AI YE   [B-s] [L]

P: Folium Artemisiae Argyi

E: mugwort leaf, artemesia

S

Lv

K

Bitter

Acrid

Warm

Warms womb, stops bleeding, calms fetus, stops pain: prolonged mense, uterine bleeding, restless fetus, lower abdominal pain, vaginal bleeding threatening miscarriage, infertility

Dispels damp, stops itching: abdominal pain, menstrual pain [topical wash]

'         Heat in blood

'         Deficient yin

3-9g

BAI BU   [P-cw] [L]

P: Radix Stemonae

E: stemona root, ‘hundred parts’

L

Sweet

Bitter

Slightly warm

Moistens L, stops coughing

Expels parasites, kills lice: [head lice/fleas: topical tincture];[pinworm: internal decoction]

h   S/Sp cold or deficiency

3-9g

BAI HUA SHE SHE CAO   [H-t] [L]

P: Herba Hedyotidis Diffusae

E: heydyotis, oldenlandia

Lv

S

LI

Bitter

Sweet

Cold

Clears heat, relieves toxicity, reduces abscesses: intestinal abscess, toxic sores, ulcerations, snakebite [internal or topical]

Clears damp-heat, promotes urination: dysuria, jaundice

'     Pregnancy

15-60g

BAN ZHI LIAN   [H-t] [L]

P: Herba Scutellariae Barbatae

E: barbat skullcap, scutellaria, ‘half branch lotus’

L

LI

Lv

S

Acrid

Bitter

Cold

Clears heat relieves toxicity, invigorates blood, reduces swelling: sores, swellings, snakebites, trauma

Treats cancer and hepatitis

'         Pregnancy

'         Deficient blood

15-60g

BING LANG   [X] [L]

P: Semen Arecae Catechu

E: betel nut, areca seeds

LI

S

Acrid

Bitter

Warm

Kills parasites: intestinal parasites [tapeworms: use larger dose]

Regulates S/Sp qi: food stagnation, abdominal distention, constipation, tenesmus

Promotes movement of qi and urination: edema, malaria

6-12g;

60-120g

BO HE   [E-c] [L]

P: Herba Menthae Haplocalycis

E: field mint, mentha

L

Lv

Acrid

Aromatic

Cool

Disperses wind-heat: fever, HA, cough

Clears head, eyes, benefits throat: sore throat, red eyes, HA

Vents rashes: early staged rashes, measles

Moves constrained Lv qi: flank pain, emotional instability, gynecological disorders

h        Don’t use w/ deficient exterior or deficient yin  conditions w/ heat signs

h        Not recommended while pregnant, may lead to lactation

1.5-6g

[Added near end: last 5 min.]

CAO WU   [C] [L]

Fu Zi subtype

P: Radix Aconiti Kusnezofii

E: wild aconite (Hawaiian: ape, ‘elephant ear’)

H

Lv

Sp

Acrid

Bitter

Warm

Highly toxic

Expels wind-damp, disperses cold, alleviates pain: chest and abdominal pain, severe HA, traumatic pain, rheumatism

h        Deficient yin (false cold and true heat)

h        Pregnancy

'         Incompatible w/bei mu, gua lou, bai ji, ban xia, and bai wei

'         Antagonizes wu gong

'         Counteracts xi jiao and lu dou

1.5-9g [cook for 30-60 min. before adding decoct.]

CE BAI YE   [B-s] [L]

P: Cacumen Biotae Orientalis

E: leafy twig of arborvitae, biota leaves

H

Lv

LI

Bitter

Astringent

Slightly cold

Cools blood, stops bleeding: vomiting blood, coughing blood, blood in stool, bleeding gums, bloody dysentery, uterine bleeding

Stops coughing, expels phlegm: difficult bloody sputum

Heals burns: [topical powder]

'         Prolonged usage or overdose may cause dizziness, nausea, or vomiting

6-15g [raw or charred]

CHE QIAN ZI   [D] [L]

P: Semen Plantaginis

E: plantago seeds, ‘before the cart seeds,’ ‘lokahi’

UB

K

Lv

L

Sweet

Cold

Promotes urination, clears heat: edema, damp heat obstruction in LW, diarrhea, kidney infections, diabetes, low back pain

Clears eyes: dry, red, or swollen eyes, cataracts

Expels phlegm, stops cough: L heat, cough, copious sputum

h        Pregnancy

'     Exhausted yang qi

4.5-9g

CHEN PI   [Q] [L]

