Herb ID Flashcards
Qing Pi
Citri Reticulatae Viride Pericarpium
Regulate QI
LV, GB, ST
Acrid, Bitter, Warm
3-9g
Spreads the liver qi and breaks up stagnant qi
- constrained liver qi patterns: distention/pain in chest, breast or hypochondriac region; bulging disorder pain
Dissipates clumps and reduces stagnation
- for food stagnation which manifests as: epigastrum pain, distention, or stifling sensation
- postpartum mastitis
*Has potential to break qi if used in high enough dose
*Compare to Chai Hu
Da Fu Pi
Arecae Pericarpium
Regulate Qi
LI, SI, ST, SP
Acrid, Slightly Warm
4.5-9g
Drives qi downward and eases the middle
- dampness or other processes obstructing the middle - leading to qi stagnation with sx: epigastric/abdominal distention, focal distention, and stifling sensation; belching with acid regurgitation
- useful when sx are accompanied by incomplete/irregular bowel movements
Promotes urination and reduces edema
- Abdominal distention accompanied by edema (yang edema: rapid onset, upper body, acute, more of an excess condition)
*Herb does not address pathological factors; it strictly helps the directional flow of qi.
*Good for menstrual bloating
Chen Pi
Citri Reticulatae Pericarpium
Regulate Qi
LU, SP, ST
Acrid, Aromatic, Bitter, Warm
3-9g
Regulates the qi, adjusts the middle, and relieves the diaphragm
- spleen and stomach stagnant qi patterns: epigastric and abdominal distention, fullness, bloating, belching, nausea, and vomiting
Dries dampness and transforms phlegm
- phlegm-damp coughs with stifling sensation in chest/diaphragm, and copious, viscous sputum
- Damp turbidity obstructing the middle: stifling sensation in chest, abdominal distention, loss of appetite, fatigue, loose stools, and a thick, greasy tongue coating
Helps prevent stagnation
- Used with tonifying herbs to prevent their cloying nature from causing stagnation
Zhi Shi
Aurantii Fructus Immaturus
Regulate Qi
LI, SP, ST
Acrid, Bitter, Slightly Cold
3-9g
Breaks up stagnant qi and reduces accumulation
- epigastric/abdominal pain, distention, or indigestion with focal distention or gas
Transforms phlegm and expels focal distention
- Focal distention and fullness in the chest and epigastrum due to turbid phlegm obstructing and plugging the qi dynamic
* Has ability to break qi depending on the dosage used
*Helps constipation caused by yang ming heat
*Low ability to transform phlegm
Zhi Ke
Aurantii Fructus
Regualte Qi
LI, SP, ST
Acrid, Bitter, Slightly Cold
3-9g
Promotes the flow of qi
- cough, distention, or constipation
*Riper, more mild version of Zhi Shi
Xiang Fu
Cyperi Rhizoma
Regulate Qi
LV, GB, SJ
Acrid, Slightly Bitter, Slightly Sweet, Neutral
6-12g
Spreads and regulates liver qi
- constrained liver qi patterns: hypochondriac pain and epigastric distention; disharmony between liver and spleen
Regulates menstruation and alleviates [menstrual] pain
- facilitates the flow of liver qi in gynecological disorders: dysmenorrhea or irregular menstruation
Mu Xiang
Aucklandiae Radix
Regulates Qi
LI, GB, ST, SP, SJ
Acrid, Bitter, Warm
3-9g
Promotes the movement of qi and stops pain
- spleen or stomach stagnant qi: lack of appetite, feeling of food sitting in the stomach, epigastric/abdominal pain/distention, nausea, and vomiting
- stagnant liver/gallbladder qi: flank pain and distention soreness
Adjusts and regulates stagnant qi in the intestines
- diarrhea and dysenteric disorders, or abdominal pain and tenesmus
Strengthens the spleen and prevents stagnation
- used with tonifying herbs to ameliorate their side effects; especially useful when the T&T functions of the spleen are weak
*One of the best herbs for treating stagnant qi in the intestines
*Great for IBS
*Can add to formula as preventative measure if you suspect patient may show dampness as a result of the formula
