful urinary dysfunction.
|
Ce Bai Ye
Biota leaf
Thuja
orientalis
(synonyms
include Platycladus
and Biota)
Leafy twig of
Chinese
Arborvitae
"Flat Fir
Leaves"
|
bitter
astrngt
sl cold
|
Lu
Lv
LI
Ht
|
Eliminates phlegm; stops
coughing; clears Lung heat; cools the blood; stops
bleeding; promotes healing of burns.
• Bleeding:
hemoptysis, epistaxis, hematemesis, hematuria, hemafecia, uterine
bleeding, bleeding gums, bloody dysentery disorders. Mainly for
bleeding due to heat in the blood, but, appropriately combined, this
herb can be used for cold
disorders as well.
• Lung heat: cough,
copious phlegm. Especially important in cases of
difficult-to-expectorate sputum streaked with blood.
• Topical, as a
powder or ointment: psoriasis or early stages of burns over a small
to moderate surface area. For psoriasis, the herb can be applied
topically and
taken as a decoction. It is especially effective for acute conditions.
• Dysentery:
powdered Ce bai ye
effectively treated 100 of 114 cases of dysentery
in one study.
• Hemorrhage due to
gastric or duodenal ulcer. One study showed quicker results
with Ce bai ye
than standard therapy.
• Alopecia: (use
tincture) generates new hair, density proportional to frequency of
application.
• Use the herb raw
or charred.
6-15g
|
Da Ji
Japanese Thistle
Circinum
"Big
Thistle"
|
sweet
cool
|
Lv
Sp
|
Cools the blood; stops
bleeding; reduces swelling; generates flesh at sores.
• Heat in the
blood: epistaxis, hematemesis, hematuria, hemafecia, uterine
bleeding.
• Especially
effective for vomiting or coughing of blood.
• Topical: for
carbuncles, sores, swellings.
• Lowers blood
pressure (usually 10-20 mm Hg diastolic).
4.5-15g
|
Di Yu
Sanguisorba root
Burnet-bloodwort root
|
bitter
sour
sl cold
|
Lv
St
LI
|
Stops bleeding; cools the
blood; reduces fire; eliminates toxicity; promotes
healing of non-healing skin ulcers; clears heat, generates flesh,
reduces oozing.
• Heat in the
blood: hemoptysis, hemafecia, hematuria, epistaxis, hematemesis,
bleeding hemorrhoids, uterine bleeding, bloody dysenteric disorders.
• Topically
(sometimes calcined): burns, sores, ulcers, injuries, eczema. May be
powdered and mixed with sesame oil.
• Especially good
for bleeding in the lower Jiao due to damp-heat.
• Broad spectrum
antimicrobial.
• Reduces seepage,
infection rate, mortality, and healing time of burns.
• One study showed
significant benefit in eczema (using 30% roasted herb in
petroleum jelly).
• Use charred to
stop bleeding.
6-12g
|
Huai Hua (Mi)
Sophora flower
bud
Pagoda Tree
flower bud
Huai Jiao
Sophora fruit
|
bitter
sl cold
|
Lv
LI
|
Cools the blood; stops
bleeding; clears liver heat.
• Damp-heat:
bleeding hemorrhoids, hemafecia, dysentery
• Heat in the
blood: many forms of bleeding, especially of the lower body/large
intestine; also for coughing blood, epistaxis, uterine bleeding.
• Liver heat:
headache, red eyes, hypertension, dizziness.
• Topical: tongue
bleeding.
• Lowers blood
pressure.
• Use charred to
stop bleeding.
• Contains rutin
and quercetin (anti-inflammatory, reduce capillary permeability,
reduce tension in bronchial and intestinal smooth muscle, relieve
intestinal
spasms, anti-allergic effects, improve coronary circulation by dilating
coronary
blood vessels, may protect against development of atherosclerosis,
more).
HF:
A Sha Chong
(kill worms or parasites) herb, important in Gu
Zheng (Gu
parasites) formulas
6-15g
Huai
Jiao: the fruit
• Weaker effect on
bleeding than the flower bud, but more effective at draining
heat.
• Often used for
inflamed hemorrhoids.
• Directs Qi
downward (therefore contraindicated in pregnancy).
9-15g
|
Lian Fang
Mature Lotus
receptacle
Lotus peduncle
|
bitter
astrngt
warm
|
Lv
K
Sp
|
Dispels blood stasis; stops
bleeding; calms the fetus; dispels summer-heat and
dampness.
• Uterine bleeding,
hematuria.
• Restless fetus,
threatened miscarriage.
• Summer-heat with
dampness: diarrhea in children.
• Recent use: for
cervical cancer and pemphigus.
• Use fresh for
summer-heat.
Jin:
To promote blood circulation, best prepared with vinegar or wine.
3-9g
|
Ou Jie
Node of Lotus rhizome
|
sweet
astrngt
neutral
|
Lv
Lu
St
|
Stops bleeding by
astringing; dispels blood stasis
• Many forms of
bleeding, especially heat in the Lungs or stomach: hemoptysis,
hematemesis. Also for chronic bleeding when combined appropriately.
• Heat in the
blood: prolonged menstruation.
• Can be cooked as
a food
• Use raw for
bleeding due to heat in the blood (the fresh herb crushed into juice
is even better).
• Partially char
the herb for bleeding due to cold from deficiency.
• Ping-Qi Kang
includes this herb in his headache/migraine formula.
Jin:
To promote blood circulation, best prepared with vinegar or wine.
Yoga:
Padma, Kamala, Pushkara,
more names
• The lotus is
India's most sacred plant, the symbol of spiritual
unfoldment. (See
also Lian zi, Lian xin, Lian
fang, etc.)
• Sweet,
astringent/cooling/sweet.
• P, V-; K+ (in
excess)
• Nutritive tonic,
rejuvenative, aphrodisiac, astringent, hemostatic, nervine.
• Diarrhea,
bleeding disorders, menorrhagia, leukorrhea, impotence,
spermatorrhea, venereal disease, heart weakness.
• Opens the first
chakra (muladhara)
- the root center: for first chakra disorders. (PLB:
e.g., self-indulgence, self-centeredness, insecurity, instability,
rootlessness,
ungroundedness, etc.)
• Calms the mind,
subdues restless thoughts and dreams.
• The lotus is
sacred to Lakshmi, the goddess of prosperity, and brings spiritual
and material abundance.
9-15g
|
Pu Huang
Cattail pollen
Typha
Bulrush
|
sweet
astrngt
neutral
|
Lv
PC
Sp
Ht
|
Promotes blood circulation,
dispels blood stasis; stops bleeding by astringing;
slightly promotes urination.
• Blood stasis
pain: chest, abdominal, menstrual , including postpartum abdominal
pain. Recently for angina pectoris.
• Bleeding:
hemoptysis, hematemesis, hemafecia, hematuria, epistaxis, uterine
bleeding, subcutaneous bleeding, external trauma.
• Can contract the
uterus: for postpartum abdominal pain.
• Lowers
cholesterol.
• Probably
decreases thrombin time and increases platelet count.
• Use the herb raw
to dispel blood stasis and relieve pain.
• Use the herb
toasted to stop bleeding.
• If the herb is to
be decocted, it should be placed in a tea bag.
Chen:
Useful for peptic ulcer.
Hsu:
Strong anti-tubercular effect; diuretic.
4.5-12g
|
Qian Cao (Gen)
Madder root
Rubia
|
bitter
cold
|
Lv
Ht
|
Promotes blood circulation,
dispels blood stasis; cools the blood; stops bleeding.
• Blood stasis:
pain in the flanks, chest, joints in Bi
syndrome, trauma.
• Blood stasis:
amenorrhea, lochioschesis, early stages of carbuncles.
• Heat in the
blood: any form of bleeding, including hematemesis, hemafecia,
hematuria, hemoptysis, uterine bleeding, etc.
• Stimulant effect
on uteri of post-partum women.
Yoga:
Manjishta:
bitter, sweet/cooling/pungent; P, K-; V+
• Alterative,
hemostatic, emmenagogue, astringent, diuretic, lithotriptic, antitumor
effect.
• Best blood
purifier in Ayurveda. Detoxifies the blood, removes obstruction
(including in the kidneys and liver).
• Amenorrhea,
dysmenorrhea, menorrhagia, menopause, bleeding, kidney,
bladder, or gall stones, jaundice, hepatitis, diarrhea, dysentery,
trauma, cancer,
heart disease, obstinate skin problems, dropsy, rickets, paralysis,
herpes.
• For all
inflammatory conditions.
• Helps knit broken
bones.
• Topical: as a
paste for skin discoloration, inflammation, burns, damaged tissue
• Major anti-Pitta
herb.
Hsu:
Antibacterial, antitussive.
6-9g
|
San Qi
(Tian Qi)
Panax
pseudoginseng
or P.
notoginseng
"Three
Seven"
San Qi Hua
Notoginseng
flower
|
sweet
sl
bitter
warm
|
Lv
St
LI
|
Stops bleeding; promotes
blood circulation, dispels blood stasis, relieves pain,
reduces swelling; commonly thought of as a tonic, similar to ren
shen.
• Bleeding: any
form, internal or external, including hematemesis, epistaxis,
hematuria, hemafecia, etc. A particularly important herb because it
stops bleeding
without causing stasis.
• Traumatic injury:
the herb of choice for swelling and pain due to falls, fractures,
contusions, sprains.
• Blood stasis:
pain, including of the chest, abdomen, joints.
• Yin deficiency
heat: bleeding (combine with Yin tonics).
• Coronary heart
disease, angina pectoris: may replace nitroglycerin.
• May lower blood
pressure.
• May reduce serum
lipids, cholesterol.
• Effective for
Crohn's disease.
• The liver seems
to play an important role in San
qi's ability to stop
bleeding
internally, since its effectiveness is lost if the portal vein is
ligated. Also shortens
thrombin time.
Li:
May be beneficial in obesity for weight loss.
MLT:
For internal or external hemorrhages.
• Powerfully
dissolves clots, normalizes circulation.
• Increases
coronary artery flow.
HF:
An important herb in anti-Gu
therapy to move Qi (xing Qi)
and break
accumulation (po ji).
Hsu:
Cardiotonic: increases coronary blood flow, decreases oxygen
consumption
by cardiac muscle, thereby diminishing the load on the heart.
• Lessens lipid and
cholesterol levels in the blood.
• Possesses an
anti-tumor effect.
• Enhances the
immune system.
SD:
Has been successfully employed as an adjunct to radiation therapy of
nasal
cancer, greatly improving the success of the treatments. Improves
immune system
functions and promotes blood circulation.
DY:
With Bai ji,
the two herbs act to mutually reinforce one another, and together
they effectively dispel stasis, stop bleeding, promote granulation and
engender
muscle (flesh) without producing blood stasis. For such indications as
hemoptysis, hematemesis, and bleeding caused by trauma. For internal
use, take
3-6g of each herb, powdered, 2-3 times per day. Most bleeding can be
stopped
within two days. For gastric hemorrhages, it is advised to mix this
powder with
cool water in order to increase its vasoconstricting mechanism within
the
stomach.
• With Dan
shen to quicken the blood,
dispel stasis, nourish the heart, open the
network vessels, stop pain, and settle palpitations. For indications
such as chest Bi
or impediment, i.e. cardiac problems with pain and severe palpitations.
For
these indications, wine mix-fried Dan
shen should be used. This
combination
treats heart pain no matter what the cause. This action may be
reinforced by
adding Shi chang pu, Xie bai,
Gua lou pi, Gui zhi, and Tan
xiang.
• There are two
methods of preparation of San qi:
- Uncooked San
qi quickens the blood, dispels
stasis, and stops bleeding.
- Steamed San
qi nourishes the blood, and is
not effective for either quickening
the blood or stopping bleeding. If San
qi is cooked by adding it
together with
other decocting medicinals, its ability to quicken the blood and stop
bleeding is
lost. Therefore, for these indications, San
qi is more efficient when
administered
[directly] in its powdered form.
• Modern research
has clearly demonstrated that San
qi has a definite effect on
coronary heart disease, angina pectoris, and hypercholesterolemia.
3-9g (1-3g direct as powder)
San
Qi Hua: the flower
• Sweet, cool.
• Pacifies the
liver; lowers blood pressure.
• Hypertension:
dizziness, vertigo, tinnitus.
• Acute sore throat.
|
Xian He Cao
Agrimony
"Immortal Crane
Herb"
|
bitter
astrngt
neutral
|
Lu
Lv
Sp
|
Stops bleeding and diarrhea
by astringing; kills parasites.
• Treats many forms
of bleeding: hemoptysis, hematemesis, hemafecia, hematuria,
epistaxis, uterine bleeding, bleeding gums. When combined
appropriately, this
herb can be used for heat or cold, in excess or deficient patterns.
• Chronic diarrhea
or dysentery due to deficiency. Can be used as a suppository
for diarrhea.
• Tapeworms.
• Trauma: Xian
he cao powder is commonly used
in surgery as a hemostatic:
hemorrhage or seepage usually stops within 1-2 minutes.
• Topical: use the
decoction as a wash for trichomonas vaginitis.
MLT:
The calcined ashes of Xian he
cao are most effective to stop
bleeding.
• For vaginitis due
to trichomonas vaginalis, soak a cotton ball in a strong
decoction, and insert overnight. Next morning, douche with a decoction
of
agrimony and yellow dock.
• Can be used to
relieve pain and coalesce and strengthen the good cells of the
body to resist all kinds of pathogenic influences.
• Recent: valuable
for cancer (as in the formula Ping
Xiao Dan).
MW:
For liver Qi stagnation: irritability, suppressed emotions (similar to
bupleurum).
• Nearly the same
as Cinquefoil: Cinquefoil has characteristic leaves made up of
five leaflets, like a hand. It (and agrimony) has a magic function to
ease problems
associated with labor (work with the hands, one's calling,
spiritual work) and the
work environment (coworkers, boss, or other facets of the situation).
Taking it or
keeping some around changes a person's environment (e.g. for
an oppressive or
dysfunctional work environment).
• The
characteristic mental state of the agrimony patient: tension,
frustration,
anger, inner torment, feels "caught in a bind,"
unable to do the right thing, they
constrict their breathing from tension, may hold exhalation back, try
to hold back
pain and not complain - tension and pain hidden behind a facade - act
stoic or
jovial.
• Female problems:
dysuria, dysmenorrhea.
• The "bad hair day" remedy:
tension manifests in the
hair - poor growth, frazzled,
breaks, patchy, nails break also.
• Intermittent
fever, chills, influenza, Shaoyang symptoms.
• Sharp, shooting
pain in the kidney region.
• Helps passage of
gallstones and kidney stones.
• Also for ulcers
on the lower body; skin eruptions; alopecia; toxemia;
hypertension; colitis, enteritis.
• Tension related
to bed wetting.
• This is wolf
medicine.
• Matt Wood usually
gives agrimony in low-potency homeopathic doses (12x-30x) or 3 drops of
the tincture daily.
K&R:
Hypoglycemiant, astringent, diuretic, anti-inflammatory, cytophylactic.
• Earth yang, metal
yang.
• For diabetes;
asthma; jaundice.
• Earth:
obesity, intestinal mycosis, gout, headache, cataracts, tonsilitis,
stomatitis, pharyngitis, aphthous ulcer, infected wounds, contusions,
neuritis,
cholecystitis with hyperacidity.
• Metal:
acute bronchopneumopathy with lots of sputum, hemoptysis, headache,
tonsilitis, dysentery, hoarseness, EPI with fever, diarrhea, atonic
bowel.
Hsu:
Hypotensive, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, inhibits proliferation
of some
types of cancer cells, regulates heart rate.
IBIS:
Qualities: bitter, cool, dry
Affinities: liver
Actions: mild astringent,
tonic, diuretic, vulnerary
Dosage: tincture: 2 - 4 mL
There is no remedy which is
better suited to the treatment of tension, especially
that tension to which traditional Chinese medicine refers as
Constricted Liver Qi.
The patient feels extreme mental tension, torment, as if caught in a
bind (see Dr.
Bach's use of Agrimony). There is corresponding physical tension, as if
the part
were caught in a bind; constricted respiration, harassing cough; sharp
pains in the
kidneys (Scudder), kidney-stones, bladder and menstrual problems
(Ellingwood).
This is a traditional remedy for gall-stone passage. The tongue is
clear, but
sometimes there are longitudinal, oval ulcers. During passage of a
gall- or
kidney-stone, the tongue is usually dark blue or purple, due to the
congestion of
blood. The wiry pulse is the great indicator, in combination with the
tormented
mental state (Wood).
AHPA Botanical Safety
Rating: 1
Toxicity: 0
9-15g
|
Xiao Ji
Small Thistle
Cephalanoplos
|
sweet
cool
|
Ht
Lv
Sp
|
Cools the blood; stops
bleeding; eliminates toxicity; slightly promotes urination.
• Heat and
toxicity: boils, carbuncles.
• Heat in the
blood: epistaxis, hematemesis, hemoptysis, uterine bleeding, and
especially hematuria.
• Not as strong as Da
ji.
Hsu:
Hypotensive, antibacterial.
4.5-15g
|
Xue Yu Tan
Charred Human
Hair
"Charred Excess
of the Blood"
|
bitter
astrngt
neutral
|
Lv
St
Ht
K
|
Stops bleeding; promotes
blood circulation; promotes urination; mildly nourishes
Yin.
• Many forms of
bleeding, including hemoptysis, hematuria, hemafecia, and
especially uterine bleeding and epistaxis.
• Dysuria,
hematuria.
• Usually taken as
powder.
• For epistaxis, a
small amount of the powder may be blown into the nasal cavity.
1.5-9g
|
Zong Lu Tan
Charred Stiple
Palm Fiber
Trachycarpus
"Palm
Stipule"
|
bitter
astrngt
neutral
|
Lv
LI
Lu
Sp
|
Stops bleeding by powerfully
astringing.
• Hemoptysis,
hemafecia, epistaxis, uterine bleeding without blood stasis.
• Can cause blood
stasis - use with a blood mover if there is a risk of stasis.
• Charring
increases the herb's astringent and stabilizing properties.
• The uncharred
herb (rarely used) is called Zong
lu pi.
9-15g (1-1.5g as powder)
|
Herbs For
Topical Use
|
•
Before
using an
herb on the face, test for sensitivity by applying under the arm.
• Most herbs in
this category have some internal uses, but (most) are generally not
taken
internally for a prolonged period.
• Doses given are
for internal
use.
• Note: Several
herbs were not included here because they are quite toxic (Qing
fen contains mercury, Mi
tuo seng
contains lead, Qian dan
contains lead, etc.), and will never be used in the West (except with
great liability). However, this does not mean that all the substances
that
were included are safe. Some very toxic herbs are listed
below because of
their unique (albeit limited) usefulness (e.g., Ma
qian zi) or because they
are still quite commonly used in China (e.g., Xiong
huang).
|
Da Suan
Garlic bulb
|
acrid
warm
|
Sp
St
Lu
|
Topical:
Kills parasites; eliminates toxicity; relieves swelling.
• Fungal
infections: ringworm on scalp; trichomonas vaginalis.
• Carbuncles and
other toxic swellings.
• Pinworms - apply
to perianal area or use as an enema.
• Can be mixed with
sesame oil for topical application.
• Apply as poultice
for acute intestinal abscess (with Mang
xiao, Da huang).
• Can be made into
a paste and rubbed on exposed areas of the body to prevent
parasitic infection.
• Garlic can be
irritating to the skin and may cause blistering.
• Appendicitis: in
paste with Mang xiao
on McBurney's point (use gauze between
the skin and the paste) for 2 hours, then follow with a paste of Da
huang and
vinegar
Internal:
Kills parasites; eliminates toxicity; relieves swelling; prevents
influenza;
treats food poisoning from shellfish.
• Parasites:
hookworms, roundworms, pinworms, amoebae, other intestinal
parasites (in appropriate combination) and for diarrhea due to
parasites.
• Toxicity:
carbuncles, diarrhea, dysentery (especially amebic), consumption,
sudden coughing.
• Food poisoning.
• Garlic with
purple skin is stronger against toxicity and parasites than other forms.
• Antimicrobial,
antifungal (including candida).
• Its oil inhibits
the development of atherosclerosis.
• Antineoplastic
effects.
• May be taken in
decoctions, raw, dry-fried, or as a paste
• Bensky and Gamble
classify Da suan
with herbs that expel parasites.
HF:
A Sha Chong
(kill worms or parasites) herb, important in Gu
Zheng (Gu
parasites) formulas.
Yoga: Rashona:
"Lacking One Taste" - said to contain all tastes
but sour.
• Mainly
pungent/heating/pungent; V, K-; P+
• Stimulant,
carminative, expectorant, alterative, antispasmodic, disinfectant,
anthelmintic, rejuvenative, detoxifier.
• Colds, coughs,
asthma, heart disease, hypertension, high cholesterol,
arteriosclerosis, palpitations, skin diseases, parasites, rheumatism,
hemorrhoids,
edema, impotence, hysteria.
• A rasayana for Vata
(and, to a lesser degree, for Kapha).
• Cleanses Ama
and Kapha
from the blood and lymphatics.
• Tamasic
- can dull the mind but can also impart groundedness.
• Increases semen
but can also irritate the reproductive organs.
• Not for heat in
the blood.
BII:
Lowers cholesterol (probably at least 9%), may raise HDL, inhibits
platelet
aggregation by blocking thromboxane synthesis, may increase
fibrinolytic activity,
may reduce LDL oxidation (part of the development of atherosclerosis).
• Significant
anti-infective and immune enhancing properties: HIV, cancer,
infections: may enhance T cell and macrophage function, increase
interleukin-1
levels, increase NK cell activity, and enhance phagocytic cell function.
JC:
Alterative, stimulant, diaphoretic, sudorific, diuretic, expectorant,
antiseptic,
antispasmodic, disinfectant, tonic, nervine, laxative, emmenagogue,
carminative,
anthelmintic (vermicide - roundworms and pinworms), rubefacient,
vulnerary,
antivenemous, antisyphilitic, anti-catarrhal, digestant,
hypotensive.
• Has an affinity
for the respiratory tract.
IBIS:
Affinities: Lungs, circulation and blood, liver, intestines.
• Internal:
antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial,
anthelmintic,
antiseptic, antiviral, hypotensive-vasodilator, cholagogue,
antispasmodic,
decreases blood cholesterol, increases HDL, anti-atheromatic, PAF
antagonist,
increases fibrinolytic activity, hypoglycemic, expectorant,
diaphoretic, antioxidant,
antitumour, antineoplastic, antimutagenic, diuretic, carminative,
emmenagogue.
• External:
antimicrobial, antifungal, expectorant (topically via feet or pleural
surfaces).
• Dosage:
Fresh: 2 to 5 cloves q.d.,
equivalent to approximately 5000mg fresh daily. Up to
30 gms per day may be taken in acute conditions.
Dried: The wide therapeutic
dose range is hard to translate into the many forms of
garlic that are commercially available. In general, 1000mg fresh
equates to
1000mcg allicin potential or 10 mg alliin. 5000mcg allicin is a good
general
therapeutic dose.
• Internal:
treatment and prophylaxis of infections especially respiratory
infections
(bronchitis, respiratory catarrh, colds, influenza; pneumonia)
hypertension,
hypercholesterolemia, hypertriglyceridemia, atherosclerotic changes,
peripheral
vascular disease (including intyermittent claudication), diabetes,
candidiasis,
gastro-intestinal infections (dysentery, diptheria, cholera, typhus,
intestinal
parasites incl Ascaris).
• External:
dermatophyte fungal infections, ear infections, vaginal candidiasis,
respiratory infections (topically).
• Specific
indications: moderate hypertension with moderate hyperlipidemia, upper
respiratory infections.
• Constituents:
Volatile oil (0.1-0.4%)
containing sulfur compounds:including allicin, diallyl
disulfide, diallyl trisulfide, ajoene and others.
Other sulfur compounds:
including allyl cysteine sulfoxide, methyl allyl
thiosulfinate and related compounds.
Enzymes: including
alliinase, myrosinase, peroxidase.
Other: proteins (~16%),
vitamins, glucosilinates.
• Pharmacology:
The enzyme allinase is
released when the fresh bulb is damaged, and catalyses the
formation of allicin from alliin. Allicin is responsible for the odour
of garlic and
together with its numerous degradation products is considered to be the
primary
active principle of garlic.
• Antimicrobial
activity: Garlic extracts have long been established to exhibit
wide spectrum antimicrobial activity. They are active against several
genera of
bacteria, (Staphylococcus, Streptococcus, Brucella, Vibrio spp);
viruses (Herpes
simplex type 1 and type 2, Parainfluenza virus type 3, Vaccinia virus,
Vesicular
stomatitis virus and Human rhinovirus type 3), fungi (Candida albicans,
Cryptococcus neoformans) and worms (Ascaris lumbricoides, various
hookworms). (Reviewed in Pizzorno and Murray, 1995: Bergner, 1996)
• Cardiovascular
activity: Garlic extracts have well established activity against
various aspects of cardiovascular disease. These are reviewed under
clinical trials
below.
• Anti-cancer
activity: Epidemiological studies have shown an inverse relationship
between garlic consumption and the incidence of cancer. (Dorant 1993,
Sumiyoshi,
1997). Experimental studies with animals and some human cell lines in
vitro have
shown garlic extracts to have potent chemopreventative and anticancer
effects. The
effects are not dependent on any single constituent nor limited to a
single tissue or
tumour type or specific carcinogen (Milner, 1996). The constituents
investigated
include the actions of various organo-sulphur compounds (OSC) including
the
diallyl sulfides and ajoene, as well as selenium. OSC's have been shown
to induce
apoptosis in human promyelolekemic cells (Dirsch, 1998) to increase
reduced
glutathione and reduce polyamine formation in human prostate cancer
lines (Pinto
et al, 1997). The well established chemopreventative activity of garlic
extracts in
reducing hepatocyte nitrosamine formation is probably be due to Cyt
P450
activation (Reicks, 1996) and effects on glutathione metabolism
(Fukishma, 1997).
Selenium is known to be protective against tumourogenesis, and
"high-selenium"
garlic extracts show inhibitory activity in animal mammary
carcinogenesis (Ip,
1996), Schaffer, 1996).
• Anti-inflammatory
and immunomodulating activity: Garlic has established
anti-inflammatory action in experimental models, and anti-oxidant
activities
particularly related to reduced glutathione (GSH) enhancement. Garlic
extracts
have been shown to be capable of immune modulation, increasing
macropahge
oxidative burst and stimulating T-lymphcyte blastogenesis in vitro. The
active
compound was a protein fraction (Lau,1991).
• Miscellaneous
activities: Garlic possess diuretic, diaphoretic, emmenagogue and
expectorant actions, as well as carminative and anti-spasmodic actions
on the
digestive system (Leung, 1980). Garlic is also moderately hypoglycemic;
the
mechanism suggested is competitive binding of OSC's to hepatocyte
insulin
receptors resulting in a sparing of insulin and potentiation of its
peripheral actions.
(Bever, 1979).
• Cholesterol
lowering action: Garlic supplementation at doses of at least 10mg
alliin or a total allicin potential of ~4000mcg lowers total serum
cholesterol
between 10-12%. Specifically, garlic both increases HDL and lowers LDL
cholesterol, thus its effect on the LDL/HDL ratio is more significant
than its effect
on total cholesterol. It also a moderate effect on elevated
triglycerides. These
actions have been demonstrated in several placebo controlled double
blind studies
using various commercial preparations. (Adler, 1997, Steiner, 1996,
Jain, 1993 -
others reviwed in Pizzorno 1995, Bergner, 1996).
• Atherosclerosis
and LDL oxidation: Doses of 600mg/day significantly decreased
susceptibility of apolipoprotein B to oxidative damage in only two
weeks in a
double blind placebo controlled trial (Phelps, 1990). A longer term
study
(10months) of hypercholesterolemic males also found decreased
susceptibility of
lipopoteins to oxidation compared to placebo (Steiner, 1998).
• Hypertension:
Garlic has established hypotensive effects in vitro and in human
studies. Of these a meta analysis of 8 clinical trials concluded that
on average
garlic lowered systolic pressure by ~11mmHg, and diastolic by 5.0mmHg,
at doses
between 600-900mg daily standardised at 1.3% alliin. (Silagy, 1994,
Warshafsky1993). The hypotensive effects are multifactorial, and
include the
ability of garlic extracts to inhibit, PAF, increase fibronolysis and
directly reduce
the rheological viscosity of blood (Jung, 1991). Recently, an in vivo
study has
implicated an effect of garlic on nitric oxide metabolism as a
hypotensive
mechanism (Pedraza-Chaverri, 1998).
• Coagualability:
Clinical trials show garlic extracts inhibit platelet aggregation
and platelet thromboxane formation and increase fibrinlytic activity
(Bordia, 1998;
Steiner, 1998). Garlic reduces blood viscosity by several mechanisms,
one trial
suggested a contribution to rheoregulation by vasodilation of
precapillary arterioles
which allows interstitial fluid inflow (Jung, 1991).
• The long history
of garlic as a common food establishes that consumption of
reasonable quantities is generally safe. Caution may be indicated in
children and
while breastfeeding. These cautions may not apply to processed garlic
products.
(McGuffin, 1997). Use with caution during pregnancy; potential
emmenagogue,
abortifacient (Keeler and Tu, p. 750). Despite reports that garlic is
uteroactive,
however, there is no experimental or clinical evidence of adverse
effects of garlic
consumption during pregnancy and lactation. Suggestions that garlic is
contraindicated during pregnancy are speculative. Clinical herbalists
consider
garlic a safe and useful treatment for upper respiratory infection
during pregnancy. May cause changes in lactation, especially
nutritional quality and flavor
(Muenscher, 1951).
• Local irritant:
capable of forming burns, blisters, and ulcers with poor tendency
to heal (Parish, 1987).
• Garlic oil may
harbor Clostridium botulinum (Scientific American, March 1985).
• Gastrointestinal
flora may be significantly altered by garlic consumption.
• Excessive doses
contraindicated in acute or chronic stomach inflammation - may
cause gastroenteritis.
• Due to anti
platelet, blood thinning, and fibrinolytic activity garlic exctracts
will
decrease PT times and interact with anticoagulant prescription drugs
such as
warfarin. Concurrent use of other PAF interacting herbs (eg Ginkgo
biloba) will
enhance this interaction. Vigilance in monitoring PT times is essential
with any
patient concurrently using coumadin class drugs and garlic. Prospective
surgical
patients should inform their physicians if they are using garlic, to
avoid unexpected
and potentially dangerous prolonged bleeds during or post surgical
procedure
(Burnham, 1995).
• Steam distilled
oils: although rich in OSC's, contain no allicin. In addition, while
usually dissolved in vegetable oil and contained in gel caps, some
manufacturers
bind the oil to other compounds that may affects absorption (eg
betacyclodextrin). Kyolic deodorized garlic contains no allicin,
sulfides, ajeones or dithiins. Generally, a 100% deodorized garlic
preparation would be ineffective, since OSC's
are excreted through the lungs and skin - there will always be some
residual odor.
Various techniques are used commercially to stabilise allicin, or
neutralize
alliinase in order to optimise release of OSC's in the GI tract.
Commercial claims
and counterclaims about product efficacy tend to be misleading and
unsubstantiated by studies.
• Clinical
herbalists recommend that whenever possible garlic be consumed fresh,
in its food form, to optimise benefits. This is particularly the case
for the
antimicrobial activities. Dried preparations retain cardiovascular
activities to a
greater extent than antibiotic activities.
6-15g or 3-5 cloves
|
Liu Huang
Sulfur
"Sulfur
Yellow"
|
sour
toxic
warm
|
K
LI
|
Topical:
Kills parasites; eases itching; relieves toxicity.
• Scabies, eczema,
ringworm, Yin furuncles, damp festering sores, ulcers,
carbuncles, itching, acne.
• Used as powder or
paste.
Also available in soap form (e.g., Thylox) for acne.
Hsu:
Dissolves corneous skin, can cause hair to fall out.
Internal:
Tonifies kidney Yang (strengthens Ming
Men fire); promotes bowel
movement.
• Yang deficiency,
internal cold: asthma, impotence, painful lower back and knees
• Cold:
constipation, especially in the elderly (works by helping the Yang to
pass
the stool and also by irritating the wall of the gut by forming
sulfides - more
pronounced effect when there is an abundance of fatty substances in the
gut).
Hsu:
Antifungal, purgative.
1-6g (pills and powders)
|
Lu Feng Fang
Hornet nest
|
sweet
toxic
neutral
|
Lu
St
|
Topical:
Relieves toxicity, expels wind, alleviates pain
As an ointment or wash for
rashes, itching, scabies, ringworm, sores, carbuncles,
swollen glands.
As a gargle: use warm for a
severe toothache that feels "as if a worm is burrowing
in the tooth."
Internal:
Expels wind, dries dampness.
• Wind-damp Bi.
• Wind rashes.
• Recent use in the
treatment of a variety of tumors.
• Shortens blood
coagulation time.
• Mastitis: In one
study, 3g of dry-fried Lu feng
fang was given with wine every 4
hours for 3 days. 23 of 26 cases were cured (in an average of 2 days)
and 1 was
improved. No side effects or toxic effects were noted. This form of
therapy is not
effective for suppurative mastitis.
• Toxic: large
doses cause nephritis.
6-12g (1.5-3g directly as
powder)
|
Ma Qian Zi
Strychnos nux-vomica seeds
Nux-vomica
"Horse Money
Seeds"
|
bitter
toxic
cold
|
Lv
Sp
|
Unblocks the channels,
disperses clumps, reduces swelling, alleviates pain.
• Internal or
external for abscesses, sores, yin-type ulcers, and swelling and pain
due to trauma.
• Wind-damp Bi,
paresthesias, spasms.
• Recently used in
the treatment of various types of tumors.
• Facial paralysis:
the herb was applied locally as a paste in over 15,000 cases, with
effective results in 80% of the cases.
• Contains
strychnine. Overdoses in humans have been recorded with as little as
50mg of the herb. Overdosage presents with a crawling sensation in the
cervical
area, difficulty in swallowing, and irritability. The progresses to
convulsions of
great force.
• Used externally
in powders for local application, including insufflation into the
throat.
RW:
In small doses, the herb is a bitter tonic. This herb is the leading
nervous
system stimulant. Indispensable as a major nerve tonic. The drug of
choice when
one needs powerful and lasting stimulation of the nervous system. Often
used for
the elderly, and for pale children lacking an appetite (good with
galanga). For
nervous stomach conditions, it also reduces sensitivity to pain.
• According to Weiss, this herb
is
safer
than stated. "Really good results are achieved only with
relatively large doses: 10-20 drops of the tincture in a glass of water
three times
daily."
[Other sources (PCBDP)
are much more cautionary - strychnine can be fatal.]
Hsu:
Promotes blood circulation and breathing; can induce muscular tetany;
increases intestinal peristalsis.
0.3-0.9g internally in pills
and powders
|
Ming Fan
(Bai Fan)
Alum
(basic potassium
aluminum
sulfate)
Ku Fan: prepared
form
|
sour
cold
|
Lu
Lv
Sp
St
LI
|
Topical:
Eliminates toxicity; kills parasites; dries dampness; eases itching;
stops
bleeding.
• As a wash for
scabies, ringworm, carbuncles, damp/damp-heat rashes - eczema.
• Bleeding:
epistaxis, hemorrhoidal bleeding, bleeding gums, bleeding due to
external injury.
• Swollen and
painful throat or eyes.
• Ear drops for
chronic otitis media.
• For external use, Ku
fan
(the prepared form) is preferred for sores and abscesses,
oral sores, eye problems.
Internal:
Stops bleeding and diarrhea; clears heat and phlegm; dried dampness.
• Hematemesis,
epistaxis, hemafecia, chronic diarrhea, uterine bleeding, vaginal
discharge. Ulcerative colitis.
• Jaundice.
• Wind-phlegm/phlegm-heat:
epilepsy, irritability, delirium, depression,
mania,
cough with difficult-to-expectorate sputum.
• Ming fan has a
strong stimulatory effect on the body's tissues. Overdose can
cause ulceration, vomiting, diarrhea, shock.
• The cumulative
effect of long term ingestion of aluminum may not be healthy
(Alzheimer's?).
• Crush before
using.
0.6-3g (15-30g commonly used
topically)
|
Peng Sha
Borax
|
sweet
salty
cool
|
Lu
St
|
Relieves toxicity, prevents
putrefaction.
• Used internally
or externally for pain and swelling in the throat, open sores in the
mouth, white draining vaginal lesions (e.g. severe candidiasis).
Topical:
Dries dampness.
• Blisters between
toes caused by damp-toxicity.
• Sores, including
nasal, pharyngeal, vaginal sores.
Internal:
Clears heat; dissolves phlegm; transforms stones.
• Phlegm-heat
obstruction with difficult-to-expectorate sputum.
• Painful urinary
dysfunction with stones.
1.5-3g
|
She Chuang Zi
Cnidium seed
"Snake's
Bed
Seeds"
|
acrid
bitter
warm
|
K
|
Topical:
Dries dampness; kills parasites; stops itching.
• Dampness: eczema,
any itching, weeping skin lesion especially of the external
genitalia region.
• Scabies.
• Ringworm.
• Use as a wash,
powder, or ointment.
15-30g commonly used
topically
Internal:
Tonifies kidney Yang; disperses wind, cold; dries dampness.
• Kidney deficiency
or cold womb: impotence, male or female infertility.
• Cold and
dampness: leukorrhea, trichomonal vaginitis.
• Dampness
(especially wind-cold-damp): lumbar pain.
Hsu:
Antifungal; antiviral; anthelmintic; sex-hormone-like action - prolongs
sexual intercourse in mice and can induce copulation in castrated mice.
HF:
A Sha Chong
(kill worms or parasites) herb, important in Gu
Zheng (Gu
parasites) formulas.
3-10g
|
Wa Leng Zi
Ark shell
Cockle shell
|
salty
neutral
|
Lu
St
Lv
|
Topical:
Regenerates tissue for ulcers.
Internal:
Resolves phlegm; promotes blood circulation and dispels blood stasis;
softens and resolves masses and lumps; neutralizes stomach acid;
alleviates pain.
• Stagnation of
blood, Qi, and/or phlegm: fibroids, cirrhosis of the liver, immobile
or mobile abdominal masses.
• Chronic pain in
the pit of the stomach (such as ulcer pain) or blood stasis pain
accompanied by vomiting with acid reflux.
• Ulcers: In one
clinical trial, 124 patients with gastric and duodenal ulcers were
treated with a powder of 5 parts Wa
leng zi and 1 part Gan
cao. Treatment periods
ranged from 29 to 56 days. 59 cases were cured and another 48 showed
significant
improvement.
• The raw herb
should be used for promotion of blood circulation and dissolution
of phlegm, while the calcined form is preferred for the neutralization
of stomach
acid, acid reflux (GERD), heartburn.
• Requires
precooking. The herb should be broken into pieces or ground into
powder before cooking.
• Bensky and Gamble
classify this herb as a blood mover. The herb is also
commonly classified among herbs that resolve phlegm (a categorization
Guohui
Liu also agrees with).
9-15g
|
Xiong Huang
Realgar
Arsenic Sulfide
"Male
Yellow"
|
acrid
bitter
warm
toxic
|
Ht
Lv
St
|
Topical:
Eliminates toxicity; kills parasites.
• Carbuncles, snake
bites, scabies, ringworm, damp rashes, abscesses, suppurative
inflammation of the soft tissue, ulcerations.
• Very commonly
used in soaks for any skin itching.
• As a paste for
neurodermatitis/shingles.
• Because it is
absorbed through the skin, the herb should not be applied to large
areas.
Internal:
Kills worms; dries dampness; expels phlegm; checks malarial conditions.
• Worm parasitism
in the intestines: pain - especially for roundworms, and
particularly with signs of accumulation.
• Dampness/phlegm
accumulation: wheezing; seizures; malarial conditions.
• Do not calcine.
Calcination produces the extremely toxic As2O3.
0.15-0.6g in pills and
powders
|
Xue Jie
Dragon's Blood
Resinous
secretion of Daemonorops
draco or Dracaena
cambodiana
"Exhausted
Blood"
|
sweet
salty
neutral
|
Ht
Lv
|
Topical:
Promotes regeneration of tissue; stops bleeding.
• Bleeding due to
external trauma.
• Non-healing skin
ulcers: protects the surface of the ulcer, prevents decay, and
generates flesh.
6-9g commonly used topically
Internal:
Promotes blood circulation, dispels blood stasis, alleviates pain.
• Blood stasis:
trauma, swelling, pain, symptoms related to injury from falls,
fractures, contusions, sprains, endometriosis.