P: Pericarpium Citri Reticulatae

E: tangerine peel, citrus

L

Sp

S

Acrid

Bitter

Warm

Aromatic

Regulates qi, improves Sp transportive function, relieves diaphragm: nausea, vomiting, belching

Dries dampness, transforms phlegm: cough, chest or diaphragm distention, fatigue, loose stool

Helps prevent stagnation

h        Do not use in cases of dry cough due to deficient yin or qi

'         Red tongue, hot phlegm or dry heat coughs, or spitting of blood

3-9g

CHI XIAO DOU   [D] [L]

P: Semen Phaseoli Calcarati

E: aduki bean, phaseolus, ‘dark red little bean’

H

SI

Sweet

Sour

Neutral

Clears heat and promotes urination: edema, difficult urination

Disperses blood stasis, reduces swelling, reduces fire toxicity: sores, carbuncles, furuncles

Clears damp-heat: mild jaundice

Treat chemical dependency: [seeds]

'     Prolonged use can lead to dryness

9-30g

CHUAN LIAN ZI   [Q] [L]

Jin Ling Zi

P: Fructus Meliae Toosendan

E: Sichuan pagoda tree fruit, Sichuan chinaberry, melia

UB

Lv

SI

S

Cold

Bitter

Slightly toxic

Promotes movement of qi, clears heat, dries damp, stops pain: flank, rib, abdominal pain, hernia

Kills parasites, stops pain: roundworm, tapeworm, abdominal pain due to parasites

h   Deficient cold in S/Sp

3-9g

DA FU PI   [Q] [L]

P: Pericarpium Arecae Catechu

E: Betel husk, areca peel

LI

SI

Sp

S

Acrid

Slightly warm

Promotes downward movement of qi, reduces stagnation, expels dampness: abdominal distention, belching, vomiting, constipation, urinary dysfunction, edema

'     Deficient qi

6-9g

DAN ZHU YE   [H-f]

P: Herba Lopatheri Gracilis

E: lopatherum stem and leaves (bland bamboo leaves, longevity grass)

H

SI

S

Sweet

Bland

Cold

Clears heat and irritability, calms spirit: sore gums or mouth, chemical dependency

Promotes urination, clears damp-heat: rough, scanty dysuria

Divination: I-Ching sticks (twigs)

'     Pregnancy

6-9g

DU YE BU CHIEN   [WD] [L]

P:

E: ‘temple tea, ‘traveller’s tea’

Clears wind-damp: arthritis, environment changes (food, water, etc.)

FANG ZI LIU   [X] [L]

P:

E: guava leaf  

Aids digestion, expels worms, alleviates seafood poisoning: diarrhea (3 leaf tips)

FO SHOU   [Q] [L]

P: Fructus Citri Sarcodactylis

E: finger citron fruit

Lv

L

S

Sp

Acrid

Bitter

Slightly warm

Spreads and regulates Lv qi: flank pain, belching

Harmonizes S, strengthens Sp: epigastric pain and distention, bloating, lack of appetite, belching, vomiting

Dries dampness, transforms phlegm: cough w/ chest pain

'         w/o stagnant qi

'         Deficient yin w/ heat signs

3-9g

GAN JIANG   [C] [L]

P: Rhizoma Zingiberis Officinalis

E: dried ginger rhizome

H

L

Sp

S

Acrid

Hot

Warms MW, rescues devastated yang, expels interior cold

Warms L, transforms phlegm

Warms channels, stops bleeding: hemorrhage, cold limbs, pale face

h        Do not use in cases of deficient yin w/ heat signs, or reckless movement of hot blood

'     Pregnancy

3-12g

GE JIE   [T-g] [L]

P: Gecko

E: gecko

L

K

Salty

Neutral

Benefits K, tonifies L: coughing, wheezing, blood in sputum

Assists K yang, augments the essence and blood: impotence, daybreak diarrhea, frequent urination

h        Coughing and wheezing from external wind cold or excess heat

3-7g [pills/ powder]; 9-5g [decoct.]