Wu Yao
Linderae Radix
Regulates QI
UB, KD, LU, SP
Acrid, Warm
3-9g
Promotes the movement of qi and alleviates pain
- stifling sensation in the chest, flank pain, epigastric and abdominal pain and distention due to constraint from cold and qi stagnation
Warms the kidneys
- urinary frequency or incontinence due to insufficiency of kidney yang and cold from deficiency of the bladder
Chen Xiang
Aquilariae Lignum Resinatum
Regulates Qi
KD, SP, ST
Acrid, Aromatic, Bitter, Warm
1-1.5g
Promotes the movement of qi and alleviates pain
- stagnant qi patterns: distention, pain, or feeling of pressure in the epigastric or abdominal region
- esp. useful for problems due to cold from deficiency or blood stasis
_Directs rebellious qi downward and regulates the middl_e
- rebellious qi wheezing of either the excessive or deficient type, or vomiting, belching, or hiccough due to cold from deficiency of the stomach or spleen
Aids the kidneys in grasping the qi
- asthma and wheezing due to kidney deficiency
Tan Xiang
Santali Albi Lignum
Regulates Qi
LU, SP, ST
Acrid, Aromatic, Warm
2-5g
Promotes the movement of qi and alleviates pain
- for pain associated with stagnant qi in the chest and abdomen
Recently used in the treatment of coronary artery disease
Chuan Lian Zi
Toosendan Fructus
Regulates Qi
UB, LV, SI, ST
Bitter, Cold, Slightly Toxic
4.5-9g
Dredges liver qi, releases constrain, stops pain, and conducts heat out from below
- liver constraint, pain in the chest and ribs, distention and pain from liver/stomach disharmony, and bulging disorders
- Can be used for heat or cold conditions depending on combined herbs
Kills parasites and stops pain
- roundworms and tapeworms
- not partocularly effective at expelling parasites, but is able to alleviate pain and is therefore used for abdominal pain associated with accumulation of parasites
- can be used topically in powder form for dermatosis of the scalp
Ju Hong
Citri Reticulatae Exocarpium Rubrum
Regulates Qi
LU, ST
Acrid, Bitter, Warm
3-9g
Transforms phlegm
For food stagnation
- promotes the movement of qi downward
*More drying and aromatic than Chen Pi, but less effective in harmonizing the middle and regulating the SP & ST.
*Primarily used for vomiting and belching, and for treating phlegm-damp coughs.
San Qi
Notoginseng Radix
Stops Bleeding
LV, ST
Slightly Bitter, Sweet, Warm
3-9g (decoctions) / 1-1.5g (pills and powders)
Stops bleeding and transforms blood stasis
- For internal and external bleeding: vomiting blood, nosebleed, and blood in the urine or stool
Reduces swelling and alleviates pain
- Herb of choice fr traumatic injuries, used for swelling and pain due to falls, fractures, contusions, and sprains
- Effective in invigorating blood, it is used for chest and abdominal pain, as well as joint pain that has ben caused by blood stasis. Therefore also useful for sores and abscesses.
Da Ji
Cirsi Japonici Herba seu Radix
Stops Bleeding
LV, HT, SP
Sweet, Cool
9-15g
Cools the blood and stops bleeding
- For chaotic movement of hot blood with sx: nosebleed, vomiting blood, blood in urine or stool, or uterine bleeding.
- Especially effective in alleviating vomiting or coughing of blood
Reduces swelling and generates flesh at sores
- Used topically for carbuncles, sores, and swellings
Benefits the gallbladder and reduces jaundice
- For jaundice, especially that due to damp-heat
Treats hypertension
- Recently used to treat hypertension, especially when accompanied by signs of liver heat
Pu Huang
Typhae Pollen
Stops Bleeding
LV, HT, SP
Acrid, Sweet, Neutral
3-9g
Stops bleeding
- For external bleeding associated with traumatic injury, and various forms of internal bleeding such as uterine bleeding, vomiting blood, nosebleed, coughing of blood, blood in the urine, blood in the stool, or subcutaneous bleeding.