• Similar to San
qi, but weaker than San
qi at promoting blood
circulation or
stopping bleeding.
• Contraindicated
in patients without blood stasis.
• Bensky and Gamble
classify this herb as a blood mover.
Hsu:
Antibacterial, hemostatic.
0.3-1.5g
|
Zhang Nao
Camphor
|
acrid
hot
toxic
|
Ht
Sp
|
Topical:
Expels wind and dampness; kills parasites; promotes blood circulation,
alleviates pain.
• Scabies,
ringworm, itching sores
• Blood stasis:
injuries, pain and swelling.
• Used topically as
a powder or paste.
• Warming,
irritative, and antiseptic effect on the skin. Mildly locally
anaesthetic.
Hsu:
Irritant effect - promotes blood circulation, increases mucosa
secretion.
Internal:
Opens the orifices of the heart; expels turbidity.
• Delirium, sudden
unconsciousness due to hot disorders.
• When taken
orally, it irritates the gastric mucosa. In small doses, this causes a
comfortably warm feeling. In large doses it causes nausea and vomiting.
• Zhang
nao stimulates the central
nervous system, particularly the higher centers. Normal doses have no
effect on respiration, but large doses can stimulate
respiration.
• Oral doses of
0.5-1g can cause dizziness, headache, a feeling of warmth and
restlessness. Over 2g leads to transient tranquilization followed by
stimulation of
the cerebral cortex with tonic-clonic spasms. Respiratory arrest can
occur. 7-15g
is fatal.
Yoga: Karpura:
pungent, bitter/slightly heating/pungent; Sattvic.
• K, V-; P+(in
excess)
• Expectorant,
decongestant, stimulant, antispasmodic, bronchodilator, nervine,
analgesic, antiseptic.
• Bronchitis,
asthma, pertussis, pulmonary congestion, hysteria, epilepsy, delirium,
insomnia, dysmenorrhea, gout, rheumatism, nasal congestion, sinus
headache, eye
problems, tooth decay.
• This herb is
poisonous in excess: aggravates Pitta
and Vata
• Increases prana,
opens the senses, clears the mind.
• Applied to the
eyes (in small amounts): initially burning, but promotes tears and
cools and clears the eyes.
• Nasally: for
congestion, headache, and to awaken perception.
• Burn as incense
during devotional worship to purify the atmosphere and promote
meditation.
• Use ONLY genuine,
raw camphor internally.
Hsu:
Stimulates the CNS; antifungal.
SD:
Camphor oil is obtained from a tree (Cinnamomum
camphora), and like
cardamom, the essential oil of the tree contains a large number of
terpenoids
(mostly, the same ones as in cardamon, but in different proportions).
Camphor was
collected at least as early as the 9th Century. In 1676, the trees were
brought to
Europe for cultivation. In the following century, it was also
introduced to several
other countries, including the U.S. Prior to World War II, the world
use of
camphor was about 5,000 tons per year; 80% of this came from Taiwan
(the
Taiwan camphor tree yields 44% camphor from its leaves, a particularly
high
level). During the U.S. Civil War, the demand for camphor (used
primarily as a
medicinal) was so high that the U.S. contracted for the entire Taiwan
supply. It
was even proposed that an effort be made to purchase Taiwan (then
called
Formosa) in order to monopolize the camphor trade. It is perhaps for
this reason
that Japan acquired Formosa in 1895.
Camphor oil was a popular
medicinal in the U.S. until about twenty years ago
when several instances occurred in which children were fed camphor oil
by parents
who failed to distinguish it from castor oil. The pure camphor oil is
toxic in the
doses for which castor oil is used. Also, the U.S. Food and Drug
Administration
worried that topically applied camphor oil would penetrate the skin in
sufficient
amounts that it could cause trouble for persons with cardiac disorders
who were
taking various medications. As a result, it is no longer possible to
purchase
camphor oil for household use in the U.S.
Like borneol, camphor has
been used as an antiseptic, antispasmodic, carminative,
cardiac stimulant, respiratory aid, and anthelmintic. It is often used
in treating
congestive problems such as bronchitis and emphysema. Camphor is also
used in
preparation of foods, being an ingredient of vanilla and peppermint
flavors, and
incorporated into formulations of soft drinks, baked goods, and
condiments. In
modern Chinese medicine, camphor is most often reserved for external
application, while borneol is used both internally and externally.
Synthetic
camphor, often made from by chemically modifying pine tree resins
(turpentine), is
now widely used as a substitute for the natural product.
Camphor and the chemically
related compound camphene are found in: cardamom,
saussurea, ginger, magnolia, curcuma, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cyperus.
0.1-0.2g in pills or
dissolved in wine
|
Herbs That Kill Parasites
|
• These herbs
should be taken on an empty stomach so the parasites are hungry.
• Temporarily
discontinue herbs if a patient develops a fever or severe abdominal
pain.
• The non-purgative
herbs in this category are usually combined with a purgative to
discharge the dead parasites.
• Other
anti-parasitic herbs to consider: da
suan, chuan lian zi, hua jiao, lu hui, ku shen, bai bu, wu me, shi liu
pi,
xiong huang, xian he cao, bian xu, more... Also see Heiner
Freuhauf's list of herbs for Gu formulas.
|
Bing Lang
Betel nut
Areca seed
|
acrid
warm
bitter
|
St
LI
|
Kills parasites
(particularly tapeworms [pig], and also hookworms,
pinworms, roundworms, flukes, Fasciolopsis); reduces accumulation,
eliminates food retention; regulates Qi, promotes Qi circulation;
promotes urination; slightly promotes bowel movement.
• Parasitic
infection. This does not kill tapeworms, but paralyzes the
head and upper body. It is often combined with Nan
gua zi, which
paralyzes the rear end of the tapeworm. Since this herb has a slight
action to promote bowel movement, it does not need to be combined with
a purgative to expel the parasites.
• Food retention
and Qi stagnation in the stomach and large intestine:
distention, constipation.
• Retention of
harmful fluid: edema, swollen and painful legs.
• Malarial
disorders.
• This herb can be
drunk at a cool temperature to reduce the possibility of
side effects.
• For best results
against parasites, soak the herb in water for a few hours
before decocting.
• This herb is an
enormously popular recreational drug in India (mixed
with burnt lime, areca leaf, and other additives and flavorings which
may
alter its effect): stimulates cholinergic receptors, especially those
causing
salivation; possible aphrodisiac; stimulates peristalsis,
bronchoconstriction, bradycardia. Habitual use increases the appetite,
diminishes the sense of taste, may cause diarrhea, increases risk of
periodontal disease, and stains the oral cavity red.
HF:
A Sha Chong
(kill worms or parasites) herb, important in Gu
Zheng
(Gu
parasites) formulas.
DY:
Breaks and downbears the Qi.
• With Mu
xiang to move the Qi, disperse
food stagnation, and stop pain. For such indications as:
- 1. Lack of appetite,
abdominal and epigastric distention and pain
aggravated by pressure, difficult defecation or dry stools due to food
stagnation in the stomach and intestines. (Bing
lang should be stir-fried
until scorched.)
- 2. Dysentery or diarrhea
with tenesmus and abdominal pain due to Qi
stagnation. (Use scorched Bing
lang and roasted Mu
xiang.)
- 3. Constipation or
difficult defecation due to Qi stagnation. (Use
scorched Bing lang.)
• With Nan
gua zi to expel tapeworms (and
other intestinal parasites). For this indication, 15-100g Bing
lang and 30-120g Nan
gua zi are used. Two hours after
drinking a decoction of these two herbs for tapeworm, a
decoction of 10-20g Da huang
is taken.
Hsu:
Antiviral, antifungal; antimydriatic effect; stimulates
parasympathetic nervous system; stimulates intestinal peristalsis.
6-12g (60-120g alone for
tapeworms)
|
Fei Zi
Torreya seed
|
sweet
astringent
neutral
|
LI
Lu
St
|
Kills parasites (various
intestinal, including tapeworm, hookworm,
pinworm, roundworm); moistens the Lungs, stops coughing; mild
laxative.
• Hookworms: with Bai
bu.
• Roundworms: with Shi
jun zi.
• Pinworms: with Bian
xu.
• Tapeworms: with Bing
lang.
• Lung dryness:
mild cough.
• This is a safe,
non-toxic herb, and it does not harm the stomach Qi.
• Most effective
when dry-fried and taken directly (rather than in
decoction).
9-15g (up to 30g or more)
|
Guan Zhong
Dryopteris root and
rhizome or
Woodwardia or
Osmunda or
Matteuccia (or
other
plants)
Shield-fern
"Link the
Multitude"
|
bitter
sl cold
|
Lv
Sp
|
Kills parasites (lice and
various intestinal parasites, including
hookworms, roundworms, tapeworms, pinworms); clears heat; eliminates
toxicity; cools the blood; stops bleeding (charred).
• Heat in the
blood: rashes, eruptions, epistaxis, hematemesis, hemafecia,
and especially uterine bleeding. The herb should be charred when used
to
stop bleeding.
• Heat and
toxicity: mumps, epidemic disease, sores.
• Wind-heat EPI.
• Also for
alopecia, head sores.
• Antiviral:
influenza. Dryopteris (Dong bei
guan zhong) has been taken
as a preventive measure during flu epidemics.
• Stimulates
contraction of uterus. Used in post-partum, post-miscarriage, and
post-surgical uterine bleeding.
• Do not take with
fatty food: one toxic component (filmarone) is usually
not absorbed from the GI tract unless the herb is taken with a very
fatty
meal.
JC:
Anthelmintic (taeniafuge, vermifuge), astringent, tonic, vulnerary.
• Tapeworms,
roundworms, seat worms, pinworms.
• Wounds, rickets.
6-15g
|
Ku Lian (Gen) Pi
Melia root bark
China Tree
|
bitter
sl toxic
cold
|
Lv
Sp
|
Strongly kills parasites and
fungi (particularly roundworms, hookworms,
pinworms, vaginal trichomonas, scalp fungus, scabies).
• Scabies: mix with
vinegar and apply topically.
• Pinworms: use as
enema and anal wash with Bai
bu, Wu mei.
• Roundworms,
hookworms: combine with Bing
lang.
• Use as a wash for
fungal infections. Alcohol extractions of the herb are
much more effective against dermatomycoses than are water extractions.
• Contraindicated
with hepatic disease. Caution with weak constitution,
with a history of gastric or peptic ulcers, or in any patient in whom
vomiting would be disastrous (e.g. when there are esophageal varices).
• The bark of the
stem of this plant (Ku lian mu
pi) has similar effects,
but is weaker.
1-15g (up to 60g when used
alone)
|
Lei Wan
Omphalia sclerotium
(also known as Polyporus
mylittae)
"Thunder
Ball"
|
bitter
cold
sl toxic
|
LI
St
|
Kills parasites (primarily
tapeworms, but also hookworms, roundworms).
• For tapeworms,
the herb can be taken alone, at a dose of 12-18g
powder, 3 times daily with water, after meals.
• The herb must be
crushed.
• The herb is less
effective when cooked, and is therefore usually taken in pills and
powders.
HF:
A Sha Chong
(kill worms or parasites) herb, important in Gu
Zheng
(Gu
parasites) formulas.
6-9g (or 12-18g taken alone
as powder)
|
Nan Gua Zi
Pumpkin seed and
husk
"Southern Melon
Seeds"
|
sweet
neutral
|
St
LI
|
Kills parasites (tapeworms
[paralyzes the mid-section and tail],
roundworms, schistosomes); benefits postpartum fluid metabolism.
• Tapeworms: take
60g (to 120g) powdered pumpkin seed with water. 2
hours later, take a decoction of 60-120g Bing
lang. 30 minutes later, take
15g Mang xiao
(uncooked) with water.
• Postpartum fluid
metabolism dysfunction: swelling of hands and feet,
also insufficient lactation.
MLT:
Effective for benign prostatic hypertrophy.
JC:
Anthelmintic (taeniafuge, vermifuge) [roundworms and tapeworms],
diuretic, nutritive; also for renal problems (urinary).
IBIS:
Vermifuge, diuretic, nutritive.
• Dosage of raw
seeds: 200-400 g (Weiss, p. 120).
• Therapy:
parasites, nausea, motion sickness, benign prostatic
hypertrophy.
30-60g
|
Shi Jun Zi
Rangoon Creeper fruit
with seeds
Quisqualis
"Envoy
Seeds"
|
sweet
warm
|
Sp
St
|
Kills parasites
(particularly roundworms); eliminates food retention;
strengthens the spleen; dissolves accumulations.
• Roundworms or
malnutrition in children due to improper diet, weak
constitution: abdominal distention, poor appetite. If roundworms are
severe, this herb can be combined with Bing lang.
• Common side
effects: nausea, vomiting, belching
• To reduce the
herb's toxicity, dry fry it until it is aromatic.
• Traditionally,
this herb is not to be taken with hot tea (may lead to
diarrhea and belching).
• Sources differ on
dosage guidelines:
Liu:
One piece per day for no more than 20 days (may discontinue for a
week and then resume administration).
Bensky and Gamble:
1 piece per year of age, per day, not to exceed 20
pieces per day.
Li:
No more than 12 pieces per day.
4.5-12g
|
The "old
school" American naturopath, John Christopher, on worms
affecting Westerners:
JC:
The three most common types of worms found in the body are: the thread
or seat worms (Oxyuris
vermicularis),
the round worms (Ascaris
lumbricoides-lumbrici), and the
tape worms (Taeince-Taenia
solium, bothriocephalus
latus). There are also other
less-common worm types that enter the body, such as hook worms for
which thymol
[from essential oil of Thyme] and oil of Chenopodium
duodenale (American Wormseed)
are specifics, and those of
unclean pork, etc., which thrive on toxic conditions in the body.
The thread or seat worm is
rather easily destroyed or expelled because it is usually found in the
lower bowel and does
not adhere to the intestinal wall. Herbs such as cathartics,
astringents, Aloes, Quassia, Calumba, apple cider vinegar,
etc., are effective against these intestinal vermin.
The roundworm is most likely
to be found in and often clinging to the intestinal wall, and can cause
considerable
harm and physical discomfort, especially to children. If roundworms are
not checked, they may increase to the point
that they enter the stomach, and even travel up the esophagus to the
pharynx, with most unpleasant and upsetting
results. You can see roundworms in the stools, and you can also know
you have them because they greatly disturb
the balance of the stomach. The anthelmintic herbs are particularly
useful and beneficial to eliminate roundworms
and tapeworms. The anthelmintic agents are classed as to their action
against the worm parasites: Vermifuges cause
the expulsion of worms from the body. Vermicides kill worms in the
body. Taeniafuges cause the expulsion of
tapeworms from the body. Taeniacides kill tapeworms in the body.
The difference in the action
of a worm medicine often depends on the medicinal dosage and how soon
after
administration the bowels are moved - thus a large dose of an
anthelmintic, if it remains in the intestine, will destroy,
while a smaller dose will merely expel the worm. Almost all
althelmintics are potent and must be respected as such;
and concentrated preparations must always be used in wisdom. Generally,
in the case of thread or seat worms, an
enema is sufficient; and, in the case of round worms, follow the
following procedure:
1. Go on a three day
cleanse/fast drinking only one type of juice and distilled water and
take the anthelmintic
morning and night, preferably with Wormwood.
2. On the morning of the
fourth day, drink 6-8 ounces of Senna [Fan
xie ye] tea alone to cleanse and
purge the bowel
of the parasites (other suitable cathartics are also acceptable).
The tapeworm is somewhat
more obstinate, but the foregoing procedure will also work, using Male
Fern [Guan
zhong] or Pomegranate [Shi
Liu Pi, Shi Liu Gen Pi] as the
anthelmintic. Continue taking the remedy a few days after
the worm sections have ceased to pass, and use Lobelia along with an
antibilious cathartic.
[Dr. Shook:] Doctors
generally have the patient fast for a day or two before taking tapeworm
remedies, but this is
unnecessary, because the worm, being a parasite, cannot be starved.
This only makes the patient feel weak and
nauseated, and when he finally takes the medicine on a starved stomach,
he may throw it up. A far better way, from
our experience, is to advise the patient to eat, for a day or so, foods
the tapeworm dislikes, such as onions, garlic,
pickles, and salted fish. This weakens the worm and tends to loosen its
grip, so that when the medicine is taken, the
tapeworm can be expelled more easily.
|
Herbs
That Free Contrained Liver Qi
Bai Ji Li / Tribulus seed
Bai Shao Yao / White Peony root
Bo He / Chinese Mint
Chai Hu / Bupleurum root
Chuan Lian Zi / Melia fruit
Fang Feng / Siler root (? According to Guohui Liu)
Fu Shou (Fo Shou) / Finger Citron fruit
He Huan Hua / Albizzia flower
Ju Hua / Chrysanthemum flower
Mei Gui Hua / Red Rose bud |
Mai Ya / Barley sprout
Qing Pi / Immature Tangerine peel
Wu Zhu Yu / Evodia fruit
Xian He Cao / Agrimony herb
Xiang Fu / Cyperus rhizome
Xuan Fu Hua / Inula flower
Yin Chen Hao / Artemisia capillaris herb
Yu Jin / Curcuma tuber
Ze Lan / Lycopus herb |
Herbs
That Calm and Secure
The Fetus to Prevent Miscarriage
Ai Ye / Artemisia leaf
Bai Zhu / White Atractylodes root
Du Zhong / Eucommia bark
E Jiao / Donkey Hide Gelatin
Huang Qin / Scutellaria baicalensis root
Huang Qi / Astragalus root
Lian Fang / Lotus receptacle |
Sang Ji Sheng / Mistletoe
(from Mulberry tree)
Sha Ren / Amomum villosum/xanthioides seed
Tu Si Zi / Cuscuta seed
Xu Duan / Dipsacus root
Zhu Ma Gen / Boehmeria root
Zi Su Ye & Geng / Perilla leaf and stem |
Herbs
That Nourish or
Support Jing
(Excluding
astringents which merely restrain
the escape of Jing)
Bu Gu Zhi / Psoralea seed
Che Qian Zi / Plantago seed
Ge Jie / Gecko
Gou Qi Zi / Lycium fruit
He Shou Wu / Polygonum multiflorum root
Hei Zhi Ma / Black Sesame seed
Huang Jing / Polygonatum sibiricum root
Ji Nei Jin / Chicken Gizzard lining
Jiu Zi (Jiu Cai Zi) / Allium seed
Lu Rong & Lu Jiao / Deer Antler |
Lu Jiao Jiao / Deer
Antler Gelatin
Rou Cong Rong /
Cistanche stem
Sha Yuan Ji Li /
Astragalus seed
Shan Zhu Yu /
Cornus fruit
Shu Di Huang / Prepared
Rehmannia root
Suo Yang /
Cynomorium stem
Tu Si Zi / Cuscuta seed
Yi Zhi Ren / Alpinia
oxyphylla seed
Yuan Zhi / Polygala root
Zi He Che / Placenta |
Herbs
That Generate Body Fluids And Moisten The Lungs
(Excluding Yin Tonics)
Ge Gen / Pueraria root
Sheng Di
Huang / Raw Rehmannia root
Lu Gen / Phragmites
rhizome
Tian Hua Fen /
Trichosanthes root
Ren Shen / Ginseng root
Dang Shen / Codonopsis
root
Tai Zi Shen /
Pseudostellaria root
Wu Wei Zi / Schizandra
fruit
Wu Mei / Mume fruit
Sang Ye (Zhi) /
Honey-fried Morus leaf |
Gua Lou / Trichosanthes
fruit
Chuan Bei Mu /
Fritillaria bulb
Bai Bu / Stemona root
Kuan Dong Hua /
Tussilago flower
Zhi Mu / Anemarrhena
root
Gan Cao / Licorice root
Yi Tang / Maltose
Feng Mi / Honey
E Jiao / Donkey hide
Gelatin
Xing Ren / Apricot
kernel |
Herbs
With An Affinity For The Sinews,
That Relax Spasms,
Tightness or Obstruction
(General categories to
consider include herbs that promote blood circulation,
herbs that release the
exterior, Qi, Blood, Yin, and Yang tonics,
herbs that dispel wind-dampness, and
herbs that extinguish liver
wind, depending on the etiology.)
Ba ji
tian / Morinda root
Bai fu zi / Typhonium rhizome
Bai hua she / Agkistrodon/Bungarus snake
Bai shao yao / White Peony root
Bei xie / Tokoro rhizome
Cang er cao / Plantago herb
Chan tui / Cicada molt
Chuan shan jia / Pangolin scale
Ci wu jia / Eleutherococcus root
Dang gui / Angelica sinensis root
Di long / Earthworm
Fang feng / Siler root
Feng mi / Honey
Fu shen xin / Poria heart
Gan cao / Licorice root
Ge gen / Peuraria root
Gou ji / Cibotium rhizome
Gou teng / Uncaria vine
Gu sui bu / Drynaria rhizome
Gui ban / Turtle shell |
Gui
zhi / Cinnamon twig
Hai feng teng / Kadsura stem
Hai tong pi / Erythrina bark
Jiang can / Silkworm
Ling yang jiao / Antelope horn
Long dan cao / Gentian root
Luo shi teng / Trachelospermum vine
Ma huang / Ephedra stem
Ma qian zi / Nux Vomica seed
Mu gua / Chaenomelis fruit
Niu huang / Cow/Buffalo Gallstone/bezoar
Niu xi / Achyranthes root
Qian nian jian / Homalomena rhizome
Qin jiao / Gentiana macrophylla root
Quan xie / Scorpion
Ru xiang / Frankincense
Sang ji sheng / Mistletoe on Mulberry
Sang zhi / Mulberry twig
Shen jin cao / Lycopodium
Sheng jiang / Ginger (raw)
Shi chang pu / Acorus rhizome |
Si
gua lou / Luffa skeleton
Suo yang / Cynomorium stem
Tian ma / Gastrodia rhizome
Tian men dong / Asparagus root
Tian zhu huang / Bamboo siliceous secretions
Tu fu ling / Smilax rhizome
Wu ling zhi / Flying Squirrel feces
Wu gong / Centipede
Wu jia pi / Eleutherococcus grac. root bark
Xi xian cao / Seigesbeckia
Xian mao / Curculigo rhizome
Xu duan / Dipsacus root
Yi mu cao / Leonurus
Yi tang / Maltose
Yi yi ren / Coix seed
Yin yang huo / Epimedium leaf
Yu zhu / Polygonatum root
Zhu li / Bamboo sap
Zi cao / Arnebia/Lithospermum root
Zi ran tong / Pyrite |
Herbs
That Benefit The Eyes
Herbs to consider for eye disorders as appropriate for the
presenting pattern(s).
These herbs have an affinity
for the eyes, relieving eye discomfort and/or improving vision, predominantly
by
A) Removing obstruction /
clearing heat / wind-heat / fire and/or B)
nourishing Yin or blood.
Bai ji li
/ Tribulus seed
Bai shao yao
/ White Peony Root
Bai tou weng
/ Pulsatilla
Ban xia
/ Pinellia root
Bing pian
/ Borneol
Bo he
/ Chinese Mint
Cang zhu
/ Red Atractylodes root
Chan tui
/ Cicada molt
Che qian zi
/ Plantago seed
Chi shao
/ Red Peony root
Chong wei zi
/ Leonurus seed
Ci shi
/ Magnetite
Da huang
/ Rhubarb root/rhizome
Dai zhe shi
/ Hematite
Dang gui
/ Angelica sinensis root
Fu pen zi
/ Raspberry
Gan cao
/ Licorice root
Gou teng
/ Uncaria vine
Gou qi zi
/ Lycium berry
Han lian cao
(Mo Han Lian) / Eclipta
He shou wu
/ Polygonum multiflorum root
He zi
/ Terminalia fruit
Huai hua
/ Sophora flower
|
Huang lian / Coptis root
Huang qin
/ Scutellaria root
Jiang can
/ Silkworm
Jin qian cao
/ Lysimachia (and other herbs)
Jin yin hua
/ Honeysuckle bud
Ju hua
/ Chrysanthemum
Jue ming zi
/ Cassia seed
Ling yang jiao
/ Antelope horn
Long dan cao
/ Gentian root
Long gu
/ Dragon Bone
Man jing zi
/ Vitex seed
Mang xiao
/ Mirabilite
Mi meng hua
/ Buddleia flower
Ming fan
/ Alum
Mu dan pi
/ Moutan Peony root bark
Mu zei
/ Equisetum
Niu xi
/ Achyranthes root
Nu zhen zi
/ Ligustrum seed
Pang da hai
/ Sterculia seed
Pu gong ying
/ Taraxacum (Dandelion)
Qin pi
/ Fraxinus
Qing xiang zi
/ Celosia seed
Quan xie
/ Scorpion
|
Sang ye / Morus leaf
Sang shen
/ Mulberry
Sha yuan ji li
/ Astragalus seed
Sheng di
/ Rehmannia root (raw)
Shi chang pu
/ Acorus rhizome
Shi hu /
Dendrobium (Ephemerantha)
Shi jue ming
/ Abalone shell (Halyotis)
Shu di
/ Rehmannia root (prepared)
Shui zhi
/ Leech
Tan xiang
/ Sandalwood
Tu si zi
/ Cuscuta seed
Wu wei zi
/ Schizandra fruit
Xia ku cao
/ Prunella flower
Xuan shen
/ Scrophularia root
Ye ju hua
/ Wild Chrysanthemum flower
Ye ming sha
/ Bat feces
Yi yi ren
/ Coix seed
Zhang nao
/ Camphor
Zhen zhu mu
/ Mother of Pearl
Zhen zhu
/ Pearl
Zhi zi / Gardenia fruit
Zi cao
/ Arnebia/Lithospermum root
Zi hua di ding / Viola
|
Herbs That Enter The Eight
Extraordinary Vessels
Part 1:
Herbs
Ascribed to the
Extraordinary Vessels by Eric Brand. From Eric Brand's
Blog.
Posted September 16th, 2010.
Accessed October 1, 2010.
The source material for this blog
comes from
the Qing dynasty text "De Pei Ben Cao",
found in Chinese @
http://www.zysj.com.cn/lilunshuji/depeibencao/689-16-0.html#m0-0
•
Bai
shao: Governs yang wei
(yang linking vessel)
[aversion to] cold and heat [effusion] and dai mai
(girdling vessel) abdominal pain
•
Lu
hui: Governs disease in
the chong mai (thoroughfare
vessel), counterflow qi and abdominal urgency
•
Ba
ji tian: Enters the chong
mai (thoroughfare vessel)
•
Bing
lang: Governs chong mai
(thoroughfare vessel)
counterflow qi and abdominal urgency
•
Wu
zhu yu: Governs chong mai
(thoroughfare vessel)
counterflow qi and abdominal urgency
•
Dang
gui: Governs chong mai
(thoroughfare vessel)
disease with counterflow qi and abdominal urgency; dai
mai (girdling vessel) disease with abdominal fullness;
broad lumbus as if sitting in water
• Huang
bai: Governs chong mai
(thoroughfare vessel)
counterflow qi
•
Bai
zhu: Governs chong mai
(thoroughfare vessel)
disease, counterflow qi and abdominal urgency, umbilical
and abdominal disease
•
Xiang
fu: Enters the chong
mai (thoroughfare vessel)
•
Chuan
xiong: Moves in the
chong mai (thoroughfare
vessel)
•
Huang
qin: Moves in the
chong mai (thoroughfare vessel)
•
Bie
jia: Moves in the chong
mai (thoroughfare vessel)
•
Mu
xiang: Governs chong mai
(thoroughfare vessel)
disease, counterflow qi and abdominal urgency
•
Gou
qi zi: Supplements
essence-blood of the chong mai
(thoroughfare vessel) and du mai (governing vessel)
•
Huang
qi: Governs yang wei
(yang linking vessel)
disease with [aversion to] cold and heat [effusion], and
du mai (governing vessel) disease with counterflow qi
and abdominal urgency
•
Cang
er zi: Moves in the du
mai (governing vessel)
• Xi
xin: Governs du mai
(governing vessel) disease,
stiffness of the spine and reversal
•
Fu
zi: Governs du mai
(governing vessel) disease,
stiffness of the spine and reversal
•
Goat
(or sheep) spine: Frees
the du mai (governing
vessel)
•
Bai
guo: Frees the du mai
(governing vessel)
•
Lu
jiao shuang: Frees qi
abiding in the du mai (governing
vessel)
•
Lu
rong: Frees the essence
chamber of the du mai
(governing vessel)
•
Lu
jiao jiao: Warms the
blood of the du mai (governing
vessel)
•
Gui
ban: Frees the ren mai
(controlling vessel)
•
Gao
ben: Governs du mai
(governing vessel) stiffness of
the spine and reversal
•
Gui
zhi: Moves in the yang
wei (yang linking vessel)
•
Fang
ji (Stephania): Enters
the yang qiao mai (yang
springing vessel)
•
Rou
gui: Frees the yang qiao
mai (yang springing vessel)
and du mai (governing vessel)
•
Chuan
shan jia: Enters the
yang qiao mai (yang springing
vessel) and yin qiao mai (yin springing vessel)
•
Xu
duan: Governs dai mai
(girdling vessel) disease
• Ai
ye: Governs dai mai
(girdling vessel) disease with
abdominal fullness, and broad lumbus as if sitting in
water
•
Long
gu: Treats dai mai
(girdling vessel) disease
•
Wang
bu liu xing: Frees the
chong mai (thoroughfare
vessel) and ren mai (controlling vessel)
•
Ze
lan: Regulates disease
damaging the eight
[extraordinary] vessels
•
Sheng
ma: Relaxes retraction
and tension in the dai mai
(girdling vessel)
•
Gan
cao: Harmonizes
counterflow of the chong mai
(thoroughfare vessel), and relaxes tension in the dai mai
(girdling vessel)
•
Dan
shen: Boosts the chong
mai (thoroughfare vessel)
and ren mai (controlling vessel) |
Part 2: Translated by Dr.
Tian De Yang, From Acupuncture.com
Liver,
Kidney and
All 8
Extras
Gou Qi Zi
Sha Ren Zi
Du Zhong
Niu Xi
Xu Duan
Sheng Di Huang
Hei Zhi Ma
Sang Shen
Tu Si Zi
Shan Zhu Yu
Nu Zhen Zi
Hao Ren Zao
Suo Yang
Fu Pen Zi
Ling Ci Shi
Long Gu
Yang
Wei Mai
Gui Zhi
Bai Shao
Huang Qi
Yin
Wei Mai
Gui Zhi
Bai Shao
Huang Qi
Dang Gui
Chuan Xiong
Ren/Du
Lu Rong
Gui Ban
Bie Jia
E Jiao
Zi He Che
Du
Mai
Lu Rong, Lu Jiao
Yang Gou (sheep
vertebra)
Lou Shen Cao (deer teeth
herb)
Fu Zi
Rou Gui
Cang Er Zi
Gao Ben
Gou Qi Zi
Huang Qi
Chong/Ren
Mai
Gui Ban
Wang Bu Liu Xing
Bie Jia
Ba Ji Tian
Xiang Fu
Chuan Xiong
Mu Xiang
Dang Gui
Cang Zhu
Bai Zhu
Wu Zhu Yu
Gou Qi Zi
Dang Shen
Regulate
and
Strengthen
Chong
Mai Qi and
Blood
Chuan Lian Zi
Xiang Fu
Yi Mu Cao
Jiang Xiang
Stomach
and Chong
Mai
Dang Gui
Dan Shen
Chuan Xiong
Cang Zhu
Wu Zhu Yu
Ban Xia
Hou Po
Dai
Mai
Wu Wei Zi
Qian Shi
Lian Zi
Jing Ying Zi
Dang Gui
Bai Shao
Xu Duan
Ai Ye
Sheng Ma
Wu Wei Zi
Yin/Yang
Qiao Mai
Rou Gui
Fang Ji
Chuan Shan Jia
Hu Gu
Part 3: Herbs that Enter the
Chong and Ren
From
The Chong and Ren Channels in Gynecology, Selected
Writings from Zhu Xiao Nan's Gynecological Experience,
People's Medical Publication House, Beijing, 2005, Pages 165 "“ 172
Translation
by: Diana Hester, Laura Camus, Ryan Kirkby
Herbs that Enter the Chong
Mai
Tonify Qi of the
Chong Mai
Wu Zhu Yu
Ba Ji
Tian
Gou Qi Zi
Gan Cao
Lu Xian
Lu Rong
Zi He Che
Rou Cong
Rong
Zi Shi
Ying
Du Zhong
Tonify Blood of
Chong Mai
Dang Gui
Bie Jia
Dan Shen
Chuan
Xiong
Descend
Counterflow of Chong Mai
Mu Xiang
Bing Lang
Consolidate Chong
Mai
Shan Yao
Lian Zi
Herbs
that Enter Ren Mai
Tonify Qi of Ren
Mai
Lu Rong
Fu Pen Zi
Zi He Che
Tonify Blood of
Ren Mai
Gui Jia
Dan Shen
Consolidate Ren
Mai
Bai Guo
Herbs that Enter the
Extraordinary Vessels, Part 4
The following is excerpted
from Ye Tian-shi's Medicinals
Entering the Extraordinary Vessels
by By Bob Flaws, Dipl. Ac.
& C.H., FNAAOM Retrieved from:
http://bluepoppy.com/cfwebstore/index.cfm?fuseaction=feature.display&feature_ID=91&ParentCat=182
Governing
vessel (Du mai)
The governing vessel is the
sea of yang and mainly treats diseases located in the shao yin. Ye's
choice of medicinals
entering the governing vessel were Cornu Parvuum Cervi (Lu Rong),
Gelatinum Cornu Cervi (Lu Jiao Jiao), and Cornu
Degelatinum Cervi (Lu Jiao Shuang). According to Ye, Lu Rong
strengthens governing vessel yang, Lu Jiao Jiao
supplements kidney vessel blood, and Lu Jiao Shuang frees the flow of
governing vessel qi. Because the governing
vessel and the foot tai yang are mutually connected, these can be
combined with Radix Lateralis Praeparatus Aconiti
Carmichaeli (Fu Zi), Cortex Cinnamomi Cassiae (Rou Gui), dry Rhizoma
Zingiberis (Gan Jiang), Fructus Zanthoxyli
Bungeani (Chuan Jiao), Ramulus Cinnamomi Cassiae (Gui Zhi), Herba Asari
Cum Radice (Xi Xin), and Radix Et
Rhizoma Ligustici Chinensis (Gao Ben).
Conception
vessel (Ren mai)
The conception vessel is the
sea of yin and mainly treats disease located in the jue yin. Ye's
choice of medicinals
entering the conception vessel were Gelatinum Corii Asini (E Jiao),
Carapax Amydae Sinensis (Bei Jia), Placenta
Hominis (Zi He Che), Flouritum (Zi Shi Ying), Folium Artemisiae Argyii
(Ai Ye), Radix Salviae Miltiorrhizae (Dan
Shen), and Fructus Rubi Chingii (Fu Pen Zi). Because the conception
vessel and the liver and kidneys are mutually
connected, these can be combined with Rhizoma Anemarrhenae Aspheloidis
(Zhi Mu), Cortex Phellodendri (Huang
Bai), Radix Scrophulariae Ningpoensis (Xuan Shen), and uncooked Radix
Rehmanniae (Sheng Di) to downbear kidney
fire.
Penetrating
vessel (Chong
mai)
The penetrating vessel is
the sea of blood and mainly treats the jue yin and yang ming. Ye's
choice of medicinal
entering the penetrating vessel was mainly Flouritum (Zi Shi Ying).
Other medicinals which can be added are cooked
Radix Rehmanniae (Shu Di), Fructus Lycii Chinensis (Gou Qi Zi), Semen
Astragali Complanati (Sha Yuan Zi),
Placenta Hominis (Zi He Che), Fructus Schisandrae Chinensis (Wu Wei
Zi), Haemitium (Dai Zhe Shi), Semen
Juglandis Regiae (Hu Tao Ren), Radix Angelicae Sinensis (Dang Gui),
Carapax Amydae Sinensis (Bei Jia), Herba
Cistanchis Deserticolae (Rou Cong Rong), Cortex Eucommiae Ulmoidis (Du
Zhong), Radix Dioscoreae Oppositae
(Shan Yao), and Radix Morindae Officinalis (Ba Ji Tian). Because the
penetrating vessel and the liver and kidneys are
mutually connected, these can be combined with Fructus Meliae Toosendan
(Chuan Lian Zi), Lignum Dalbergiae
Odoriferae (Jiang Xiang), Fructus Evodiae Rutecarpae (Wu Zhu Yu),
Fructus Foeniculi Vulgaris (Xiao Hui Xiang),
Sclerotium Poriae Cocos (Fu Ling), Semen Biotae Orientalis (Bai Zi
Ren), Rhizoma Cyperi Rotundi (Xiang Fu), and
Cortex Phellodendri (Huang Bai)
Girdling
vessel (Dai mai)
Ye's choice of medicinals
entering the girdling vessel were Radix Angelicae Sinensis (Dang Gui),
Flouritum (Zi Shi
Ying), Semen Astragali Complanati (Sha Yuan Zi), Os Sepiae Seu
Sepiellae (Wu Zei Gu), Radix Albus Paeoniae
Lactiflorae (Bai Shao), cooked Radix Rehmanniae (Shu Di), and Fructus
Lycii Chinensis (Gou Qi Zi). These may be
combined with the following medicinals for the purposes of securing and
gathering: Radix Dioscoreae Oppositae (Shan
Yao), Semen Euryalis Ferocis (Qian Shi), Fructus Rosae Laevigatae (Jin
Ying Zi), Fructus Rubi Chingii (Fu Pen Zi),
Ootheca Mantidis (Sang Piao Xiao), Os Draconis (Long Gu), Concha
Ostreae (Mu Li).
Linking
vessels (Wei mai)
Yang linking vessel disease
mostly involves cold and heat. Yin linking vessel disease mostly
involves heart pain.
Treatment resides in the middle burner. For linking vessel diseases, Ye
commonly used Dang Gui Gui Zhi Tang (Dang
Gui & Cinnamon Twig Decoction) plus Cornu Degaltinum Cervi (Lu
Jiao Shuang), Semen Astragali Complanati (Sha
Yuan Zi), and Fructus Lycii Chinensis (Gou Qi Zi). He commonly combined
these with Fructus Foeniculi Vulgaris
(Xiao Hui Xiang), Semen Biotae Orientalis (Bai Zi Ren), and Sclerotium
Poriae Cocos (Fu Ling) to free the flow of the
network vessels.
Springing
vessels (Qiao
mai)
Yang springing vessel
disease mostly involves slack yin (i.e., the medial side of the body)
and tense or cramped yang
(the lateral side of the body), while yin springing vessel disease
usually involves slack yang and tense or contracted yin.
Treatment resides in the liver and kidneys. For springing vessel
diseases, Ye commonly used Radix Albus Paeoniae
Lactiflorae (Bai Shao), Fructus Corni Officinalis (Shan Zhu Yu), cooked
Radix Rehmanniae (Shu Di), Plastrum
Testudinis (Gui Ban), Fructus Tritici Aestivi (Huai Xiao Mai), Fructus
Zizyphi Jujubae (Da Zao), mix-fried Radix
Glycrrhizae (Gan Cao), Fructus Schisandrae Chinensis (Wu Wei Zi). For
yang springing vessel emptiness (kong), Ye
commonly used Plastrum Testudinis (Gui Ban), cooked Radix Rehmanniae
(Shu Di), Cortex Phellodendri (Huang Bai),
Sclerotium Poriae Cocos (Fu Ling), Fructus Corni Officinalis (Shan Zhu
Yu), Fructus Schisandrae Chinensis (Wu Wei
Zi), and Radix Polygalae Tenuifoliae (Yuan Zhi). For yin springing
vessel emptiness (kong), Ye commonly used Radix
Albus Paeoniae Lactiflorae (Bai Shao), Fructus Corni Officinalis (Shan
Zhu Yu), Hallyositum Album (Bai Shi Ying),
Fructus Tritici Aestivi (Huai Xiao Mai), Fructus Zizyphi Jujubae (Da
Zao), and mix-fried Radix Glycyrrhizae (Gan
Cao).