GOU JI   [T-g] [L]

Jin Mao Gou

P: Rhizoma Cibotii Barometz

E: chain fern rhizhome, cibota, ‘dog spine,’ ‘gold hair dog’

K

Lv

Bitter

Sweet

Warm

Tonifies K, Lv, sinews, and bones: sore back, spine, and legs

Expels wind and dampness: arthritis, soreness, numbness

Stabilizes the K: urinary incontinence, vaginal discharge

h        Difficult urination

h        Heat due to deficient yin

'     Antagonizes bai jiang cao

4.5-9g

GU SUI BU   [T-g] [L]

P: Rhizoma Drynariae

E: drynaria rhizome

K

Lv

Bitter

Warm

Tonifies K: weak low back and knees, diarrhea, tinnitus, decreased hearing, toothache, gingivitis

Promotes mending and strength of sinews and bones: fractures, contusions, sprains

Stimulates hair growth: alopecia [topical tincture]

'         Deficient yin

'         w/o blood stasis

6-18g

GUI ZHI   [E-w] [L]

P: Ramulus Cinnamomi Cassiae

E: cinnamon twig, cassia twig

H

L

UB

Acrid

Sweet

Warm

Adjusts ying and wei qi levels: exterior cold, chills and fever [smaller dose]

Warms channels, disperses cold: wind-cold-damp painful joint obstructions (esp. shoulders) [larger dose], dysmenorrhea

Unblocks yang, transforms qi: edema

Warms and facilitates flow of zong qi: palpitations

Warms and facilitates flow of blood: dysmenorrhea

h        Warm-febrile diseases

h        Deficient yin w/ heat signs

h        Heat in the blood w/ vomiting

'     Pregnancy and excessive menstruation

3-9g;

9-15g

HAI ZAO   [P-h] [L]

P: Herba Sargassii                                                           

E: seaweed, sargassum                                                       

K

Lv

L

S

Bitter

Salty

Cold

Clears heat, reduces phlegm nodules: goiter, scrofula

Promotes urination, reduces edema: floating edema

Alleviates pain: hernia

h        Deficient Sp/S

'     Incompatible w/ gan cao

4.5-15g

HE YE   [H-t] [L]

P: Folium Nelumbinis Nuciferae

E: lotus leaf

H

Lv

Sp

Bitter

Slightly sweet

neutral

Clears summerheat, raises Sp yang: fever, irritability, excess sweating, scanty urine, diarrhea

Stops bleeding: vomiting blood, LW stagnation [fresh, external compress or wash]

h        Deficient or cold bleeding

'     Counteracts fu ling

9-15g;

30g [alone]

HONG ZHU   [L]

P:

E: red ti leaf, ‘red bamboo’

Treats blood problems

HUO MA REN   [¯-l] [L]

P: Semen Cannabis Sativae

E: cannabis seeds, linum, ‘fire hemp seeds’

LI

Sp

S

Sweet

Neutral

Nourishes yin, moistens intestines: febrile disease, post-partum, blood deficiency, constipation

Clears heat, promotes healing of sores: ulcerations [decoction or topical]

'         Overdose or prolonged use may cause vaginal discharge or spermatorrhea

9-15g;

45g

[ground]

JI DAN HUA   [L]

P:

E: plumeria

toxic

Opens sinuses: allergies, cold (flower)

(air dry, then steam)

JIN QIAN CAO   [D] [L]

P: Herba Lysimachiae

E: lysimachia (gold coin, gold money herb)

UB

GB

K

Lv

Sweet

Bland

Neutral

Promotes urination, expels stones: dysuria, urinary and bilary stones

Clears Lv/GB damp-heat: jaundice, red, swollen eyes

Reduces toxicity and swelling: snake bite, abscess, traumatic injury; chemical dependency

Ä       Long term use of large dosages may cause dizziness or palpitations

15-60g

JIN YIN HUA   [H-t] [L]

P: Flos Lonicerae Japonicae

E: honeysuckle flower, lonicera (gold silver flower)

LI

L

S

Sweet

Cold

Clears heat, relieves fire toxicity: hot pain sores and swellings, esp. in breast, throat, or eyes, intestinal abscess

Expels external wind-heat: fever, sore throat, HA

Clears LW damp-heat: dysentery, dysuria

h        Diarrhea due to deficient cold in S/Sp

h        Sores due to deficient qi or yin

9-15g

JIU DA BU SHIH   [H-t] [L]

P:

E: ‘9 beaten no die’

LI

Lv

Jue-yin

Sour

Cold

Treats tendon and joint problems

Relieves fire toxicity, cools blood: dysentery, dysuria, hematuria, parasites, blood in diarrhea from food poisoning, high cholesterol, Lv toxins, blood stasis, hemorrhoids, internal rheumatism [vitamin A: clears toxins in Lv and eye protein]

Treats viral diseases: rashes, malaria, V.D., syphallis, HIV, herpes, hepatits [vitamin C: infections; soak the genitals]

Clears damp heat, treats sores: leukorrhea, endometriosis, menorrhagia, clears infection and mucus [decoction or topical- use cream on mingmen and qihai for lower abdominal internal bleeding]

Antidote for wasp stings and snakebites

Used for post-partum bleeding

Resolves masses, cysts and tumors (mucus and lymph)