- *Great for GYN bleeding disorders
Invigorates the blood and dispels blood stasis
- For chest pain, postpartum abdominal pain, and menstrual pain due to blood stasis
Promotes urination and stops bleeding
- For hot painful urinary dribbling
- *Lin syndrome
Di Yu
Sanguisorbae Radix
Stops Bleeding
LV, LI, ST
Bitter, Sour, Slightly Cold
9-15g
Cools the blood and stops bleeding
- Especially for bleeding in the lower burner due to damp-heat with sx: blood in the stool, bleeding hemorrhoids, bloody dysenteric disorders, and excessive uterine bleeding
- Also used for vomiting blood and nosebleed
Clears heat and generates flesh
- Applied topically for sores, ulcers, and injuries from burns. It reduces oozing by holding in the fluids, and promotes the generation of new flesh.
- Often used for burns.
*Compared to Bai Ji, this herb is directed more towards the lower jiao
*Often used with Huai Mi for lower jiao damp-heat
Huai Mi
Sophorae Flos Immaturus
Stops Bleeding
LV, LI
Bitter, Cool
4.5-9g
Cools the blood and stops bleeding
- For damp-heat patterns of the large intestine when bleeding is present. Especially important for bleeding hemorrhoids and bloody dysenteric disorders.
- Also used for coughing of blood, nosebleed, or uterine bleeding
Cools the liver
- For red eyes, headache, and dizziness due to liver heat.
- Can be taken as a daily beverage for this purpose
*Often used with Di Yu for lower jiao damp-heat
Ce Bai Ye
Platycladi Cacumen
Stops Bleeding
LU, LV, LI
Astringent, Bitter, Slightly Cold
6-15g
Cools the blood and stops bleeding
- Used for various bleeding disorders: vomiting blood, bleeding gums, coughing of blood, blood in the stool or urine, blood dysenteric disorders, and uterine bleeding.
- Effective in treating patterns of hot blood, but may also be used with warming herbs for bleeding associated with cold patterns.
Stops Cough and expels phlegm
- For lung heat patterns with cough accumulation of phlegm.
- Especially important in cases of viscous, difficult-to-expectorate sputum streaked with blood.
Bai Mao Gen
Imperatae Rhizoma
Stops Bleeding
LU, ST, UB
Sweet, Cold
9-30g
Cools the blood and stops bleeding
- For chaotic movement of hot blood: nosebleed, vomiting blood, coughing of blood, and blood in the urine
Clears heat and promotes urination
- For hot painful urinary dribbling and other heat patterns with edema and urinary difficulty
Clears heat from the stomach and lungs
- For nausea and thirst due to stomach heat, or wheezing due to lung heat
Xian He Cao
Agrimoniae Herba
Stops Bleeding
LU, LV, SP
Astringent, Bitter, Neutral
6-12g
Restrains leakage of blood and stops bleeding
- Used for various types of bleeding: vomiting blood, coughing blood, nosebleed, bleeding gums, blood in the urine, or uterine bleeding.
- Depending on its particular combination with other herbs, it can be used for bleeding due to heat, cold, excess, or deficiency.
Alleviates diarrhea and dysenteric disorders
- For chronic problems, as this her has a restraining nature
Kills parasites
- For trichomonas vaginitis and tapeworm as well as malarial disorders.
- Used topically for trichomonas vaginitis.
Bai Ji
Bletillae Rhizoma
Stops Bleeding
LU, LV, ST
Bitter, Sweet, Cool
3-15g (unusual circumstances; up to 30g) / 1.5-3g (powder taken orally)
Restrains leakage of blood and stops bleeding
- Mainly for bleeding from the lungs and stomach: vomiting blood, coughing of blood, and nosebleed.
- Also for bleeding associated with traumatic injury, usually applied locally.
Reduces swelling and generates flesh
- Applied topically for sores, ulcers, and chapped skin.