Herbs Important in Gu Zheng
Formulas from Heiner Fruehauf
Herbs
that
Scatter Toxins
(San
Du):
Zi Su Ye
Bai Zhi
Bo He
Gao Ben
Sheng Ma
Ju Hua
Lian Qiao
Qi
and Blood
Tonics with
Anti-Gu
Natures:
Dang Gui
Bai Shao
He Shou Wu
Huang Qi
Gan Cao
Wu Jia Pi
Herbs
that
Calm the Spirit
(An
Shen):
Huang Jing
Bai He
Sha Shen
Sheng Di
Xi Yang Shen
Fu Shen
Jiang Xiang
Xuan Shen
Herbs
that
Kill Worms or
Parasites (Sha Chong):
Yu Jin
Ku Shen
She Chuang Zi
Shi Chang Pu
Jin Yin Hua
He Zi
Lei Wan
Qing Hao
Da Suan
Bing Lang
Ku Gua
Ding Xiang
Huai Hua
Chuan Shan Jia
Herbs
that
Move the Qi and
Break Accumulation (Xing Qi
and Po Ji):
Chuan Xiong
Chai Hu
E Zhu
San Leng
Chen Pi
Ze Lan
Mu Xiang
San Qi
Fruehauf often utilizes a
formula composed of usually 2 or 3 herbs from each category for cases
where gu
is suspected.
He interprets gu
broadly to encompass a wide range of conditions including those with
obvious parasitic causes, and
other difficult, multi-system cases such as those in which diagnoses
such as Epstein-Barr, systemic candida, chronic
fatigue, fibromyalgia, leaky gut syndrome, and Lyme disease are
offered. Fruehauf's methodology is outlined in his
article, "Driving Out Demons and Snakes: Gu Syndrome, A
Forgotten Clinical Approach to Chronic Parasitism."
Fruehauf recommends changing the formula every one to six weeks,
similar to the concept of food rotation for patients
with sensitivities, and also so that the parasites don't
become acclimated to the formula.
Herbs that Soften Hardness
and/or Resolve Masses, Lumps, or Nodules
(While blood movers and
phlegm-resolving herbs in general are thought to have this action,
the following herbs are
among those which sources have specifically
indicated for masses, lumps, nodules.
Also see the following
category.)
Ba yue zha (see Mu tong)
Bai jie zi
Bai fu zi
Ban xia
Bei Mu
Bie jia
Bing pian
Chi shao
Chuan shan jia
Chuan niu xi
Da huang
Da ji
Dan shen
E zhu
Fu hai shi
Fu zi
Gan sui
Gui zhi
Gui ban
Hai zao
He shou wu
Hong hua
Hu po
Huang yao zi
Ji nei jin
Jiang can
Kun bu
Lian qiao
Luo han guo
Ma huang
Mang xiao
Meng chong
Mo yao
Mu li
Mu dan pi
Pu gong ying
Qing pi
Quan xie
San leng
Shan zha
Shang lu
She xiang
Shui zhi
Tao ren
Tu bie chong
Wa leng zi
Wu gong
Wu me
Xia ku cao
Xuan shen
Yi mu cao
Yu jin
Zao jiao
Ze lan
Zi hua di ding
Herbs With Specific
Reference to Treatment of Tumors, Including Cancer
(Also see the previous
category. Cancer treatment, as with all treatment, should follow the
diagnosis. While these
herbs may be of some benefit in eliminating
cancer, tonic herbs or herbs
which otherwise address
the rest of the picture, may
be at least as useful.)
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Mu zei
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Niu bang zi
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Long dan cao
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Bai hua she she cao
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Ban bian lian
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Ban zhi lian
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Shan dou gen
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Tu fu ling
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Yi yi ren
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Gua lou pi
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Ze qi
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Lu hui
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Hua jiao
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Gao liang jiang
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E zhu
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Jiang huang
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Ling zhi
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Gan cao
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Bu gu zhi
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Hu lu ba
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Sang ji sheng
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Shi liu gen pi
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Bai mao gen
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Lian fang
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Qian cao gen
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Xian he cao
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Da suan
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Dan dou chi
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Pu gong ying
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Tu fu ling
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Yin chai hu
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Ci wu jia
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Ba yue zha
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Yi yi ren
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Dan nan xing
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Hai zao
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Huang yao zi
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Lu hui
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Bi ba
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Wu ling zhi
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Quan xie
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Wu gong
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Dang gui
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Da zao
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Nu zhen zi
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He zi
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San qi
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Lu feng fang
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Ma qian zi
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Though not to
be taken as
law, The Eighteen
Incompatibilities
Eighteen
Incompatibilities:
• Gan cao
is incompatible with Gan
sui, Da ji, Yuan hua, Hai zao
• Wu
tou/Fu zi
is incompatible with Bei
mu, Gua lou, Ban xia, Bai lian, Bai ji
• Li
lu
is incompatible with Xi
xin, Bai shao, and ALL shen herbs (Ren shen, Dan shen, Ku shen, Xuan
shen, Tai zi
shen, Dang shen, Sha shen, Sang shen, Xi Yang Shen.
. .)
Four
of the most common
Nineteen Antagonisms
(the ones a Westerner is likely to
encounter)
• Ding
xiang
antagonizes Yu
jin
• Wu
tou
antagonizes Xi
jiao
• Ren
shen
antagonizes Wu
ling zhi
• Rou
gui
antagonizes Chi
shi zhi
Channel
Guiding Herbs
(from
Dui
Yao
by Philippe Sionneau)
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Lung
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Jie
geng, Sheng ma, Cong bai, Bai zhi
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Bladder
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Ge
gen, Qiang huo
Liu:
Gao ben
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Large
Intestine
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Da
huang, Bai zhi, Sheng ma, Shi gao
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Kidney
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Du
huo, Rou gui, Zhi mu, Xi xin
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Stomach
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Bai
zhi, Sheng ma, Shi gao, Ge gen
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Pericardium
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Chai
hu, Mu dan pi
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Spleen
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Bai
zhu, Ge gen, Cang zhu, Sheng ma,
Bai shao
Li:
also Gan/Sheng jiang, Da zao, Gan
cao
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San Jiao
|
Upper Jiao:
Zhi zi, Gui zhi, Wan qian, Di
gu pi
Middle
Jiao: Qing
pi
Lower
Jiao:
Fu zi Li:
Chen xiang, Niu xi
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Heart
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Huang
lian, Xi xin
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Gallbladder
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Chai
hu, Qing pi
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Small
Intestine
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Mu
tong, Deng xin cao, Gao ben, Huang
bai
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Liver
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Wu
zhu yu, Chai hu, Chuan xiong, Qing pi
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Herbs That Guide To
Particular Regions of the Body
Exterior/Skin - Ma huang
Extremities - Sang zhi, Gui
zhi, Chuan wu
Upper body - Chai hu
Lower body - Niu xi
Head - Feng feng, Tian ma,
Chuan xiong
Vertex of Head - Gao ben
Back of Head - Qiang huo
Sinuses - Cang er zi, Xin yi
hua
Forehead - Bai zhi
Temples - Man jing zi
Throat - Jie geng, Niu bang
zi, Chan tui
Neck & Shoulders -
Qiang huo, Gou teng, Ge gen
Shoulders - Jiang huang
(also upper extremity)
Right Shoulder (Chronic) -
Huang qi
Left Shoulder (Chronic) -
Dang gui
Chest - Chai hu, Xiang fu,
Yu jin, Gua lou pi
Upper Back - Chuan xiong, Ma
huang (indirectly, use chest
herbs)
Spine - Gou ji
Flanks - Chuan lian zi
Lower Back - Du zhong, Du huo
Lower Abdomen - Wu yao,
Chuan lian zi
Urethra - Gan cao shao (tips)
Testes - Li zhi he
Legs - Niu xi, Mu gua
Knees - Niu xi, Gu sui bu,
Xu duan
Heels - Bu gu zhi
Channels, Network Vessels,
Muscles and Sinews: Di long,
Chuang shan jia, Luo shi teng
Also from Dui Yao:
Combining Natures and Flavors (with famous examples):
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acrid + sweet = drain
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ma huang + zhi gan cao
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acrid + sweet = supplement
and engender Yang
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gui zhi+yi tang
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acrid + sweet + warm =
upbear Yang
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huang qi+sheng ma
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acrid + sweet + warm =
arouse Sp and transform phlegm
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gan jiang+fu ling
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acrid + bland + warm =
stimulate BL's Qi mechanism and disinhibit
pee
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gui zhi+fu ling
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acrid + astringent = drain
and secure simultaneously
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xi xin+wu wei zi
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acrid + warm = dispel W-C
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gui zhi+ma huang
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acrid + cool = clear heat
and dispel W-H
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dan dou chi+bo he
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acrid + cold = clear heat
and drain fire
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shi gao+zhu ye
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acrid + hot = warm center
and return Yang
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gan jiang+fu zi
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acrid + hot = warm Yang,
dissipate cold, eliminate obstruction, stop
pain
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gui zhi+fu zi
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bitter + acrid = move, open,
descend
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zi su ye+huang lian
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bitter + cold = clear H,
drain fire, resolve toxins
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huang qin+huang lian
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bitter + cold = dry damp and
clear heat
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cang zhu+huang bai
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bitter + cold = drain fire
and harden Yin
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huang bai+zhi mu
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bitter + salty + cold =
soften, emolliate, precipitate heat accumulation
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da huang+mang xiao
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bitter + salty = drain fire
and soften hardness
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xia ku cao+mu li
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bitter + warm = dry cold-damp
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cang zhu+hou po
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bitter + hot = precipitate
cold accumulations
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da huang+fu zi
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sweet + bland = drain damp,
free pee
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fu ling+yi yi ren
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sweet + warm = supplement
the center, boost Qi
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dang shen+huang qi
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sweet + warm = abate heat
due to Qi xu
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huang qi+ren shen
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sweet + cold = nourish Yin,
moisten dryness, clear heat
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mai men dong+tian men dong
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sour + sweet = engender Yin
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bai shao+zhi gan cao
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sour + sweet = relieve
spasms and contractions
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bai shao+zhi gan cao
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salty + cold = calm Lv and
subdue Yang
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mu li+shi jue ming
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Zi hua di ding
Appendix II: Herbs that
Promote Lactation
Some herbs in this category
promote milk production while others unblock lactation or promote flow
of milk. See information on each herb for specifics.
Dong
Kui Zi
Chuan Shan Jia
Si Gua Lou
Lou Lu
Bai Ji Li
Lu Lu Tong
Wang Bu Liu Xing (best dry
fried and crushed)
E Guan Shi
Zi He Che
Ai Ye
Nan Gua Zi (must be eaten,
doesn't work in tea)
Ju Hua (accoring to The Yoga
of Herbs)
Vitex agnus-castus (Western
Species)
Pu Gong Ying
Mu Tong
Tong Cao
Hu Lu Ba
Mai Ya (small dose; large
dose can inhibit lactation)
Xiao Hui Xiang
Jie Geng
Foods: Celery, almond milk,
beer, pig feet / pork
Zhenbo Li of Oregon College
of Oriental Medicine
on Herbs for Cancer
SPECIFIC HERBS RELEVANT TO
CANCER:
Herbs
That Build Qi
Ren shen
Xi yang
shen
Dang
shen
Huang
qi
Fu ling
Huang
jing
Bai Zhu
Yi Yi
Ren
Shan yao
Shan
Zhu Yu
Herbs
That Build Blood
Shu di
Dang gui
Ji xue
teng
Bao shao
Gou qi
zi
E jiao
Dan shen
Da zao
Zhi he
shou wu
Long
yan rou
Herbs
That Nourish Yin and Blood
Shu di
huang
Dang
gui
Bao shao
Nu zhen
zi
Zhe he
shou wu
Long
yan rou
Da zao
Jie xue
teng
Zi he
che
Gou qi
zi
Gui ban
jiao
Herbs
That Nourish Yin and Body
Fluids
Sha shen
Tian
men dong
Mai men
dong
Tian
hua fen
Shi hu
Yu zhu
Sheng
di huang
Xuan
shen
Gou qi
zi
Bie jia
Wu mei
Wu wei
zi
Herbs
That Warm the Kidneys and
Strengthening Yang
Fu zi
Rou gui
Yin
yang huo
Xian mao
Ba ji
tian
Bu gu
zhi
Rou
cong rong
Du
zhong
Xu duan
Herbs
That Strengthen the Spleen
and Harmonize the Stomach
Dang
shen
Ren shen
Tai zi
shen
Huang qi
Bai zhu
Shan yao
Bai
bian dou
Fu ling
Yi yi
ren
Chen pi
Da zao
Zhi gan
cao
Herbs
That Strengthen the Spleen
and Kidneys
Ren
shen
Dang
shen
Bai zhu
Fu ling
Huang
jing
Shan yao
Gan cao
Rou gui
Rou
cong rong
Yin
yang huo
Tu si zi
Bu gu
zhi
Ba ji
tian
Gou qi
zi
Nu zhen
zi
He shou
wu
Shu di
huang
Huang
jing
Zi he
che
Shan
zhu yu
Sheng
di huang
Herbs
That Dredge the Liver and
Regulate Qi
Chen pi
Ju ye
Zhi ke
Fo shou
Chuan
lian zi
Xiang
fu
Xiang
yuan
Qing pi
Zhi shi
Mu
xiang
Yan hu
suo
Da fu pi
Yu jin
Ba yue
zha
Da hui
xiang
Chen
xiang
Hou po
Ding
xiang
Bai dou
kou
*Mei gui
hua
Herbs
That Eliminate Phlegm and
Dampness
Ma dou
ling
Tian
nan xing
*Huang
yao zi:
bitter, acrid, cold,
slightly toxic, enters heart and liver,
relieve toxicity, reduce swelling,
transforms phlegm, dissipate lumps
Gua Lou
Zao Jia
Ci
Zhu
Ling
Mu Gua
Mu Tong
Ze Xie
Zhu Ye
*Shi Da
Chuan: acrid, bitter, neutral;
enters
stomach &
bladder; transforms
phlegm, dissipate lumps, clears heat,
and benefits the
movement of water
*Ban
Bian Lian: acrid,
cold; enters
heart, small intestine, and lungs;
clears
heat, relieves toxicity, drains
water and relieves swelling
*Ze Qi:
acrid, slightly
cold,
mild
toxic; enters the lungs, large intestine
and small intestine; drains water,
relieves edema, transforms phlegm,
and dissipates lumps
Ban xia
Bai jie
zi
Dan nan
xing
*Shan ci
gu: sweet, slightly
acrid,
cold, mildly toxic; enters
lungs and
spleen;
softens hardness, dissipates
lumps,
transforms
phlegm, and
relieves
toxicity
Zhe bei
mu
Qian hu
Xing ren
Cang zhu
Fu ling
Huo
xiang
Pei lan
Yi yi
ren
Che
qian zi
Jin
qian cao
Bi xie
Tong
cao
Zhu
ling
Mu gua
Du huo
Herbs
That Invigorate Blood and
Transform Blood Stasis
*Shi
Jian Chuan: bitter, acrid, neutral;
enters liver and stomach; descends
qi,
clears
heat, relieves toxicity,
dissipates lumps, invigorates
blood
and eliminates
blood stasis,
alleviates
pain, and stops vaginal discharge
*Ma bian
cao: bitter, cold; enters liver
and spleen; clears heat, relieves
toxicity, drains water, disperses
swelling, invigorates blood,
eliminates blood stasis, and kills
parasites
Hu zhang
*Zhong
jie feng: bitter, slightly warm,
acrid; enters liver and large intestine;
clears
heat, relieves toxicity, expels
wind, eliminates dampness,
invigorates blood, and alleviates pain
*Xi shu:
bitter, cold, toxic; enters
stomach and
liver; clears heat, breaks
up blood, kills parasites and has
anticancer
properties
*Shui
hong hua zi: salty, slightly cold;
enters liver and stomach; breaks up
blood, promotes urination,
strengthens spleen and dissipates
lumps
Liu ji
nu
Tu bie
cong
Shui zhi
Meng
chong
Wei
ling xian
Chi
shao yao
Dan shen
E zhu
Ban mao
Wu gong
Dang
gui
Chuan
xiong
Yi mu
cao
Yue ji
hua
Ling
xiao hua
Tao ren
Hong hua
Ji xue
teng
San qi
Xue jie
Ru
xiang
Mo yao
San
leng
Pu huang
Wu ling
zhi
Niu xi
Zao
jiao ci
*Gui
jian yu: bitter, cold; enters liver;
breaks up blood stasis,
expels wind,
and kills parasites
Chuan
shan jia
*Ji
xing zi: slight bitter,acrid, warm,
slightly toxic; enters lungs, liver and
kidneys; invigorates blood, eliminates
blood stasis, softens hardness, and
dissipates lumps
Herbs
That Soften Hardness and
Dissipate Lumps
*Shan ci
gu: sweet, slightly acrid,
cold, mild toxic; enters lungs and
spleen; softens hardness, dissipates
lumps, transforms phlegm and
relieves toxicity
*Mao
zhao cao: bitter,
cold;
enters
liver
and spleen; relieves
toxicity,
disperse swelling, softens hardness,
and
dissipates
lumps
Kun bu
Hai zao
Fu hai
shi
Hai ge
ke
Mu li
Xia ku
cao
Shi
jian chuan
E zhu
Gua lou
Tu bie
chong
Bai
jiang can
Herbs
That Clear Heat and
Eliminate Toxicity
*Bai
hua she she cao
*Teng li
gen: sweet, acrid, cold;
enters stomach and kidneys; relieves
heat, stops
thirst, and frees lin
syndrome
Jin yin
hua
Ye ju
hua
Lian
qiao
*Ban
bian lian
*Ban zhi
lian
*Chong
lou:
bitter, slightly cold, mild
toxic; enters liver; clears heat, relieves
toxicity, disperses swelling, alleviates
pain, extinguishes wind, and calms
spirit
Pu gong
ying
Zi hua
di jing
Yu xing
cao
Ban lan
gen
Bai
jiang cao
Huang
qin
Huang
bai
Huang
lian
Ku shen
Shan
dou gen
Long
dan cao
*Shi
shang bai: bitter, acrid, cold;
enters liver and lungs; expels wind,
clears heat, drains dampness, and has
anticancer properties
*Tu fu
ling
Bi xie
Zhi mu
Da qing
ye
Ma chi
xian
Bai tou
weng
Ya dan
zi
Tian
hua fen
*Long
kui: bitter, cold, mild toxic;
enters liver and stomach; clears heat,
relieves toxicity; dissipates lumps,
disperses swelling, promotes
urination, and has anticancer
properties
*Ma bian
cao: bitter, cold; enters liver
and spleen; clears heat, relieves
toxicity, drain dampness, disperse
swelling, invigorates
blood,
eliminates blood
stasis, and kills
parasites
*Shan
hai luo: sweet, neutral; enters
lungs and spleen; nourishes yin,
moistens lungs, supplements
deficiency, promotes lactation, drain
pus, and relieves toxicity
*She
mei: sweet, bitter, cold, slightly
toxic; enters liver, stomach and lungs;
clears heat, relieves toxicity, and
dissipates lumps
Tu bei
mu: bitter, slightly cold; enters
lungs and spleen; clears heat, relieves
toxicity, dissipates lumps, and
disperses swelling
Wu zhao
long: bitter, acrid, cool;
enters lung; clears heat and relieves
toxicity
Basic Formula for the Side
Effects of Chemotherapy:
Huang
qi 15
Dang
shen 10g
Bai zhu
10g
Fu ling
15g
Fa ban xia
10g
Chen pi
10g
Ji nei
jin 10g
Chao
shen qu 15g
Nu zhen
zi 15g
Gou qi
zi 15g
Tu si
zi 30g
If
vomiting, omit huang qi, add huang lian, zhu ru, pi pa ye, su geng; or Xuan Fu
Dai Zhe Shi Tang
modification
To increase hematopoiesis:
add he shou wu, shu di huang, dang gui, rou chong rong, bu gu zhi, lu
jiao jiao, e jiao, gui ban jiao.
Basic
Formula
for Side Effects of Radiation:
Huang
qi 15g
Sheng
di huang 15g
Jin yin
hua 15g
Huang lian
10g
Mai
dong 10g
Shi hu
10g
Qing
ban xia 10g
Bai zhu
10g
Fu ling
15g
Zhu ru
10g
Ji nei
jin 10g
Nu zhen
zi 15g
Commonly
Used Herbs for
Raising Blood Cell Counts "“ Herbs with * Have Some Research
Validating this Effect:
*Huang qi
Dang shen
*Ren shen
Huang jing
*Shu di huang
*Dang gui
Bai shao
Long
yan rou
*E jiao
Lu jiao
jiao
Gui ban
jiao
Jie xue
teng
Gou qi
zi
Tu si zi
Zi he
che
*Nu zhen
zi
He shou
wu
Bu gu
zhi
Most
chemo
drugs cause
liver damage. As a matter of course, we should protect/repair the liver.
Liver
repairing herbs /
herbs which lower liver enzymes:
Dang gui
Dan shen
Bai shao
Huang
jing
Sheng
di huang
Huang qi
Ji nei
jin
*Wu wei
zi
Chai hu
Huang
qin
*Yin
chen hao
*Hu
zhang
*Chui
pen cao
Yu jin
Other principles of herbal
treatment to complement biomedical cancer treatment:
- Protect the kidneys
(anatomical) during chemotherapy. While Li has not seen severe kidney
damage from chemo drugs,
it is possible. Yi mu cao is an important herb for this.
-
Ji Sheng Shen Qi Wan: Jin Gui Shen Qi Wan + che qian zi + niu xi "“
good to protect/repair kidneys
- Some drugs exhibit
cardiotoxicity, damage the heart, cause EKG changes, SOB, palps,
arrhythmia
-
Zhi Gan Cao Tang is very important and commonly used formula for this
-
Sheng Mai San also commonly used
- Radiation damage:
-
If there is green/yellow sputum, Yu xing cao is ideal herb. IV extract
is used in China.
-
Also for lungs: Qian Jin Wei Jing Tang
Yao Yao- "Essential
Medicinals" by Eric Brand. From Eric Brand's Blog. Posted
September 22nd, 2010. Accessed October 1, 2010.
The Ben Cao Bei Yao
("Essential Materia Medica"), written in 1694 by
Wang Ang, has a number of items that are listed
as "yao yao." This text was an important materia
medica from the Qing dynasty and it remains the licensing exam standard
for Chinese medical doctors in Taiwan. Below is a partial list of items
that are described as yao yao (essential medicinals)
according to the Ben Cao Bei Yao (as always, my translations are based
on the terminology of the Practical Dictionary of
Chinese Medicine by Wiseman and Feng):
Dan Shen- "essential medicinal"
for gynecology
Cang Zhu- "essential medicinal"
for wilting (wei)
Niu Xi- "essential
medicinal" for strangury (lin)
Kuan Dong Hua- "essential
medicinal" for cough
Gua Lou Ren- "essential medicinal"
for cough
Fang Feng- "essential medicinal"
for dispelling wind and
overcoming dampness (i.e., wind-dampness)
Ze Lan- "essential
medicinal" for gynecology
Ai Ye- "essential
medicinal" for vaginal discharge
San Qi- "essential
medicinal" for knife and club wounds
Huang Lian- "essential medicinal"
for dysentery
Qu Mai- "essential
medicinal" for strangury (lin)
Fu Zi- "essential
medicinal" for yin patterns
Shi Jun Zi- "essential medicinal"
for childhood illnesses
She Gan-"essential
medicinal" for throat impediment and sore throat
Huang Bai- "essential medicinal"
for wilting
Ku Lian Zi- "essential medicinal"
for mounting qi (shan qi)
Tan Xiang- "essential medicinal"
for rectifying qi
Zhu Li- "essential
medicinal" for wind strike (stroke)
Medicinal Properties and
Actions
absorbent=used
to produce absorption of exudates or diseased
tissues
adaptogen=increases
overall resistance & vitality
alterative=used
to alter existing nutritive and excretory
processes and gradually restore normal body functions
anaphrodisiac=used
to lessen sexual functions and desires
anodyne=used
to relieve pain when applied externally
antacid=used
to neutralize acid in the GI tract
antibilious=used
to eliminate a biliary or jaundice condition
in the body
antigalactic=inhibits
secretion of breast milk
antihelminitic=used
to expel or destroy intestinal worms
antihydropic=used
to eliminate excess body fluids or dropsy
antilithiatic=opposes
the formation of biliary or urinary
calculi
antilithic=used
to prevent formation of calculi in excretory
passages
antiperiodic=used
to relieve malarial-type fevers & chills
antiphlogistic=used
to reduce inflammation or swelling
antipruritic=relieves
itching
antipyretic=used
to reduce temperature in fevers
antirheumatic=used
to prevent, relieve, and cure rheumatism
antiscorbutic=used
to prevent/cure scurvy
antiscrofulous=used
to heal scrofula (tubercular condition of
lymph nodes)
antiseptic=used
to prevent, resist, and counteract putrefaction
(decay of cells and formation of pus)
antispasmodic=used
to relieve nervous irritability & reduce
or prevent excessive involuntary muscular contractions
(spasms)
antisudoral=diminishes
perspiration
antitussive=inhibits
or relieves cough
antivenemous=used
to antidote animal, vegetable, and mineral
poisons
antizymotic=used
to destroy or arrest the action of bacterial
organisms
aperient
(laxative)=used
as mild evacuant to the bowels
aperitif=stimulates
appetite & gastric function
aromatic=odoriferous,
having a fragrant, pungent and spicy
taste, and stimulating the gastrointestinal mucous membrane
astringent=influencing
the vital contractility of cell walls,
condensing the tissues, making them denser and firmer,
arresting improper discharges; often having anti-diarrheal or
hemostatic properties, sometimes antisudoral
azoturic=diuretic,
eliminates urea; also is antiseptic
balsamic=used
to mitigate, soothe, and heal inflamed parts
balsamic=soothes
mucus membranes of the bronchial tubes
and respiratory tree
bechic=soothes
irritations of the pharynx
bitter=having
bitter taste and serving as stimulant tonic to
gastrointestinal mucous membranes
blister=causing
inflammatory exudation (blistering) or serum
from skin when applied locally
calefacient=used
as diffusive stimulant and causing increased
capillary circulation, giving an external sense of warmth
(cayenne)
cardiac
depressant=used
to lessen/sedate heart's action
cardiac
stimulant=used
to increase & strengthen the heart's
action
cardiotonic=reinforces,
strengthens, and regulates cardiac
function
carminative=containing
a volatile oil that excites intestinal
peristalsis and relieves and promotes the expulsion of flatus or
gas from the gastrointestinal tract
cathartic=active
purgative to the intestinal tract, exciting
peristalsis and stimulating glandular secretions, producing
semi-fluid bowel movements with some irritation and griping
caustic=burning
or destroying living tissues
cell
proliferant=promoting
rapid healing and restoration
cephalic=particularly
healing to cerebral conditions and
diseases
cholagogue=used
to promote flow and discharge of bile into
the duodenum by contracting the bile ducts, and to produce
purgation of the bowels
choleretic=stimulates
secretion & production of bile
cholinergic=activated
or transmitted by acetylcholine;
parasympathomimetic
cicatrisant=(vulnerary)
promotes healing of wounds &
resorption of contusions
cordial=combining
properties of a warm stomachic and a
cardiac stimulant
corrective=used
to alter or lessen the severity of action of
other herbs, especially cathartics or purgatives
cosmetic=used
as skin tonic, improve the complexion &
beautify the skin
counter-irritant=causes
irritation by local application in one
part & therapeutically relieves pain in a more deep-seated part
cytophylactic=protects
the cells
demulcent=having
mucilaginous properties that are soothing
and protective internally to irritated and inflamed surfaces and
tissues
dental
anodyne=used
locally to relieve pain from an exposed
nerve filament in a tooth
deobstruent=remove
alimentary and other bodily obstructions
depresso-motor=used
to diminish muscular movement by
action on the spinal centers
depurative=purifies
the blood by means of diuretic, laxative,
sudorific action or by improving liver function; often used in
cutaneous afflictions
desiccant=able
to dry surfaces by absorbing moisture
detergent=cleansing
to wounds, ulcers, etc. or the skin itself
diaphoretic=producing
insensible perspiration and increased
elimination through the skin
digestant=containing
ferments and acids that aid in the
solution and digestion of food
diluent=used
to dilute secretions and excretions
discutient=dispels
or resolves (dissolves tumors and abnormal
growths
disinfectant=used
to eliminate or destroy the noxious
properties of decaying organic matter and thereby prevent the
spreading or transfer of toxic matter or infection
diuretic=increase
the secretion and flow of urine
drastic=hyperactive
cathartic, producing violent peristalsis,
watery stools, and much griping pain
emetic=induce
vomiting and cause evacuation of stomach
contents
emmenagogue=female
corrective to reproductive organs,
promoting normal menstrual function, flow, and discharge
emollient=softening,
soothing, and protective to external
surfaces
emollient=soothes
inflamed mucus membranes, tissues, or
skin
epitheliogenic=stimulates
growth of epithelial tissue
(cicatrisant)
errhine=increasing
nasal secretions from the sinuses
eupeptic=promotes
digestion, improves peristalsis (stomachic)
exanthematous=healing
to skin eruptions/ skin diseases of an
eruptive nature
excito-motor=used
to increase motor reflex and spinal activity
expectorant=used
to promote and facilitate discharge of
mucus secretions from broncho-pulmonary passages
febrifuge=used
to reduce fever
fluidifiant=liquefies
bronchial secretions to assist
expectoration
galactagogue=used
to increase secretion of milk
galactophyga=for
diminishing or arresting the secretion of
milk
hemetic=rich
in iron & manganese which augment and enrich
the red corpuscles of the blood (blood-builder)
hemostatic=generally
astringent, arresting hemorrhaging or
internal bleeding (by vasoconstriction or delivery of clotting
factors - vit K, etc)
hepatic=used
to strengthen, tone, and stimulate the secretive
functions of the liver, causing an increased flow of bile
herpatic=healing
to skin eruptions and scaling diseases
(ringworm, etc)
hyperfolliculine=pertaining
to an excessive amount of
estrogen
hypertensive=increases
arterial tension
hypnotic=powerful
nervine relaxant & sedative, inducing
sleep
hypoglycemiant=lowers
blood sugar (antidiabetic)
hypotensive=lowers
arterial tension
irritant=producing
a greater or lesser degree of vascular
excitement when applied to the epidermis
lithotriptic=used
to dissolve or discharge urinary and biliary
concretions (gravel or stones) when formed in excretory
passages
luteotropic=stimulates
the formation of the corpus luteum,
stimulates progesterone secretion
maturating=promoting
the maturation or ripening of tumors,
boils, ulcers, etc
mucilage=having
mucilaginous properties
mycostatic=prevents
the growth or reproduction of fungi
mydriatic=causing
dilation of the pupil
myotic=causing
contraction of the ciliary muscles of the pupil
narcotic=powerful
anodyne-hypnotic
nephritic=influencing
kidneys & healing in kidney complaints
nervine=tonic
& healing to nerves
nutritive=nourishing
and building to body tissues
ophthalmic=healing
to disorders/diseases of the eyes
ophthalmic=used
for afflictions of the eyes and eyelids
oxalic=diuretic,
eliminates salts of oxalic acid (stone
formation)
oxytocic=an
agent that produces evacuation of the uterus by
stimulating myometrial contraction
parasympatholytic
(vagolytic)=inhibits activity
of the
parasympathetic nervous system
parasympathomimetic=stimulates
activity of the
parasympathetic nervous system and the vagus nerve
parturient=used
to stimulate uterine contractions, which
induce and assist labor, and promote and hasten childbirth
pectoral=healing
to complaints or affections of the broncho-pulmonary area
peristaltic=stimulating
and increasing peristalsis or muscular
contraction (as in the bowels)
phosphatic=diuretic,
eliminates salts of phosphoric acid (stone
formation)
protective=serving
as protective covering to abraded,
inflamed, or injured parts when applied locally to a surface
pungent=causing
a sharply pricking, acrid, and penetrating
sensation to the sensory organs
refrigerant=cooling
properties, lower body temperature,
relieve thirst
refrigerant=lowers
body temperature
remineralizer=brings
mineral salts and trace elements to
correct the balance of electrolytes and normalize the supply of
nutrient minerals
resolvent=promoting
dispersion of inflammatory deposits &
their absorption into excretory channels
rubefacient=upon
local application, stimulate capillary
dilation and action, causing skin redness (drawing blood from
deeper tissues and organs, and thereby relieving congestion
and inflammation)
salidiuretic=eliminates
chloride, used in cases of edema
sedative=used
to lower the functional activity of an organ or
part of the body, thereby tending to calm, moderate, or
tranquilize
sialagogue=promoting
secretion and flow of saliva & buccal
mucus
soporific=inducing a
relaxing sleep
sternutatory=irritate
mucus membranes in nasal passages,
cause sneezing
stimulant=increasing
functional activity and energy in the
body
stomachic=stimulative
tonic to the stomach
stomachic=eupeptic
styptic=used
to astringe the blood vessels when applied to an
external surface, thereby arresting local bleeding or
hemorrhaging
sudorific=stimulating
the sudoriferous glands, producing
visible perspiration (when taken hot, and acting as a tonic
when taken cold)
sympatholytic=inhibits
activity of the sympathetic nervous
system
sympathomimetic=stimulates
activity of sympathetic nervous
sys.
taeniafuge/taeniacide=expels/kills
tapeworms in intestinal
tract
tonic=stimulates
nutrition and permanently increases system
tone, energy, vigor, and strength
uricosuric=diuretic,
eliminates uric acid (pain & gout)
uterolytic=agent
that relaxes the uterine tonus
uterotonic=agent
that increases the tonus of the uterus
vagolytic=(parasympatholytic)
having an effect resembling
inhibition of activity of the vagus nerve
vasoconstrictor=contracts
blood vessels
vasodilator=dilates
blood vessels
vermifuge=antiparasitic
(worms)
vulnerary=promotes
healing of fresh cuts, wounds, etc.