Relieves constipation and controls weight

Treats broken bones

Treats hardened arteries, H function [sap: calms the spirit- insomnia, stress]

h        Deficient cold in S/SP

h        Pregnancy

15-60g

JU HE   [Q] [L]

P: Pericarpium Citri Reticulatae Viride 

E: green peeled tangerine seed                                           

GB

Lv

S

Bitter

Acrid

Warm

Spreads Lv qi stagnation: hernial pain, chest, flank distention

Dissipates clumps and tumors, reduces food stagnation

Dries dampness, transforms phlegm

Raises LBP

30g

KU SHEN   [H-d] [L]

P: Radix Sophorae Flavescentis

E: sophora root

UB

H

Lv

LI

SI

Bitter

Cold

Clears heat, dries damp: dysentery, leukorrhea, jaundice, sores

Disperses wind, kills parasites, stops itching: skin lesions w/ bleeding and pus, genital itching [internal and topical]

Promotes urination: dysuria, edema

h        Deficient cold in Sp/S

h        Preparations should not be injected

'         Incompatible w/ li lu

'         Antagonizes tu si zi, bei mu

3-15g [powder, pills, tinctures, oint-ment];

30g [topical soak]

KUN BU   [P-h] [L]

P: Thallus Algae                                                               E: kelp, thallus, laminaria                                                      

K

Lv

S

Salty

Cold

Reduces phlegm nodules: goiter, scrofula

Promotes urination, reduces edema

h   Deficient cold in S/Sp

4.5-15g

LI ZHI HE   [Q] [L]

P: Semen Litchi Chinensis

E: leechee nut

Lv

S

Sweet

Astringent

Warm

Regulates Lv qi, disperses damp-cold stagnation, stops pain: abdominal pain [larger dose], PMS, post-partum pain, henia, testicular pain

6-15g;

24-30g

LIAN ZI   [SB] [L]

P: Semen Nelumbinis Nuciferae

E: lotus seed

H

K

Sp

Sweet

Astringent

Neutral

Tonifies Sp, stops diarrhea: chronic diarrhea, poor appetite

Tonifies K, stabilizes essence: premature ejaculation, spermatorrhea, excessive uterine bleeding, leukorrhea

Nourishes H, calms spirit: palpitations, anxiety, insomnia

h   Abdominal distension or constipation

6-15g

LU FENG FANG   [W] [L]

P: Nidus Vespae

E: hornet nest

L

S

Sweet

Neutral

Toxic

Relieves toxicity, expels wind, dries dampness, alleviates pain: skin rash, itching, scabies, ringworm, sores, carbuncles [topical ointment or wash]; toothache [warm gargle], tumors

h        Burst sores

'         Deficient qi or blood

'         Antagonizes gan jiang, dan shen, shao yao, mu li

'         Necessary dosage causes nephritis

6-12g [decoct]; 1.5-3g [ingested powder]

MA CHI XIAN   [H-t] [L]

P: Herba Portulacae Oleraceae

E: purslane, portulaca, ‘horse tooth amaranth’, ‘melon seed plant’, 5 element plant: leaf is green, stem is brown (red), flower is yellow, seed is black, sap is white

LI

Lv

Jue-yin

Sour

Cold

Relieves fire toxicity, cools blood: dysentery, dysuria, hematuria, parasites, blood in diarrhea from food poisoning, high cholesterol, Lv toxins, blood stasis, hemorrhoids, internal rheumatism [vitamin A: clears toxins in Lv and eye protein]

Treats viral diseases: rashes, malaria, V.D., syphallis, HIV, herpes, hepatits [vitamin C: infections; soak the genitals]

Clears damp heat, treats sores: leukorrhea, endometriosis, menorrhagia, clears ear infection [decoction or topical- use cream on mingmen and qihai for lower abdominal internal bleeding]

Antidote for wasp stings and snakebites

Used for post-partum bleeding

Resolves masses, cysts and tumors (mucus and lymph)

Relieves constipation and controls weight

Treats broken bones

Treats hardened arteries, H function [sap: calms the spirit- insomnia, stress]

[boil w/honey and make into powder; put drop under tongue]

h        Deficient cold in S/SP

h        Pregnancy

15-60g

MAI MEN DONG  [T-n] [L]

P: Tuber Ophiopogonis Japonici

E: ophiopogon tuber, ‘lush winter wheat’

H

L

S

Sweet

Slightly bitter

Slightly cold

Moistens L, stops cough: dry cough, hemoptysis, thick sputum

Clears H: fever, irritability, rheumatism (7 nuts)