- Can be used whether or not the sore has ulcerated, as it reduces the swelling of sores and helps accelerate the healing of ulcers.
- Especially useful for chronic, nonhealing ulcers.
*Compared to Di Yu, this herb is directed more towards the upper jiao
Ai Ye
Artemisiae Argyi Folium
Stops Bleeding
SP, LV, KD
Acrid, Bitter, Warm
3-9g
Warms the womb and stops bleeding
- For prolonged menstrual bleeding and uterine bleeding due to cold from deficiency.
- Used for restless fetus, lower abdominal pain, and vaginal bleeding, as in threatened miscarriage.
- Also for infertility due to a cold womb.
- *All for bleeding due to cold
- *often used by fertility practitioners
Disperses cold and alleviates pain
- For cold abdominal pain, especially menstrual pain
Eliminates dampness and stops itching
- Decocted and applied as an external wash for a variety of skin problems marked by dampness and itching.
Chuan Xiong
Chuanxiong Rhizoma
Invigorate Blood
LV, GB, PC
Acrid, Warm
3-9g in powder form / 1-1.5g per dose
Invigorates the blood and promotes the movement of qi
Expels wind and alleviates pain
Stops pain, especially for headaches
Yan Hu Suo
Corydalis Rhizoma
Invigorate the blood
ST, HT, LV
Acrid, Bitter, Warm
3-9g
Invigorates blood, promotes the movement of qi, and alleviates pain
Yu Jin
Curcumae Radix
Invigorate the Blood
LV, HT, LU
Acrid, Bitter, Cold
6-12g
Invigorates blood and stops pain while promoting the movement of qi and resolving constraint
Clears heat and cools the blood
Clears the heart and opens the orifices
Benefits the gallbladder and reduces jaundice
Dan Shen
Salviae Miltiorrhizae Radix
Invigorates the blood
HT, PC, LV
Bitter, Slightly Cold
6-15g
Invigorates blood and dispels stasis
Clear heat and sooth irritability
Cool the blood and reduce abscesses
Nourish the blood and calm the spirit
Recently used to lower cholesterol
Chi Shao
Paeoniae Radix Rubra
Invigorates the blood
LV, SP
Bitter, Sour, Slightly Cold
6-15g
Invigorates blood and dispels blood stasis
Clears heat and cools the blood
Ji Xue Teng
Spatholobi Caulis
Invigorates the blood
HT, LV, SP
Sweet, Bitter, Warm
9-15g
Promotes the movement of and tonifies the blood
Invigorates the channels and relaxes the sinews
Tao Ren
Persicae Semen
Invigorates the blood
LV, LU, LI, HT
Sweet, Bitter, Neutral
4.5-9g
Breaks up blood stasis
Moistens the intestines and unblocks the bowels
Hong Hua
Carthami Flos
Invigorates the blood
LV, HT
Acrid, Warm
3-9g
Invigorates blood, dispels stasis, and unblocks menstruation
Yi Mu Cao
Leonuri Herba
Invigorates the Blood
UB, HT, LV
Acrid, Bitter, Slightly Cold
9-15g
Invigorates the blood and dispels stasis
Promotes urination and reduces swelling
Clears heat and resolves toxicity
Ze Lan
Lycopi Herba
Invigorates the blood
Acrid, Bitter, Slighty Warm
LV, SP
9-15g
Invigorates the blood and dispels blood stasis
Promotes urination
Wu Ling Zhi
Trogopterori Faeces
Invigorates the blood
Bitter, Sweet, Warm
LV
3-9g
Disperses blood stasis and alleviates pain
Transforms stasis and stops bleeding
Also used for childhood nutritional impairment
Ru Xiang
Olibanum
Invigorate the blood
HT, LV, SP
Acrid, Bitter, Warm
3-9g
Invigorates blood and produces the movment of qi
Relaxes the sinews, invigorates the channels, and alleviates pain