Table of Contents
e
Page 334 f
Exterior Disorders
Dr Jin's Basic
Formula
Release Early-Stage
Exterior Disorders
Cong Chi Tang
Gan Mao Ling
Release Exterior
Wind-Cold
Ma Huang Tang
San Ao Tang
Gui Zhi Tang
Xiao Qing Long Tang
She Gan Ma Huang Tang
e Page 335 f
Jiu Wei Qiang Huo Tang
Jia Wei Xiang Su San
Xiang Ru San
Xin Jia Xiang Ru Yin
Release Exterior
Wind-Heat
Sang Ju Yin
Yin Qiao San
Chai Ge Jie Ji Tang
Sheng Ma Ge Gen Tang
e Page 336 f
Release Exterior
Disorders with Head and Neck Symptoms
Chuan Xiong Cha Tiao San
Cang Er Zi San
Ge Gen Tang
Release Exterior
Disorders With Interior Deficiency
Ren Shen Bai Du San
Jing Fang Bai Du San
Ma Huang Xi Xin Fu Zi Tang
Zai Zao San
e Page 337 f
Cong Bai Qi Wei Yin
Jia Jian Wei Rui Tang
Release
Interior-Exterior Excess
Fang Feng Tong Sheng San
Ge Gen Huang Lian Huang Qin
Tang
Shi Gao Tang
Wu Ji San
e Page 338 f
Clear Heat From the
Qi Level
Bai Hu Tang
Zhu Ye Shi Gao Tang
Zhi Zi Dou Chi Tang
Clear Heat From
Nutritive Level and Cool Blood
Qing Ying Tang
Clear Heat &
Relieve Toxicity
Huang Lian Jie Du Tang
Xie Xin Tang
e Page 339 f
Pu Ji Xiao Du Yin
Qing Wen Bai Du Yin
Xian Fang Huo Ming Yin
Wu Wei Xiao Du Yin
Si Miao Yong An Tang
Clear Heat From the
Organs
Yin Qiao Ma Bo San
Ma Xing Shi Gan Tang
e Page 340 f
Xie Bai San
Wei Jing Tang
Xie Huang San
Qing Wei San
Yu Nu Jian
Dao Chi San
Long Dan Xie Gan Tang
Zuo Jin Wan
e Page 341 f
Bai Tou Weng Tang
Clear Heat From
Deficiency
Qing Hao Bie Jia Tang
Qing Gu San
Relieve Summerheat
Qing Luo Yin
Liu Yi San
Qing Shu Yi Qi Tang
e Page 342 f
Dry Damp &
Expel Phlegm
Er Chen Tang
Dao Tan Tang
Di Tan Tang
Xiang Fu Xuan Fu Hua Tang
Clear Heat &
Transform Phlegm
Wen Dan Tang
Qing Qi Hua Tan Wan
e Page 343 f
Xiao Xian Xiong Tang
Moisten Dryness
& Transform Phlegm
Bei Mu Gua Lou San
Transform Phlegm
& Dissipate Nodules
Xiao Luo Wan
Hai Zao Yu Hu Tang
Warm &
Transform Cold-Phlegm
Ling Gui Zhu Gan Tang
Ling Gan Wu Wei Jiang Xin
Tang
San Zi Yang Qin Tang
e Page 344 f
Transform Phlegm
& Extinguish Wind
Zhi Sou San
Ban Xia Bai Zhu Tian Ma Tang
Ding Xian Wan
Reduce Food Stagnation
Bao He Wan
Mu Xiang Bing Lang Wan
Jian Pi Wan
Zhi Zhu Wan
e Page 345 f
Zhi Shi Xiao Pi Tang
Purge Heat
Accumulation
Da Cheng Qi Tang
Xiao Cheng Qi Tang
Tiao Wei Cheng Qi Tang
Zeng Ye Cheng Qi Tang
Da Huang Mu Dan Tang
Liang Ge San
e Page 346 f
Huang Long Tang
Xin Jia Huang Long Tang
Moisten Intestines
& Unblock Bowels
Ma Zi Ren Wan
Run Chang Wan
Moisten the Intestines
Ji Chuan Jian
Warm the Yang and
Purge Accumulation
Da Huang Fu Zi Tang
Wen Pi Tang
e Page 347 f
Harmonize
Shaoyang-Stage Disorders
Xiao Chai Hu Tang
Da Chai Hu Tang
Hao Qin Qing Dan Tang
Da Yuan Yin
Chai Hu Da Yuan Yin
e Page 348 f
Regulate and
Harmonize the Liver and Spleen
Si Ni San
Chai Hu Shu Gan San
Xiao Yao San
Jia Wei Xiao Yao San
Tong Xie Yao Fang
Ban Xia Xie Xin Tang
Gently Disperse
& Moisten Dryness
Xing Su San
Sang Xing Tang
e Page 349 f
Qing Zao Jiu Fei Tang
Enrich Yin &
Moisten Dryness
Bai He Gu Jin Tang
Bu Fei E Jiao Tang
Yang Yin Qing Fei Tang
Mai Men Dong Tang
Zeng Ye Tang
Yu Ye Tang
e Page 350 f
Promote Urination and
Drain Dampness
Wu Ling San
Zhu Ling Tang
Wu Pi San
Fang Ji Huang Qi Tang
Transform Damp
Turbidity
Ping Wei San
Huo Xiang Zheng Qi San
e Page 351 f
Clear Damp Heat
San Ren Tang
Huo Po Xia Ling Tang
Gan Lu Xiao Du Dan
Lian Po Yin
Yin Chen Hao Tang
Yin Chen Si Ni Tang
Zhong Man Fen Xiao Wan
e Page 352 f
Ba Zheng San
Shao Yao Tang
Er Miao San, San Miao San,
Si Miao San
Warm and Transform
Water and Dampness
Zhen Wu Tang
Shi Pi Yin
Bei Xie Fen Qing Yin
e Page 353 f
Ji Ming San
Expel Wind-Dampness
Qiang Huo Sheng Shi Tang
Juan Bi Tang (2 forms)
Gui Zhi Shao Yao Zhi Mu Tang
Xuan Bi Tang
Du Huo Ji Sheng Tang
e Page 354 f
Warm the Channels
& Disperse Cold
Dang Gui Si Ni Tang
Yang He Tang
Warm the Middle
& Dispel Cold
Li Zhong Wan
Wu Zhu Yu Tang
Xiao Jian Zhong Tang
Da Jian Zhong Tang
e Page 355 f
Gan Cao Gan Jiang Tang
Rescue Devastated Yang
Si Ni Tang
Shen Fu Tang
Tonify the Qi
Si Jun Zi Tang
Liu Jun Zi Tang
Xiang Sha Liu Jun Zi Tang
Shen Ling Bai Zhu San
e Page 356 f
Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang
Sheng Mai San
Bu Fei Tang
Ren Shen Ge Jie San
Tonify the Blood
Si Wu Tang
Tao Hong Si Wu Tang
Dang Gui Shao Yao San
e Page 357 f
Shao Yao Gan Cao Tang
Dang Gui Sheng Jiang Yang
Rou Tang
Tonify Qi &
Blood
Dang Gui Bu Xue Tang
Gui Pi Tang
Zhi Gan Cao Tang
Ba Zhen Tang
Shi Chuan Da Bu Tang
e Page 358 f
He Ren Yin
Nourish &
Tonify Yin
Liu Wei Di Huang Wan
Qi Ju Di Huang Wan
Zhi Bai Di huang Wan
Zuo Gui Yin
Zuo Gui Wan
Da Bu Yin Wan
Hu Qian Wan
e Page 359 f
Da Zao San
Yi Guan Jian
Zhu Jing Wan
Qi Bao Mei Ran Dan
Er Zhi Wan
Warm & Tonify
Yang
Jin Gui Shen Qi Wan
You Gui Wan
e Page 360 f
Tu Si Zi Wan
Zan Yu Dan
Er Xian Tang
Promote Qi Circulation
Yue Ju Wan
Ban Xia Hou Po Tang
Gua Lou Xie Bai Bai Jiu Tang
Zhi Shi Gua Lou Gui Zhi Tang
e Page 361 f
Hou Po Wen Zhong Tang
Liang Fu Wan
Jin Ling Zi San
Tian Tai Wu Yao San
Nuan Gan Jiang
Ju He Wan
Descend Rebellious Qi
Su Zi Jiang Qi Tang
Ding Chuan Tang
e Page 362 f
Si Mo Tang
Xuan Fu Dai Zhe Tang
Ju Pi Zhu Ru Tang
Ding xiang Shi Di Tang
Invigorate the Blood
& Dispel Blood Stasis
Tao He Cheng Qi Tang
Xue Fu Zhu Yu Tang
Tong Qiao Huo Xue Tang
e Page 363 f
Ge Xia Zhu Yu Tang
Shao Fu Zhu Yu Tang
Shen Tong Zhu Yu Tang
Shi Xiao San
Dan Shen Yin
Da Huang Zhe Chong Wan
Bu Yang Huan Wu Tang
e Page 364 f
Warm the Menses
& Dispel Blood Stasis
Gui Zhi Fu Ling Wan
Sheng Hua Tang
Wen Jing Tang
Invigorate the Blood
to Treat Traumatic Injury
Fu Yuan Huo Xue Tang
Qi Li San
Die Da Wan
Huo Luo Xiao Ling Dan
e Page 365 f
Clear Heat &
Stop Bleeding
Shi Hui San
Si Sheng Wan
Ke Xue Fang
Huai Hua San
Xiao Ji Yin Zi
Qing Re Zhi Beng Tang
e Page 366 f
Tonify & Stop
Bleeding
Bai Ye Tang
Huang Tu Tang
Jiao Ai Tang
Stabilize Exterior
& Lungs
Yu Ping Feng San
Mu Li San
Dang Gui Liu Huang Tang
e Page 367 f
Restrain Leakage From
the Intestines
Zhen Ren Yang Zang Tang
Tao Hua Tang
Si Shen Wan
Stabilize the Kidneys
Jing Suo Gu Jing Wan
Sang Piao Xiao San
Suo Quan Wan
Gui Zhi Jia Long Gu Mu Li
Tang
Shou Tai Wan
e Page 368 f
Stabilize the Womb
Gu Chong Tang
Gu Jing Wan
Wan Dai Tang
Yi Huang Tang
Nourish Heart
& Calm Shen
Tian Wang Bu Xin Dan
Suan Zao Ren Tang
Ding Zhi Wan
e Page 369 f
Huang Lian E Jiao Tang
Gan Mai Da Zao Tang
Sedate & Calm
Shen
Zhu Sha An Shen Wan
Release Wind From
Skin & Channels
Xiao Feng San
Xiao Xu Ming Tang
Xiao Huo Luo Dan
Qian Zheng San
Yu Zhen San
e Page 370 f
Zhi Jing San
Extinguish Internal
Wind
Zhen Gan Xi Feng Tang
Ling Jiao Gou Teng Tang
Tian Ma Gou Teng Yin
San Jia Fu Mai Tang
E Jiao Ji Zi Huang Tang
e Page 371 f
Da Ding Feng Zhu
Di Huang Yin Zi
Expel Parasites
Wu Mei Wan
Fei Er Wan
Qu Chong Feng
Miscellaneous and Empirical
Formulas
e Page 373 f
Tables of Patterns
and Formulas for Ob/Gyn Conditions
e Page
376 f
Common Formulas for
Ob/Gyn Conditions
|
Exterior
Disorders
|
|
Dr Jin's
Basic EPI
Formula
|
cang er zi, xin yi hua, bo
he, bai zhi, jie geng, ma
huang, huang qin, dong
gua ren, huang qi, bai zhu,
fang feng
|
|
plus, for W-H: sang ye, ju
hua; for Sp Qi
xu: dang shen, fu ling; for K Qi xu: bu gu
zhi; for phlegm-heat: dan nan xing, xing
ren, ban xia; for Qi & blood stagnation:
dang gui, chi shao, chuan xiong, (gan) di
long
|
|
Release Early-Stage
Exterior Disorders (see also Sang Ju Yin & Yin Qiao San in the
wind-heat section)
|
|
Cong Chi Tang
|
cong bai, dan dou chi
|
unblock Yang Qi in
exterior, induce
sweating
|
early W-C (or W-H): mild
fever, sl chills
without sweats, headache, stuffy nose, thin
white coat, floating
|
|
Gan Mao Ling
|
mao dong qing, ban lan
gen, ju hua, man jing zi, jin
yin hua, bo he (some add
wu zhu yu)
|
dispel W, sedate
heat, detoxify
pathogens (viruses)
|
W-H or W-C: common cold
& flu - chills,
high fever, swollen nodes, sore throat, stiff
upper back & neck
|
|
Release Exterior
Wind-Cold
|
|
Ma Huang Tang
|
ma huang, gui zhi, xing
ren, zhi gan cao
|
release exterior C,
arrest wheeze
|
W-C shi-type (taiyang)
severe case: fever,
chills (predominant), no sweats,
headache,
gen'l body ache, wheeze, thin white coat,
floating & tight
|
|
San Ao Tang
Three Unbinding
|
ma huang, xing ren, gan
cao
|
disp Lu Qi, release
exterior
|
exterior W-C, head &
body ache, nasal
congest, cough, wheeze, copious white thin
sputum, fullness in chest; or cough & loss
of voice from W-C; take & get in bed to sl
sweat
|
|
Gui Zhi Tang
|
gui zhi, shao yao, sheng
jiang, da zao, zhi gan cao
|
release path infl from
musc layer, reg ying
& wei Qi
|
W-C xu-type (ying &
wei disharmony):
fever & chills unrelieved
by sweats,
headache, av to W, stiff neck, nasal
congest, dry heave, no particular thirst, thin
white moist coat, floating, moderate or
frail; also for similar presentation after bad
sick or childbirth
|
|
Xiao Qing Long
Tang
Minor Bluegreen
Dragon
|
ma huang, gui zhi, gan
jiang, xi xin, wu wei zi, bai
shao, ban xia, zhi gan cao
|
release exterior,
transform congested
fluids, warm Lu,
descend rebellious Qi
|
W-C w/ underlying water
metabolism
problems: chronic
bronchitis,
chills
(predominant), fever, no sweats, cough,
wheeze, copious, white, stringy, difficult to
expectorate sputum, stifling sens in chest,
gen'lized heaviness, body aches, no
particular thirst, moist tongue coat, floating,
tight pulse; maybe edema, difficult
breathing when lying
|
|
She Gan Ma Huang
Tang
|
she gan, ma huang, zi wan,
kuan dong hua, ban xia, xi
xin, wu wei zi, sheng jiang,
da zao
|
warm Lu, transform
cold & congested
fluids lingering in
chest, redirect rebel
Qi, stop cough
|
pronounced cough &
wheeze w/ rattling
sound, mild or no exterior sx
|
|
Jiu Wei Qiang Huo
Tang
|
qiang huo, fang feng, cang
zhu, xi xin, chuan xiong,
bai zhi, huang qin, sheng
di, gan cao
|
release exterior
damp, clear interior
heat
|
exterior W-C-D (w/ int
heat): chills
(predominant), fever, no sweats, headache,
stiff neck, gen'lized aches & pains, sl.
thirst, bitter taste, floating pulse
|
|
Jia Wei Xiang Su
San
|
zi su ye, xiang fu, chen pi,
zhi gan cao, jing jie, fang
geng, qin jiao, man jing zi,
chuan xiong, sheng jiang
|
regulate Qi, release
exterior W-C
|
exterior W-C w/ int Qi
constraint: nasal
congestion & dripping,
fever, chills, no
sweats, headache, focal distention &
stifling sens in chest & epig, poor app,
burps, thin white coat, floating pulse
|
|
Xiang Ru San
|
xiang ru, bai bian dou, hou
po
|
release exterior,
disperse cold,
transform damp,
harmonize middle
jiao
|
exterior cold w/ int damp
(summer):
aversion to C, skin warm to touch, no
sweats, heavy head, headache, abd pain,
vomit, diarrh, stifling sens in chest,
fatigued extrems, white greasy coat,
floating pulse
|
|
Xin Jia Xiang Ru
Yin
Newly Augmented
Xiang Ru Yin
|
above + jin yin hua, lian
qiao
|
release exterior S-H
conditions, clear
heat, dry damp
|
early stage S-H w/ exterior
C: fever &
chills, no sweats, thirst, flushed face,
headache, tight sens in chest, greasy white
coat, superficial rapid pulse; common in
summer due to changes in weather & diet;
cooling, can also be used for interior heat &
exterior cold; bensky says take ½ dose &
then another ½ dose if sweating does not
occur, repeat the procedure if this still fails
to induce sweating
|
|
Release Exterior Wind-Heat
|
|
Sang Ju Yin
|
sang ye, ju hua, lian qiao,
bo he, jie geng, xing ren, lu
gen, gan cao
|
release exterior W-H,
stop cough by
facilitating flow of
Lu Qi
|
early stage: slight fever,
scratchy dry throat
causes cough, sl. thirst, thin white coat,
floating, rapid pulse
|
|
Yin Qiao San
|
jin yin hua, lian qiao, jie
geng, niu bang zi, bo he,
dan dou chi, jing jie, dan
zhu ye, lu gen, gan cao
|
disp W-H, clear H,
relieve toxicity
|
early stage: fever, slight
or no chills,
headache, thirst,
sore throat,
red-tip, thin
white or yellow coat, floating, rapid pulse
|
|
Chai Ge Jie Ji Tang Bupleurum &
Kudzu to Release
the Muscle Layer
|
chai hu, ge gen, qiang huo,
bai zhi, huang qin, shi gao,
jie geng, bai shao, gan cao,
sheng jiang, da zao
|
release pathogenic
infl from muscle
layer, clear int heat
|
clears first
three stages;
good for when pt
feels getting over cold & develops ear clog
or eye pain; unresolved W-C
turning to W-H (taiyang + yangming): more fever than
chills, headache, stiff extrems, orbital &
eye pain, dry nasal, irritability, insomnia,
thin yellow coat, floating slightly flooding
pulse
|
|
Sheng Ma Ge Gen
Tang
|
sheng ma, ge gen, zhi gan
cao, chi shao
|
release muscle layer,
vent rashes
|
early measles or rashes
that don't surface
evenly, fever & chills, headache, gen'lized
body aches, sneezing, coughing, red eyes,
tearing, thirst, red & dry tongue, floating
rapid pulse
|
|
Release Exterior
Disorders With Head and Neck Symptoms
|
|
Chuan Xiong Cha
Tiao San Ligusticum
Powder
to Be Taken with
Green Tea
|
bo he, chuan xiong, bai
zhi, qiang huo, xi xin, jing
jie, fang feng, gan cao
|
disperse W, alleviate
pain
|
headache in
any part of head, fever, chills,
dizziness, nasal congest, thin white coat,
floating pulse
take w/ green tea NOT for:
hypertension
or Lv Yang rising, or Headache from
deficiency
|
|
Cang Er Zi San
|
cang er zi. xin yi hua, bai
zhi, bo he
|
disperse W, alleviate
pain, unblock nose
|
nasal/sinus congestion,
allergic rhinitis,
copious, purulent, foul-smelling nasal
discharge, dizziness, frontal headache,
normal or yellow coat, floating rapid pulse
â–º for congestion, add more
herbs to
eliminate wind - fang feng, jing jie
â–º for dripping, add ban xia,
fu ling, yi yi
ren, chuan xiong, chen pi, lu lu tong, shan
yao, lian zi
â–º for heat signs, add zhi
mu, mu tong, xuan
shen, huang herbs
|
|
Ge Gen Tang
|
ge gen, ma huang, gui zhi,
bai shao, sheng jiang, da
zao, gan cao
|
release exterior &
muscle layer,
generate fluids
|
fever & chills, no
sweats, stiff & rigid neck
& upper back, thin white coat, floating tight
pulse
|
|
Release Exterior Disorders
With Interior Deficiency
|
|
Ren Shen Bai Du
San
Ginseng Powder to
Overcome
Pathogen-ic
Influences
|
qiang huo, du huo, chuan
xiong, chai hu, jie geng,
zhi ke, qian hu, ren shen,
fu ling, gan cao
|
release exterior,
dispel W & D,
augment Qi
|
exterior W-C (-D) w/ Qi xu:
high fever,
severe chills, shivering, no sweats, pain &
stiffness of head and neck, soreness & pain
of extremities, focal distention & fullness
of chest, nasal congestion w/ sonorous
breathing, productive cough, greasy white
coat, floating soggy pulse
|
|
Jing Fang Bai Du
San
|
jing jie, fang feng, chai
hu,
qian hu, chuan xiong,
qiang huo, du huo, fu ling,
jie geng, zhi ke, gan cao,
sheng jiang (may add bo
he)
|
induce sweats,
release exterior,
dispel wind, alleviate
pain
|
Li: W-C
excess, any
type, basic formula;
exterior W-C-D, more severe presentation
than the above, no
underlying
Qi xu:
fever,
chills, no sweats, pain & stiff neck & head,
gen'lized body aches & pain, thin, moist,
white, greasy coat, superficial pulse; also
for exterior conditions w/ red & swollen
eyes, epidemic parotitis, early-stage
abscesses & sores
|
|
Ma Huang Xi Xin
Fu Zi Tang
|
ma huang, fu zi, xi xin
|
assist yang, release
exterior
|
exterior C w/ pre-existing Yang xu: extreme
cold, severe
chills (better w/ more
clothes/covers), sl fever, no sweats,
exhaustion, white slippery coat, submerged
faint pulse
|
|
Zai Zao San
Renewal Powder
|
huang qi, ren shen, fu zi,
gui zhi, xi xin, qiang huo,
chuan xiong, fang feng, chi
shao, gan cao, sheng jiang,
da zao
|
tonify yang, augment
Qi, induce sweats,
release exterior
|
exterior W-C w/ Qi & Yang xu:
sl fever,
strong chills, no sweats, headache, cold
extrems, fatigue, constant desire to lie
down, pallid complexion, weak voice, pale
tongue, white coat, submerged, forceless, or
floating, big, and forceless pulse
|
|
Cong Bai Qi Wei
Yin
|
cong bai, ge gen, dan dou
chi, sheng jiang, mai men
dong, sheng di
|
nourish blood,
release exterior
|
W-C w/ blood
or yin xu
(from long term
illness or blood loss): headache, fever,
slight chills, no sweats
must be careful about
inducing sweating -
very gentle formula
|
|
Jia Jian Wei Rui
Tang
|
yu zhu, cong bai, jie geng,
dan dou chi, bo he, bai wei,
zhi gan cao, da zao
|
nourish yin, clear
heat, induce sweats,
release exterior
|
W-H w/ underlying yin xu:
fever, sl. chills,
little or no sweats, headache, dry throat,
cough, difficult to expectorate sputum,
thirst, irritability, dark red tongue, rapid
pulse
|
|
Bi Qiu Tang Jian
Jian
Blue
Poppy's
AllerEase
|
huang qi, yi yi ren, shan
yao, dang shen, bai zhu,
fang feng, jing jie, jie geng,
he zi, xin yi hua, bo he, ze
xie, wu wei zi, gan cao,
chan tui, xi xin (they now
substitute gan jiang for xi
xin due to restrictions on
the use of xi xin, but xi xin
is the original herb in this
formula)
|
secures exterior and
lungs while gently
dispelling wind,
supplements spleen
and kidneys,
eliminates dampness,
transforms phlegm,
stops itching, opens
nasal orifices
|
acute episodes of allergic
rhinitis
characterized by clear, runny, itchy nose,
itchy eyes, and sneezing due to wind evils
taking advantage of defensive qi not
securing in turn due spleen (and possibly
kidney) vacuity with deeplying phlegm
rheum
|
|
Release
Interior-Exterior Excess
|
|
Fang Feng Tong
Sheng San
Ledebouriella
Powder that Sagely
Unblocks
|
fang feng, ma huang, da
huang, mang xiao, bo he,
zhi zi, hua shi, shi gao, lian
qiao, huang qin, jie geng,
chuan xiong, dang gui, bai
shao, bai zhu, gan cao +
sheng jiang
|
disperse W, release
exterior, drain heat,
unblock bowels
|
exterior & int heat
(from exterior heat
penetrating internally or pre-existing
interior heat): strong fever, chills, light-headed, dizziness, red
& sore eyes,
difficulty swallowing, nasal congest w/
thick & sticky discharge & saliva, bitter
taste, dry mouth, focal distention w/ stifling
sens in chest & diaphragm, constipation,
dark, rough urination, yellow greasy coat,
flooding, rapid or wiry, slippery pulse; skin
diseases - eczema
|
|
Ge Gen Huang Lian
Huang Qin Tang
|
ge gen, huang qin, huang
lian, zhi gan cao
|
release exterior, clear
heat
|
interior heat + exterior not
completely
released: fever, sweats, thirst, dysenteric
diarrhea w/ very foul odor & burning sens,
irritability & heat in chest & epig, maybe
wheezing, red tongue, yellow coat, rapid
pulse; good
for D-H diarrhea - "stomach
flu"
|
|
Shi Gao Tang
|
shi gao, ma huang, dan dou
chi, huang lian, huang qin,
huang bai, zhi zi
|
clear heat, relieve
toxicity, release
exterior
|
injury from cold in which
heat blazes in
interior while exterior condition persists:
strong fever & chills, no sweats, headache,
gen'lized sens of heaviness & tightness, red
face & eyes, dry nasal passages, thirst,
irritability, insomnia, maybe delirium,
maybe nosebleed, coughing blood, skin
blotches, rapid, slippery/flooding pulse
|
|
Wu Ji San
Five Accumulations
|
ma huang, bai zhi, gan
jiang, rou gui, cang zhu,
hou po, chen pi, ban xia, fu
ling, jie geng, zhi ke, dang
gui, bai shao, chuan xiong,
zhi gan cao
|
release exterior,
warm interior,
smooth flow of Qi,
transform phlegm,
invigorate blood,
reduce accumulation
|
exterior W-C w/ internal
injury due to cold
(usually from improper diet): fever &
chills, no sweats, headache, body aches,
stiff neck & back, sensation of fullness in
chest & abd, nausea, aversion to food,
vomiting, abd pain & cold, diarrhea,
borborygmus; good
for Sp Qi xu
pts
who
wander outside & catch cold; many Sp Qi
xu pts are easily stagnated, many are too
weak to tonify - must move
|
|
Clear Heat From the
Qi Level
|
|
Bai Hu Tang
White Tiger
|
shi gao, zhi mu, zhi gan
cao, geng mi
|
clear Qi-level heat,
drain St fire, generate
fluids, alleviate thirst
|
Qi level heat/Yangming
stage: BIG
fever,
sweats, thirst, & pulse,
aversion to heat, red
face, irritability, flooding, forceful or
slippery, rapid pulse; maybe headache,
toothache, bleeding gums & nose
|
|
Zhu Ye Shi Gao
Tang
|
dan zhu ye, shi gao, ren
shen, mai men dong, ban
xia, zhi gan cao, geng mi
|
clear heat, generate
fluid, augment Qi,
harmonize St
|
Qi level
heat lingering
in Lu & St where it
injures Qi & fluids: lingering fever,
vomiting, irritability, thirst, parched mouth,
lips, & throat, choking cough, stifling sens
in chest, sweating, red tongue w/ little coat,
deficient, rapid pulse; maybe restlessness,
insomnia
|
|
Zhi Zi Dou Chi
Tang
|
zhi zi, dan dou chi
|
clear heat, alleviate
restlessness &
irritability
|
Qi level heat lingering in
superficial aspects
of yangming stage (muscles & chest): fever,
irritability, insomnia w/ tossing & turning,
stifling sens in chest, soft epigastrium, sl
yellow tongue coat, sl rapid pulse or strong,
floating pulse at distal position
|
|
Clear Heat From
Nutritive Level and Cool Blood
|
|
Qing Ying Tang
Clear the Nutritive
Qi
|
xi jiao (or cow), xuan shen,
sheng di, mai men dong,
jin yin hua, lian qiao,
huang lian, dan zhu ye, dan
shen
|
clear nutritive level,
relieve fire toxin,
drain heat, nourish
yin
|
heat entering ying level
(and xue level):
high fever worse at night, severe irritability,
restlessness, scarlet, dry tongue, thin rapid
pulse; maybe thirsty, delirious, maybe faint
and indistinct erythema and purpurea -
bleeding
|
|
Clear Heat and
Relieve Toxicity
|
|
Huang Lian Jie Du
Tang
Coptis Decoction to
Relieve Toxicity
|
huang lian, huang qin,
huang bai, zhi zi
|
drain fire, relieve
toxicity
|
severe obstruction of all 3 jiao
by heat
toxin, which pervades both the interior &
exterior: high fever, irritability, dry mouth
& throat, incoherent speech, insom, dark
urine, red tongue, yellow coat, rapid,
forceful pulse; also for nosebleed or
hematemesis from excess heat; carbuncles,
deep-rooted boils, other toxic swelling; D-H: jaundice, dysenteric
disorders
|
|
Xie Xin Tang
Drain the
Epigastrium
|
da huang, huang lian,
huang qin
|
drain fire, relieve
toxicity, dry
dampness
|
D-H excess w/ interior
clumping: fever,
irritability, restlessness, flushed face, red
eyes, dark urine, constipation, greasy
yellow coat, maybe delirious speech;
epigastric focal distention, jaundice,
diarrhea, dysenteric disorders;
hematemesis, nosebleed; red swollen eyes
& ears; ulcerations of tongue & mouth;
abscesses
|
|
Pu Ji Xiao Du Yin
Universal Benefit
Decoction to
Eliminate Toxin
|
huang qin, huang lian (both
wine-fried, large doses),
niu bang zi, lian qiao, bo
he, jiang can, xuan shen,
ma bo, ban lan gen, jie
geng, gan cao, chen pi,
chai hu, sheng ma
|
clear heat, elim fire-toxin,
disperse W-H
|
face
swollen,
red - mumps, facial
erysipelas; acute massive febrile disorder
of the head (seasonal epidemic toxin assoc
w/ W-H and damp-phlegm): strong fever &
chills, redness, swell, and burning pain of
head & face, dysfcn of throat, dryness &
thirst, red tongue w/ powdery-white or
yellow coat, floating, rapid, forceful pulse
|
|
Qing Wen Bai Du
Yin
Clear Epidemics
and Overcome
Toxin
|
shi gao, zhi mu, gan cao,
dan zhu ye, xi jiao (or
cow), sheng di, mu dan pi,
chi shao, xuan shen, huang
lian, huang qin, zhi zi, lian
qiao, jie geng
|
clear heat, relieve
toxicity, cool blood,
drain fire
|
svr fire in Qi & bld
lvls: intense fever,
strong thirst, dry heaves, svr, stabbing
Headache, extreme irritability, maybe
delirious speech, rash, nosebleed; dark red
tongue, dark scorched lips, rapid pulse,
either submerged and thin or floating &
large; Dr.
Li says Ying & Xue levels, some
use to treat meningitis
|
|
Xian Fang Huo
Ming Yin
Sublime Formula
for Sustaining Life
|
jin yin hua, gan cao, zhe
bei mu, tian hua fen, dang
gui, chi shao, ru xiang, mo
yao, fang feng, bai zhi,
chuan shan jia, zao jiao ci,
chen pi
|
clear heat, relieve
fire-toxin, reduce
swell, promote
discharge of pus,
invigorate blood,
alleviate pain
|
fire-toxin
or phlegm-fire of various origins
including transformation of a pathogenic
influence in the channels, overindulgence
in rich/greasy foods, or trauma w/
transmission of toxic Qi: early-stage sores
& carbuncles w/ red, swollen, hot, painful
lesions, usu. w/ fever, mild chills,
headache, thin coat (white or sl yellow),
rapid forceful pulse; skin
infections,
can
use for gangrene
|
|
Wu Wei Xiao Du
Yin
Five Ingredient D.
to Eliminate Toxin
|
jin yin hua, pu gong ying,
zi hua di ding, ye ju hua, zi
bei tian kuei
|
clear heat, relieve
toxicity, cool blood,
reduce swelling
|
fire-toxin from
externally-contracted heat
accumulating in organs or channels: all
boils, carbuncles (esp deep-rooted, hard) w/
local erythema, swelling, heat, pain, w/
fever, chills, red tongue, yellow coat, rapid
pulse
|
|
Si Miao Yong An
Tang
Four Valiant
Decoction for Well-Being
|
jin yin hua, xuan shen,
dang gui, gan cao (all huge
doses)
|
clear heat, relieve
toxicity, nourish yin,
invigorate blood,
allev pain
|
sloughing ulcer due to
obstruction by fire-toxin leading to stasis of bld in sinews &
bld vessels (maybe from chron K xu or
exterior damp-cold painful obstruction or
rich, greasy, spicy food, or misuse of yang
tonics): ulcerated sores won't heal, on limb
that is dark-red, sl swollen, warm to touch,
very painful; maybe rotten smell, copious
discharge, w/ fever, thirst, red tongue, rapid
pulse; gangrene
|
|
Clear Heat From the Organs
|
|
Yin Qiao Ma Bo
San
|
jin yin hua, lian qiao, niu
bang zi, she gan, ma bo, lu
gen
|
clear heat, relieve
toxicity, drain heat
from Lu to improve
fcn of throat
|
painful obstruction of
throat due to Lu D-H:
severe sore throat, great difficulty
swallowing, red tongue, thick white or
yellow coat, rapid slippery, maybe floating
pulse
|
|
Ma Xing Shi Gan
Tang
|
ma huang, shi gao, xing
ren, zhi gan cao
|
facilitate flow of Lu
Qi, clear heat, calm
wheeze by desc.
rebellious Qi
|
heat lodged in Lu
obstructing flow of Qi:
fever w/ or without sweats, thirst,
wheezing, coughing, labored breathing,
nasal flaring & pain, yellow coat, slippery
rapid pulse
|
|
Xie Bai San
Drain the White
|
sang bai pi, di gu pi, zhi
gan cao, geng mi
|
drain Lu heat, calm
wheezing
|
smoldering fire due to
constrained H in Lu:
cough, wheeze, fever w/ skin that feels hot
to touch, all worse in late afternoon, also
dry mouth, little or diff-to-expectorate
sputum, thin rapid pulse, red tongue, yellow
coat
|
|
Wei Jing Tang
Reed Decoction
|
lu gen, yi yi ren, don gua
ren, tao ren
|
clear Lu H, transform
phlegm, drive out bld
stasis, discharge pus
|
Lu abscess due to H-T
obstructing Lu, w/
phlegm & bld stasis: cough w/ foul
smelling sputum (maybe streaked w/ bld),
sl fever, mild chest pain, dry scaly skin, red
tongue, greasy yellow coat, slippery rapid
pulse
|
|
Xie Huang San
Drain the Yellow
|
shi gao, zhi zi, fang feng,
huo xiang ye, gan cao
(large doses of fang feng &
gan cao)
|
drains smoldering
fire from Sp
|
smoldering fire in Sp:
mouth ulcers, bad
breath, thirst, frequent hunger, dry mouth &
lips - dry
cracked lips, always licking them,
red tongue, rapid pulse; also for tongue
thrusting in kids
|
|
Qing Wei San
Clear the Stomach
|
huang lian, sheng ma, mu
dan pi, sheng di, dang gui
|
drain St fire, cool
bld, nourish yin
|
St heat:
toothache,
mouth pain (esp when
pain extends to head), facial swell, fever,
bad breath, dry mouth, red tongue, little
coat, slippery, large, rapid pulse; also for
bleeding & sores on gums, swollen painful
tongue, lips, jaw - pain responds well to
cold, worse w/ heat; also for D-H pus
|
|
Yu Nu Jian
Jade Woman
|
shi gao, shu di, zhi mu, mai
men dong, niu xi
|
drain St heat, nourish
yin
|
St heat
w/ yin xu
from St fire injuring K
yin: don't be limited by this list - broad
range of presentations - incl. toothache,
loose teeth, bleeding gums, frontal
headache, irritability, fever, thirst for cold,
dry red tongue, yellow coat, floating,
slippery, deficient, large pulse
|
|
Dao Chi San
Guide out the Red
|
sheng di, mu tong, dan zhu
ye, gan cao shao (tips)
|
clear heat, promote
urination
|
Ht & SI channel
heat: acute
UTI,
irritability, sens of H in chest, thirst for
cold, red face, maybe sores around mouth,
red tongue, rapid pulse; also for dark,
scanty, rough, even painful urination, or w/
clearly visible blood
|
|
Long Dan Xie Gan
Tang
Long Dan Cao
Decoction to Drain
the Liver
|
long dan cao, huang qin,
zhi zi, mu tong, che qian
zi, ze xie, chai hu, sheng
di, dang gui, gan cao
|
drain fire excess
from Lv & GB, clear
& drain D-H from
lower jiao
|
excess H in Lv &/or
GB chs or organ:
hypochondriac pain, headache, dizzy, red
sore eyes, hearing loss, swelling in ears,
bitter taste, irritability, short temper, wiry
rapid forceful pulse, red tongue, yellow
coat; also for difficult painful urination, w/
sens of H in urethra, swollen itchy exterior
genitalia, foul-smelling leukorrhea, w/ short
menstrual cycle & red-purple blood; shingles,
herpes, acute cholecystitis,
acute
glaucoma, blepharitis, conjunctivitis,
corneal ulcer, cystitis, dizziness, dysuria
(burning), eczema, epididymitis, gallstone,
genital herpes, genital mycosis, headache,
herpes zoster, hyperthyroidism, hypoacusis,
intercostal neuralgia, irritability, labial
herpes, orchitis, hypochondriac pain,
pyelonephritis, quick-tempered, retinitis,
smelly leukorrhea, suppurative otitis,
swollen and pruritic external genitalia,
urethritis
|
|
Dang Gui Long Hui
Wan
|
Huang Lian, Huang Qin,
Huang Bai, Zhi Zi, Dang
Gui, Lu Hui, Long Dan
Cao, Da Huang, Mu Xiang,
Qing Dai, She Xiang
|
drain fire from Lv
and GB
|
Full-Heat and toxins or Fire
collecting in
the Lv & GB. Severe conditions.
Cholecystitis, delirious speech, dizziness,
headache, manic behavior, restlessness,
constipation, dark urine. Scarlet red tongue
with a dry-yellow coating.
|
|
Zuo Jin Wan
Assist (or Left)
Gold Pill
|
huang lian, wu zhu yu 6:1
|
clear Lv heat,
descend rebel Qi,
stop vomiting
|
Lv ch H attacking St causing Lv/St
disharmony: hypochondriac
pain,
indeterminate gnawing hunger, epigastric
focal distention, vomiting, acid regurg,
burps, bitter taste, dry mouth, red tongue,
yellow coat, wiry, rapid pulse
|
|
Bai Tou Weng Tang
|
bai tou weng, huang lian,
huang bai, qin pi
|
clear heat, relieve
toxicity, cool bld,
relieve dysenteric dis
|
hot dysenteric
disorder due to H-T searing
St & intestines: abd pain, tenesmus,
burning anus, diarrhea w/ more
blood than
pus, thirst, red tongue,
yellow coat, wiry
rapid pulse
|
|
Jiao Tai Wan
Grand
Communication Pill
|
huang lian, rou gui
|
clears Ht heat, guides
Ht fire down to the
K, harmonizes Ht &
K, harmonizes
Yin
and Yang, drains the
south (heart fire) and
supplement the north
(kidney Yang)
|
Insomnia,
vexation, and agitation due to Ht
and K not communicating (such as for
kidney Yang deficiency which cannot move
and upbear kidney water,
which then
becomes dead and stagnant, and fails to
nourish heart Yin and control heart fire
which rises upward); glossitis,
oral ulcers,
heart palpitations, together with fear of
cold, copious clear urination, impotence,
and seminal emission due to simultaneous
heart fire and kidney Yang deficiency;
fright and palpitations, restless sleep,
agitation, excessive dreaming, inability to
concentrate; nocturnal emissions, dreaming
of sex; red tongue tip, thin rapid pulse, both
cun pulses floating and rapid, both chi thin
and deep
|
|
Clear Heat From Deficiency
|
|
Qing Hao Bie Jia
Tang
|
bie jia, sheng di, zhi mu,
mu dan pi, qing hao (add at
end)
|
nourish yin, vent heat
|
yin xu
due to heat;
heat smoldering in yin
regions of body: night fever, morning
coolness, absence of sweats as fever
recedes, emaciation without loss of
appetite, red tongue, little coat, fine rapid
pulse
|
|
Qing Gu San
Cool the Bones
|
yin chai hu, zhi mu, hu
huang lian, di gu pi, qing
hao, qin jiao, bie jia, gan
cao
|
clear heat from xu,
allev steaming bone
disorder
|
focuses on branch - severe yin xu heat
-
steaming bone disorder due to Lv/K yin xu:
afternoon tidal or unremitting chron low-grade fever, sens of heat in
bones, but flesh
not warm to touch, irritability, insom,
emaciation, lethargy, red lips, dark red
cheeks, night sweats, thirst, dry throat, red
tongue, little coat, thin rapid pulse; yin xu
night sweats
|
|
Relieve Summerheat
|
|
Qing Luo Yin
Clear the
Collaterals
|
jin yin hua, bian dou hua,
xi gua shuang, si gua pi, he
ye, dan zhu ye (all best
used fresh)
|
relieve summerheat,
clear Lu
|
mild summerheat injuring Qi
lvl or Lu ch,
or when sweating nas not fully released,
leaving remnants of path influence in wake:
fever, mild thirst, unclear head & vision w/
light-headedness, sl distention of head, pink
tongue, thin white coat; also
for prevention
of summerheat
|
|
Liu Yi San
6-to-1 Powder
|
hua shi, gan cao 6:1
|
clear summerheat,
resolve damp,
augment Qi
|
summerheat disturbs Ht:
irritability, fever,
sweats, thirst, urinary difficulty, thin yellow
greasy coat, soggy rapid pulse; often added
to other formulas, rarely used alone; for K
stones w/ other herbs
|
|
Qing Shu Yi Qi
Tang
Clear Summerheat
& Augment the Qi
|
xi yang shen, xi gua pi,
lian
geng, shi hu, mai men
dong, dan zhu ye, zhi mu,
huang lian, gan cao, geng
mi
|
clear summerheat,
augment Qi, nourish
yin, generate fluids
rescue yang Qi
|
summerheat injures Qi
& fluids: fever,
profuse sweats (exhausted
Yang Qi),
irritability, thirst, scanty dark urine, desire
to curl up, SOB, apathy, deficient rapid
pulse; Dr. Li: S-H shaoyin - could be shock,
in which case patient may need ren shen
|
|
Dry Damp &
Expel Phlegm
|
|
Er Chen Tang
Two Cured
|
ban xia, ju hong/chen pi
(these first two cured long
time), fu ling, zhi gan cao
(source text says take w/
sheng jiang & 1 piece of
wu mei)
|
dry dampness,
transform phlegm,
regulate Qi,
harmonize middle
jiao
|
damp-phlegm
from Sp failing to transform
fluids: coughing w/ copious white sputum
that is easily expectorated, focal distention
& stifling sens in chest & diaphragm, palps,
nausea, vomiting, dizziness, swollen
tongue, white thick greasy coat, slippery
pulse; add
clear-heat herbs as necessary
• for wind-phlegm:
+ dan nan xing, bai fu
zi, zao jiao
• for heat-phlegm:
+ shi gao, qing dai
• for damp-phlegm:
+ cang zhu, bai zhu
• for dry-phlegm: +
gua lou pi, xing ren
• for
food-stagnation-phlegm: + shan zha,
mai ya, shen qu
• for Qi
stagnation-phlegm: + xiang fu, zhi
ke
|
|
Dao Tan Tang
|
above + zhi shi/zhi ke,
tian/dan nan xing. Taken
with sheng jiang.
|
stronger to transform
phlegm
|
copious phlegm accumulation
in Lu, may
have pre-stroke sx of numbness &
weakness on one side. Related to Ban Xia
Bai Zhu Tian Ma Tang, but for more
phlegm, less wind. For collapse due to
phlegm. Fainting due to phelgm, or vertigo
with headache, or accumulation of
congested fluids that will not dissipate.
With sx such as stifling sensation and focal
distention in chest and diaphragm, reduced
appetite, distention and fullness in the
hypochondria and flanks, restlessness when
sitting or lying down, coughing and
wheezing with copious sputum and difficult
breathing, thick nasal discharge and saliva,
white greasy tongue coat, slippery pulse.
|
|
Di Tan Tang
Scour Phlegm D.
|
Dao Tan Tang (ban xia, ju
hong/chen pi, fu ling, zhi
gan cao, zhi zhi, dan nan
xing) + ren shen, shi chang
pu, zhu ru
|
opens phlegm-blocked orifices
|
internal obstruction due to
severe phlegm.
Stroke, phlegm misting Ht,
impaired/slurred speech, stiff tongue.
With appropriate
presentation:
cerebrovascular accident, seizure disorder,
motor aphasia, bronchial asthma, COPD,
acute and chronic bronchitis, brochiectasis.
|
|
Xiang Fu Xuan Fu
Hua Tang
|
xiang fu, xuan fu hua, su
zi, chen pi, fu ling, yi yi
ren, ban xia
|
strengthen Sp, dispel
damp, spread Lv Qi,
unblock channels
|
dampness leads to congested
fluids which
stagnate in collaterals of Lv: hypochondriac
pain w/ or without coughing, either
afternoon fvrs without chills or alternating
chills & fever, thickly coated tongue w/
swollen edges, wiry pulse, especially in
middle position
|
|
Clear Heat &
Transform Phlegm
|
|
Wen Dan Tang
Warm the Gall
Bladder
|
zhu ru, zhi shi, ban xia,
chen pi, fu ling, gan cao,
sheng jiang (some add da
zao)
(Dr. Li: F. is actually
cooling, despite name)
Add huang lian (Huang
Lian Wen Dan Tang) if
more heat
|
regulate Qi,
transform phlegm,
clear the GB,
harmonize St
|
GB/St disharmony w/ phlegm-heat:
dizziness, vertigo, nausea or vomiting, insomnia,
palps, anxiety, indeterminate
gnawing hunger, or seizures accompanied
by copious sputum, focal distention of
chest, bitter taste, slight thirst, greasy
yellow coat, rapid pulse, either slippery or
wiry
|
|
Shi Wei Wen Dan
Tang
|
zhi shi, ban xia, chen pi,
fu
ling, suan zao ren, yuan
zhi, wu wei zi, shu di
huang, ren shen, zhi gan
cao, sheng jiang, da zao
|
calm the mind/Ht,
transform phlegm,
regulate Qi,
harmonize St
|
Ht & GB deficiency:
anxiety, apprehension,
fear, irritability, mental fragility, oppression
of the chest, palpitations, patient is easily
frightened, stifling sensation, ageusia,
edema of limbs, poor appetite, restlessness
(difficulty sitting without fidgeting)
|
|
Shi Yi Wei Wen
Dan Tang
|
ban xia, chen pi, fu ling,
gan cao, zhi shi, zhu ru,
huang lian, yuan zhi, shi
chang pu, ye jiao teng,
zhen zhu mu
|
calm the mind,
transform phlegm,
regulate Qi, clear
heat, harmonize St
|
Phlegm-heat upsetting the
harmony of the
St: anxiety, insomnia, distension of the
chest, dizziness, insomnia, palpitations,
bitter taste, red tongue, greasy coating,
slippery-rapid pulse
|
|
Qing Qi Hua Tan
Wan
Clear the Qi and
Transform Phlegm
|
dan nan xing, ban xia, gua
lou ren, huang qin, chen pi,
xing ren, zhi shi, fu ling
(sheng jiang)
|
clear heat, transform
phlegm, descend
rebel Qi, stop
coughing
|
phlegm-heat w/ Sp xu:
coughing yellow
viscous sputum that's difficult to
expectorate, focal distention & feeling of
fullness in chest & diaphragm, nausea, red
tongue, greasy yellow coat, slippery rapid
pulse, in severe cases may be difficulty in
breathing; Dr. Li:
this formula needs more
heat-clearing and heat-toxin-clearing herbs
in order to work
|
|
Xiao Xian Xiong
Tang
Minor Sinking into
the Chest
|
gua lou (crush), huang lian,
ban xia (ginger fried)
|
clear heat, transform
phlegm, expand
chest, dissipate
clumps
|
clumping in the chest caused
by sinking of
pathogenic heat into upper & middle jiaos
where it mixes with phlegm: focal
distention in chest & epigastrium, painful
when pressed, w/ or without nodules,
coughing up yellow viscous sputum,
constipation, bitter taste in mouth, yellow
greasy tongue coat, slippery pulse that is
either floating or rapid; phlegm-heat in
pleura
|
|
Gun Tan Wan
Vaporize Phlegm
Pill
|
duan meng shi, da huang,
huang qin, chen xiang
|
drains fire, drives out
phlegm
|
mania-withdrawal and
palpitations with
anxiety; or severe, continuous palpitations
which can lead to coma; or coughing and
wheezing with thick viscous sputum; or
focal distention and a stifling sensation in
the chest and epigastrium; or dizziness,
vertigo, and tinnitus. Accompanied by
constipation, yellow, thick, greasy tongue
coat, and slippery, rapid, forceful pulse.