Augments S yin,  generates fluid, moistens intestines: dry mouth, constipation

h        Deficient cold diarrhea

'         Antagonizes kuan dong hua

'         Counteracts ku shen, bai mu er

6-15g

MO CHI CAO   [W] [L]

P:

E: widelia

"Kung Fu Master's Herb"

Lv

Bitter

Toxic

Dispels wind-damp obstruction, cleans blood, moves qi: arthritis, joint pain, traumatic injury, internal bleeding, leukemia

MO YAO   [B-i] [L]

P: Myrrha

E: myrrh

H

Lv

Sp

Bitter

Neutral

Invigorates blood, dispels blood stasis, reduces swelling, alleviates pain: trauma pain and sores [topical], carbuncles, swellings, abdominal masses, painful obstruction, chest and abdominal pain, amenorrhea [fry w/ vinegar]

h        Pregnancy or excessive uterine bleeding

3-12g

MU LI   [S-a] [L]

P: Concha Ostreae

E: oyster shell

Lv

K

Salty

Astringent

Cool

Anchors and calms spirit: palpitations, anxiety, insomnia

Benefits yin, anchors floating yang: irritability, dizziness, HA, tinnitus, blurred vision

Prevents leakage of fluids: sweating disorders, nocturnal emission, spermatorrhea, leukorrhea, uterine bleeding

Softens hardness, dissipates nodules: scrofula,  goiter

Absorbs acidity, stops pain: excessive S pain

h        High fever due to an absence of sweating

'         Works synergistically w/ bei mu, gan cao, niu xi, yuan zi

'         Adverse effects w/ ma huang, wu zhu yu, xi xin

'         Overdose causes indigestion or constipation

15-30g; cook 20-30 min. before adding rest of decoct.

OU JIE   [B-s] [L]

P: Nodus Nelumbinis Nuciferae Rhizomatis

E: lotus rhizome node

L

S

Lv

Sweet

Astringent

Neutral

Stops bleeding: vomiting or coughing blood, chronic bleeding; reckless movement [fresh, juice]; deficient cold bleeding [partially charred]

9-15g [dried];

30-60g [fresh]

PI PA YE   [P-cw] [L]

P: Folium Eriobotryae Japonicae

E: loquat leaf, eriobotrya

L

S

Bitter

Cool

Transforms phlegm, clears L heat, redirects rebellious L qi downward: cough [honey fried]

Harmonizes S, clears S heat, redirects rebellious qi downward: nausea, vomiting, hiccup, belching [fry in ginger juice]

h        Vomiting due to S cold

h        Cough due to external-cold in L

4.5-12g;

15-30g [fresh]; scrub hair off leaves

PO KUEI   [L]

P:

E: ghost master (exorcist)

Calms spirit: placed underneath mattress (dream chamber)

PU GONG YING  [H-t] [L]

P: Herba Taraxaci Mongolici cum Radice

E: dandelion

Lv

S

Bitter

Sweet

Cold

Clears heat, relieves toxicity, resolves dampness: swollen, painful eyes, jaundice, dysuria

Reduces abscesses, dissipates nodules: breast, intestinal abscess [internal or topical]

Promotes lactation

'     Overdose may cause mild diarrhea

9-30g

PU NAI HUAN   [L]

P:

E: ‘impatience’

Calms spirit: impatience, irritibility, restlessness

QING PI   [Q] [L]

P: Pericarpium Citri Reticulatae Viride

E: immature or green tangerine peel, blue citrus

GB

Lv

S

Bitter

Acrid

Warm

Spreads stagnant Lv qi, dissipates clumps, relieves food stagnation, transforms dampness and phlegm: chest, breast, hypochondriac, abdominal pain or distention, hernia, malaria, LBP

'     Deficient qi

3-9g

QING ZHU   [L]

P:

E: green ti leaf, ‘green bamboo’

Treats spiritual and mental problems

ROU GUI   [C] [L]

P: Cortex Cinnamomi Cassiae

E: cinnamon bark

H

K

Lv

Sp

Acrid

Sweet

Hot

Warms K, fortifies yang: weak back, cold limbs, impotence, frequent urination, poor appetite, diarrhea, asthma

Leads fire back to the source: top is hot, bottom is cold (illusionary heat, true cold), sore throat, toothache

Disperses deep cold, warms channels and vessels, unblocks channels, alleviates pain: amenorrhea, dysmenorrhea, damp-cold bi, chronic sores and boils