Reduces swelling and generates flesh
Mo Yao
Myrrha
Invigorate the blood
HT, LV, SP
Bitter, Neutral
3-9g
Invigorates the blood and dispels blood stasis, reducing swelling and alleviating pain
Promotes healing
E Zhu
Curcumae Rhizoma
Invigorates the blood
LV, SP
Acrid, Bitter, Warm
3-9g
Breaks up blod stasis, promotes the movement of qi, and alleviates pain
Dissolves accumulations and alleviates pain
San Leng
Sparganii Rhizoma
Invigorates the blood
LV, SP
Acrid, Bitter, Neutral
3-9g
Forcefully breaks up blood stasis, promotes the movement of qi, and alleviates pain
Dissolves accumulations
(Huai) Niu Xi
Acyranthis Bidentatae Radix
Invigorates the blood
LV, KD
Bitter, Sour, Neutral
6-15g
Invigorates the blood and dispels blood stasis
Tonifies the liver and kidneys, strengthens the sinews and bones, and benefits the joints
Induces the downward movement of blood and fire
Clears damp-heat in the lower burner
Chuan Niu Xi
Cyathulae Rhizoma
Invigorates the blood
LV, KD
Bitter, Sweet, Neutral
4.5-9g
Invigorates the blood and unblocks the menses
Expels wind, drains damp
Wang Bu Liu Xing
Vaccariae Semen
Invigorates the blood
LV, ST
Bitter, Neutral
4.5-9g
Promotes the movement of blood and invigorates the channels
Reduces swellings
Chuan Shan Jia
Squama Mantidis Pentadactylae
Invigorates the blood
LV, ST
Salty, Cool
Disperses blood stasis, unblocks menstruation and promotes lactation
Reduces swelling and promotes discharges of pus
Expels wind-damp
Gan Jiang
Zingiberis Rhizoma
Warm the interior, expel cold
HT, LU, SP, ST
Acrid, Hot
3-9g
Warms the middle and expels cold
Rescues devastated yang and expels interior cold
Warms the lungs and transforms thin mucus
Warms the channels and stops bleeding
Zhi Fu Zi
Aconiti Radix Lateralis Preparata
Warm the interior, expel cold
HT, KD, SP
Acrid, Hot, Toxic
3-15g
Revives the yang and rescues from rebellion
Warms the fire and assists the yang
Disperses cold, warms the channels, and alleviates pain
Rou Gui
Cinnamomi Cortex
Warm the interior, expel cold
HT, KD, LV, SP
Acrid, Sweet, Hot
1.5-4.5g / 1-2g for pills and powders
Fortifies the kidney and spleen yang, warms the heart yang and fortifies the yang
Disperses deep cold, warms the channels, unblocks the channels and vessels, and alleviates pain
Leads the fire back to its source
Encourages the generation of qi and blood
Bi Ba
Piperis Longi Fructus
Warm the Interior, expel Cold
ST, LI
Acrid, Hot
1.5-4.5g
Warms the middle, disperses cold from the stomach and intestines, and alleviates pain
Allpied as a powder for toothache, often with Hu Jiao
Hua Jiao
Zanthoxyli Pericarpium
Warm the interior, expel cold
KD, SP, ST
Acrid, Hot, Slightly Toxic
3-9g
Warms the middle burner, disperses cold and alleviates pain
Kills parasites and alleviates abdominal pain
Gao Liang Jiang
Alpiniae Officarum Rhizoma
Warms the interior, expels cold
SP, ST
Acrid, Hot
3-9g
Warms the middle and alleviates pain
Hu Jiao
Piperis Fructus
Warm the interior, expel cold
LI, ST
Acrid, Hot
1.5-3g in decoctions / .5-1g in pills and powders
Warms the middle and disperses cold
Wu Zhu Yu
Evodiae Fructus
Warm the interior, expel cold
LV, SP, ST
Acrid, Bitter, Hot, Slightly Toxic
1.5-4.5g
Warms the middle, disperses cold, promotes the movement of qi, and alleviates pain