Maybe facial tics, insomnia, very strange
dreams, sudden, deep pain in the joints that
is difficult to describe, nodules in the neck,
or a choking sensation.
With apropriate
presentation: hysteria,
anxiety neurosis, bipolar disorder,
schizophrenia, pediatric seizure disorder,
seizure disorder, Meniere's disease, benign
paroxysmal positional vertigo, bronchial
asthma, acute bronchitis, COPD.
|
|
Tong Guan San
Open the Gate
Powder
|
equal portions zao jiao and
xi xin. Powdered and very
small amount blown into
the nose.
|
Unblocks the gate
(jaw), opens orifices
|
name is derived from its
effect in inducing
sneezing, and rather strong actions in
opening the jaw and orifices. Comatose
collapse - excessive (closed) pattern. Loss
of consciousness, clenched jaw, extreme
difficulty breathing, foaming at the mouth,
pale, ashen complexion. Not for
abandoned-type disorder. Not for loss of
consciousness due to hypertensive crisis,
cerebral hemorrhage, or traumatic cranial
injury.
|
|
Moisten Dryness
& Transform Phlegm
|
|
Bei Mu Gua Lou
San
|
chuan bei mu, gua lou, tian
hua fen, fu ling, ju hong,
jie geng
|
moisten Lu, clear
heat, regulate Qi,
transform phlegm
|
heat
congeals fluids
into dry-phlegm:
dryness in Lu injures fluids & causes
phlegm: cough w/ deep-seated sputum
difficult to expectorate, wheezing, dry sore
throat, red dry tongue, little coat, rapid &
thin but strong pulse
|
|
Transform Phlegm and
Dissipate Nodules
|
|
Xiao Luo Wan
Reduce Scrofula
|
xuan shen, mu li, zhe bei
mu
|
clear heat &
transform phlegm to
soften & dissipate
nodules
|
firm rubbery nodules on
neck, accompanied
by dry mouth & throat, red tongue, rapid
pulse that is slippery &/or wiry; includes
tuberculosis; also Dr. Li uses (modified) for hyperthyroidism
(caution, mu li may
contain iodine) - can add xia ku cao, long
gu
|
|
Hai Zao Yu Hu
Tang
Sargassum
Decoction for the
Jade Flask
|
hai zao, kun bu, hai dai,
zhe bei mu, ban xia, du
huo, chuan xiong, dang
gui, qing pi, chen pi, lian
qiao, gan cao
|
transform phlegm,
soften hard masses,
reduce & dissipate
goiter
|
stagnant
damp, phlegm,
qi, & blood in the
area between skin & flesh on neck: masses
in center of neck which are rock-like in
hardness, immobile, cause no change in
color of skin, & do not ulcerate; thin greasy
coat, wiry & slippery pulse; enlarged
prostate, goiter, fibroids, cysts, etc
|
|
Warm &
Transform Cold-Phlegm
|
|
Ling Gui Zhu Gan
Tang
|
fu ling, gui zhi, bai zhu,
zhi
gan cao
|
warm & transform
phlegm & congested
fluids, strengthen Sp,
resolve dampness
|
cold-damp.
congested fluids in epigastrium,
weak Sp yang: fullness in chest &
hypochondria, palps, SOB, coughing up
clear watery sputum, dizziness, vertigo,
pale swollen tongue, white slippery or
greasy coat, pulse usually slippery & either
wiry or soggy
|
|
Ling Gan Wu Wei
Jiang Xin Tang
|
fu ling, gan cao, gan jiang,
xi xin, wu wei
|
warm Lu, transform
congested fluids
|
cold congested fluids due to
yang xu &
rising yin: coughing & profuse sputum that
is thin, watery, white, w/ feeling of
discomfort in chest & diaphragm, white
slippery coat, wiry, slippery pulse
|
|
San Zi Yang Qin
Tang
Three Seed
Decoction to
Nourish One's
Parents
|
bai jie zi (very warm), su
zi, lai fu zi (crush, decoct
in bag)
|
descend Qi, relax
diaphragm, transform
phlegm, reduce food
stag
|
cold in Lu w/ food
stagnation (both cause
& effect of Sp xu): cough & wheeze,
copious sputum, focal distention in chest,
loss of appetite, digestive difficulties, white
greasy coat, slippery pulse
|
|
Transform Phlegm
& Extinguish Wind
|
|
Zhi Sou San
Stop Coughing
|
jie geng, jing jie, zi wan,
bai bu, bai qian, gan cao,
chen pi
|
stop cough,
transform phlegm,
disperse exterior,
disperse Lu Qi
|
W attacking Lu: coughing w/
or without
slight chills & fever, itchy throat, thin white
coat, moderate floating pulse; can modify
for any kind of cough (zi
su ye may work
better than jing jie)
|
|
Ban Xia Bai Zhu
Tian Ma Tang
|
ban xia, tian ma, bai zhu,
ju hong, fu ling, gan cao,
sheng jiang, da zao
|
strengthen Sp, dispel
dampness, transform
phlegm, extinguish
wind
|
upward disturbance of
wind-phlegm (cold):
dizziness or vertigo (possibly severe),
Headache, stifling sens in chest, nausea or
vomiting, copious sputum, white greasy
coat, wiry slippery pulse
|
|
Ding Xian Wan
Arrest Seizures
|
tian ma, chuan bei mu, ban
xia (ginger fried), fu ling,
fu shen, dan nan xing, shi
chang pu, quan xie, jiang
can, hu po, deng xin cao,
chen pi, yuan zhi, dan
shen, mai men dong, zhu
sha + sheng jiang, zhu li,
gan cao
|
scour out phlegm,
open sensory orifices,
extinguish wind
|
Lv W + phlegm: recurrent
vertigo,
weakness, stilfing sens in chest followed by
sudden loss or clouding of consciousness
together w/ falling down, upward-rolling of
eyes, deviation of mouth, spitting up mucus
w/ loud raspy sound, in severe cases, tonic-clonic convulsions, sudden
shrieking, or
incontinence of bowels or urine; white
greasy coat, wiry or slippery pulse
|
|
Reduce Food Stagnation
|
|
Bao He Wan
Preserve Harmony
|
shan zha, shen qu, lai fu
zi,
chen pi, ban xia, fu ling,
lian qiao (some add mai
ya)
|
reduce food
stagnation,
harmonize St
|
focal distention &
fullness in chest & epig,
abd distention w/ occasional pain, rotten-smelling burps, acid regurg,
nausea &
vomit, aversion to food, yellow greasy coat,
slippery pulse; maybe diarrhea
|
|
Mu Xiang Bing
Lang Wan
|
mu xiang, bing lang, da
huang, qian niu zi (morn
glory - cathartic), qing pi,
chen pi, xiang fu (dry
fried), e zhu, huang lian,
huang bai
|
promote movement
of Qi, guide out
stagnation, purge
accumulation, drain
heat
|
food stagnation clogs Qi
mechanisms of
digestive organs, leads to D-H: focal &
gen'lized distention, fullness, & pain in
epig & abd, w/ constipation, or red & white
dysenteric diarrhea w/ tenesmus, yellow
greasy coat, excessive pulse
|
|
Jian Pi Wan
Strengthen the
Spleen
|
bai zhu, shen qu, &
mai ya
(first 3 dry fried), fu ling,
ren shen, shan yao, rou dou
kou, shan zha, mu xiang,
chen pi, sha ren, huang lian
(wine fried), gan cao
|
strengthen Sp, reduce
food stagnation, stop
diarrhea
|
Sp & St xu w/ food
stagnation that is
beginning to turn to heat: reduced appetite
w/ difficult digestion, bloating & focal
distention of epig & abd, loose & watery
diarrhea, greasy slightly yellow coat, xu,
frail pulse
|
|
Zhi Zhu Wan
|
bai zhu, zhi shi 2:1
|
tonify Sp, reduce
focal distention
|
Sp & St xu w/ food
stagnation: loss of
appetite, focal distention in epig & abd,
white coat, xu pulse
|
|
Zhi Shi Xiao Pi
Tang
Zhi Shi Pill to
Reduce Focal
Distention
|
zhi shi, (zhi) hou po, huang
lian, ban xia, ren shen, bai
zhu, fu ling, mai ya, gan
jiang, zhi gan cao
|
reduce focal
distention, eliminate
fullness, strengthen
Sp, harmonize St
|
xu St & Sp lose ctrl
over ascending &
descending fcns of mid jiao, + combo of C
& H clumps internally: focal distention,
fullness in upper epig, lack of thirst or
appetite, fatigue, weakness; maybe focal
distention in chest & abd, wan complexion,
poor digestion, irregular bowel mov'ts
(some loose, some hard), wiry pulse at Sp
position
|
|
Purge Heat Accumulation
|
|
Da Cheng Qi Tang
Major Order the Qi
|
da huang (short cook),
mang xiao (dissolve at
end), zhi shi, hou po
|
vigorously
purge heat
accumulation
(stop taking after
diarrhea comes)
|
yangming
organ shi heat:
severe
constipation, flatulence, focal distention,
abdominal fullness, abd pain < w/ pressure,
tense & firm abd, dry yellow or black coat
w/ prickles, submerged excessive pulse;
maybe tidal fever, delirious speech, much
sweat - palms/soles; key sx assoc w/ herbs:
zhi shi= tense firm abd; hou po=focal
distention & fullness; mang xiao=severe
constip, dryness; da huang =abd pain which
increases w/ pressure (excess)
|
|
Xiao Cheng Qi
Tang
|
zhi shi, hou po, da huang
(standard cook)
|
moderately
purge
heat accumulation
|
see above, incl sx assoc w/
these 3 herbs;
for less severe or for weak, old, or very
young patients
|
|
Tiao Wei Cheng Qi
Tang
Regulate the St
&
Order the Qi
|
mang xiao, da huang
(standard cook)
|
mildly
purge heat
accumulation
|
see above, incl sx assoc w/
these two herbs;
mild constip, thirst, irritability, warm
feeling, shi T&P
|
|
Zeng Ye Cheng Qi
Tang
Increase the Fluids
& Order the Qi
|
xuan shen, mai men dong,
sheng di, da huang, mang
xiao
|
enrich yin, generate
fluids, drain heat,
unblock bowels
|
Yangming organ-stage
disorders w/ Yin xu:
severe constipation
|
|
Da Huang Mu Dan
Tang
|
da huang, mang xiao
(dissolve), mu dan pi, tao
ren, dong gua ren
|
drain heat, break up
bld stasis, disperse
clumping, reduce
swelling
|
early-stage intestinal
abscess, excess
interior clumping of heat & blood: low abd
pain (usually on right), < w/ pressure,
rebound tenderness, guarding of abd
muscles, thin yellow greasy coat, slippery
rapid pulse; maybe pain in groin, > w/
flexing hip & knee (usually right), < w/
extending hip; maybe mass in lower left
quadrant, irreg intermittent fever, then
chills, sweats
|
|
Liang Ge San
Cool the Diaphragm
|
da huang, mang xiao, gan
cao, huang qin, zhi zi, lian
qiao, bo he, dan zhu ye
|
drain fire & unblock
bowels by clearing
upper jiao & draining
middle jiao
|
formed or accumulated heat
in mid jiao &
unformed or blazing heat in upper jiao:
sens of heat & irritability in chest & abd,
delirious speech (severe case), thirst,
flushed face, red lips, mouth & tongue
sores, sore throat, swollen tongue, red eyes,
nosebleed, constip, dark scant urine, red
tongue body or edges w/ dry yellow or
white coat, rapid, maybe slippery pulse
|
|
Huang Long Tang
Yellow Dragon
|
da huang, mang xiao, zhi
shi, hou po, ren shen, dang
gui, jie geng, sheng jiang,
da zao, gan cao
|
purge interior heat,
support normal Qi
|
excess heat in interior w/
Qi & bld xu &
fluid injury: green watery foul diarrhea, abd
pain < w/ pressure, fever, thirst, dry tongue
& mouth, SOB, lethargy, delirious speech,
dry yellow or black coat, xu pulse; maybe
constipation or firm, painful abd distention,
in severe case - hallucinations, grabbing at
air, frigid, contracted extremities
|
|
Xin Jia Huang Long
Tang
Newly Augmented
Yellow Dragon
|
sheng di, gan cao, ren shen,
da huang, mang xiao, xuan
shen, mai men dong, dang
gui, hai shen
|
enrich yin, augment
Qi, drain heat, purge
|
heat accumulation in
interior w/ Qi & Yin
xu: constipation, abdominal distention,
hardness, fullness, fatigue, SOB, dry mouth
& throat, cracked lips, dry yellow or black
coat w/ cracks. weaker than above to
purge, more focus on nourishing yin, Qi, &
fluids.
|
|
Moisten Intestines
& Unblock Bowels
|
|
Ma Zi Ren Wan
|
huo ma ren, xing ren, bai
shao, zhi shi, hou po, da
huang
|
moisten intestines,
drain heat, promote
movement of Qi,
unblock bowels
|
heat-induced dryness in St
& intestines:
constipation w/ hard
stool,
difficult to
expel, frequent
urination, dry yellow coat,
submerged, rapid or floating, choppy pulse; good
for elderly, blood xu; St
heat hinders
Sp's fcn to distribute water properly - all is
urinated out
|
|
Run Chang Wan
Moisten the
Intestines
|
huo ma ren, tao ren, dang
gui, sheng di, zhi ke
|
moisten intestines,
unblock bowels
|
constipation due to dry
intestines (common
in elderly & debilitated): constip, lusterless
skin & nails, dry mouth w/ unquenchable
thirst, dry tongue, thin pulse
|
|
Ji Chuan Jian Benefit
the River
(Flow)
|
rou cong rong, dang gui,
niu xi, ze xie, zhi ke, sheng
ma
|
warm kidneys,
moisten intestines,
unblock bowels
|
constipation due to kidney yang &
Qi xu:
constipation, clear & copious
urine, low
back pain, cold sensation in
back
|
|
Warm the Yang and Purge
Accumulation
|
|
Da Huang Fu Zi
Tang
|
fu zi (3 pcs), da huang, xi
xin
|
warm interior,
disperse cold,
unblock bowels,
allev pain
|
cold
accum in interior
(obstructs flow of Qi
in yang organs): abd pain, constipation,
hypochondriac pain, chills, low-grade
fever, cold hands & feet, greasy tongue
coat, submerged tight wiry pulse
|
|
Wen Pi Tang
Warm the Spleen
|
da huang (short cook), ren
shen, gan cao, gan jiang, fu
zi (9 g fu zi)
|
warm & tonify Sp
yang, purge cold
accumulation
|
Sp cold
from Yang/Qi xu,
w/ accum of
cold: constipation,
abdominal pain, cold
extremities, submerged wiry pulse; also for
chronic pus-and-blood dysenteric disorders
assoc w/ this pattern
|
|
Harmonize
Shaoyang-Stage Disorders
|
|
Xiao Chai Hu Tang
Minor Bupleurum
|
chai hu, huang qin, ban xia,
sheng jiang, ren shen, zhi
gan cao, da zao
|
harmonize and
release shaoyang-stage disorders
|
shaoyang stage (i.e. half
int/half exterior):
alternating fever & chills, dry throat, bitter
or sour taste, dizziness, irritability,
sensation of fullness in chest &
hypochondria (oft difficulty taking deep
breath), heartburn, nausea, vomiting,
reduced appetite, thin white coat, wiry
pulse; Dr. Li: 3 NOs for shaoyang stage:
don't diaphorese, purge, or induce
vomiting. Major Kampo formula (Sho
Saiko To) for hepatitis. Not to be combined
with Interferon therapy
|
|
Da Chai Hu Tang
|
chai hu, huang qin, zhi shi,
da huang, bai shao, ban
xia, sheng jiang, da zao
|
above + purge
interior clumping due
to heat
|
shaoyang + yangming: alt
fever & chills,
fullness of chest & hypochondria (w/ or
without pain), bitter taste, nausea,
continuous vomiting, hard focal distention
or fullness & pain in epigast, burning
diarrhea or no bowel mov'ts, despondency,
sl irritability, yellow coat, wiry forceful
pulse; good
for Lv Qi stag + overweight
|
|
Hao Qin Qing Dan
Tang
|
qing hao, huang qin, zhu
ru, zhi ke, chen pi, ban xia,
chi fu ling, bi yu san (hua
shi, gan cao, qing dai
6:1:1)
contains Er Chen Tang
(ban xia, chen pi, fu ling,
gan cao), which, with zhi
shi (zhi ke here) and zhu ru
comprises Wen Dan Tang
|
clear GB heat,
harmonize St Qi,
transform phlegm
|
shaoyang
+ more heat,
(more heat than
damp); D-H and turbid phlegm in shaoyang
channels, battling ying & wei Qi to
penetrate deeper into body: mild chills
alternating w/ pronounced fever, bitter
taste, stifling sens in chest, spitting up bitter
or sour fluid (or vomiting yellow brackish
fluid, or in svr case, dry heaving), thirst
without desire to drink, distention & pain in
hypochondria, red tongue, thick greasy coat
(yellow or white), soggy, wiry, or slippery
pulse on right, wiry on left
|
|
Da Yuan Yin
Reach the
Membrane Source
|
cao guo, hou po, bing lang,
huang qin, zhi mu, bai
shao, gan cao
|
spread the Qi,
penetrate to the
membrane source
|
half int/half exterior
disorder - pathogen in
membrane source (mo yuan): strong alt
fvr/chills 1-3x/day at irreg intervals, stifling
sens in chest, naus or vomit, headache,
irritability, deep red tongue edges, thick,
foul, pasty coat, wiry, rapid pulse
|
|
Chai Hu Da Yuan
Yin
Bupleurum
Decoction to Reach
the Membrane
Source
|
chai hu, huang qin, jie
geng, hou po, cao guo,
qing pi, bing lang, gan cao,
lian geng/he ye
|
transform phlegm &
damp, vent
conditions at the
level of the
membrane source
|
shaoyang
+ damp
(damp more than heat);
phlegm-damp obstructing the membrane
source: focal distention & fullness in chest
& epigastrium, irritability, dizziness,
vertigo, pasty sens in mouth, cough w/
difficult to expectorate sputum, intermittent
fever & chills, thick, foul, pasty coat, wiry,
slippery pulse; like above formula +
shaoyang sx; Dr. Li considers membrane
source=shaoyang
|
|
Regulate and
Harmonize the Liver and Spleen
|
|
Si Ni San
Frigid Extremities
|
chai hu, zhi shi, bai shao,
zhi gan cao
|
vent pathogenic
influences, release
constraint, spread Lv
Qi, regulate Sp
|
Lv
invading Sp, both
excess, usually hx of
stress; yang- or hot-type
collapse (usu. due
to heat entering interior where it constrains
yang Qi): cold fingers, toes (body is warm),
maybe w/ sens of irritability & fullness in
chest & epig, red tongue, yellow coat, wiry
pulse; maybe abd pain &/or severe diarrhea
|
|
Chai Hu Shu Gan
San
Bupleurum Powder
to Spread the Liver
|
chen pi, chai hu, chuan
xiong, zhi ke, bai shao, zhi
gan cao, xiang fu
|
spread Lv Qi,
harmonize blood,
alleviate pain
|
Qi &
blood
stasis + Lv attacking Sp,
without deficiency;
constraint & clumping
of Lv Qi w/ hypochondriac pain, alternating
fever & chills; also for PMS or
dysmenorrhea
|
|
Xiao Yao San
Rambling Powder
|
chai hu, dang gui, bai shao,
bai zhu, fu ling, zhi gan
cao
|
spread Lv Qi,
strengthen Sp,
nourish blood
|
Lv
constraint with
blood xu, Sp Qi xu,
Lv/Sp disharmony (both xu):
hypochondriac pain, headache, vertigo,
bitter taste, dry mouth & throat, fatigue,
reduced appetite, pale-red tongue, wiry xu
pulse; maybe alt fvr/chills, irreg
menstruation, distended breasts
|
|
Jia Wei Xiao Yao
San
Augmented
Rambling Powder
|
above + mu dan pi, zhi zi
|
above + clear heat
|
above + more
heat:
irritability, anger,
spontaneous sweats, night sweats,
headache, dry eyes & mouth, irregular
periods, lower abdominal pain, perhaps a
heavy sens (Qi stag), painful urination
|
|
Tong Xie Yao Fang
Important
Formula
for Painful
Diarrhea
|
bai zhu, bai shao, chen pi,
fang feng (herbs are dry-fried to be easier on Sp)
|
spread Lv Qi, tonify
Sp
|
painful diarrhea, cramping
due to Lv/Sp
disharmony: Sp xu w/ Lv shi,
recurrent
borborygmus, abd pain, pain starts w/ urge
to defecate, stops after completion, thin
white coat, wiry & moderate or thin pulse
|
|
Ban Xia Xie Xin
Tang
Pinellia Decoction
to Drain the
Epigastrium
|
ban xia, gan jiang, huang
qin, huang lian, ren shen,
da zao, zhi gan cao
|
harmonize St,
descend rebel Qi,
disperse clumping,
elim focal distention
|
N/V/D;
often due to improper purging of an
exterior or half-ext/half-int condition in
patient w/ underlying St xu: epig focal
distention, full & tight w/ slight or no pain,
dry heaves or vomiting, borborygmus,
diarrhea, low appetite, thin yellow greasy
coat, wiry rapid pulse
|
|
Gently Disperse
& Moisten Dryness
|
|
Xing Su San
|
zi su ye, qian hu, xing ren,
jie geng, zhi ke, chen pi, fu
ling, ban xia, sheng jiang,
da zao, gan cao
|
gently disp cool-dryness,
disseminate
Lu Qi, transform
congested fluids
|
externally-contracted
cool-dryness
interfering w/ D&D of Lu (Lu Qi stag): sl
Headache, chills without sweats, cough
w/
watery sputum, stuffy nose,
dry throat, dry
white coat, wiry pulse
|
|
Sang Xing Tang
|
sang ye, zhi zi, dan dou
chi, xing ren, zhe bei mu,
sha shen, li pi (pear peel)
|
clear & disperse
warm-dryness
|
warm-dryness injuring the Lu
Qi at a
relatively superficial level: moderate fever,
headache, thirst, dry
hacking
cough
or one
w/ scanty, thick & sticky
sputum, red
tongue, thin dry white coat, floating rapid
pulse, esp on right side
|
|
Qing Zao Jiu Fei
Tang
Eliminate Dryness
& Rescue the Lungs
|
sang ye, shi gao, mai men
dong, e jiao, hei zhi ma,
xing ren, pi pa ye (honey
fried), ren shen, gan cao
|
clear dryness,
moisten Lu
|
warm-dryness attacks Lu
(severe) causing
rebellious Qi: headache, fever, hacking
cough, wheezing, dry & parched throat, dry
nasal passages, sens of
fullness in chest,
hypochondriac pain, irritability, thirst, dry
tongue without coat, deficient, big, rapid
pulse
|
|
Enrich Yin &
Moisten Dryness
|
|
Bai He Gu Jin Tang
Lily Bulb Decoction
to Preserve the
Metal
|
bai he, sheng di, shu di,
mai men dong, xuan shen,
chuan bei mu, jie geng,
dang gui, bai shao, gan cao
|
nourish yin, moisten
Lu, transform
phlegm, stop cough
|
internal
dryness of Lu
due to Lu/K yin xu: cough
w/ or without blood-streaked
sputum, wheezing, dry & sore throat, hot
palms & soles, night sweats, red tongue w/
little coat, thin & rapid pulse (typical yin
xu); includes tuberculosis
|
|
Bu Fei E Jiao Tang
Tonify the Lungs D.
w/ Ass Hide Gelatin
|
e jiao, ma dou ling, xing
ren, niu bang zi, geng mi,
zhi gan cao
|
nourish yin, tonify
Lu, control cough,
stop bleeding
|
Lu yin xu w/ vigorous heat
which disrupts
flow of Lu Qi: coughing, wheezing, dry &
parched throat, scanty or blood-streaked
sputum, red tongue, little coat, floating,
thin, rapid pulse
|
|
Yang Yin Qing Fei
Tang
Nourish the Yin
&
Clear the Lungs
|
sheng di, xuan shen, mai
men dong, bai shao (dry
fried), mu dan pi, chuan
bei mu, bo he, gan cao
|
nourish yin, clear Lu,
relieve toxicity
|
any kind
of yin xu
sore throat (w/ yin xu
T&P) including "white throat" or
diphtherial disorder, usu. in patient w/ yin
xu & interior clumping of heat who
contracts epidemic toxin: white curd-like
membrane in throat, difficult to scrape off,
swollen & sore throat, fever, dry nasal
passages, parched lips, raspy breathing like
wheezing, red & dry tongue, rapid, usu thin
pulse, maybe coughing
|
|
Mai Men Dong
Tang
|
mai men dong, ren shen,
geng mi, da zao, gan cao,
ban xia
|
benefit St, generate
fluids, descend
rebellious Qi
|
"Lu
atrophy" caused by yin
xu
heat from St
which rises in rebellion & scorches Lu Yin:
coughing & spitting of bubbly saliva,
wheezing, SOB, dry & uncomfortable
sensation in throat, dry mouth, dry red
tongue with little coat, xu rapid pulse
|
|
Zeng Ye Tang
Increase the Fluids
|
xuan shen, mai men dong,
sheng di
|
generate fluids,
moisten dryness,
unblock bowels
|
dry
intestines
due to fluid injury, from
warm-febrile dis or yin xu: constipation,
thirst, dry red tongue, thin & sl rapid or
weak & forceless pulse
|
|
Yu Ye Tang
Jade Fluid
|
shan yao, huang qi, zhi mu,
tian hua fen, ji nei jin, ge
gen, wu wei zi
|
augment Qi, generate
fluids, moisten
dryness, alleviate
thirst
|
Sp Qi xu
leads to Sp
yin xu and Sp is
unable to transport fluids thru body:
diabetes - thirst, hunger, copious frequent
urination; every herb in formula can reduce
blood sugar; wasting
& thirsting due to yin
xu - K xu, St dry, Qi too weak to spread the
fluids: excessive thirst, not quenched by
lots of fluids, freqnt, copious, or turbid
urine, lassitude, SOB, xu thin weak pulse
|
|
Promote Urination and
Drain Dampness
|
|
Wu Ling San
Five Ingredient
Powder with Poria
|
ze xie, fu ling, zhu ling,
bai
zhu, gui zhi
|
promote urination,
drain damp,
strengthen Sp, warm
yang, promote
transforming fcns of
Qi
|
1. water accum - taiyang
stage penetrated to
BL organ: Headache, fever, irritability,
strong thirst but with vomiting after
drinking, urinary difficulty, floating pulse 2. Sp xu - earth fails to
transport water:
edema, gen'lized sens of heaviness,
diarrhea, urinary difficulty, possible vomit
& diarrhea due to sudden turmoil disorder 3. retention of
congested fluids in lower
jiao: throbbing pulsations just below navel,
vomiting frothy saliva, vertigo, SOB,
coughing; cholera
|
|
Zhu Ling Tang
|
zhu ling, fu ling, ze xie,
hua shi, e jiao
|
promote urination,
clear heat, nourish
yin
|
urinary difficulty with
fever, thirst, maybe
diarrhea, cough, nausea, irritability,
insomnia "” injury from cold entering
yangming or shaoyin stage where it
transforms into heat
|
|
Wu Pi San
Five Peel Powder
|
sang bai pi, sheng jiang pi,
fu ling pi, chen pi, da fu pi
|
resolve damp, reduce
edema, regulate Qi,
strengthen Sp
|
gen'lized edema
with sens of heaviness,
distention, & fullness in epigastrium & abd,
labored & heavy breathing, urinary
difficulty, white greasy coat, submerged &
moderate pulse
|
|
Fang Ji Huang Qi
Tang
|
huang qi, (han) fang ji, bai
zhu, zhi gan cao, sheng
jiang, da zao
|
augment Qi,
strengthen Sp,
promote urination,
reduce edema
|
W-D or wind-edema caused by
deficiency
in exterior & invasion of W & D: sweating,
heavy sens in body, superficial edema,
urinary difficulty, pale tongue, white coat,
floating pulse
|
|
Transform Damp
Turbidity
|
|
Ping Wei San
Calm the Stomach
|
cang zhu, hou po, chen pi,
zhi gan cao
|
dry damp, improve
Sp's transporting fcn,
promote Qi
circulation,
harmonize St
|
damp-cold stagnating in Sp
& St: distention
& fullness in epigastrium & abd, loss of
taste & appetite, heavy sens in limbs, loose
stool or diarrhea, easily fatigued, more
desire ro sleep, nausea, vomiting, belching,
acid regurg, swollen tongue, thick white
greasy coat, moderate or slippery pulse
|
|
Huo Xiang Zheng
Qi San
Agastache Pill to
Rectify the Qi
|
huo xiang, hou po, chen pi,
zi su ye, bai zhi, ban xia,
da fu pi, bai zhu, fu ling,
jie geng, zhi gan cao, sheng
jiang, da zao
|
release exterior,
transform damp,
regulate Qi,
harmonize middle
jiao
|
Dr. Li: same indications as
Ping Wei San +
maybe exterior C; externally contracted W-C with concurrent internal
injury due to
stagnation: fever & chills, headache, sens
of fullness & stifling oppression in chest,
pain in epigastrium & abdomen, N/V/D,
loss of taste, white greasy coat, moderate
soggy pulse
|
|
Clear Damp Heat
|
|
San Ren Tang
Three Nut
Decoction
|
xing ren, bai dou kou, yi yi
ren, hou po, ban xia, tong
cao, dan zhu ye, hua shi
|
disseminate Qi,
facilitate the Qi
mechanisms, clear D-H
|
whole
body
gen'lized dampness (damp
more than heat); first 3 ingredients treat
upper, middle, and lower jiao, respectively.
early stage D-H or summerheat invasion
with damp predominant, pathogenic
influences lodged in Wei & Qi levels:
headache, chills,
afternoon
fever, heavy
sens in body, gen'lized pain, pale yellow
face, stifling
sens in chest, loss of
appetite,
no thirst, white coat, wiry thin & soggy
pulse; pattern oft mistreated
by releasing
exterior or purging or tonifying yin
|
|
Hou Po Xia Ling
Tang
|
huo xiang, hou po, ban xia,
fu ling, xing ren, yi yi ren,
bai dou kou, zhu ling, dan
dou chi, ze xie
|
release exterior,
transform dampness
|
compared to above formula,
this one is
stronger at resolving damp and releasing
exterior, weaker at clearing heat; mainly for
early stage damp-heat disorders with
distinct exterior signs: fever, chills,
lassitude, stifling sens in chest, pasty sens
in mouth, thin white coat, moderate soggy
pulse
|
|
Gan Lu Xiao Du
Dan
Sweet Dew Special
Pill to Eliminate
Toxin
|
lian qiao, huang qin, bo he,
she gan, chuan bei mu, hua
shi, mu tong, yin chen hao,
huo xiang, shi chang pu,
bai dou kou
|
resolve damp,
transform turbidity,
clear heat, relieve
toxicity
|
early stage D-H invasion or
seasonal
epidemic disorder: fever, achy limbs,
lethargy, swollen throat, stifling sens in
chest, abd distention, dark scanty urine,
white greasy or yellow dry coat, soggy
rapid pulse' maybe vomiting, diarrhea,
jaundice, or unremitting fever
|
|
Lian Po Yin
|
huang lian, hou po, zhi zi,
dan dou chi, shi chang pu,
ban xia, lu gen
|
clear heat, transform
damp, regulate Qi,
harmonize middle
jiao
|
aggregation of D-H
smoldering in body -
sudden turmoil disorder: simultaneous
vomiting & diarrhea, focal distention &
stifling sens in chest & epig, dark, scanty
urine, yellow greasy coat
|
|
Yin Chen Hao Tang
|
yin chen hao, zhi zi, da
huang
|
clear heat, resolve
damp, reduce
jaundice
|
yang-type/D-H
jaundice
due to damp &
stagnant heat accumulating in interior:
whole body jaundice - color
like
tangerine,
slight abd distention, urinary difficulty,
thirst (with ability to take only sips), yellow
greasy coat, slippery rapid pulse
|
|
Yin Chen Si Ni
Tang
Yin Chen for Frigid
Extremities
|
yin chen hao, pao jiang
(quick fried ginger), fu zi,
gan cao
|
warm yang, resolve
dampness, reduce
jaundice
|
yin-type
jaundice -
dark yellow/green; C-D,
more K Yang xu: dull complexion with
dark yellow sheen, low appetite, lethargy,
frigid extremities, submerged thin weak
pulse, tongue usually purple; much more
difficult to treat than yang-type. oft
accompanied by stones, sometimes cancer
|
|
Zhong Man Fen
Xiao Wan
Separate &
Reduce
Fullness in the
Middle
|
hou po, zhi shi, huang qin,
huang lian, zhi mu (last
four dry fried), jiang
huang, gan jiang, ban xia,
ze xie, zhu ling, fu ling, bai
zhu, ren shen, zhi gan cao,
chen pi, sha ren
|
strengthen Sp,
regulate Qi, drain
heat, resolve
dampness
|
drum-like abd distention due
to heat,
firmness with sens of fullness & burning
pain in epigastrium & abdomen, irritability,
fever, bitter taste, dark yellow urine,
constipation or foul diarrhea, yellow greasy
coat, wiry rapid pulse
|
|
Ba Zheng San Eight-Herb
Powder
for Rectification
|
mu tong, hua shi, che qian
zi, qu mai, bian xu, zhi zi,
da huang (treated), deng
xin cao, gan cao
|
clear heat, promote
urination, unblock
painful urinary
dysfcn
|
hot or bloody painful urinary dysfcn
due to
clumping of D-H in lower jiao: dark turbid
scanty difficult & painful urination, dry
mouth & throat, yellow greasy coat,
slippery rapid pulse, maybe urinary
retention & lower abdominal distention &
pain; patient
must drink lots water
|
|
Shao Yao Tang
|
bai shao, dang gui, gan
cao, mu xiang, bing lang,
huang lian, huang qin, da
huang, rou gui
|
regulate & harmonize
Qi & blood, clear
heat, relieve toxicity
|
D--H in intestines causes Qi
& blood stag:
abd pain, cramping,
tenesmus, difficulty
defecating, diarrhea with equal
amounts of
pus & blood, burning
anus,
dark scanty
urine, greasy yellow coat, rapid pulse
|
|
Er Miao San
Two Marvel
(San Miao San, Si
Miao San - Three
&
Four Marvel)
|
huang bai, cang zhu
San Miao San: add niu xi
Si Miao San: add niu xi
and yi yi ren
|
clear heat, dry damp
|
lower
jiao D-H:
scanty yellow urine, yellow
greasy coat + wide variety of other
complaints, such as pain in low back or
extremities (especially sinews or bones);
weakness or atrophy of lower extremities;
red hot swollen painful feet or knees; thick
yellow foul vaginal discharge; sores on
lower extremities
|
|
Warm and Transform
Water and Dampness
|
|
Zhen Wu Tang
True Warrior
|
fu zi, bai zhu, fu ling,
sheng jiang, bai shao
|
warm the yang,
promote urination
|
edema
with pale
tongue, weak pulse, Sp/K
Yang xu, &/or taiyang disease with excess
sweating exhausts Yang Qi;
externally
contracted disorder with sweating doesn't
reduce the fever, palps in epig, dizziness,
shivering/trembling with unsteady
appearance, abd pain < with cold, urin
difficulty, deep ache & heavy in
extremities, maybe gen'lized edema, loose
stools, heavy sens in head, cough, vomit,
pale or dark swollen tongue with tooth
marks, white slippery coat, deep thin
forceless pulse; K yang xu (+ maybe Sp
yang xu), retention of pathogenic water
|
|
Shi Pi Yin
Bolster the Spleen
|
fu zi, gan jiang, fu ling,
bai
zhu, mu gua, hou po, mu
xiang, da fu pi, cao guo,
zhi gan cao, sheng jiang, da
zao
|
warm yang,
strengthen Sp,
promote Qi
circulation , promote
urination
|
yin-type edema due to Sp/K
yang xu - more
focus on Sp - :
gen'lized edema, more
severe below waist, cold extrems, chest &
abd fullness & distention, body feels heavy,
low appetite & no thirst, scant urine, semi-liquid unformed
stool, thick greasy coat,
deep slow or deep thin pulse
|
|
Bei Xie Fen Qing
Yin
Bei Xie D. to
Separate the Clear
|
bei xie, yi zhi ren, wu yao,
shi chang pu (source text:
take with small amt of salt)
|
warm kidneys, drain
damp, trans-form &
separate turbid from
clear
|
cloudy painful urinary
dysfcn due to cold
from xu in lower jiao causing turbid
dampness to pour downward: frequent
urination with cloudy dense milky (like rice
water) or greasy urine
|
|
Ji Ming San Powder
to Take at
Cock's Crow
|
bing lang, mu gua, wu zhu
yu, chen pi, zi su ye, jie
geng, sheng jiang
|
promote Qi
circulation, descend
turbidity, transform
damp-cold
|
damp-cold settling in legs
& feet where it
obstructs channels & interrupts smooth
flow of Qi & blood: heavy & weak feet &
calves with difficulty walking; maybe
numbness, cold, pain, or ascending spasms;
in severe cases, may be stifling sens in
chest & nausea
|
|
Expel Wind-Dampness
|
|
Qiang Huo Sheng
Shi Tang Notopterygium
Decoction to
Overcome
Dampness
|
qiang huo, du huo, gao
ben, fang feng, chuan
xiong, man jing zi, zhi gan
cao
|
expel wind,
overcome dampness
|
W-D in
superficial
aspects of body, exterior
& muscle levels: heavy & painful head,
gen'lize sens of heaviness, back or
gen'lized pain, difficulty
rotating or
bending trunk, painful
joints
(shoulders,
knees, elbows, etc) difficult
to move, mild
fever, chills, white coat, floating pulse
|
|
Juan Bi Tang Remove
Painful
Obstruction
|
qiang huo, jiang huang,
dang gui, huang qi (honey
fried), chi shao, fang feng,
zhi gan cao
+ sheng jiang
|
tonify & harmonize
Wei & Ying Qi,
dispel wind,
overcome dampness
|
painful
obstruction
due to W-C-D with
concurrent Qi & blood xu;
more focus on
tonifying & on the upper body than /Qiang
Huo Sheng Shi Tang. this one more for
chronic, that one more for acute; gen'lized
heaviness, stiff neck, shoulders, upper back,
numb extrems, hard to move
|
|
Juan Bi Tang
Remove Painful
Obstruction
|
qiang huo, du huo, qin jiao,
sang zhi, hai feng teng,
dang gui, chuan xiong, ru
xiang, mu xiang, gui zhi,
zhi gan cao
|
remove W-D,
alleviate painful
obstruction
|
local obstruction of Qi from W-C-D
-
chronic Qi & blood stagnation:
joint pain <
with cold, > with warmth, maybe with sens
of heaviness & numbness in limbs, thick
white coat, slow, possibly slippery pulse; good
for: cold Bi, chronic arthritis, gout,
shoulder pain, patient in cast
|
|
Gui Zhi Shao Yao
Zhi Mu Tang
|
gui zhi, ma huang, fu zi,
zhi mu, bai shao, bai zhu,
fang feng, sheng jiang, gan
cao
|
unblock flow of yang
Qi, promote
circulation (in areas
with painful
obstructn), dispel
wind, overcome
damp
|
recurrent W-C-D painful
obstruction in
which localized constraint generates heat:
swollen painful joints (esp of lower
extremities) that are warm to the touch &
worsen at night, reduced ROM in affected
joints, chills, no sweats, weight loss,
Headache, dizziness, white greasy coat,
wiry slippery pulse
|
|
Xuan Bi Tang Disband Painful
Obstruction
|
fang ji (usu. guang), xing
ren, yi yi ren, can sha,, ban
xia, lian qiao, zhi zi, hua
shi, chi xiao dou
|
clear & resolve D-H,
unblock channels,
disband painful
obstruction
|
painful obstruction due to
containment of
D-H in channels: heat & pain in joints,
reduced mobility, fever & shaking chills,
lusterless yellow complexion, scanty dark
urine, grey or yellow greasy tongue coat
|
|
Du Huo Ji Sheng
Tang
|
du huo, xi xin, fang feng,
qin jiao, sang ji sheng (xu
duan oft substituted), du
zhong, niu xi, rou gui, dang
gui, chuan xiong, sheng di,
bai shao, ren shen, fu ling,
zhi gan cao
|
expel W-D, disperse
painful obstruction,
tonify deficiency
|
painful
obstruction
with Lv & K deficiency:
heavy & painful sens at fixed locations in
low back & lower extremities with
weakness, stiffness, aversion to cold,
attraction to warmth, palps, SOB, pale
tongue, white coat, thin weak slow pulse,
maybe paresthesias or numbness; focuses
more on lower
body; oft used for elderly
|
|
Warm the Channels
& Disperse Cold
|
|
Dang Gui Si Ni
Tang
Dang Gui Decoction
for Frigid
Extremities
|
dang gui, bai shao, gui zhi,
xi xin, zhi gan cao, da zao,
mu tong
|
warm channels,
disperse cold,
nourish blood,
unblock blood
vessels
|
cold in channels with
underlying blood xu:
long-standing cold hands & feet that are
both cold to the touch & feel very cold to
the patient, pale tongue with white coat,
submerged thin pulse or one that is so thin
that it is almost imperceptible
|
|
Yang He Tang Yang-Heartening
Decoction
|
shu di, lu jiao jiao, rou
gui
or gui zhi, pao jiang (quick
fried ginger), bai jie zi, ma
huang, gan cao
|
warm yang, tonify
blood, disperse cold,
unblock areas of
stagnation
|
yin-type
localized
swelling: localized
painful swellings without heads that blend
into surrounding tissue & do not affect
texture or color of skin & are not hot to
touch, no thirst, very pale tongue,
submerged thin forceless pulse
|
|
Warm the Middle
& Dispel Cold
|
|
Li Zhong Wan
Regulate the Middle
|
gan jiang, ren shen, bai
zhu, zhi gan cao
|
warm middle burner,
strengthen Sp & St
|
middle burner cold from xu
(yang xu):
diarrhea with watery stool, nausea,
vomiting, no particular thirst, loss of
appetite, abd pain, pale tongue, white coat,
submerged thin pulse
|
|
Fu Zi Li Zhong
Wan
Regulate the Middle
(with Fu Zi)
|
fu zi, gan jiang, ren shen,
bai zhu, zhi gan cao
|
warm middle burner,
strengthen Sp & St,
warm yang
|
above with more pronounced
yang
deficiency: cold body, diarrhea, fullness
and pain of the abdomen and epigastrium -
better w/ pressure, cold extremities,
vomiting, chronic or recurrent mouth ulcers
due to empty-cold of the spleen and
stomach, slight sweating (rather cold), pale,
swollen, tooth-marked tongue, moist white
coating, hidden, slow, deep pulse. Farong
Zhang's main formula for hypothyroidism.