Encourages the generation of qi and blood

h        Deficient yin w/ heat signs

h        Excess interior heat

h        Reckless movement of hot blood

'     Pregnancy

1.5-4.5g [crush]

SANG BAI PI   [P-cw] [L]

P: Cortex Mori Albae Radicis

E: bark of mulberry root

L

Sp

Sweet

Cold

Drains L heat: cough and wheezing [honey fried]

Promotes urination, reduces edema

Hypertension

h        Excessive urination

h        Cough due to wind cold

6-15g

SANG YE   [E-c] [L]

P: Folium Mori Albae

E: white mulberry leaf

Lv

L

Sweet

Bitter

Cold

Expels L wind-heat: fever, HA, sore throat, coughing [toast in honey]

Clears Lv and eyes: red, sore, painful, dry eyes, spots before eyes [external wash]

Cools blood stops bleeding: mild vomiting blood

4.5-15g

SANG ZHI   [WD] [L]

P: Ramulus Mori Albae

E: mulberry twig, morus twig

Lv

Bitter

Swet

Slightly cold

Dispels wind, unblocks channels, benefits joints: wind-damp bi (esp. upper extremities), edema

10-30g

SHAN YAO   [T-q] [L]

P: Radix Dioscoreae Oppositae

E: Chinese yam

K

L

Sp

Sweet

Neutral

Tonifies Sp, L, and K qi, stabilizes and binds: diarrhea, fatigue, poor appetite, spontaneous sweating, chronic cough, wheezing, spermatorrhea, frequent urination, leukorrhea [dry-fry]

Tonifies yin: diabetes [raw; large dose]

h        Excess due to fullness, stagnation, dampness, or accumulation

'     Antagonizes gan sui

9-30g;

250g

SHENG JIANG   [E-w] [L]

P: Rhizoma Zingiberis Officinalis Recens

E: fresh ginger rhizome

L

Sp

S

Acrid

Warm

Releases exterior, disperses cold: cough

Warms MW, alleviates vomiting

Reduces toxicity of other herbs

Adjusts ying and wei qi

Promotes urination, reduces edema: [skin (sheng jiang pi)]

h   L, S heat w/ vomiting

3-9g

SHI DI   [Q] [L]

P: Calyx Diospyri Kaki

E: persimmon calyx, kaki

L

S

Bitter

Astringent

Neutral

Directs qi downward, stops hiccup: belching, hiccups

6-12g

SHI HU   [T-n] [L]

P: Herba Dendrobii

E: dendrobium, ‘bushel of stone’

K

S

Sweet

Slightly salty

Bland

Cold

Nourishes yin, clears heat, generates fluids: parched mouth, severe thirst

Nourishes deficient S yin: dry heaves, stomach ache, diabetes

Brightens vision, strengthens lower back

h        Excess/deficient heat

h        Retains pathogens: early stages of febrile diseases

h        Aids dampness

'         Antagonizes ba dou

'         Counteracts lei wan

6-15g

SHI JUE MING   [W] [L]

P: Concha Haliotidis

E: abalone shell

K

Lv

Salty

Cold

Drains Lv  fire, descends Lv yang: HA, dizziness, red eyes

Improves vision: photphobia, pterygium, blurred vision [fine topical powder]

'     Counteracts xuan fu hua

9-30g [cook 1hr before adding rest of decoct.]; [powder/pill]

SHI LIU PI   [SB] [L]

P: Pericarpium Punicae Granati

E: pomegranate husk

K

LI

S

Sour

Astringent

Warm

Toxic

Binds intestines, stops diarrhea: chronic diarrhea, dysentery, rectal prolapse

Stabilizes K, retains essence: spermatorrhea, premature ejaculation, excessive uterine bleeding [charred], leukorrhea

Kills parasites: tapeworm, roundworm; ringworm [topical]

h        Excess or early stages of diarrhea

h        Do not mix w/ oils or fats

'         Possible side effects: dizziness, visual disturbances, weakness, calf spasm, tremors

'         Large overdose may cause HA, vertigo, vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy

3-9g

SHUI ZHU CAO   [L]

P:

L: ‘water bamboo grass’/ ‘mountain bamboo grass,’ hono hono grass

Bland

Strengthens joints and alleviates pain: pain (root); prevention (leaves); joint pain, internal injury; acute injury (water bamboo grass), chronic injury (mountain bamboo grass)

SI BAI   [L]

Mo Yao (root sap)

P:

L: pine

Bitter

Improves strength and flexibility, condenses bone: Iron or mineral deficiency

Clears heat, stops bleeding, clears dead blood: bleeding gums, internal bleeding, pneumothorax, aches and pains