Redirects rebellious qi downward and stops vomiting
Warms the spleen and stops diarrhea, and expels cold-dampness
Leads fire downward
Xiao Hui Xiang
Foeniculi Fructus
Warm the interior, expel cold
LV, KD, SP, ST
Acrid, Warm
3-9g
Disperses cold, warms the liver and kidneys, and stops pain
Regulates the qi and harmonizes the stomach
Ding Xiang
Caryophylli Flos
Warm the interior, expel cold
KD, SP, ST
Acrid, Warm
1-3g
Warms the middle burner and directs rebellious qi downward
Warms the kidneys and aids the yang
Ren Shen
Tonify Qi
Ginseng Radix
LU, SP
Sweet, Slightly Bitter, Slightly Warm
Powerfully tonifies the primal qi
Strengthens the spleen and tonifies the stomach
Tonifies the LU and augments the qi
Generates fluids and stops thirst
Benefits the HT qi and calms the spirit
Dang Shen
Codonopsis Radix
Tonify Qi
LU, SP
Sweet, Neutral
Tonifies the middle burner and augments the qi
Tonifies the LU
Tai Zi Shen
Psudostellariae Radix
Tonify Qi
LU, SP
Sweet, Slightly Bitter, Neutral
Strengthens the SP and augments the qi
Generates fluids
Huang Qi
Astragali Radix
Tonify Qi
LU, SP
Sweet, Slightly Warm
Tonifies the qi and blood
Tonifies the spleen and raises the yang
Augments the protective qi and stabilizes the exterior
Shan Yao
Discoreae Rhizoma
Tonify Qi
KD, LU, SP
Sweet, Netural
Tonifies and augments the SP and ST
Tonifies the LU qi and augments the LU yin
Tonifies the KD, and also stabilizes and binds
Huang Jing
Polygonati Rhizoma
Tonfiy Qi
KD, LU, SP
Sweet, Neutral
Tonifies SP qi and augments the SP yin
Enriches the yin and moistens the LU
Bai Zhu
Atractylodis Macrocephalae Rhizoma
Tonify Qi
SP, ST
Bitter, Sweet, Warm
Tonifies the SP and augments the qi
Dries dampness and promotes water metabolism
Stabilizes the exterior and stops sweating
Calms the fetus
Da Zao
Jujubae Fructus
Tonify Qi
SP, ST
Sweet, Warm
Tonifies the SP and augments the qi
Nourishes the blood and calms the spirit
Moderates and harmonizes the harsh properties of other herbs
Bai Bian Dou
Lablab Semen Album
Tonify Qi
SP, ST
Sweet, Neutral
Strengthens the SP, nourishes the ST, transforms dampness and harmonizes the middle
Clears summerheat accompanied by dampness
Treats poisoning
Yi Tang
Maltosum
Tonify Qi
LU, SP, ST
Sweet, Slightly Warm
Tonifies the SP and augments the qi
Tonifies the middle burner qi and alleviates pain
Moistens the LU and stops cough
Gan Cao
Glycyrrhizae Radix
Tonify Qi
All 12 channels
Sweet, Neutral
Tonifies the SP and augments the qi
Moistens the LU and stops cough
Moderates spasms and alleviates pain
Clears heat and resolves fire toxicity
Antidote for variety of substances
Moderates and harmonizes the characteristics of other herbs
Shu Di Huang
Rehmanniae Radix Preparata
Tonify Blood
HT, KD, LV
Sweet, Slightly Warm
9-30g
Tonifies the Blood
Nourishes the yin
Strongly enriches the yin and relieves wasting and thirsting disorder
Nourishes the blood and tonifies the essence
Zhi He Shou Wu
Polygoni Multiflori Radix Preparata
Tonify Blood
LV, KD
Astringent, Bitter, Sweet, Slightly Warm
9-30g
Tonifies the LV and KD, nourishes the blood and augments the essence
Expels wind from the skin by nourishing the blood
Dang Gui
Angelicae Sinensis Radix
Tonify Blood
HT, LV, SP
Acrid, Sweet, Warm
4.5g - 15g
Tonifies the blood and regulates the menses