|
|
Wu Zhu Yu Tang
|
wu zhu yu, sheng jiang, ren
shen, da zao
|
warm & tonify Lv
&
St, direct rebel Qi
downward, stop
vomiting
|
1. cold from St xu: vomiting
immediately
after eating, indeterminate gnawing hunger,
acid regurg with or without epigastric pain 2. thought to be cold from
St & Lv xu: dry
heaves or spitting of clear fluids with
vertex Headache 3. cold attacking middle
jiao: vomiting & diarrhea with cold hands
& feet, agitation so severe that the patient
wants to die ALL CASES: tongue not
red, has white slippery coat, pulse thin &
slow or thin & wiry
|
|
Xiao Jian Zhong
Tang
Minor Construct
the Middle
|
yi tang (add at end), gui
zhi, bai shao, zhi gan cao,
sheng jiang, da zao
|
warm & tonify
middle jiao,
moderate spasmodic
abd pain
|
spasmodic abd pain due to
consumptive
deficiency: intermittent spasmodic abd
pain, > with warmth & pressure, lusterless
complexion, reduced appetite, pale tongue,
white coat, thin, wiry, moderate pulse,
maybe low-grade fever, palps, irritability,
cold & sore extremities, with nonspecific
discomfort, dry mouth & throat
|
|
Da Jian Zhong
Tang
Major Construct
the Middle
|
chuan jiao, gan jiang, ren
shen, yi tang (add)
|
warm & tonify
middle jiao xu,
descend rebel Qi,
alleviate pain
|
weakness & xu of
middle jiao yang (the
root), & yin or cold which is ascendant in
the interior (the branch): excruciating
epig
& abd pain
to
point that patient can't be
touched, strong sens of cold in epig, vomit
to point of inability to eat, white slippery
coat, thin & tight or slow & wiry (or, esp in
severe cases, hidden) pulse, maybe
borborygmus; ovarian
cyst,
appendicitis,
twisted intestines
|
|
Gan Cao Gan Jiang
Tang
|
zhi gan cao, gan jiang
|
warm Lungs,
strengthen St
|
Lu atrophy due to cold from
Lu & St xu,
preventing yang from reaching limbs: cold
extremities, absence of thirst, dry throat,
excessive salivation, spitting up clear fluid,
no cough, irritability, dizziness, frequent
urination, pale moist tongue, no coat, slow,
frail or submerged pulse
|
|
Rescue Devastated Yang
|
|
Si Ni Tang
Frigid Extremities
|
fu zi, gan jiang, zhi gan cao
sometimes ren shen
included (esp. Korean
white)
|
rescue devastated
yang, warm middle
jiao, stop diarrhea
|
shaoyin/kidney yang xu with
internal cold:
extremely cold extremities, aversion to
cold, sleeping with knees drawn up,
lethargic state with constant desire to sleep,
vomiting, diarrhea with undigested food,
abdominal pain & cold, no thirst, pale
tongue with white slippery coat, submerged
thin or faint pulse; may also result from
excessive diaphoresis of a taiyang disorder; patient
may be near death
|
|
Shen Fu Tang
|
ren shen 12g, fu zi 9g, da
zao, sheng jiang
|
restore yang, strongly
tonify source Qi,
rescue Qi from
collapse due to
devastated yang
|
yang xu with severe
deficiency of source Qi
& sudden collapse of yang Qi: cold
extremities, sweating, weak breathing,
SOB, dizziness, extremely pale
complexion, pale tongue, faint pulse that is
almost imperceptible
|
|
Tonify the Qi
|
|
Si Jun Zi Tang
Four Gentlemen
|
ren shen, bai zhu, fu ling,
zhi gan cao
|
tonify Qi, strengthen
Sp
|
classic Sp Qi xu: pallid
complexion, low &
soft voice, reduced appetite, loose stools,
weakness in limbs, pale tongue, thin &/or
frail pulse
|
|
Liu Jun Zi Tang
Six Gentlemen
|
above + chen pi, ban xia
|
+ transform phlegm,
stop vomiting
|
Sp Qi xu + phlegm
|
|
Xiang Sha Liu Jun
Zi Tang
|
above + mu xiang, sha ren
|
+ regulate Qi,
alleviate pain
|
Sp/St xu with damp-cold
stagnating in
middle jiao - poor appetite, full quickly,
burps, abd pain/distn
|
|
Shen Ling Bai Zhu
San
|
ren shen, bai zhu, fu ling,
zhi gan cao, shan yao, bai
bian dou, lian zi, yi yi ren,
sha ren, jie geng (a
variation adds chen pi)
|
augment Qi,
strengthen Sp, leach
out dampness, stop
diarrhea
|
Sp
(& Lu) xu
leading to internally-generated dampness:
loose stools or
diarrhea, reduced appetite, weakness of
extremities, weight loss, distention &
stifling sensation in chest & epigastrium,
pallid & wan complexion, pale tongue,
white coat, thin, moderate, or xu, moderate
pulse, maybe vomiting
|
|
Bu Zhong Yi Qi
Tang
Tonify the Middle
& Augment the Qi
|
huang qi, ren shen, bai zhu,
zhi gan cao, dang gui, chen
pi, sheng ma, chai hu
|
tonify Qi of middle
jiao, raise sunken
yang
|
Sp/St Qi xu leading to
sunken yang:
intermittent fever (< with exertion),
spontaneous sweats, aversion to cold, thirst
for warm, SOB, laconic speech, tendency to
curl up, weak limbs, shiny pale face, loose
watery stools, pale tongue with thin white
coat, flooding xu pulse (at least at Sp
position); very warm, may cause mouth
sores (add niu bang zi, lian qiao) or
constipation (add bai shao); also for chronic
bleeding; for severe Headache & muscle
cramping, shoulders
(xu stagnation), add
fang feng, xi xin
|
|
Yi Qi Cong Ming
Tang
Augment the Qi and
Increase Acuity
|
bai shao, huang bai, huang
qi, ren shen, gan cao, sheng
ma, ge gen, man jing zi
|
tonifies Spleen Qi,
raises central Qi,
improves hearing and
vision
|
long-term deficiency of the
middle burner
Qi that results in obstructive visual
disorders, tinnitus, cataract, chronic visual
disorders, poor hearing, pterygium,
diarrhea, pain of the abdomen, poor
appetite
|
|
Sheng Mai San
Generate the Pulse
|
ren shen, mai men dong,
wu wei zi
|
augment Qi, generate
fluids, preserve Yin,
stop excessive sweats
|
Qi & Yin xu,
primarily of Lu: chronic
cough with sparse sputum that's difficult to
expectorate, SOB, spontaneous sweats, dry
mouth & tongue, pale red tongue, dry thin
coat, xu, rapid or thin pulse
|
|
Bu Fei Tang
Tonify the Lungs
|
ren shen, huang qi, shu di,
wu wei zi, zi wan, sang bai
pi
|
augment Qi, stabilize
exterior
|
Lu Qi xu: SOB, spontaneous
sweats,
occasional chills & fvrishness, cough,
wheezing, pale tongue, frail or xu & large
pulse
|
|
Ren Shen Ge Jie
San
|
ge jie (1 pair), ren shen,
fu
ling, sang bai pi, xing ren,
chuan bei mu, zhi mu, zhi
gan cao
|
tonify Qi, clear heat,
transform phlegm,
stop cough &
wheezing
|
Lu Qi xu with heat in Lu:
chronic cough &
wheezing, thick yellow sputum, coughing
of pus & blood, sens of heat & irritability in
chest, facial edema, gradual emaciation,
purple tongue, thin white or greasy thin
yellow coat, floating xu pulse, esp at cun
position
|
|
Nourish the Blood
|
|
Si Wu Tang
Four Substance
|
shu di, bai shao, dang gui,
chuan xiong
|
nourish blood,
regulate Lv
|
blood xu, primarily of Lv:
dizziness,
blurred vision, lusterless complexion &
nails, gen'lized muscle tension, irreg
menstruation with little flow or
amenorrhea, periumbilical & lower abd
pain, pale thin tongue, thin & wiry or thin
& choppy pulse; also for menorrhagia, hard
abd masses with recurrent pain, restless
fetus disorder, lochioschesis with a firm &
painful abdomen & sporadic fever & chills;
during pregnancy, for bleeding, ass e jiao,
ai ye, zhi gan cao, careful with movers
|
|
Tao Hong Si Wu
Tang
|
above + tao ren, hong hua
|
+ invigorate blood,
regulate menstruation
|
blood xu & blood
stasis: shortened
menstrual cycle with copious bleeding of
dark purple, sticky blood with or without
clots, also when menstruation accompanied
by abd pain & distention
|
|
Dang Gui Shao Yao
San
|
dang gui, bai shao, fu ling,
bai zhu, ze xie, chuan
xiong
|
nourish Lv blood,
spread Lv Qi,
strengthen Sp,
resolve dampness
|
Lv/Sp disharmony: continuous
cramping
pain in abdomen that is not severe, urinary
difficulty, slight edema (primarily of lower
limbs); this pattern usually occurs during
pregnancy
|
|
Shao Yao Gan Cao
Tang
|
bai shao, zhi gan cao
|
soften Lv, moderate
painful spasms,
alleviate pain
|
irritability, chills, calf
spasms, lack of
tongue coat, maybe cramps in hands or
abdominal pain. originally used for thin
women with long-standing bld xu who
develop problems during pregnancy
today used for any pain in
calves with
blood xu or injury to fluids
|
|
Dang Gui Sheng
Jiang Yang Rou
Tang
|
dang gui, sheng jiang, yang
rou (mutton [48g])
|
warm interior,
nourish blood,
alleviate pain
|
interior xu with cold blood:
postpartum abd
pain, cold abd hernial pain, spasmodic pain
in flanks; pain better with pressure and
warmth; pulse submerged, wiry, forceless
|
|
Tonify Qi &
Blood
|
|
Dang Gui Bu Xue
Tang
Dang Gui Decoction
to Nourish Blood
|
huang qi, dang gui (30g, 6g
respectively)
|
tonify Qi, generate
blood
|
consumptive fatigue - blood
xu caused by
injury to source Qi: hot sensation in
muscles, red face, irritability, thirst for
warm, pale tongue, flooding large & xu
pulse, forceless when pressed hard; also for
fever & headache due to loss of blood
|
|
Gui Pi Tang
Restore the Spleen
|
ren shen, huang qi, bai zhu,
fu shen, suan zao ren, long
yan rou, mu xiang, zhi gan
cao, dang gui, (zhi) yuan
zhi, sheng jiang, da zao
|
augment Qi, tonify
blood, strengthen Sp,
nourish Ht
|
excessive deliberation for
long time or
obsessive behavior injures Sp & Ht leading
to this condition: forgetfulness, palpitations
(with or without anxiety), insomnia, dream-disturbed sleep, anxiety
& phobia,
feverishness, withdrawal, reduced appetite,
pallid & wan complexion, pale tongue, thin
white coat, thin frail pulse; chronic
bleeding syndromes may be part
of
presentation; women may experience early
periods with copious pale blood or
prolonged, almost continuous periods with
little flow
|
|
Zhi Gan Cao Tang
|
zhi gan cao, ren shen, gui
zhi, sheng di, mai men
dong, e jiao (dissolve), huo
ma ren, sheng jiang, da
zao, add a little rice wine at
end
|
augment Qi, nourish
blood, enrich yin,
restore pulse
|
Qi & bld xu
w/malnourished Ht: palps with
anxiety, irritability, insomnia, emaciation,
SOB, constipation, dry mouth & throat,
pale shiny tongue, pulse consistently
irregular, slow-irreg, or thin, faint, and
forceless
|
|
Ba Zhen Tang
Eight Treasure D.
|
ren shen, bai zhu, fu ling,
zhi gan cao, shu di, bai
shao, dang gui, chuan
xiong, sheng jiang, da zao
|
tonify & augment Qi
& blood
|
Qi & blood xu,
usually due to imbalance
caused by chronic disease or excessive
blood loss: pallid or sallow complexion,
palps with anxiety that may be continuous,
reduced appetite, SOB, laconic speech,
easily-fatigued extremities, light-headedness &/or vertigo,
pale tongue, white
coat, pulse either thin & frail or large, xu,
& without strength; add yi mu cao for irreg
menses, leukorrhea. . .
|
|
Shi Chuan Da Bu
Tang
All Inclusive Great
Tonifying Decoction
|
above plus rou gui, huang
qi
|
tonify Yin, Yang, Qi,
blood
|
coughing, reduced appetite,
spermatorrhea,
weak lower extrems, may include unhealing
sores, continuous spotting from uterine
bleeding; usually used for patient with
tendency towards cold
|
|
He Ren Yin
|
he shou wu, ren shen, dang
gui, chen pi, wei jiang
(roasted ginger) take 2-3
hrs pre-attack
|
tonify blood & Qi,
treat malarial
disorder
|
chronic, unremitting
malarial disorders
with wan complexion, emaciation, pale
tongue, moderate large deficient pulse;
slightest amt of exertion leads to an
exacerbation or intermittent fever & chills
|
|
Nourish &
Tonify Yin
|
|
Liu Wei Di Huang
Wan
Six Ingredient Pill
with Rehmannia
(Rehmannia Six)
|
shu di, shan zhu yu, shan
yao, fu ling, mu dan pi, ze
xie
|
enrich yin, nourish
kidneys
|
classic K & Lv yin
xu: sore & weak low
back, light-headedness, vertigo, tinnitus,
diminished hearing, night sweats,
spontaneous & nocturnal emissions, red
tongue, little coat, rapid thin pulse; maybe
other sx, such as hot palms & soles, chron
dry & sore throat, toothache, wasting &
thirsting
â–º for Lu Yin xu due to K yin
xu, wheezing
disorder, add wu wei zi (Du Qi Wan)
â–º for hearing loss due to
old age, add ci shi,
wu wei zi, shi chang pu (Er Long Zuo Ci
Wan)
|
|
Qi Ju Di Huang
Wan
|
Liu Wei Di Huang Wan +
gou qi zi, (bai) ju hua
|
|
all above + more Lv xu sx -
dry eyes, poor
vision, photophobia, tearing, painful eyes
|
|
Er Long Zuo Ci
Wan
|
Liu Wei Di Huand Wan +
chai hu, ci shi
|
|
tinnitus, deafness, or
Meniere's against a
background of K/Lv Yin deficiency / Liver
Yang rising. Also for dizziness and blurry
vision.
|
|
Zhi Bai Di huang
Wan
|
Liu Wei... + zhi mu, huang
bai
|
enrich Yin, nourish
kidneys, clear
deficiency heat
|
yin xu with vigorous fire,
consumptive
heat, or bone-steam: nitesweats, dry mouth
& tongue, large pulse only at chi; for
urinary difficulty, low back pain from low
jiao D-H with underlying K yin xu
|
|
Dang Gui Liu
Huang Wang
|
dang gui, sheng di, shu di,
huang qin, huang lian,
huang bai, huang qi. All
equal doses except 2x as
much huang qi.
|
Nourishes yin, drains
fire, stabilizes the
exterior, controls
sweating
|
stronger heat clearing and
Yin xu sweating
|
|
Zuo Gui Yin
Restore the Left
(Kidney)
|
shu di, shan yao, gou qi zi,
fu ling, shan zhu yu, zhi
gan cao
|
nourish yin, enrich
kidneys
|
true yin of K injured (thus
essence &
marrow depleted): low back soreness,
spontaneous emissions, night sweats, dry
mouth & throat, thirst, peeled shiny tongue,
thin rapid pulse
|
|
Zuo Gui Wan
Restore the Left
(Kidney)
|
shu di, shan yao, gou qi zi,
shan zhu yu, chuan niu xi,
tu si zi, lu jiao jiao, gui
(ban) jiao
|
nourish yin, tonify
kidneys, supplement
jing, benefit marrow
|
more
severe Yin xu;
K xu, esp marrow &
essence: light-headedness, vertigo, tinnitus,
sore & weak low back & legs, spontaneous
& nocturnal emissions, spontaneous &
night sweats, dry mouth & throat, thin rapid
pulse, for more severe cases than the above
formula
|
|
Da Bu Yin Wan
Great Tonify the
Yin
|
shu di, gui ban (deep
fried), huang bai (dry
fried), zhi mu (wine fried)
+ pig spine marrow
|
enrich yin, descend
fire
|
fire
rising due to
Lv/K yin xu: steaming
bone disorder, afternoon tidal fever,
nitesweats, spontaneous emissions,
irritability, sens of heat & pain in knees &
legs, sometimes with weakness, red tongue,
little coat, pulse rapid & forceful at chi
position; maybe coughing blood, constant
hunger
|
|
Hu Qian Wan
Hidden Tiger
|
huang bai, zhi mu (first
two wine fried), shu di, gui
ban (deep fried), bai shao, hu
gu, suo yang, gan jiang,
chen pi
|
enrich yin, descend
fire, strengthen
sinews & bones
|
atrophy disorder due to Lv
& K xu (blood
& jing): weakness of lower back & knees,
deterioration of sinews & bones with gen'l
reduction in fcn, wasting of muscles of legs
& feet, difficulty walking, red tongue, little
coat, thin frail pulse
|
|
Da Zao San
Great Creation
|
zi he che, gui ban (deep
fried), huang bai, du
zhong, niu xi, mai men
dong, tian men dong, sheng
di, ren shen
|
tonify kidneys, enrich
yin, drain heat,
anchor yang
|
kidney yin xu, xu fire
causes steaming
bones & burns Lu: steaming bone dis,
cough with sticky sputum difficult to
expectorate, emaciation, tinnitus, dizziness,
tidal fever, dry mouth, parched throat, five
hearts hot, night sweats
|
|
Yi Guan Jian
Linking Decoction
|
sheng di (enrich water to
nourish wood), gou qi zi,
sha shen (nourish earth to
balance wood), mai men
dong (clear metal - Lu H -
to ctrl wood), dang gui,
chuan lian zi
|
enrich yin, spread Lv
Qi
|
Lv Yin
xu with Lv Qi
stag:
depression,
irritability, thin pulse;
Lv/K yin xu with Qi
stagnation: hypochondriac & chest pain,
epig & abd distention, dry & parched throat
& mouth, acid regurg, red & dry tongue,
thin frail or deficient wiry pulse
|
|
Zhu Jing Wan Preserve
Vistas
|
tu si zi, shu di, che qian zi
|
tonify & nourish Lv
& K, enrich yin,
improve vision
|
Lv & K xu with some
dampness caused by
reduction in fluid metabolism: diminished
visual acuity & blurring, < with exertion, >
with rest, soreness & weakness of low back
& legs, thin frail pulse
|
|
Qi Bao Mei Ran
Dan Seven
Treasure Special
Pill for Beautiful
Whiskers
|
he shou wu (steam in hei
zhi ma), fu ling, niu xi,
dang gui, gou qi zi, tu si zi,
bu gu zhi (dry fry with hei
zhi ma)
|
enrich K yin, nourish
Lv blood
|
Lv/K xu: premature greying
of hair, hair
loss, loose teeth, spontaneous & nocturnal
emissions, sore-ness & weakness of low
back & knees
|
|
Er Zhi Wan
Two Ultimate
|
nu zhen zi (picked at
winter solstice), han lian
cao (picked at summer
solstice) equal doses
|
tonify & benefit Lv
& K
Jin:
also nourishes
Jing
|
Lv/K yin xu: weak &
sore low back &
knees, weak & atrophy of lower
extremities, dry & parched mouth & throat,
dizziness, blurry vision, insomnia, dream-disturbed sleep, spontaneous
emissions,
premature greying or loss of hair, red dry
tongue
|
|
Warm & Tonify
Yang
|
|
Jin Gui Shen Qi
Wan
Kidney Qi Pill from
the Golden Cabinet
|
shu di, shan zhu yu, shan
yao, fu zi, gui zhi, ze xie,
fu ling, mu dan pi
yin tonics:yang tonics::8:1
|
warm & tonify K
yang
|
classic K yang xu: low back
pain, weak
lower extremities, cold sens in lower half of
body, tense lower abd, pale swollen tongue,
thin white moist coat, empty or frail pulse
which is submerged & faint at proximal
position; may be irritable to point of having
difficulty lying down, breathes most
comfortably when leaned against
something; either urin. difficulty with
edema or excessive urination
|
|
You Gui Wan
Restore the Right
(K)
|
fu zi, rou gui, lu jiao
jiao,
shu di huang, shan zhu yu,
shan yao, gou qi zi, tu si zi,
du zhong, dang gui
|
warm & tonify K
yang, replenish
essence, tonify blood
Jin:
some say can
regulate reproductive
hormones
|
K yang xu &
secondary cold & xu of
middle jiao: exhaustion from long term
illness, aversion to cold, coolness of
extremities, impotence, spermatorrhea,
ache & weakness of low back & knees;
maybe infertility, loose stools (maybe with
undigested food), incontinence, edema of
lower extrems; more focus on Yang than
the above formula
|
|
Tu Si Zi Wan
|
tu si zi, lu rong, rou cong
rong, shan yao, fu zi, wu
yao, wu wei zi, sang piao
xiao, yi zhi ren, mu li
(calcined), ji nei jin take
with salted water
|
warm kidneys,
prevent abnormal
leakage
|
K Qi xu (also blood, jing)
with inability to
grasp essence: exhaustion, aversion to cold,
frail physique, dizziness, low back pain,
weakness of lower extremities, frequent
scanty urination with continuous dripping,
submerged thin pulse that is especially frail
at the chi position
|
|
Zan Yu Dan
Special Pill to Aid
Fertility
|
fu zi, rou gui, rou cong
rong, ba ji tian, yin yang
huo, she chuang zi, jiu zi,
xian mao, shan zhu yu, du
zhong, shu di, dang gui,
gou qi zi, bai zhu
|
warm & tonify
kidneys
|
waning of fire at ming men
& cold & xu of
essential Qi: impotence or infertility,
listlessness, dispiritedness, aching &
weakness of lower back, pale shiny
complexion, submerged thin pulse
|
|
Er Xian Tang
Two Immortal
|
xian mao, yin yang huo, ba
ji tian, huang bai, zhi mu,
dang gui
|
warm K yang, tonify
K jing, drain fire
from K, regulate
Chong & Ren
|
K yin & yang xu with
xu fire flaring: sx of
menopause including htn, menstrual
disturbance - amen, hot flashes, sweating,
nervousness, fatigue, lassitude, depression,
irritability, insomnia, palps, urinary
frequency; also for other chron disorders
with sx of K yin & yang xu & xu fire
flaring
|
|
Promote Movement of Qi
|
|
Yue Ju Wan
Escape Restraint
|
cang zhu, chuan xiong,
xiang fu, zhi zi, shen qu
|
promote movement
of Qi, release
constraint
|
mild constraint due to
stagnant Qi: focal
distention & stifling sens in chest & abd,
fixed pain in hypochondria, belching,
vomiting, acid regurg, mild cough with
much sputum, poor app, indigestion
|
|
Ban Xia Hou Po
Tang
|
ban xia, hou po, fu ling,
sheng jiang, zi su ye
|
promote movement
of Qi, dissipate
clumps, descend
rebel Qi, transform
phlegm
|
plum-pit sens (from
emotional upset due to
circumstances which the patient "cannot
swallow"), stifling sens in chest &
hypochondria, moist or greasy white coat,
wiry slow or wiry slippery pulse, maybe
coughing & vomiting; warm - NOT
for
plum pit with heat
or yin xu
Used in Kampo for depression
|
|
Gua Lou Xie Bai
Bai Jiu Tang
|
gua lou (ren), xie bai, bai
jiu (white wine)
|
unblock yang,
promote circulation
of Qi, expel phlegm
|
painful obstruction of chest
from failure of
yang in upper burner to be aroused: chest
pain which oft radiates to upper back,
wheezing, cough with much sputum, SOB,
thick greasy coat, pulse either submerged &
wiry or tight
|
|
Zhi Shi Gua Lou
Gui Zhi Tang
|
gua lou, xie bai, zhi shi,
hou po, gui zhi
|
unblock yang,
dissipate clumps,
expel phlegm,
descend Qi
(open chest, spread
Yang Qi)
|
Yang trapped in chest - angina
- pressure,
short attacks; opens chest immediately
(temporarily). for acute attacks, not long
term use. painfl obstr of chest with
fullness, pain, or stabbing pain from chest
to back, wheezing, coughing, SOB, focal
dist of chest that feels like a flow of energy
proceeding from the hypochondrium to the
area around the heart, white greasy coat,
deep, wiry, or tight pulse
|
|
Hou Po Wen Zhong
Tang
|
hou po, cao dou kou, chen
pi, mu xiang, gan jiang, fu
ling, zhi gan cao, sheng
jiang (3 pcs)
|
warm middle jiao,
promote circulation
of Qi, dry damp,
eliminate fullness
|
DAMP-C
injuring Sp & St: epigastric &
abd distention & fullness, loss of appetite, fatigue
esp in extremities, loose diarrhea,
white slippery coat, maybe abd pain &
vomiting of clear fluid
|
|
Liang Fu Wan
|
gao liang jiang &
xiang fu
- equal amounts
take with ginger juice
|
warm middle jiao,
dispel cold, promote
circulation of Qi,
alleviate pain
|
Lv Qi stag + cold congealing
in St:
epigastric pain that is better with warmth,
stifling sens in chest, hypochondriac pain,
painful menstruation, white tongue coat
|
|
Jin Ling Zi San
|
chuan lian zi, yan hu suo -
equal amounts
|
spread Lv Qi, drain
heat, regulate Qi,
alleviate pain
|
Lv constraint with heat:
intermittent
hypochond & epig pain, hernial pain,
menstrual pain aggravated by ingestion of
hot food or beverages, with irritability, red
tongue, yellow coat, wiry or rapid pulse
|
|
Tian Tai Wu Yao
San
|
wu yao, mu xiang, xiao hui
xiang, qing pi, gao liang
jiang, bing lang, chuan lian
zi
|
promote circulation
of Qi, spread Lv Qi,
scatter cold, alleviate
pain
|
stag in Lv channel, usually
from cold:
hernial
disorder, lower abd pain
radiating to
testicles, pale tongue, white coat, pulse
either submerged & slow or wiry; especially
for hernia that can be pushed
back in & comes & goes
*this formula will
hurt a xu patient
|
|
Nuan Gan Jiang
Warm the Liver
|
dang gui, gou qi zi, xiao
hui xiang, rou gui, wu yao,
chen xiang or mu xiang, fu
ling, sheng jiang
|
warm Lv & K,
promote circulation
of Qi, alleviate pain
|
cold-type hernial disorder
in which cold
from Lv/K xu causes Qi to stagnate: low
abd pain that's sharp, localized, & worse
with local application of cold, pale tongue,
esp sides & root, submerged tight pulse;
also for swelling, distention, & pain of
scrotum
|
|
Ju He Wan
|
ju he (citrus seed), chuan
lian zi, mu xiang, tao ren,
yan hu suo, rou gui, mu
tong, hou po, zhi shi, hai
zao, kun bu, hai dai
|
promote circulation
of Qi, alleviate pain,
soften hardness,
dissipate clumps
|
hernial disorder due to C-D
invading Lv
channel: unilateral testicular swelling,
colicky pain reaching to navel, or a rock-like hardness &
swelling of scrotum, or
oozing of a yellow fluid from scrotum;
severe cases: abscess & ulceration may also
occur; Dr. Li: chronic case
|
|
Descend Rebellious Qi
|
|
Su Zi Jiang Qi Tang
Su
Zi Decoction for
Descending Qi
|
su zi, ban xia, dang gui,
zhi
gan cao, hou po, qian hu,
rou gui + sheng jiang, da
zao, zi su ye (some add
chen pi also)
|
descend rebel Qi,
arrest wheezing, stop
cough, warm &
transform phlegm-cold
|
excess above (Lu
phlegm-cold) & xu below
(K): cough & wheezing with watery
copious sputum, stifling sensation in chest
& diaphragm, SOB with relatively labored
inhale & smooth exhale, white slippery or
greasy coat, maybe pain & weak low back
& legs, edema of extremities, &/or fatigue
|
|
Ding Chuan Tang
Arrest Wheezing
|
bai guo, ma huang, su zi,
gan cao, kuan dong hua,
xing ren, sang bai pi,
huang qin, ban xia
|
disperse & redirect
Lu Qi, stop wheeze,
clear heat, transfrm
phlegm
|
W-C constrains exterior
& phlegm-heat
smolders in interior: cough & wheeze with
copious thick yellow sputum, labored
breathing, greasy yellow coat, slippery
rapid pulse; maybe simultaneous
fever/chills
|
|
Si Mo Tang
Four Milled Herbs
|
ren shen, bing lang, chen
xiang, wu yao
|
promote circulation
of Qi, descend rebel
Qi, expand chest,
dissipate clumps
|
constraint &
clumping of Lv Qi due to
injury from emotional upset: irritable,
stifling sens in chest & diaphragm with
labored breathing, wheezing, epigastric
focal distention & fullness, loss of appetite
|
|
Xuan Fu Dai Zhe
Tang
|
xuan fu hua, dai zhe shi,
ban xia, sheng jiang, ren
shen, zhi gan cao, da zao
|
descend rebel Qi,
transform phlegm,
augment Qi,
harmonize St
|
middle
jiao stasis
& rebellion; phlegm
turbidity obstructing interior + weak, xu St
Qi: unremitting belching, hiccup,
regurgitation, nausea or vomiting, hard
epigastric focal distention, white slippery
coat, wiry xu pulse
|
|
Ju Pi Zhu Ru Tang
|
chen pi, zhu ru, ren shen,
sheng jiang, gan cao, da
zao
|
descend rebellious
Qi, stop hiccups,
augment Qi, clear
heat
|
middle
jiao stag, some
xu, but also heat;
quiet but stinky hiccups; St pathology:
hiccup, nausea, dry heaves or retching,
tender red tongue, xu rapid pulse; also for
vomiting due to debility after long illness,
or heat from St xu; ok
for
pregnant women
|
|
Ding Xiang Shi Di
Tang
|
ding xiang, shi di, ren
shen,
sheng jiang
|
augment Qi, warm
middle jiao, descend
rebel Qi, stop hiccups
|
cold from St xu: hiccups,
belching, or
vomiting with stifling sens in epig, focal
distention in chest, pale tongue, white coat,
submerged slow pulse
|
|
Invigorate the Blood
& Dispel Blood Stasis
|
|
Tao He Cheng Qi
Tang
Peach Pit Decoction
to Order the Qi
|
tao ren, da huang (often
wine-treated), gui zhi,
mang xiao (add at end), zhi
gan cao
|
drain heat, break up
blood stasis
|
blood buildup (xu xue) in
low jiao due to
blood stasis & heat: acute lower abdominal
pain, incontinence of urine, night fevers,
delirious speech, irritability, restlessness,
thirst, submerged, full, or choppy pulse,
may be manic behavior, women usually
experience amenorrhea or dysmenorrhea
|
|
Xue Fu Zhu Yu
Tang
Drive Out Blood
Stasis in the
Mansion of Blood
|
tao ren, hong hua, dang
gui, chuan xiong, chi shao,
(chuan) niu xi, chai hu, jie
geng, zhi ke, sheng di, gan
cao
|
invigorate blood,
dispel blood stasis,
spread Lv Qi,
unblock channels
|
blood
stasis in chest
with impairment of
blood flow above diaphragm, plus Lv Qi
stag: pain in chest & hypochond, chronic
stubborn Headache with fixed piercing
quality, chronic incessant hiccup, choking
sens when drinking, dry heaves, depression
or low spirits with sens of warmth in chest,
palps, insomnia, restless sleep, irritability,
extreme mood swings, evening tidal fever,
dark red tongue with dark spots on sides,
dark or purplish lips, complexion, or sclera,
choppy or wiry, tight pulse; irritable,
restless; some use for uterine fibroids
|
|
Tong Qiao Huo Xue
Tang
Unblock the
Orifices &
Invigorate the
Blood
|
chi shao, tao ren, she
xiang, da zao
|
invigorate blood,
dispel blood stasis,
open the orifices
|
blood
stasis in head,
face, upper body:
headache, vertigo, chronic tinnitus, hair
loss, darkle purple complexion, darkness
around eyes, "˜brandy' nose; also for childhood
nutritional
impairment with
progressive emaciation, abd distention,
purplish discoloration of sinews, tidal
fever, other chronic disorders arising from
accum of blood stasis internally, including exhaustion
of blood in
women
|
|
Ge Xia Zhu Yu
Tang Drive
Out
Blood Stasis Below
the Diaphragm
|
dang gui, chuan xiong, tao
ren, mu dan pi, chi shao,
wu yao, yan hu suo, gan
cao, xiang fu, hong hua,
zhi ke, wu ling zhi (dry
fried)
|
invigorate blood,
dispel blood stasis,
promote Qi
circulation, alleviate
pain
Jin:
slightly clears
heat
|
blood
stasis in
abdomen/below diaphragm
(also with Lv Qi/blood stagnation):
abdominal masses with fixed pain or
masses which are visible when lying down. can be used for menstrual cramping
with
normal flow
|
|
Shao Fu Zhu Yu
Tang
Drive Out Blood
Stasis in the Lower
Abdomen
|
xiao hui xiang & gan
jiang
(both dry fried, very small
doses), yan hu suo, dang
gui, chuan xiong, mo yao,
rou gui, chi shao, pu
huang, wu ling zhi (dry
fried)
|
invigorate blood,
dispel blood stasis,
warm menses,
alleviate pain
|
blood
stasis in lower
abdomen: palpable
masses, with or without pain, or
lower abd
pain without masses, or
lower abd
distention, or
lower back pain and lower
abd distention during menstruation, or
frequent menstruation (3-5x/month) with
dark or purple blood (usually clots), or
abnormal uterine bleeding with lower abd
soreness & pain; also used for cirrhosis
of
Lv with edema (add sheng di,
xiang fu, wu
yao)
|
|
Shen Tong Zhu Yu
Tang
Drive Out Blood
Stasis From a
Painful Body
|
qin jiao, chuan xiong, tao
ren, hong hua, gan cao,
qiang huo, mo yao, dang
gui, wu ling zhi, xiang fu,
niu xi, di long
|
move blood & Qi,
dispel blood stasis,
unblock collaterals &
painful obstruction,
alleviate pain
|
blood
stasis in
channels & collaterals:
muscle pain: shoulder, arm,
low back, leg,
other chronic aches & pains, especially of
extremities & joints
|
|
Shi Xiao San
Sudden Smile
|
wu ling zhi, pu huang equal
amounts
|
invigorate blood,
dispel blood stasis,
disperse
accumulation,
alleviate pain
|
retention of blood stasis
which obstructs
vessels that serve lower abdomen: irregular
menstruation, dysmenorrhea, retention of
lochia, postpartum abd pain, acute colicky
pain in lower abd, severe pain in middle
abd or epigastric pain
|
|
Dan Shen Yin
|
dan shen, tan xiang, sha
ren
|
invigorate blood,
dispel blood stasis,
promote circulation
of Qi, alleviate pain
|
blood stasis & Qi
stag which has
accumulated in middle jiao: abd or
epigastric pain which may radiate upward,
accompanied by signs & sx of blood stasis
& Qi stag
|
|
Da Huang Zhe
Chong Wan
|
da huang, tu bie chong, tao
ren, gan qi, qi cao, shui zhi,
meng chong, huang qin,
xing ren, sheng di, bai
shao, gan cao
|
break up & dispel
blood stasis &
generate new blood
|
accumulation of "dry" blood due to
extreme weakness of the organs & xu of
source Qi: emaciation, abd fullness, loss of
appetite, rough, dry, scaly skin, dull & dark
appearance of the eyes, amenorrhea, tidal
fever
|
|
Bu Yang Huan Wu
Tang
Tonify the Yang to
Restore Five
(Tenths)
|
huang qi (huge dose), dang
gui (tails), chuan xiong, chi
shao, tao ren, hong hua, di
long
|
tonify Qi, invigorate
blood, unblock
channels
|
deficiency of normal
& yang Qi with blood
stasis obstructing channels: W-stroke
sequelae - hemiplegia, paralysis, & atrophy
of lower limbs, facial paralysis, slurred
speech, drooling, dry stools, frequent
urination or urinary incontinence, white
coat, moderate pulse
|
|
Warm the Menses
& Dispel Blood Stasis
|
|
Gui Zhi Fu Ling
Wan
|
gui zhi, fu ling, chi shao
(bai shao may be used
instead), mu dan pi, tao ren
|
invigorate blood,
transform blood
stasis, reduce fixed
abd masses
|
blood stasis in the womb:
mild persistent
uterine bleeding of purple or dark blood
during pregnancy, accompanied by abd pain
that is < with pressure; also for immobile
lower abd masses with pain & tenderness,
abd spasms & tension, amenorrhea with
abd distention & pain, dysmenorrhea,
retention of lochia; all with choppy pulse
|
|
Sheng Hua Tang
Generation &
Transformation
|
dang gui (large dose),
chuan xiong, tao ren, pao
jiang (quick fried ginger),
zhi gan cao
|
invig blood,
transform & dispel
blood stasis, warm
menses, alleviate
pain
|
cold which takes advantage
of the xu of
normal Qi & blood during the postpartum
period to enter the abd: retention of lochia,
cold & pain in low abd, pale-purple tongue
or pale tongue with purple spots, thin,
submerged, choppy pulse
|
|
Wen Jing Tang
Warm the Menses
|
wu zhu yu, gui zhi, dan
gui, chuan xiong, bai shao,
e jiao (at end), mai men
dong, mu dan pi, ren shen,
gan cao, sheng jiang, ban
xia
(key herb)
|
warm menses, dispel
cold, nourish blood,
dispel blood stasis
|
xu &
cold of
Chong & Ren with
obstruction due to bld stasis
(> with
warmth & pressure): mild, persistent
uterine bleeding, irreg menstruation (late or
early), extended or continuous menstrual
flow, bleeding between periods, pain,
distention, & cold in lower abd, dry lips &
mouth, low-grade fever at dusk, warm
palms & soles; can be xu or shi; may
present as endometriosis,
infertility
|
|
Invigorate the Blood
to Treat Traumatic Injury
|
|
Fu Yuan Huo Xue
Tang
Revive Health by
Invigorating the
Blood
|
dang gui, tao ren, hong
hua, chuan shan jia, da
huang (wine-treated), tian
hua fen, chai hu, gan cao
|
invigorate blood,
dispel blood stasis,
spread Lv Qi,
unblock channels
|
traumatic physical injury
which results in
blood leaving the vessels: excruciating
pain, especially in chest, hypochondria, or
flanks
|
|
Qi Li San
7/1000 of a Tael
|
xue jie, hong hua, ru xiang,
mo yao, she xiang, bing
pian, er cha (catechu), zhu
sha
|
invigorate blood,
dispel bld stasis,
promote circulation
of Qi, reduce
swelling, alleviate
pain & bleeding
|
use internally or
externally: traumatic injury
causes blood stasis & stagnant Qi which
obstructs free movement & produces
swelling & pain: bruising, swelling, & pain
accompanying traumatic injuries such as
broken bones & torn sinews, & bleeding
due to lacerations
|
|