TIAN MEN DONG   [T-n] [L]

P: Tuber Asparagi Cochinchinensis

E: asparagus tuber

K

L

Sweet

Bitter

Very cold

Nourishes K and L yin, clears heat, generates fluids: dry mouth, blood-streaked sputum, diabetes, constipation

h        Deficient cold in Sp/S w/ loss of appetite and diarrhea

h        Wind-cold cough

6-15g

TIAN ZHU HUANG   [P-h] [L]

P: Concretio Silicea Bambusae Textillis

E: tabasheer, siliceous secretions of bamboo

GB

H

Lv

Sweet

Cold

Clears and transforms damp-heat: difficult L sputum

Clears H, arrests convulsions: childhood convulsions, wind-stroke, spasms and convulsions

3-9g;

.6-1.2g (directly)

WANG BU LIU XING   [B-i] [L]

P: Semen Vaccariae Segetalis

E: vaccaria seeds

Lv

S

Bitter

Neutral

Moves blood, invigorates channels: insufficient lactation, amenorrhea

Reduces swelling: breast and testicle swelling

Treats gallstones: [ear acupuncture pellet]

h        Pregnancy

3-9g

WU GONG   [W] [L]

P: Scolopendra Subspinipes

E: centipede, scolopendra

Lv

Acrid

Warm

Toxic

Extinguishes internal wind: spasms, childhood convulsions, opisthotonos, lockjaw, seizures

Attacks toxins, dissipates nodules: toxic nodules, sores, carbuncles, goiter, snake bites [topical/internal]

Unblocks collaterals, stops pain: migraine HA, painful wind-damp bi

h        Pregnancy

.9-3g;

.6-1g [pills/ powder]

WU ZHU YU   [C] [L]

P: Fructus Evodiae Rutaecarpae

E: evodia fruit

K

Lv

Sp

S

Acrid

Bitter

Hot

Slightly toxic

Warms middle, disperses cold, relieves constraint, alleviates pain, redirects rebellious qi downward, stops vomiting: HA, epigastric pain, nausea, hernia

Warms Sp, stops diarrhea, expels damp-cold

Leads fire downward: mouth and tongue sores [powder mixed w/ vinegar applied topically to yongquan]

h        Prolonged use

h        Deficient yin w/ heat signs

'         Antagonizes dan shen, zi shi ying

'         Overdose may cause dry throat

3-9g

[TX w/ gan cao to reduce side effects]

XIA KU CAO   [H-f] [L]

P: Spica Prunellae Vulgaris

E: selfheal spike, prunella

GB

Lv

Bitter

Cold

Acrid

Clears Lv, brightens eyes: red, painful, swollen eyes, HA, dizziness, hypertension

Clears heat, dissipates nodules: neck lumps, swollen glands, scrofula, goiter, lymphangitis

'     Deficient S/Sp

9-15g;

30g

XIANG FU   [Q] [L]

P: Rhizoma Cyperi Rotundi

E: nut-grass rhizome, cyperus

Lv

TW

Acrid

Slightly bitter

Slightly sweet

Neutral

Spreads and regulates Lv qi: hypochondriac and  epigastrium pain [fry w/ vinegar]

Regulates menstruation, alleviates pain: gynecological disorders [fry w/ wine]

h        Deficient qi  w/o stagnation

h        Deficient yin, heat in the blood

4.5-12g

XIN YI HUA   [E-w] [L]

P: Flos Magnoliae

E: magnolia flower

L

S

Acrid

Warm

Expels wind-cold, unblocks nasal passages: nasal obstruction, nasal discharge, sinus problems, HA

h        Deficient yin heat

'     Overdose may cause dizziness or red eyes

3-9g

XUE MEI   [L]

P:

E: mock orange

Lv

LI

H

Clears obstruction and dead blood: arthritis, joint, muscle, and bone aches and pains

Clears Lv stagnation: viral infection, blood disorders

Treats cancer: tumors, growths

Cleans intestines: constipation, hemorrhoids, high cholesterol, HBP

3-9g

YA JIAO MU   [L]

P:

E: ‘octapus plant’

Lv

Calms emotions

YI YI REN   [D] [L]

P: Semen Coicis Lachryma-jobi

E: job’s tears

L

K

Sp

Sweet

Bland

Slightly cold

Promotes urination, leeches out dampness: edema, difficult urination

Tonifies Sp: damp diarrhea [dry fried]

Clears heat, expels pus, treats plantar warts: soft pustulated carbuncles, L or intestinal abscess