Die Da Wan
Trauma Pill
|
dang gui, chuan xiong, ru
xiang, mo yao, xue jie, tu
bie chong, ma huang, zi
ran tong
|
invigorate blood,
transform bld stasis,
harmonize Ying Qi,
reduce swelling,
alleviate pain
|
blood stasis after traumatic
injury or sprain
obstructs circulation of Qi & blood in area
of trauma: bruising, swelling, distended
ache & pain at fixed location
|
|
Huo Luo Xiao Ling
Dan
Fantastically
Effective Pill to
Invigorate the
Collaterals
|
dang gui, dan shen, ru
xiang, mo yao
|
invigorate blood,
dispel blood stasis,
unblock collaterals,
alleviate pain
|
Qi stag & blood
stasis obstructing
collaterals or vessels: pain in various
locations, such as the heart, St, abd, back,
leg, arm, bruising & swelling due to
trauma, rheumatic pain, fixed abd masses,
internal or external ulceration, dark tongue
or one with static points, wiry pulse
|
|
Clear Heat &
Stop Bleeding
|
|
Shi Hui San
Ten Partially-Charred
Substances
|
da ji, xiao ji, he ye (lotus
lf), ce bai ye, bai mao gen,
qian cao, zhi zi, da huang,
mu dan pi, zong lu pi (all
partially charred)
|
cool blood, stop
bleeding
|
bleeding
very badly;
fire blazing in middle
& upper jiao (maybe
lower too) that injures
the blood vessels (most oft associated with
Lv fire attacking St, with up-rushing of Qi
& fire forcing the blood to ascend):
vomiting, spitting, or coughing up blood. sx usually occur as acute
bleeding disorders
with sudden onset (take some Yunnan
Paiyao while waiting for this)
|
|
Si Sheng Wan
Four Fresh Pill
|
ce bai ye, sheng di, he ye,
ai ye - all should be fresh
|
cool blood, stop
bleeding
|
upper jiao manifestations of
heat in the
blood: coughing spitting, or vomiting of
blood or nosebleeds, particularly of bright
red blood; accompanied by dry mouth &
throat, red or deep-red tongue, wiry, rapid
or forceful, wiry, rapid pulse
|
|
Ke Xue Fang
Coughing of Blood
|
qing dai, zhi zi, gua lou
ren, fu hai shi, he zi
|
clear fire, transform
phlegm, preserve
Lungs, stop cough &
bleeding
|
upper
jiao bleeding;
Lv fire attacks &
scorches Lu: cough bloody sputum, thick
sputum difficult to expectorate, bitter taste,
irritability, easily provoked anger,
constipation, red cheeks, red tongue with
yellow coat, wiry rapid pulse; formula's
focus is on the constitution, less on
stopping bleeding; often for lumps in
bronchi (incl cancer); if pt coughs lots
blood, add bai ji (3g) + xian he cao (9g)
|
|
Huai Hua San
|
huai hua, ce bai ye, jing
jie,
zhi ke
|
cool intestines, stop
bleeding, dispel
wind, promote
circulation of Qi
|
lower
jiao;
lodging of W-H or accum of D-H in intestines & St where it
forms toxin,
obstructing the blood level of these organs:
bright red bleeding from rectum during
defecation which typically precedes (but
may also follow) the passage of stool,
blood in stools, hemorrhoids with bright
red or dark red bleeding, red tongue, wiry
rapid or soggy rapid pulse; ulcerative
colitis, acute stage
|
|
Xiao Ji Yin Zi
|
xiao ji, ou jie, pu huang
(dry fried), sheng di, hua
shi, mu tong, dan zhu ye,
zhi zi, dang gui, zhi gan
cao (or unprepared or tips)
|
cool blood, stop
bleeding, promote
urination, unblock
painful urinary
dysfunction
|
static heat accumulating in lower jiao
where it injures blood collaterals & causes
blood to seep down into BL: bloody,
painful urinary dysfcn with
bld in urine
(urinary frequency, urgency, burning, pain),
or simple blood in urine, thirst, irritability,
red tongue, thin yellow coat, rapid forceful
pulse; more of a branch formula - focus is
on stopping bleeding
|
|
Qing Re Zhi Beng
Tang
Clear Heat &
Stop
Excessive Uterine
Bleeding
|
zhi zi, huang qin (stir
fried), huang bai, sheng di,
mu dan pi, di yu, ce bai ye
(tan), chun gen bai pi, gui
ban (calcined), bai shao
|
clear heat, stop
bleeding
|
heat entering blood level of
Lv channel:
abnormal uterine bleeding with large
quantity of bright red blood, dry mouth,
parched lips, yellow coat, rapid pulse
|
|
Tonify & Stop
Bleeding
|
|
Bai Ye Tang
|
ce bai ye, gan jiang (or
quick fried ginger), ai ye
|
warm yang, stop
bleeding
|
cold from xu affecting
middle Qi, resulting
in failure of Sp Qi to govern blood, plus Lv
Yang rising: unremitting vomiting or
spitting up of blood or nosebleeds with wan
complexion, pale tongue, thin coat, & xu,
rapid, forceless pulse
|
|
Huang Tu Tang
Yellow Earth
|
zao xin tu (or chi shi zhi)
large dose, sheng di, e jiao,
bai zhu, gan cao, fu zi,
huang qin
|
warm yang,
strengthen Sp,
nourish blood, stop
bleeding
|
bleeding,
any jiao,
from Sp yang xu (cold
from xu of mid jiao), failure
of
Sp Qi to
govern blood: blood in stool,
vomiting or
spitting blood, epistaxis, or abN uterine
bleeding or pale red blood, with cold
extremities, wan complexion, pale tongue,
white coat, submerged thin forceless pulse
|
|
Jiao Ai Tang
|
e jiao (at end), ai ye,
sheng
di, dang gui, chuan xiong,
bai shao, gan cao
|
nourish blood, stop
bleeding, regulate
menstruation, calm
fetus
|
injury & xu of Ren
& Ghong: abdominal
pain with uterine bleeding, excessive
menstruation, menstru with constant
spotting, postpartum bleeding, bleeding
during pregnancy; blood pale & thin
without clots, with weakness & soreness of
low back, dull complexion, pale tongue,
thin white coat, thin frail pulse
|
|
Stabilize Exterior
& Lungs
|
|
Yu Ping Feng San
Jade Wind Screen
|
huang qi, bai zhu, fang
feng + sheng jiang
|
augment Qi, stabilize
exterior, stop
sweating
|
deficiency of exterior with
weak & unstable
Wei Qi: aversion to drafts, spontaneous
sweats, recurrent
colds,
shiny pale
complexion, pale tongue with white coat,
floating, xu, soft pulse; usually stop if pt
gets heat sx (sores, etc) unless this is
normal for the pt, in which case add clear
heat herbs
|
|
Mu Li San
|
mu li (for night sweats),
huang qi (for day sweats),
ma huang gen (for any
sweats), fu xiao mai
|
inhibit sweats,
stabilize exterior,
nourish yin, strong
astringent action for
sweats
|
branch
tx for sweats:
Wei Qi xu leads to
spontaneous sweats which injure Ht yin
which leads to yin xu sweats as well:
spontaneous sweats worse at night, palps,
easily startled, SOB, irritability, gen'l
debility, lethargy, pale red tongue, thin frail
pulse; use for pt with weak body who
sweats easily
|
|
Dang Gui Liu
Huang Tang
Dang Gui &
Six
Yellow
|
dang gui, sheng di, shu di,
huang lian, huang qin,
huang bai, huang qi
|
enrich yin, clear heat,
stabilize exterior,
stop sweats
|
raging fire from K yin xu, with Wei Qi
xu:
fever, night sweats, red face, dry mouth,
parched lips, irritability, dry stools, dark
scanty urine, red dry tongue, rapid pulse
|
|
Restrain Leakage From
the Intestines
|
|
Zhen Ren Yang
Zang Tang
True Man's
Decoction to
Nourish the Organs
|
ren shen, bai zhu, rou gui,
rou dou kou (dry fried), he
zi, zhi ying
su ke, bai shao,
dang gui, mu xiang, zhi
gan cao
|
warm the middle,
tonify deficiency,
restrain leakage from
intestines, stop
diarrhea
|
chronic diarrhea or
dysenteric disorder with UNREMITTING
diarrhea to point of
incontinence, in severe cases prolapsed
rectum; stool may contain pus & blood,
may be tenesmus. accompanied by: mild
persisten abd pain, > with pressure &
warmth, lethargy, wan complexion, reduced
appetite, sore low back, lack of strength in
legs, pale tongue, white coat, slow thin
pulse
|
|
Tao Hua Tang
Peach Blossom
|
chi shi zhi, gan jiang, geng
mi "“ usually taken as
powder
|
warm the middle,
bind up bowels
|
chronic dysenteric disorders
with dark
blood & pus in stool, abd pain > with
pressure & warmth, pale tongue, slow &
frail or faint & thin pulse
|
|
Si Shen Wan
Four Miracle Pill
|
bu gu zhi, wu zhu yu, rou
dou kou, wu wei zi +
sheng jiang, da zao
|
warm & tonify Sp
&
K, bind up intestines,
stop diarrhea
|
Sp/K yang xu: day break diarrhea
- just
before sunrise, lack of interest in food,
inability to digest what is eaten, sore low
back, cold limbs, fatigue, lethargy, pale
tongue, thin white coat, submerged, slow,
forceless pulse, maybe abdominal pain
|
|
Stabilize the Kidneys
|
|
Jing Suo Gu Jing
Wan
Metal Lock Pill to
Stabilize the
Essence
|
sha yuan ji li, qian shi,
lian
xu (lotus stamen), long gu
(crispy fried), mu li
(calcined), lian zi
|
stabilize kidneys,
bind up the semen
|
chronic spermatorrhea,
impotence, fatigue,
weakness, sore & weak limbs, low back
pain, tinnitus, pale tongue, white coat, thin
frail pulse (traditionally should be taken
with salt water)
|
|
Sang Piao Xiao San
|
sang piao xiao, long gu,
ren shen, fu shen, yuan zhi,
shi chang pu, (zhi) gui ban,
dang gui
|
regulate & tonify Ht
& K, stabilize
essence, stop leakage
|
K & Ht Qi xu:
frequent urination,
sometimes incontinence, urine the color of
rice water, maybe spermatorrhea; also
disorientation, forgetfulness, pale tongue,
white coat, thin slow frail pulse
|
|
Suo Quan Wan
Shut the Sluice
|
yi zhi ren, wu yao, shan
yao
|
warm kidneys, dispel
cold, arrest urinary
frequency, stop
leakage
|
K Qi xu (cold), fails to
transform BL Qi:
frequent, clear, prolonged urination or
enuresis, pale tongue, white coat,
submerged frail pulse
|
|
Gui Zhi Jia Long
Gu Mu Li Tang
|
gui zhi, bai shao, long gu,
mu li, sheng jiang, da zao,
gan cao
|
restrain essence,
suppress rebellion,
regulate & harmonize
Yin & Yang
|
yin & yang xu,
& lack of communication
between Ht & K: spermatorrhea (in men) or
dreaming of sex (in women), lower abd
contractions & pain, cold sens at tip of
penis, occasionally watery diarrhea,
dizziness, palps, insomnia, dream-disturbed
sleep, loss of hair, hollow slow pulse
|
|
Shou Tai Wan
Fetus Longevity Pill
|
tu si zi, sang ji sheng, xu
duan, e jiao
|
stabilize kidneys,
calm fetus
|
K xu: soreness &
distention of low back,
sensation of collapse in lower abd, &
vaginal bleeding during pregnancy; also
dizziness, tinnitus, weak legs, frequent
urination to point of incontinence, pale
tongue, white slippery coat, submerged frail
pulse at chi position
|
|
Stabilize the Womb
|
|
Gu Chong Tang
Stabilize Gushing
|
bai zhu (dry fried), huang
qi, shan zhu yu, bai shao,
long gu & mu li (both
calcined), hai piao xiao,
zong lu tan, wu bei zi, qian
cao gen
|
augment Qi,
strengthen Sp,
stabilize Chong, stop
bleeding
|
uterine bleeding or profuse
menstrual
bleeding, blood is thin & pale & either
gushes out or continuously trickles out, also
palps, SOB, pale tongue, xu & big or thin
& frail pulse. Long-term uterine bleeding
can injure Sp Qi & it will no longer be able
to govern blood, Chong is unstable
|
|
Gu Jing Wan
Stabilize the Menses
|
gui ban, bai shao, huang
qin, chun gen pi, huang
bai, xiang fu
|
enrich yin, clear heat,
stop bleeding,
stabilize menses
|
Lv constraint gives rise to
heat, which
disturbs the Chong & Ren: continuous
menstruation or uterine bleeding that
alternates between trickling & gushing,
blood very red, maybe with dark purple
clots; also sens of heat & irritability in
chest, abd pain, dark urine, red tongue,
rapid wiry pulse
|
|
Wan Dai Tang
End Discharge
|
bai zhu & shan yao
(both
dry fried), ren shen, cang
zhu, chen pi, che qian zi &
bai shao (both wine fried),
chai hu, jing jie (charred),
gan cao
|
transform middle
jiao, strengthen Sp,
transform damp, stop
vaginal discharge
|
usually Dai mai dysfcn:
profuse vaginal
discharge, white or pale
yellow, thin
consistency, not particularly foul smelling,
usually continuous; also fatigue, lethargy,
shiny pale complexion, loose stools, pale
tongue, white coat, soggy & frail or
moderate pulse; more for Qi xu
leukorrhea
than damp
|
|
Yi Huang Tang
Change Yellow
(Discharge)
|
chan yao & qian shi
(both
dry fried), huang bai, che
qian zi, bai guo
|
strengthen Sp, dry
dampness, clear heat,
stop vaginal
discharge
|
Sp Qi xu with constrained
dampness which
turns into D-H & pours downward: long-term unremitting vaginal
discharge,
yellowish-white, viscous, fishy smell; also
pale yellow complexion, dizziness, sens of
heaviness in head, reduced appetite,
occasional loose stools, delayed
menstruation with pale blood, pale tongue,
thine white coat, soft slippery pulse, maybe
submerged
|
|
Nourish Heart
& Calm Shen
|
|
Tian Wang Bu Xin
Dan
Emperor of
Heaven's Special
Pill to Tonify the
Heart
|
sheng di, ren shen, tian
men dong, mai men dong,
xuan shen, dan shen, fu
ling, yuan zhi, dang gui,
wu wei zi, bai zi ren, suan
zao ren, jie geng, zhu sha
(pill coating)
|
enrich yin, nourish
blood, tonify Ht,
calm shen
|
Ht Yin
& blood
xu insomnia; Ht & K
yin
xu: irritability, palps with anxiety, fatigue,
insomnia with very restless sleep, inability
to think or concentrate for even short
periods, nocturnal emissions, forgetfulness,
dry stools, red tongue, little coat, thin rapid
pulse, maybe mouth & tongue sores, low
fever, night sweats
|
|
Suan Zao Ren Tang
|
suan zao ren, fu ling/shen,
zhi mu, chuan xiong, gan
cao
|
nourish blood, calm
shen, clear heat,
eliminate irritability
|
Lv blood xu with xu heat:
irritability,
inability to sleep, palps, night sweats,
dizziness, vertigo, dry throat & mouth, dry
red tongue, wiry or thin, rapid pulse; Dr. Li:
Ht blood xu. not strong
enough for severe
insomnia
|
|
Ding Zhi Wan
Settle the Emotions
|
ren shen, fu ling, shi chang
pu, yuan zhi
|
tonify Ht Qi, calm
shen
|
Ht Qi xu after emotional
shock or fright:
apprehensiveness, easily frightened, or
incessant laughter & glee; with palps with
anxiety, forgetfulness
|
|
Huang Lian E Jiao
Tang
|
huang lian, huang qin, e
jiao (at end), bai shao, egg
yolks (2, at end)
|
enrich yin, descend
fire, eliminate
irritability, calm shen
|
yin xu fire after febrile
disease: irritability,
sens of heat in chest, insomnia, palps with
anxiety, red tongue, dry yellow coat, thin
rapid pulse, maybe tongue or mouth sores
|
|
Gan Mai Da Zao
Tang
|
gan cao, fu xiao mao, da
zao
|
nourish Ht, calm
shen, harmonize
middle jiao
|
"restless organ
disorder" - zang zao -
excessive worry,
anxiety,
or pensiveness -
injures Ht yin, disrupts flow of Lv Qi,
affects Sp Qi: disorientation, frequent
attacks of melancholy
&
crying spells,
inability to control oneself, restless sleep,
sometimes with night sweats, frequent
bouts of yawning, red tongue, sparse coat,
thin rapid pulse; in severe cases, behavior
& speech become abnormal
|
|
Sedate & Calm
Shen
|
|
Zhu Sha An Shen
Wan
Cinnabar Pill to
Calm Shen
|
zhu sha (works even
without it, can use hu po
instead), huang lian, dang
gui, sheng di, zhi gan cao
|
sedate heart, calm
shen, drain fire,
nourish yin
|
heart fire injures blood
& yin: insomnia,
palps, sens of irritability & heat in chest,
desire to vomit without result, dream-disturbed sleep, bright red tongue,
thin
rapid pulse, pt may be rancorous
|
|
Release Wind From
Skin & Channels
|
|
Xiao Feng San
Eliminate Wind
Powder
|
jing jie, fang feng, niu
bang
zi, chan tui, cang zhu, ku
shen, mu tong, shi gao, zhi
mu, sheng di, dang gui, hei
zi ma, gan cao
|
disperse wind,
eliminate dampness,
clear heat, cool blood
|
W-H or W-D invades body
& contends
with pre-existing D-H & becomes trapped
in surface flesh, transforms into wind-toxin:
weepy, itchy, red skin lesions over large
part of body, yellow or white coat, forceful,
floating, rapid pulse may be used
topically
|
|
Xiao Xu Ming Tang
Minor Prolong Life
|
ma huang, chuan xiong,
guang fang ji, xing ren,
fang feng, sheng jiang, ren
shen, fu zi, rou gui, bai
shao, huang qin, gan cao
|
warm channels,
unblock yang qi,
dispel wind, support
normal qi
|
W-stroke: hemiplegia,
asymmetry of face,
slow slurred speech; usually with fever,
chills, pale tongue, thin white coat,
deficient, floating pulse, in severe cases,
loss of consciousness
|
|
Xiao Huo Luo Dan
Minor Invigorate
the Collaterals
Special Pill
|
zhi cao wu & zhi
chuan wu
(2 aconites), tian nan xing,
mo yao, ru xiang, di long
|
invigorate blood,
unblock collaterals,
dispel dampness,
transform phlegm
|
after W-stroke, damp,
phlegm, & lifeless
blood obstruct channels & collaterals:
chronic pain, weakness, & numbness (esp
in lower extrems); also for fixed or
migrating pain in bones & joints with
reduced range of motion due to W-C-D
painful obstruction; in both conditions, <
with cold
|
|
Qian Zheng San
Lead to Symmetry
|
bai fu zi, jiang can, quan
xie
|
dispel wind,
transform phlegm,
stop spasms
|
sequelae of channel-stroke
with sx confined
to head & face (Qi xu allowed wind to
invade channels): sudden facial paralysis
with deviation of eyes & mouth & facial
muscle twitch
|
|
Yu Zhen San
True Jade
|
bai fu zi, tian nan xing,
qiang huo, bai zhi, fang
feng, tian ma
|
dispel W, transform
phlegm, relieve
muscular tetany,
alleviate pain
|
wind & toxin invade
body thru wound or
ulceration: stiffness & spasms of jaw,
closed mouth, lip spasms, deviation of eyes,
rigidity of entire body to point of
opisthotonos, wiry, tight pulse
|
|
Zhi Jing San
Stop Spasms
|
quan xie, wu gong
|
dispel wind, relieve
spasms, alleviate
pain
|
heat entering terminal yin
channel,
generates movement of Lv wind: muscle
twitches of extremities, rigidity & spasms
of body to point of opisthotonos, trismus,
or convulsions, maybe unconsciousness
|
|
Extinguish Internal
Wind
|
|
Zhen Gan Xi Feng
Tang
Sedate the Liver
&
Extinguish Wind
|
huai niu xi, dai zhe shi,
long gu, mu li, gui ban,
xuan shen, tian men dong,
bai shao, yin chen hao,
chuan lian zi, mai ya, gan
cao
|
sedate Lv, extinguish
wind, nourish yin,
anchor yang
|
Lv/K yin xu, with Lv yang rising,
in severe
cases leads to Lv
wind
with rebel Qi & bld
(oft precursor to W-stroke): dizzy, vertigo,
feeling distention in eyes, fvrish sens in
head, Headache, irritable, flushed face (as if
drunk), wiry, long, forceful pulse; maybe
freq burps, progressive motor dysfcn or
dev'mt of facial asymmetry that occurs
over a period of a few hours to a few days,
sudden unconsciousness, mental confusion
with moments of lucidity, inability to fully
recover after unconsciousness
Tian Ma Gou Teng Yin may be
better for
htn, but doesn't give any constitutional
support
|
|
Ling Jiao Gou Teng
Tang
|
ling yang jiao (subst: big
dose zhen zhu mu), gou
teng, sang ye, ju hua, bai
shao, sheng di, chuan bei
mu, zhu ru, fu shen, gan
cao
|
cool Lv, extinguish
wind, increase fluids,
relax sinews
|
shi heat in Lv channel stirs
up wind:
persistent high fever, irritability,
restlessness, dizziness, vertigo, twitching &
spasms of extremities, deep-red, dry, or
burnt tongue with prickles, wiry rapid
pulse; in severe cases, may be impaired or
actual loss of consciousness
|
|
Tian Ma Gou Teng
Yin
|
tian ma, gou teng, shi jue
ming, zhi zi, huang qin, yi
mu cao, chuan niu xi, du
zhong, sang ji sheng, ye
jiao teng, fu shen
|
calm Lv, extinguish
wind, clear heat,
invigorate blood,
tonify Lv & K
|
Lv/K yin xu leading to Lv
yang rising with
Lv wind: headache, dizziness, vertigo,
tinnitus, blurred vision, sens of heat rushing
to head, insomnia with dream-disturbed
sleep, red tongue, wiry rapid pulse; in
severe cases, may be numbness, twitching
& spasms in extremities, or hemiplegia; hypertension
|
|
San Jia Fu Mai
Tang
3 Shell Decoction to
Restore the Pulse
|
zhi gan cao, sheng di, bai
shao, mai men dong, huo
ma ren, e jiao, mu li, bie
jia, gui ban
|
nourish yin, restore
pulse, clear heat,
anchor yang,
extinguish wind
|
later stage febrile disease
when yin injured
or various internally-generated disorders
with yin xu & yang rising: (1) spasms, loss
of consciousness, quivering fingers,
feverish palms & soles, deep red,dry
tongue, thin, rapid, forceless pulse or (2)
dizzy, vertigo, tinnitus, dry throat,
palpitations, bleeding symptoms, dry,
glossy, peeled tongue, thin wiry pulse
|
|
E Jiao Ji Zi Huang
Tang
|
e jiao, ji zi huang (2 egg
yolks), sheng di, bai shao,
zhi gan cao, gou teng, shi
jue ming, mu li, fu shen,
luo shi teng
|
enrich yin, nourish
blood, soften Lv,
extinguish wind
|
internal wind from blood
& yin xu: rigid
extremities, muscle spasms & twitches in
extremities, dry mouth, parched lips, deep
red tongue, slight coat, thin rapid pulse,
maybe dizziness & vertigo
|
|
Da Ding Feng Zhu
Major Arrest Wind
Pearl
|
ji zi huang (2 egg yolks), e
jiao, bai shao, zhi gan cao,
wu wei zi, sheng di, mai
men dong, huo ma ren, gui
ban, bie jia, mu li
|
nourish yin,
extinguish wind
|
internal
wind due to
yin xu: weariness,
muscle spasms with alternating flexion &
extension of extremities, xu or frail pulse,
deep-red tongue, scanty or peeled coating;
often patient will appear as if he is about to
go into shock
|
|
Di Huang Yin Zi
|
shu di, shan zhu yu, rou
cong rong, ba ji tian, fu zi,
rou gui, shi hu, mai men
dong, shi chang pu, yuan
zhi, fu ling, wu wei zi +
sheng jiang, bo he, da zao
|
enrich kidney yin,
tonify kidney yang,
open orifices,
transform phlegm
|
K yin
& yang
xu with xu fire flaring up,
phlegm obstructs orifices:
stiffness of
tongue, inability to speak, disability or
paralysis of lower extremities, dry mouth
with absence of thirst, greasy yellow coat,
submerged, slow, thin & frail pulse;
important formula for w-stroke sequelae
|
|
Expel Parasites
|
|
Wu Mei Wan
|
wu mei, chuan jiao, xi xin,
huang lian, huang bai, gan
jiang, fu zi, gui zhi, ren
shen, dang gui
good
idea to add da huang
or purge after this
|
warm the organs
(intestines), calm
roundworms
|
collapse from roundworms
caused by heat
in chest & epig, and cold in intestines:
intermittent attacks of abd pain (between
which, there is no pain), stifling sens,
irritability, warmth in chest & epig, vomit
after eating, cold hands/feet, maybe
vomiting roundworms; roundworm in bile
duct
|
|
Fei Er Wan
Fat Baby Pill
|
shen qu & mai ya
(dry
fried), huang lian, bing
lang, rou dou kou, shi jun
zi, mai ya, mu xiang
|
kill parasites, reduce
accumulation,
strengthen Sp, clear
heat
|
childhood nutritional
impairment from
accumulation of parasites: parasitic
infestations with intermit-tent attacks of
abd pain, indigestion, emaciation, loose
stools, feverishness, foul-smelling breath
|
|
Qu Chong Feng
|
shi jun zi, da huang 8:1
never exceed 12g/day
|
expel parasites
|
for roundworm, use (age +
0.6)g TID for 3
days; for threadworm, use [(age + 1)x0.3]g
TID, for 7-10 days; take one hour before
meals
|
|
Special Formulas
|
|
Dr. Hong
Jin's Acne
Formula
|
granule doses: ge gen 8, bai
hua she she cao 16,
pu gong ying 8, bu gu zhi 16, ze xie 8, yi yi ren 8,
dan shen 8, shan zha 8, gan cao 3, fu pen zi 8, and
yue ju ye or chen pi or ju hua 6 dosage: 4g tid
|
Dr. Jin (OCOM) probably
modifies this
formula slightly (especially dose ratios)
depending on the patient's presentation. (The choice of which
of the last 3 herbs to
use definitely depends on the patient.)
|
|
Dr. Yan Lu's
Anxiety &
Withdrawal Formula
|
granule doses: long gu 6, mu
li 6, shi jue ming 6,
suan zao ren 9, ye jiao teng 5, fu shen 5, sheng di
5, bai shao 5, he huan pi 5, xiang fu 5, huang qin
5; dosage: 3g tid
|
Dr. Lu (OCOM) uses this
formula for any
kinds of "quitting" - quitting a substance,
quitting a relationship, etc - any kind of
loss. Also for anxiety, depression, stress,
etc.
|
|
Never-fail Purgative
|
tao ren (4 parts), da huang
(2 pts), gui zhi (1 pt),
zhi gan cao (1 pt), he shou wu (2 pts)
4g granules before bed
|
Relayed to me by Marnie
Freeman, LAc,
supervisor at the Oregon College of
Oriental Medicine clinic
|
|
Heiner
Fruehauf's
Prototypical Gu
Zheng Formula:
Jia Jian Su He Tang
|
zi
su ye, bo he, bai zhi, dang gui, chuan xiong, gan
cao, huang qi, he shou wu, bai he, wu jia pi, ze
lan, e zhu, san leng, chen pi, mu xiang, ding xiang
|
see also section on
categories of Gu Zheng
herbs
|
|
Dr. Yan Lu's
Wash
for Trauma
|
(bulk
doses) hong hua 15, san leng 25, jiang
huang 25, e zhu 25
|
soak affected body part in
the liquid for 15-30 minutes at a time, a few times daily.
|
|
Michael
Tierra's
Tobacco Quitting
Formula
|
yu
xing cao, ren shen, sang bai pi, gua lou, and jie
geng
|
take two 00 capsules every
1-2 hours. will
lessen cravings, help detoxify. lower the
dose after 3-4 days.
|
|
An Hao Poultice
|
hong
hua, qian cao, zhang mu (camphor wood), su
mu, zi cao, jin bu huan (lycopodium), qian nian
jian, gui zhi, lu lu tong, mu gua, ru xiang, mo yao
|
promotes circulation of
blood, aids in the
relaxation of muscles, enhances
regeneration of damaged tissues, aids in
removal of clotted blood. for pain relief,
faster healing, and less scarring.
|
|
Tendon and
Liniment Salve
|
cao
wu, chuan wu, ban xia, qiang huo, du huo, zhi
zi, da huang, mu gua, lu lu tong, pu huang, zhang
nao, su mu, chi shao, hong hua, nan xing (tian/dan
not indicated)
|
|
|
Han Jing Tong Kou
Fu Ye
Snore-Stilling Open
the Mouth (Oral
Liquid)
|
(approximate
daily doses:) ma huang (8g), yi mu
cao (15g), jie geng (9g), gan cao (6g). in study,
these herbs were cooked for quite long (first cook
of 60minutes, second cook of 40 minutes). to be
taken twice daily.
|
for sleep apnea syndrome and
snoring.
reduces periods of cessation
of breathing
during sleep.
97.5% amelioration rate in
one clinical
study.
(Zhang Ju, et al., in He Nan
Zhong Yi, Jan
2001, page 59; translated by Bob Flaws)
|
|
Lu Yubin's
Insomnia Formula
|
chai
hu 9g, bai shao 9g, chuan xiong 9g, chao bai
zhu 9g, fu ling 9g, huang lian 6g, chao zhi zi 9g,
sheng di 15g, chao suan zao ren 30g, ye jiao teng
30g, gan cao 30g. these are three-day
doses. Yes,
three day doses. To be decocted and taken once
daily over three days.
|
83.3% cure rate.
Not appropriate when there
is spleen Yang
deficiency.
Journal of Chinese Medicine,
number 59,
January 1999.
|
|
Wei Li's
Basic
Hyperthyroidism
Formula
|
huang
jing, sha shen, mai men dong, dan shen, mu
dan pi, gou qi zi, xuan shen, huang lian, sheng di,
di gu pi, huang bai, zhi mu
|
|
|
Andrew
Gaeddert's
Coronary /
Dyslipidemia
Formula
|
da
suan, huang qi, he shou wu, ling zhi, shan zha,
dang gui, dan shen, bai zhu
|
for
degeneration of circulatory system, high
cholesterol, heart disease
|
|
Refluxan
by Ashi Research
|
huang lian, zhu ru, yan hu
suo, san qi, hai piao
xiao, chen pi, hou po, zhi shi
|
for acid reflux
|
|
Heiner's
Basic
Insomnia & Anxiety
Formula
|
chai
hu, zhi shi, bai shao, zhi gan cao, he shou wu,
yan hu suo (only if insomnia, use 30-40g/day),
suan zao ren, wu wei zi, ye jiao teng
|
|
|
Heartburn Formula
|
wa
leng zi 9g, da zao 6g, gan cao 3g, gan jiang
10g, hou po 3g, chen pi 3g, qing pi 3g
|
a commercial product for
heartburn
|
|
ASHMI Asthma
Formula
|
An
extract of ling zhi, ku shen, gan cao. 3.6g of
extract is equal to 20g ling zhi, 9g ku shen, 3g gan
cao.
|
A well researched formula
that performed
comparably to prednisone for allergic
asthma
|
|
FAHF-1 and FAHF-2 for
Food Allergy
(Anaphylaxis)
|
FAHF-1:
ling zhi, wu mei, chuan jiao, huang lian,
huang bai, gan jiang, gui zhi, ren shen, dang gui,
zhi fu zi, xi xin.
FAHF-2 is the same formula,
but without the zhi
fu zi and xi xin. % composition is: ling zhi 28%,
wu mei 28%, chuan jiao 1.5%, huang lian 8.5%,
huang bai 5.5%, gan jiang 8.5%, gui zhi 3%, ren
shen 8.5%, dang gui 8.5%
|
Shown to eliminate peanut
allergy induced
anaphylaxis in rats. FAHF-1 is the original
formula. FAHF-2 was developed
presumably because of concerns about fu zi
and xi xin. It appears to be effective even
without these two herbs.
|
|
Empirical
Hypertension
Formulas
|
Du
Zhong
Pian (AKA
Fu Fang Du Zhong Pian):
du zhong, gou teng, xia ku cao, huang qin
Luo
Bu Ma
Jiang Ya Wan:
luo bu ma, xia ku
cao, gou teng, jue ming zi, ju hua, ze xie, chuan
niu xi, shan zha
Luo
Bu Ma
Jiang Ya Wan #2:
luo bu ma, xia ku
cao, gou teng, ze xie, zhen zhu mu, huai niu xi,
shan zha, ju hua
Jiang
Ya Wan:
xia ku cao, huang qin, ju hua, bo
he, huai hua
Qing
Nao
Jiang Ya Pian:
huang qin, dang gui,
huai hua, zhen zhu
Jiang
Ya Wan
#2:
dan shen, mu dan pi, huang qi,
zhi zi, zhi mu, long dan cao, di huang, niu xi, xia
ku cao, huai hua
Jiang
Ya Wan
#3:
fu shen, du zhong, zhen zhu
mu, ju hua, di huang, niu xi, xia ku cao, ye jiao
teng
|
These formulas
don't necessarily take any
particular pattern discrimination into
account, though they all address heat to
some extent.
|
|
TobacOff
for Smoking
Cessation
By P. Q. Kang and
Y. J. Liang
|
yu
xing cao, ku shen, yuan zhi, ren shen (red)
|
A Pacific BioLogic formula.
On bottle, 700
mg pills are taken 3-4 at a time, before bed
and then one hour before meals.
|
|
Kamto Lee's
Formula for
Cravings,
Depression, and
Anxiety
|
ge gen 30g, ge hua 30, suan
zao ren 30, ye jiao
teng 30, jiang huang 20, yu jin 20, san leng 12, e
zhu 12
+ modify as necessary for
patient
|
Key herbs are ge gen
& ge hua
(pueraria
flower)
|
|
Dr. Kang's
Fertility
Formula #1:
PregnancyEggEmbryo
(to be taken from
day 1 through
ovulation)
(Note, I have not
been able to track
down the luteal
phase formula)
|
Luo
le (basil), chai hu, yi mu cao, tu si zi, dan
shen, gou qi zi, shu di huang, ba ji tian, shan zhu
yu, yin yang huo, fu pen zi, he shou wu, bai shao,
gan cao
|
"TCM Indication:
Stagnation of the Liver
Qi with Blood and Yin deficiency marked
by irregular menstruation, light back pain,
lower abdominal pain, emotional changes
due to depression or stress. It is possible
that no diagnostic symptoms are present
other than infertility. The goal of this
formula is directed at the pre-ovulatory
period of the menstrual cycle to enhance
the ovarian follicle and egg development
and to ensure ovulation within a normal,
rhythmic menstrual cycle. Clinical TCM
research in China shows that this formula
enhances estrin, progestin and estradiol
levels and also improves uterine cell
receptor function for FSH and LH binding."
|
|
Dr. Kang's
Acne
Formula
|
huang
lian, huang qin, huang bai, zhi zi, da huang,
sheng di, mu li, chi shao, xia ku cao, zao jiao ci, pi
pa ye, zhen zhu
|
"According to
Chinese medicine with
respect to these skin eruptions, the Lung
has lost its cleaning action. It is the normal
function of the Lung to Clear and to
Descend. The following things can cause
pathologic Qi to invade the Lung: external
Wind Heat, eating a heavy fatty diet
causing the formation of Stomach Heat, or
menstrual irregularities leading to Blood
stagnation which will create Blood Heat.
The TCM formula function is
to clear Lung
Heat and cool the Blood (clear Blood
Heat.) It also eliminates Wind and increases
Blood circulation. In addition it regulates
the Liver and promotes detoxification."
|
|
Dr. Kang's
Eczema
Formula
|
ku
shen, tu fu ling, huang bai, huang lian, ye ju
hua, fang geng, chan tui, gan cao, di fu zi, bai xian
pi
|
"According to
Chinese medicine the
various eczemas are an accumulation of
Wind Heat with the pathogenic Wind factor
coming from the exterior. The combination
of Wind, Dampness and Heat attack the
skin. The main cause of disease is the
Dampness which is sticky, heavy and
mutable. So diseases of the skin may take a
long time to heal, and their presentations
can go through many changes. The chronic
forms of dermatitis are due to a deficiency
of Blood nourishing the skin. The internal
stasis of Dampness which is the main cause
of this disease comes about due to Blood
and Yin deficiency. The disease
presentation then shifts to dryness. Wind,
stagnation of Wind and dry and wet Heat
all block the Blood from nourishing the
skin. This leads to the chronic eczema
presentations described above: skin
thickening, scaling and so on."
|
|
Dr. Kang's
Psoriasis Formula
|
huang
qin, huanglian, sheng di, jin yin hua, qing
dai, dang gui, dan shen, chi shao, da qing ye, san
leng, ban lan gen, xuan shen, zao xiu, wu mei, mu
dan pi
|
"From Traditional
Chinese Medicine the
pathologic etiology of psoriasis arises from
Damp Heat in the Spleen and Lung. It also
arises from the effects of external Wind
causing Damp Heat to accumulate in the
skin which blocks Qi and Blood movement
in local areas, and this local Qi stagnation
can increase Heat in the skin. In addition,
an attack of Wind Cold can lead to
disharmony between Yin (nutrients) and
Wei (defense mechanism) which can create
dryness. Another etiology arises from
strong emotional reactions causing a Qi
blockage, and if Qi stasis goes on for too
long it can lead to Blood stagnation.
This formula is directed at
reducing itching
and inflammation during flare ups,
reducing the length of flare ups, and
preventing recurrences. This formula
lengthens periods of remission and is
directed at resolving lesions and scaling. In
TCM terms this formula nourishes the Yin
and Cold Blood, enriches the Blood and
moistens the Dryness, clears the Heat and
removes toxins, eliminates Qi and Blood
stasis and activates Blood circulation."
|
|
Dr. Kang's
Formula
For Hair Loss,
Baldness, Alopecia, and Greying
|
han
lian cao, sheng di, shu di, he shou wu, tu si zi,
dang gui, bai shao, zhu ling, ku shen, bai xian pi,
di fu zi
|
"Traditional
Chinese Medicine views hair
loss as a Blood deficiency wherein the
Blood can not nourish the skin. This leads
to Cou Li ("between muscle and skin" - like
reticulo-endothelial immune function)
weakness which then allows external Wind
attack. The excess Wind leads to Blood
dryness, and hair is lost due to a lack of
nutrition. Emotional stress can also injure
the Spleen and Heart over time and
negatively affect hair growth. Alopecias
specifically belong to Kidney Essence
deficiency. Other pathologies which
contribute are mental anxiety negatively
affecting Heart and Spleen functions, Yin
deficiency with excess Heat, or
accumulation of Dampness and Heat
arising to the head.
Syndrome of Liver and Kidney
deficiency
leading to hair loss, itching scaly skin,
weak eyesight, vertigo, and lassitude in the
loin and legs."
|
|
Dr. Kang's
Herpes
Formula - Oral,
Genital, Eye, Facial
|
huang
lian, sheng di, gan cao, qing dai, ku shen,
dang shen, huang bai, niu xi, bai shao
|
"Traditional
Chinese Medicine views this
disease as brought on by emotional
reactions such as anxiety, worry, stress, and
anger. It can also be brought on by over
working to the point of exhaustion or not
getting enough sleep all of which causes
Lung deficiency, Spleen deficiency and
Kidney Yin deficiency all of which then
leads to internal heat. Also there can be an
attack of Wind Heat and Damp Heat during
the deficiency of the Vital Principle. This
can lead to stagnation in skin and
underlying tissues which blocks the
Channels locally leading to stasis of Qi and
Blood locally."
|
|
Dr. Kang's
External
Cream for
Neurodermatitis /
Psoriasis / Fungal
Infection
|
ku
shen
|
"Use this cream
externally on the skin to
treat rashes from a variety of causes. This
formula is particularly effective for
psoriasis, neurodermatitis, lichenoid
dermatitis, and fungal infections that
include tinea corpora (ringworm of the
body), tinea pedis (ringworm of the feet /
athlete's foot), fungal infections of the hand
and tinea cruris (jock itch).
Fungal infections of the
skin invade the
dead tissues of the skin including hair and
nails with scaling borders on the feet and
crotch areas. Fungal infections of the body
have annular lesions that tend to clear
centrally. Psoriasis is characterized by dry,
well-circumscribed, silvery, scaling papules
and plaques. It involves a gradual onset
with chronic remissions and recurrences.
Neurodermatitis is a scratch dermatitis
brought on by scratching and may involve
underlying stress. When fully developed, it
has an outer area of brownish papules and a
central area of confluent papules covered
with scales. Stress and tension tend to
increase the itching. The patient is advised
to resist scratching as this brings about the
dermatitis. Lichenoid dermatitis may
develop from this wherein the skin
develops thickened areas of plaques.
|
|
Dr. Kang's
Weight
Loss Formula
|
jiao
gu lan, da huang, lu hui, sha ji
|
"According to
Traditional Chinese
Medicine, the increase in percent body fat
has to do with an unbalanced diet which
causes an imbalance in the Spleen and
Stomach with the pathogenic cause being
an accumulation of Dampness and Phlegm.
In most cases the obese individual has more
Dampness, Phlegm and Deficiency.
Therefore, the treatment principle is to
eliminate Dampness which has caused the
Spleen to lose its transporting functions.
Spleen deficiency leads to Dampness. Then
it is the accumulated Dampness which
induces the Phlegm which becomes turbid
Phlegm and this leads the body to become
fat. The treatment principle must be to
clean viscera for those who eat a heavy and
fatty diet and also to eliminate
gastrointestinal Excess Heat."
|
Major
Patterns in
OB/GYN Conditions (Based on Teachings of Hong Jin)
|
Antedated
(Short)
Periods
|
Blood Stagnation:
â–º Jia Wei Shi Xiao San
- move blood, stop
bleeding & pain (shi
xiao + more movers)
â–º Xue Fu Zhu Yu Tang
- move Qi
& blood,
focus=Ht, Lv, uterus
â–º Shao Fu Zhu Yu
Tang - more warming,
lower abdomen
|
Heat in Blood:
â–º Jing Qin Si Wu Tang
-
xu or shi heat, stop bleed
â–º Gu Jing Wan
- clear Lv
Qi stag heat, stop
bleeding, tone yin, clear
heat
â–º Qing Jing San
- Yin xu
heat in blood
â–º Jie Du Si Wu Tang
-
shi heat (febrile)
â–º Jia Wei Xiao Yao San
- Lv Qi stagnation heat
|
Spleen Qi Xu:
large
quantity blood,
pale,
thin, Qi xu sx, bearing-down, "empty" lower abd
â–º Gui Pi Tang
- tone Sp
Qi, Ht blood, calm shen
(anxiety, palps...)
â–º Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang
-
lift & tonify (good for
depression)
|
|
|
Postdated
(Long)
Periods
|
Liver Qi/Blood
Stagnation:
â–º Jia Wei Wu Yao
Tang - move/free Qi
(&blood)
â–º Xue Fu Zhu Yu Tang
- move blood (mansions)
â–º Chai Hu Shu Gan
Tang - free Lv Qi,
hrmnz
â–º Xiao Yao San - free
Lv Qi, nour blood & Sp
Qi
|
|
Blood Xu:
scanty
bleeding, pale,
thin,
sallow, dizzy, palps, blurry
vision, dry skin
â–º Ba Zhen Yi Mu Wan
-
tone Qi, blood, move
blood
â–º Si Wu Tang
|
Cold in Blood:
scanty
bleeding, dark,
sticky, cold sx, low abd
cramps/colic - warm
allevs
â–º Wen Jing Tang
- shi or
xu cold (if xu, add more
Yang tonics)
â–º Ai Fu Nuan Gong Wan
- tone Yang (& blood)
|
|
Irregular
(Both
Short and
Long)
Periods
|
Liver syndromes:
(including blood
stagnation, xu, heat)
â–º Xiao Yao San
â–º Jia Wei Xiao
Yao San
â–º Xue Fu Zhu Yu Tang
â–º Jia Wei Wu Yao
â–º Ba Zhen Yi Mu Wan
â–º Tao Hong Si Wu
Tang
â–º etc . . .
|
Kidney Yin Xu (incl.
Jing Xu):
â–º Liu Wei Di Huang
Wan, Zhi Bai D H Wan
â–º Zuo Gui Wan
- tone K
yin, blood, harmonize
Chong & Ren
â–º Er Zhi Wan
- nourish
Lv & K yin
â–º Yi Guan Jian
- nourish
Lv yin
â–º Gui Shao Di Huang
Wan - nourish yin &
blood
|
Spleen Qi Xu:
pale,
thin blood, Qi
xu sx
â–º Gui Pi Tang
- antedated
(Sp fails to ctrl)
â–º Ba Zhen Yi Mu Wan
-
postdated (Sp xu leading to
blood xu)
|
Kidney Yang Xu (incl.
Qi Xu):
pale,
thin blood, Yang
xu
sx
â–º Ai Fu Nuan Gong Wan
- tone Yang (& blood)
â–º You Gui Wan
- strong tone K yang (& blood)
â–º Er Xian Tang
- tone K
yang, clear heat, regulate
Chong & Ren
â–º Jin Gui Shen Qi Wan
-
tone K yang (Qi)
|
|
Dysmenor-rhea
|
Qi/Blood Stagnation:
â–º Xiao Yao San
â–º Chai Hu Shu Gan Tang
â–º Wu Yao Tang -
move Qi (& bld)
â–º Jia Wei Xiao Yao San
â–º Shi Xiao San
â–º Ge Xia Zhu Yu Tang
- move blood & Qi below
the diaphragm, alleviate pain
â–º Tao Hong Si Wu Tang -
milder
â–º Xue Fu Zhu Yu Tang
- move blood
from Cold:
â–º Ai Fu Nuan Gong Wan
- for xu
â–º Er Xian Tang
- K yang xu, also clears heat
â–º Wen Jing Tang
- xu or shi (add more herbs to
disperse cold if shi), nourish blood, warm, disperse
cold, (promote blood circulation)
â–º Shao Fu Zhu Yu Tang
- move blood, warm,
more for shi
from Damp-Heat:
â–º Si Miao San
- lower jiao damp-heat
â–º Long Dan Xie Gan Tang
(stronger than Si
Miao San)
â–º Qing Re Tiao Xue Tang -
Si Wu + more blood
& Qi movers and heat-clearers
|
Qi/Blood Xu:
lingering
dull pain at
end of or after menses, > with
pressure & warmth; copious or scanty thin pale blood;
usually ante- or postdated; + standard Qi & blood xu
sx
â–º Dang Gui Shao Yao San -
move & nourish blood,
resolve damp, tone Sp
â–º Ba Zhen Yi Mu Wan
- tone Qi & blood, move
blood
â–º Sheng Yu Tang -
tone Qi & blood
â–º Shi Quan Da Bu Tang -
Qi & blood xu + cold sx
(Ba Zhen + huang qi, rou gui)
â–º Xiao Jian Zhong Tang (+
Dang Gui) - warm &
tone middle jiao (& blood), alleviate pain
â–º Gui Shao Di Huang Tang -
nourish blood & yin
(Liu Wei + bai shao, dang gui)
â–º Tiao Gan Tang - tone
blood, Qi, Lv
yin, K yang &
jing, move blood
|
|
PMS
|
Full:
Lv Qi Stagnation:
â–º Xiao Yao San
â–º Yue Ju Wan -
move/free Qi
â–º Chai Hu Shu Gan Tang
Phlegm-Fire Harassing
Upwards:
â–º Huang Lian Wen Dan Tang
- phlegm-heat
(GB/St)
|
Empty:
Liver Blood Xu:
â–º Xiao Yao San
â–º Ba Zhen Tang
â–º Gui Shao Di Huang Tang
Liver/K Yin Xu:
â–º Qi Ju Di Huang Wan
â–º Yi Guan Jian
- nourish Lv yin, free Lv Qi
Spleen & Kidney
Yang Xu:
â–º You Gui Wan
- tone K yang, jing, blood
|
|
|
Sp Qi xu
|
Blood xu
|
Lv/K Yin xu
|
K Qi/Yang
xu
|
Qi/Blood
Stasis
|
Phlegm-Damp
|
Blood Heat
|
Damp-Heat
|
|
Amenorrhea
|
|
Ba Zhen Yi
Mu Tang
|
Liu Wei Di
Huang Wan
|
You Gui
Wan
|
Xiao Yao
San, Jia Wei
Wu Yao
Tang, Shao
Fu Zhu Yu
Tang,
Ge Xia Zhu
Yu Tang
|
Cang Fu
Dao Tan
Wan
|
|
|
|
Fibroids
|
+ Blood
Stasis:
Gui Zhi Fu
Ling Wan,
Ba Zhen Yi
Mu Tang
|
+Blood
Stasis: Da
Huang Zhe
Cong Wan,
Qi Ju Di
Huang
Wan,
Zhi Bai Di
Huang Wan
|
|
Shao Fu
Zhu Yu
Tang,
Da Huang
Zhe Cong
Wan, Gui
Zhi Fu Ling
Wan, Xiao
Yao San
|
+ Blood
Stasis: Qi
Gong Wan
|
|
|
|
Uterine
bleeding
|
Gu Ben Zhi
Beng Tang
|
|
Zhi Bai Di
Huang
Wan, Zhi
Dai Wan
|
You Gui
Wan
|
Jia Wei
Shi
Xiao San
(+move Qi
before
period,
nourish
blood
after)
|
|
Qing Re
Zhi
Beng Tang,
Jin Gui
Shen Qi
Wan,
Qing Jing
San
|
|
|
Leukorrhea
|
Wan Dai
Tang
|
|
|
You Gui
Wan, Er Zhi
Wan
|
|
|
|
Si Miao
Wan,
Long Dan
Xie Gan
Tang Bi Xie
Shen Shi
Tang,
Zhi Dai
Wan,
Yi Huang
|
|
Infertility
|
|
|
Liu Wei Di
Huang
Wan, Zhi
Bai Di
Huang
Wan,
Si Wu
Tang,
Er Zhi Wan,
Zhi Dai Wan
|
Zan Yu
Dan,
Ai Fu Nuan
Gong Wan
|
Qi:
Xiao Yao
San mod.
Blood:
Shao Fu
Zhu Yu
Tang
|
Cang Fu
Dao Tan
Wan
|
|
same as
above
|
|
Threatened
Miscarriage
|
Ju Yuan
Jian,
Bu Zhong
Yi Qi Wan
|
Shou Tai
Wan, Tai Shan
Dan Shi San (+Sp Qi/Bld
xu)
|
trauma:
Sheng Yu
Tang
|
|
Bao Yin
Jian
|
|
|
Habitual
Miscarriage
|
Gu Ben Zhi
Beng Tang
|
Si Wu Tang
+ Shi Xiao
|
Bao Yin
Jian
|
Bu Shen Gu
Chong Wan
|
Shao Fu
Zhu Yu
Tang
|
|
Qing Re Gu
Jing Tang
|
|
|
Menopause
|
|
|
Zhi Bai Di
Huang
Wan, Qi Ju
Di Huang
Wan
|
You Gui
Wan, Fu Zi
Li Zhong
Wan,
Jin Gui
Shen Qi
Wan,
Ba Zhen Yi
Mu Tang
|
|
|
|
|
Commonly Used Formulas in
Obstetrics and Gynecology
from Dr. Hong Jin
Ai Fu
Nuan Gong Wan:
xiang fu, ai ye, dang gui, huang qi, wu zhu yu, chuan xiong, bai shao,
shu di, rou gui, xu duan (infertility due to K yang xu)
Ba Zhen
Yi Mu Tang:
Ba Zhen Tang + yi mu cao (amenorrhea due to blood xu, fibroids due to
blood stasis + Qi/blood
xu, infertility & habitual miscarriage due to Blood stasis)
Bao Yin
Jian: "protect yin" sheng di, shu di, bai shao,
shan yao,
huang qin, huang bai, xu duan, gan cao: nourish yin,
clear heat (threatened miscarriage due to blood-heat, habitual
miscarriage due to K yin xu)
Bi Xie
Shen Shi Tang:
bi xie, yi yi ren, huang bai, fu ling, ze xie, mu dan pi, tong cao, hua
shi: clear heat < dry damp
(leukorrhea due to damp-heat, infertility due to damp-heat)
Bu Shen
Gu Chong Wan:
tu si zi, xu duan, ba ji tian, du zhong, lu jiao jiao, dang gui, shu
di, gou qi zi, e jiao, dang
shen, bai zhu, da zao, sha ren: tone/warm K yang, strengthen GV,
nourish blood, tone/raise Qi, resolve damp (habitual
miscarriage due to K yang xu)
Bu Zhong
Yi Qi Wan:
huang qi, ren shen, bai zhu, zhi gan cao, dang gui, chen pi, sheng ma,
chai hu (threatened
miscarriage due to Sp Qi/blood xu)
Cang Fu
Dao Tan Wan:
cang zhu, fu ling, ban xia, chen pi, gan cao, xiang fu, dan nan xing,
zhi ke, sheng jiang, shen
qu (amenorrhea & infertility due to phlegm-damp)
Da Huang
Zhe Cong Wan:
da huang, tu bie chong, tao ren, gan qi, qi cao, shui zhi, meng chong,
huang qin, xing ren,
sheng di, bai shao, gan cao: break up Blood stasis, NB (fibroids due to
Blood stasis or Blood stasis + Qi/blood xu)
Er Zhi Wan:
nu zhen zi, han lian cao (infertility due to K yin xu)
Fu Tu Dan:
tu su zi, wu wei zi, shan yao, lian zi, fu ling: stabilize K Qi, stop
leakages, strengthen Sp (leukorrhea due
to K Qi/yang xu)
Fu Zi Li
Zhong Wan:
fu zi, gan jiang, ren shen, bai zhu, zhi gan cao: warm yang, dispel
cold, tone Sp Qi (menopause
due to K yang xu)
Ge Xia
Zhu Yu Tang:
dang gui, chuan xiong, tao ren, mu dan pi, chi shao, wu yao, yan hu
suo, gan cao,xiang
fu, hong
hua, zhi ke, wu ling zhi (amenorrhea due to Qi/Blood stasis)
Gu Ben
Zhi Beng Tang: "stabilize the root &
stop excess uterine
bleeding" shu di huang, bai zhu, ren shen, huang qi,
dang gui, pao jiang: tone blood, augment Qi, stop bleeding (uterine
bleeding & habitual miscarriage due to Sp Qi xu)
Gui Zhi
Fu Ling Wan:
gui zhi, fu ling, shan yao, mu dan pi, tao ren: invig blood, transform
Blood stasis, reduce ab.
masses (fibroids due to Blood stasis & Blood stasis + Q//Blood
xu)
Jia Wei
Shi Xiao San:
sudden smile (pu huang, wu ling zhi) + dang gui, chi shao, yi mu cao,
xiang fu (uterine
bleeding due to Blood stasis)
Jia Wei
Wu Yao Tang:
wu
yao, sha ren, mu xiang, yan hu suo, xiang fu, gan cao, bing lang
(amenorrhea due to
Qi/Blood stasis)
Jin Gui
Shen Qi Wan:
shu di, shan zhu yu, shan yao, ze xie, fu ling, mu dan pi, gui zhi, fu
zi (menopause due to K
yang xu)
Jing Qin
Si Wu Tang:
Si Wu + jing jie tan, huang qin: nourish Lv blood, clear heat (xu/shi),
stop bleed (uterine
bleeding due to blood heat)
Ju Yuan
Jian: "raise yuan qi" ren shen, huang qi, bai
zhu, zhi
gan cao, sheng ma (threatened miscarriage due to Sp
Qi/blood xu)
Liu Wei
Di Huang Wan:
(amenorrhea & infertility due to Lv/K yin xu)
Long Dan
Xie Gan Tang:
long dan cao, huang qin, zhi zi, mu tong, che qian zi, ze xie, chai hu,
sheng di, dang gui, gan
cao (leukorrhea & infertility due to damp-heat + Lv fire)
Qi Gong
Wan: "open uterus" ban xia, xiang fu, cang zhu,
shen qu,
fu ling, chen pi, chuan xiong (fibroids due to Blood
stasis + phlegm accumulation)
Qi Ju Di
Huang Wan:
(fibroids due to Blood stasis + Lv/K yin xu, menopause due to K yin xu)
Qing Jing
San:
mu dan pi, bai shao, shu di huang, di gu pi, qing hao, fu ling, huang
bai (uterine bleeding due to blood
heat)
Qing
Re Gu Jing Tang: "˜clear heat &
stabilize menses' huang qin,
zhi zi, sheng di, di gu pi, di yu, e jiao, ou jie, zong
lu zi, gui ban, mu li, gan cao (habitual miscarriage due to blood-heat)
Qing
Re Zhi Beng Tang: "˜clear heat & stop
excess uterine bleeding'
zhi zi, huang qin, huang bai, sheng di huang, mu
dan pi, di yu, ce bai ye tan, chun gen bai pi, gui ban, bai shao: clear
heat, stop bleeding (uterine bleeding due to blood-heat)
Shao Fu
Zhu Yu Tang:
xiao hui xiang, gan jiang, yan hu suo, dang gui, chuan xiong, mo yao,
rou gui, chi shao, pu
huang, wu ling zhi: invigorate blood, dispel Blood stasis, warm menses,
alleviate pain (amenorrhea, fibroids, infertility
& habitual miscarriage due to blood stasis)
Sheng Yu
Tang: "˜sage-like healing' ren shen, huang qi,
dang gui,
chuan xiong, shu di huang, bai shao (threatened
miscarriage due to fall/trauma)
Shou Tai
Wan: "˜fetus longevity' tu si zi, sang ji sheng,
xu duan,
e jiao (+huang qi) (threatened miscarriage due to K xu)
Si Miao
Wan:
cang zhu, huang bai, chuan niu xi, yi yi ren: drain Damp-heat from
lower jiao & genitals (leukorrhea &
infertility due to damp-heat, damp greater than heat)
Si Wu Tang:
(infertility due to K yin xu, + Shi xiao san for habitual miscarriage
due to blood xu)
Tai Shan
Dan Shi San:
dang gui, huang qi, shu di, xu duan, fu ling, chuan xiong, bai shao,
bai zhu, sha ren, zhi gan
cao (threatened miscarriage due to K xu + Sp Qi/blood xu)
Wan Dai
Tang:
bai zhu, shan yao, ren shen, bai shao, che qian zi, cang zhu, chen pi,
jing jie tan, chai hu, gan cao
(leukorrhea due to Sp xu + turbid phlegm)
Xiao Yao
San:
(amenorrhea due to Qi/blood stag, fibroids due to Blood stasis,
infertility due to Lv Qi stag: + mu dan
pi, xiang fu, tian hua fen)
Yi Huang
Tang: "change yellow [discharge]" shan yao,
qian shi,
huang bai, bai guo, che qian zi (leukorrhea &
infertility due to damp-heat + Sp/K xu)
You Gui
Wan:
fu
zi, rou gui, lu jiao jiao, shu di huang, shan zhu yu, shan yao, gou qi
zi, tu si zi, du zhong, dang gui:
warm & tone K yang, nourish blood & jing (amenorrhea,
uterine bleeding, leukorrhea & menopause due to K Qi/yang
xu)
Yu
Dai Wan:
shu di, bai shao, dang gui, chuan xiong, chun gen pi, huang bai, gao
liang jiang: strengthen kidneys, build
blood, stop bleeding and vaginal discharge, clear damp-heat (recurrent
yeast infections, leukorrhea)
Zan Yu Dan:
"˜special pill to aid fertility' fu zi, rou gui, rou
cong rong, ba ji tian, yin yang huo, she chuang zi, jiu zi,
xian mao, shan zhu yu, du zhong, shu di, dang gui, gou qi zi, bai zhu
(infertility due to K Yang xu)
Zhi Bai
Di Huang Wan:
(fibroids due to Blood stasis + Lv/Ki yin xu, uterine bleeding,
infertility & menopause due to
K yin xu)
Zhi Dai
Wan: "˜stop vaginal discharge' zhu ling, fu
ling, che
qian zi, ze xie, yin chen hao, chi shao, mu dan pi, huang
bai, zhi zi, niu xi
(leukorrhea
& infertility due to damp > -heat)
Zuo Gui
Wan:
shu di huang, shan yao, shan zhu yu, gou qi zi, chuan niu xi, tu si zi,
lu jiao jiao, gui ban jiao: nourish K
Yin and blood, strengthen Ren & Chong Mai (uterine bleeding
& infertility due to K yin xu)
Bibliography
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Medicine, Formulas and Strategies,
Eastland Press, Seattle, 1990.
Bensky, D., A. Gamble. Chinese Herbal
Medicine, Materia Medica, Revised Edition,
Eastland Press, Seattle, 1993.
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discussion group, featuring submissions from various licensed
professionals of
Chinese herbal medicine, annotated individually). Founded and
maintained by Todd Luger, L.Ac. http://www.chineseherbacademy.org/
Christopher, J. R. School of Natural
Healing, Christopher
Publications, Springville, Utah, 1996.
Coletto, J. Lecture Notes: Western Clinical
Diagnosis, Oregon College of
Oriental Medicine, Portland, 1999-2000.
Culpeper, N. Culpeper's
Complete Herbal, W. Foulsham
& Co., Ltd., New York.
Dharmananda, S. Bidens,
Institute for Traditional Medicine, Portland, 2000.
Dharmananda, S. Borneol,
Artemisia, and Moxa,
Institute for Traditional Medicine, Portland, 1998.
Dharmananda, S. Ephedrine:
Actions and Dosage, Institute
for Traditional Medicine, Portland, 1997.
Dharmananda, S. Gastrodia,
Institute for Traditional Medicine, Portland, 1998.
Dharmananda, S. Ginkgo,
Institute for Traditional Medicine, Portland, 1997.
Dharmananda, S. Ginseng,
Institute for Traditional Medicine, Portland, 1997.
Dharmananda, S. Ho-Shou-Wu:
What's in an Herb Name?,
Institute for Traditional Medicine, Portland, 1998.
Dharmananda, S. Lycium Fruit,
Institute for Traditional Medicine, Portland, 1997.
Dharmananda, S. The Medicinal Use
of Snakes in China, Institute
for Traditional Medicine, Portland, 1997.
Dharmananda, S. Millettia,
Institute for Traditional Medicine, Portland, 1997.
Dharmananda, S. Modern Study and
Application of Materia Medica,
Institute for Traditional Medicine, Portland
Dharmananda, S. Sophora,
Institute for Traditional Medicine, Portland, 1998.
Dharmananda, S. Tortoise Shell,
Institute for Traditional Medicine, Portland, 1997.
Dharmananda, S. Turmeric:
What's in an Herb Name?,
Institute for Traditional Medicine, Portland, 1999.
Dharmananda, S. Uncaria
Tomentosa: Cat's Claw,
Institute for Traditional Medicine, Portland, 1994.
Dharmananda, S. The Use of
Aromatic Agents for Regulating Qi, Vitalizing Blood, and Relieving Pain,
Institute for
Traditional Medicine, Portland, 1997.
Dharmananda, S. Zizyphus,
Institute for Traditional Medicine, Portland, 1998.
Flaws, R. A Brief
Discussion of Mume and Perilla,
Blue Poppy Press.
Flaws, R. Gu Parasites and
Yin Fire Theory, Blue Poppy
Press.
Frawley, D. Ayurvedic Healing,
Passage Press, Salt Lake City, 1989.
Frawley, D., V. Lad. The Yoga of Herbs,
Lotus Press, Twin Lakes, Wisconsin, 1988.
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Zhang Xichun's Chinese
at
Heart
But Open to the West: An Integrated
Approach to Traditional and Modern Medicine
(Yixue Zhongzhong Canxi Lu, 1923), from lecture notes.
Fruehauf, H., S.
Dharmananda. Pearls
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Abbreviations of
References
(see Bibliography for
specifics)
The general information on
each herb (before any citations) is from Guohui Liu, corroborated and
supplemented by
information from Bensky and Gamble's Chinese
Herbal Medicine Materia Medica.
Liu or Bensky/Gamble is cited
only when their material differs significantly from other sources.
Material cited from the following sources is
paraphrased except where enclosed in quotation marks (it is then
verbatim).
The origin or (predominant)
perspective of each of the following sources is indicated as:
(C) Chinese, (A) Ayurvedic
(Indian), (W) Western (Euro-American)
AH:
Ayurvedic Healing,
David Frawley (A)
Amato:
William B. Stavinoha, Neera Satsangi, Ganoderma
Lucidum as an Anti-inflammatory Agent.
(University of
Texas Health Science Center). Amato Reishi and Kyotan Group. www.kyoto.com (W, C)
B&G:
Bensky and Gamble. Chinese
Herbal Medicine Materia Medica.
(C, W)
BF:
Bob Flaws, various articles through Blue Poppy Press (C, W)
BII:
Botanical Influences on Illness,
Murray and Werbach (W)
CDT:
Chinese Dietary Therapy,
Jilin Liu (C)
CHA:
submission from the Chinese
Herb Academy (an email list for
students and professional practitioners of Chinese
herbal medicine) - chineseherbacademy.org (C, W)
Cpep:
Culpeper, Culpeper's
Complete Herbal (W)
GIRI:
Ganoderma International
Research Institute, proceedings
from first internat'l symposium, 1997 (C, W)
Hall:
Dorothy Hall, Creating Your
Herbal Profile (W)
HF:
Heiner Fruehauf (C)
HL:
Heiko Lade, Man Jing Zi - The
Tonic (C)
Hsu:
Hong-Yen Hsu, Oriental Materia
Medica (C)
IBIS:
Integrative BodyMind
Information System, Integrative
Medical Arts Group (W)
JC:
John Christopher, The School
of Natural Healing (W)
Jin:
Hong Jin, L.Ac. (lecture notes)
(C)
Joe:
Joe Coletto, N.D., L.Ac. (lecture notes)
(W,
C)
JTCM:
Journal of Traditional Chinese
Medicine (as translated by Li Xu
and edited by Peter Borten for our paper,
Chinese Research on Selected
Herbs) (C)
K&R:
Kenner and Requena, Botanical
Medicine (W)
KAD:
King's American
Dispensatory, Harvey Wickes
Felter, M.D., and John Uri Lloyd, Phr. M., Ph.D. (W)
Li:
Wei Li, L.Ac. (lecture notes) (C)
Liu:
Guohui Liu, L.Ac. (lecture notes) (C)
LL:
Lei Liu, L.Ac. (internship supervisor) (C)
MLT:
Michael and Lesley Tierra, Herbal
Medicine Vol II (C)
MM:
Michael Moore, Medicinal
Plants of the Pacific West (W)
MW:
Matthew Wood, The Book of
Herbal Wisdom; Seven
Herbs; lecture notes (W)
NAH:
The New Age Herbalist,
Richard Mabey (W)
PCBDP:
Potters (New) Cyclopaedia of
Botanical Drugs and Preparations,
R.C. Wren (W)
PFGC:
Pearls from the Golden Cabinet,
Heiner Fruehauf with Subhuti Dharmananda (C)
PLB:
Peter L. Borten, L.Ac.: Information acquired through my own research,
discussions with field professionals, and
limited clinical experience (C, W, A)
RW:
Rudolf Weiss, Herbal Medicine
(W)
SD:
Subhuti Dharmananda, articles through the Institute for Traditional
Medicine (C, W, A)
T&D:
Tao and Dharma,
Robert Svoboda and Arnie Lad (A, C)
WL:
Wudeneh Letchamo, Ph.D. (lecture notes) (W)
Yoga:
The Yoga of Herbs,
Frawley
and Lad (A, C)
Ayurvedic
Terminology
(for general interest and as
found throughout this guide in quotes
labeled "Yoga," from The
Yoga of Herbs,
and "AH" from Ayurvedic
Healing)
Agni
- biological fire governing
metabolism; cosmic force of transformation
Agni
dipana
- substances that
increase agni, digestive fire
Ahamkara
- ego; sense of separate
self
Ama
- toxins; undigested food or
uneliminated waste materials
Ama
pachana
- substances that
promote digestion or destruction of
Ama
Anjana
- herbal medicines applied to
the eyes
Anupana
- substances that serve as
mediums for herbs to be taken with
Apana
vayu
-the prana governing
downward movement of feces, urine,
semen, menstrual fluid and birthing
Atman
- The True Self or pure
consciousness
Basti
- medicated enema
Bhakti
yoga
-the yoga of devotion
Brahman
- Spiritual reality, the
Absolute
Buddhi
- individualized cosmic
intelligence; the power of
determination
Chitta
- conditioned consciousness
in its totality
Dhatus
- the seven basic tissue-elements of the body
Doshas
- the three basic types of
biological humors, which determine
individual constitution
Guna
- attribute; quality
Kapha
- ("Kahp-hah" not "Kaffa") the bodily water humor
Mahat
- cosmic intelligence
Manas
- conditioned mind
Mantra
- special seed-syllables that
transmit cosmic energy
Nasya
- administration of medicines
through the nose
Nirama
- without ama
Ojas
- the subtle essence of all vital
fluids, responsible for health,
harmony and spiritual growth
Pancha
karma
- five types of
purification or detoxification therapy
Pancha
kashaya
- five main methods
of herbal preparation
Pitta
- the bodily fire humour
Prabhava
- special potencies of
herbs apart from general rules
Prakruti
- great nature; principle of
creativity; matter
Prana
- life-force; downward
movement which governs inhalation
and swallowing
Puja
- devotional worship
Purusha
- primal spirit; principle of
sentience
Rajas
- principle of energy activity
emotion and turbulence
Rasa
- initial taste of a substance;
essence
Rasayana
- rejuvenative therapy
which regenerates body-mind,
prevents decay, postpones aging
Sama
- with ama
Samana
- Prana that governs
digestive system
Sattva
- principle of light,
perception, intelligence and harmony
Shakti
- The Divine Energy/Cosmic
Feminine principle
Shiva
- The Divine Being/Cosmic
Masculine principle
Soma
- the essence energy of the
mind and nervous system
Srotas
- bodily channels
Tamas
- principle of inertia, dullness,
darkness and resistance
Tejas
- fire of the mind
Udana
- Prana that governs speech,
energy, will, memory and exhalation
Vajikarana
- substances that
improve sexual vitality and
functioning
Vata
- the bodily air humour
Vedas
- ancient scriptures of India
Vikruti
- disease; deviation from
nature
Vipaka
- post-digestive effect (sweet,
sour and pungent)
Virya
- the energy of a substance as
heating or cooling
Vyana
- Prana that governs the
circulatory system and movement of
joints and muscles
Yantra
- mystic diagrams;
geometrical designs that manifest
cosmic law and channel cosmic
energy
Yoga
- a methodology of the
practical and coordinated application
of knowledge; spiritually, the science
of self-realization
The
Six
Tastes of Ayurveda:
Quotes from Charak Samhita XVI,
43, plus commentary
by
Frawley
and Lad, from The
Yoga of Herbs
Sweet
The sweet taste (as it is of
the same nature as the human
body, whose tissues taste sweet), promotes the growth of
all bodily tissues and Ojas. Aiding in longevity, it is
soothing to the five sense organs and the mind, and gives
strength and good complexion. Sweet taste alleviates
Pitta, Vata and
the effects of poison. It also relieves thirst
and burning sensation and it promotes the health and
growth of skin and hair; it is good for the voice and
energy.
Sweet taste is nourishing,
vitalizing, gives contentment,
adds bulk to the body, creates firmness. It rebuilds
weakness, emaciation, and helps those damaged by
disease. It is refreshing to the nose, mouth, throat, lips and
tongue, and relieves fits and fainting. The favorite of
insects, particularly bees and ants, sweet taste is wet,
cooling and heavy.
Yet when used too much by
itself or in excess, sweet taste
creates obesity flaccidity laziness, excessive sleep,
heaviness, loss of appetite, weak digestion, abnormal
growth of the muscles of the mouth and throat, difficult
breathing, cough, difficult urination, intestinal torpor
fever due to cold, abdominal distention, excessive
salivation, loss of feeling, loss of voice, goiter, swelling of
the lymph glands, legs and neck, accumulations in the
bladder and blood vessels, mucoid accretions in the throat
and eyes, and other such Kapha-caused diseases.
Sweet taste in terms of
Western herbalism is nutritive,
tonic and rejuvenative. It increases semen, milk and nerve
tissue, and promotes tissue regeneration internally or
externally It is demulcent and emollient, moistening,
softening and soothing.
Sour
Sour taste improves the
taste of food, enkindles the
digestive fire, adds bulk to the body, invigorates, awakens
the mind, gives firmness to the senses, increases strength,
dispels intestinal gas and flatus, gives contentment to the
heart, promotes salivation, aids swallowing, moistening
and digestion of food, gives nourishment. It is light, hot
and wet.
Yet when used too much by
itself or in excess, sour taste
makes the teeth sensitive causes thirst, blinking of the
eyes, goosebumps, liquefies Kapha, aggravates Pitta and
causes a build-up of toxins in the blood. It wastes away
the muscles and causes looseness of the body, creates
edema in those weak, injured or in convalescence. From
its heating property it promotes the maturation and
suppuration of sores, wounds, burns, fractures and other
injuries. It causes a burning sensation in the throat, chest
and heart.
Sour taste in terms of
Western herbalism is stimulant,
promotes digestion, increases appetite and is carminative
(helps dispel flatus). It is nourishing to all tissue-elements
except reproductive tissue (shukra
dhatu). It promotes
metabolism, circulation, along with sensory and brain
functioning.
Salty
Salty taste promotes
digestion, is moistening, enkindles
digestive fire; it is cutting, biting, sharp, fluid. It works as
a sedative, laxative deobstruent. Salty taste alleviates
Vata, relieves
stiffness, contractions, softens
accumulations, and nullifies all other tastes. It promotes
salivation, liquefies Kapha, cleanses the vessels, softens
all the organs of the body, gives taste to food. It is heavy,
oily and hot.
Yet when used too much by
itself or in excess it
aggravates Pitta, causes
stagnation of blood, creates thirst,
fainting and the sensation of burning, erosion and wasting
of muscles. It aggravates infectious skin conditions,
causes symptoms of poisoning, causes tumors to break
open, makes the teeth fall, decreases virility obstructs the
functioning of the senses, causes wrinkling of the skin,
greying and falling of the hair. Salty taste promotes
bleeding diseases, hyperacidity of digestion, inflammatory
skin diseases, gout and other mainly Pitta diseases.
Salty taste in small doses
promotes digestion and
increases appetite; in moderate doses functions as a
laxative or purgative; and in large doses is an emetic,
promotes vomiting. It is demulcent, softening bodily
tissues and it is calming, mildly sedative. It aids in tissue
growth throughout the body and promotes water retention.
Salty taste is really not a
plant but a mineral taste, so it is
very rare in plants as a primary taste. Salty taste in herbs
can be increased by adding salt to herbal preparations.
Pungent
The pungent taste is
cleansing to the mouth, enkindles
digestive fire, purifies food, promotes nasal secretions,
causes tears and gives clarity to the senses. It helps cure
diseases of intestinal torpor, obesity, abdominal swelling
and excessive liquid in the body. It helps discharge oily
sweaty and sticky waste products. It gives taste to food,
stops itching, helps the resolution of skin growths, kills
worms, is germicidal, corrodes the muscle tissues, moves
blood clots and blood stagnation, breaks up obstructions,
opens the vessels, alleviates Kapha. It is light, hot and dry.
Yet when used too much by
itself or in excess causes a
weakening of virility by its post-digestive effect. By its
taste and hot potency it causes delusion, weariness,
languor, emaciation. Pungent taste causes fainting,
prostration, loss of consciousness and dizziness. It burns
the throat, generates a burning sensation in the body,
diminishes strength and causes thirst. By its predominance
of fire and air pungent taste creates various burning
sensations, tremors, and piercing and stabbing pains
throughout the body.
Pungent taste is
stimulating, promotes digestion, increases
appetite, is diaphoretic (causes sweating) and expectorant
(removes phlegm) and is vermicidal (kills parasites). It
promotes circulation and generally increases all bodily
functions, while reducing all foreign accretions in the
body. Pungent taste arises mainly from various aromatic
oils. It is more common than sweet but not abundant. Still,
many herbs belong to this category and they are very
useful and often become spices and condiments. Pungent
taste includes acrid, spicy and aromatic.
Bitter
Bitter taste, though it does
not taste good in itself restores
the sense of taste. It is detoxifying, antibacterial,
germicidal, and kills worms. It relieves fainting, burning
sensation, itch, inflammatory skin conditions and thirst.
Bitter taste creates tightness of the skin and muscles. It is
antipyretic, febrifuge, it enkindles digestive fire, promotes
digestion of toxins, purifies lactation, helps scrape away
fat and remove toxic accumulations in fat, marrow,
lymph, sweat, urine, excrement, Pitta
and Kapha. It
is dry,
cold and light. Yet when used by itself or in excess, owing
to its natural properties of dryness, roughness and
clearness, it causes a wasting away of all the tissue
elements of the body. Bitter taste produces roughness in
the vessels, takes away strength, causes emaciation,
weariness, delusion, dizziness, dryness of the mouth and
other diseases of Vata.
Bitter taste reduces fevers,
is anti-inflammatory,
antibacterial, detoxifying and germicidal. It is cleansing to
the blood and all tissues in general and helps reduce
tumors. It has a reducing, depleting and sedating effect
upon the body although in small amounts it is stimulating,
particularly to digestion.
Bitter is a very common
taste in herbs and plants. It arises
from various bitter principles like berberine (Huang lian,
Huang bai, etc. -PB). Bitters may be simple, like gentian.
They may be aromatic (pungent secondarily), like wormwood. Or they may
be astringent (secondarily) like golden
seal.
Astringent
Astringent taste is a
sedative, stops diarrhea, aids in
healing of joints, promotes the closing and healing of
sores and wounds. It is drying, firming, contracting. It
alleviates Kapha, Pitta
and stops bleeding. Astringent
taste promotes absorption of bodily fluids; it is dry
cooling and light.
Yet when used too much by
itself or in excess, it causes
drying of the mouth, produces pain in the heart, causes
constipation, weakens the voice, obstructs channels of
circulation, makes the skin dark, weakens vitality, causes
premature aging. Astringent taste causes the retention of
gas, urine and feces, creates emaciation, weariness, thirst
and stiffness. Owing to its natural properties of roughness,
dryness and clearness, it causes Vata-diseases like
paralysis, spasms and convulsions.
Astringent taste is
hemostatic (stops bleeding), stops
sweating, stops diarrhea, as it promotes absorption of
fluids and inhibits their elimination. It is anti-inflammatory,
vulnerary (closes wounds and promotes
healing by knitting the membranes back together). It
constricts the muscles and helps raise prolapsed organs.
Astringent taste is also
very common in herbs, but it is not
of such therapeutic importance, as astringent action is
used mainly symptomatically. Astringency derives mainly
from the presence of various tannins.