Expels wind-damp, damp-heat: spasms (chronic), joint immobilization

Calms spirit

Cleans blood and toxins

'     Pregnancy

9-30g

ZANG SU   [L]

P:

E: eucalyptus tree

Alleviates external pain: (tiger balm, white flower oil)

ZAO JIAO   [P-c] [L]

P: Fructus Gleditsiae Sinensis

E: Chinese honeylocust fruit, gleditsia, ‘soap thorn’

LI

L

Acrid

Warm

Slightly toxic

Dispels phlegm obstruction: nodules, coughing and wheezing

Opens orifices, revives spirit: sudden loss of consciousness w/ facial paralysis or seizures

Reduces swelling: initial stages of boils or abscesses [topical]

Unblocks bowels, expels roundworms: constipation

h        Pregnancy

h        Deficient qi or yin

h        Hemoptysis

'     Overdose may cause vomiting and diarrhea

.6-1.5g [pill/ powder]

ZHEN ZHU FA CHAI   [T-b] [L]

P:

E: pearl flower

Nourishes and cleans blood: fatty (high cholesterol) blood

ZHI SHI   [Q] [L]

Zhi Ke

P: Fructus Immaturus Citri Aurantii

E: immature fruit of the bitter orange

LI

Sp

S

Bitter

Acrid

Slightly cold

Relieves food stagnation, directs qi downward, unblocks bowels: indigestion, gas, abdominal distention, constipation, difficult diarrhea

Transforms phlegm: chest and abdomen pain

Used w/ qi tonifiers: raise BP, prolapse

'         Pregnancy

'         Deficient S cold

3-9g

ZHU RU   [P-h] [L]

P: Caulis Bambusae in Taeniis

E: bamboo shavings

GB

L

S

Sweet

Slightly cold

Clears and transforms phlegm-heat: thick sputum, coughing blood, chest distention

Clears heat, stops vomiting

Cools blood, stops bleeding: nose bleed, vomiting blood

h        Nausea and vomiting due to S cold and food stagnation

4.5-9g

[often fried in ginger juice]

ZI SU YE   [E-w] [L]

P: Folium Perillae Frutescentis

E: perilla leaf

L

Sp

Acrid

Aromatic

Warm

Releases exterior, disperses cold: HA, fever, chills, nasal congestion, cough

Moves qi, expands chest: nausea, vomiting, poor appetite

Calms fetus: restless fetus, morning sickness

Alleviates seafood poisoning

h        Exterior deficiency w/sweating

h        Damp-heat

3-9g

[minimal cooking]

KEY

[L] = local herbs

Action Categories:

[E] = releases exterior

[E-w] = warm, acrid herbs that release the exterior

[E-c] = cool, acrid herbs that release the exterior

[H] = clears heat

[H-f] = drains fire

[H-b] = cools blood

[H-d] = clears heat, dries damp

[H-t] = clears heat, relieves toxicity

[H-s] = clears and relieves summer heat

[¯] = drains downward

[¯-p] = drains downward w/ purgative

[¯-l] = drains downward w/ moist laxative

[¯-c] = drains downward w/ harsh expellant (cathartics)

[D] = drains dampness

[WD] = dispels wind-damp

[P] = transforms phlegm

[P-c] = transforms phlegm-cold

[P-h] = transforms phlegm-heat

[P-cw] = relieves coughing and wheezing

[TD] = aromatic herbs that transform dampness

[FS] = relieves food stagnation

[Q] = regulates qi

[B] = regulates blood

[B-s] = stops bleeding

[B-i] = invigorates blood

[C] = warms interior, expels cold

[T] = tonifying herbs

[T-q] = tonifies qi

[T-b] = tonifies blood

[T-g] = tonifies yang

[T-n] = tonifies yin

[SB] = stabilize and bind

[S] = calms spirit

[S-a] = anchors, settles, calms spirit

[S-h] = nourishes heart, calms spirit

[O] = aromatic substances that opens orifices

[W] = extinguishes wind, stops tremors

[X] = expels parasites

Meridians/Vessels:

L = Lung

LI = Large Intestine

S = Stomach

Sp = Spleen

H = Heart

SI = Small Intestine

UB = Urinary Bladder

K = Kidney

P = Pericardium

TW = Triple Warmer

GB = Gall Bladder

Lv = Liver

GV = Du/Governing Vessel

CV = Ren/Conception Vessel

PV = Chong/Penetrating Vessel

Warmers:

UW = Upper Warmer

MW = Middle Warmer

LW = Lower Warmer

Western Medicine:

HA = Headache

HBP = High Blood Pressure

LBP = Low Blood Pressure