Invigorates and harmonizes the blood and disperses cold
Moistens the intestines and unblocks the bowels
Reduces swelling, expels pus, generates flesh, and alleviates pain
Treats Cough
Bai Shao
Paeoniae Radix Alba
Tonify Blood
LV, SP
Bitter, Sour, Mildly Cold
6-15g
Nourishes the blood and regulates the menses
Calms and curbs the LV yang and alleviates pain
Preserves the yin and adjusts the nutritive and protective levels
E Jaio
Asini Corii Colla
Tonify Blood
KD, LV, LU
Sweet, Neutral
3-9g
Tonifies the blood
Nourishes the blood and stops bleeding
Nourishes and moistens the yin
Gou Qi Zi
Lycii Fructus
Tonify Blood
KD, LV, LU
Sweet, Neutral
6-12g
Nourishes and tonifies the LV and KD
Benefits the essence and brightens the eyes
Enriches the yin and moistens the LU
Sang Shen
Mori Fructus
Tonify Blood
HT, LV, KD
Sweet, Cold
9-15g
Tonifies the blood and enriches the yin
Moistens the intestines
Long Yan Rou
Longan Arillus
Tonify Blood
HT, SP
Sweet, Warm
9-15g
Tonifies and augments the HT and SP, nourishes the blood, and calms the spirit
Lu Rong
Cervi Cornu Pantotrichum
Tonify Yang
KD, LV
Sweet, Salty, Warm
Tonifies the KD and fortifies the yang
Warms the yang, regulates the chong and ren and stabilizes the dai
Tonifies the du, augments the essence and blood, and strengthens the sinews and bones
tonifies and nourishes the qi and blood
Ge Jie
Gecko
Tonify Yang
LU, KD
Salty, Neutral
Tonifies the LU qi and assists the KD yang
Assists the KD yang and augments the essence and blood
Dong Chong Xia Cao
Cordyceps
Tonify Yang
Sweet, Warm
LU, KD
Augments the KD and tonifies the yang
Tonifies the KD yang, augments the LU yin, transforms the phlegm and stops bleeding
Rou Cong Rong
Cistanches Herba
Tonify Yang
KD, LI
Sweet, Salty, Warm
Tonifies the KD yang and augments the essence and blood
Moistens the intestines and facilitates the passage of stool
Warms the Womb
Suo Yang
Cynomorii Herba
Tonify Yang
KD, LV, LI
Sweet, Warm
Tonifies the KD, assists the yang and augments the LV yin and blood
Moistens the intestines, unblocks the bowels, augments the essence, and nourishes the blood
Yin Yang Huo
Epimedii Herba
Tonify Yang
KD, LV
Acrid, Sweet, Warm
Tonifies the KD and fortifies the yang
Dispels wind-cold-dampness and warms and unblocks the flow of yang qi
Ba Ji Tian
Morindae Officinalis Radix
Tonify Yang
KD
Acrid, Sweet, Slightly Warm
Tonifies the KD and fortifies the yang
Disperses wind-dampness and strengthens the sinews and bones
Hu Lu Ba
Trigonellae Semen
Tonify Yang
KD
Bitter, Warm
Warms the KD, disperses dampness and cold and alleviates pain
Bu Gu Zhi
Psoraleae Fructus
Tonify Yang
KD, SP
Acrid, Bitter, Very Warm
Tonifies the KD and fortifies the yang
Tonifies and warms the SP yang and stops diarrhea
Used topically for vitiligo
Gou Ji
Cibotii Rhizoma
Tonify Yang
KD, LV
Bitter, Sweet, Warm
Tonifies the LV and KD, and strengthens the sinews and bones
Expels wind and dampness
warms and stabilizes the KD
He Tao Ren
Juglandis Semen (walnut)
Tonify Yang
KD, LU, LI
Sweet, Warm
Tonifies the KD and strengthens the back and knees
Warms hte LU and helps to KD grasp the qi
Moistens the intestines and unblocks the bowels
Yi Zhi Ren
Alpiniae Oxyphyllae Fructus
Tonify Yang
KD, SP
Acrid, Warm
Warms the KD, retains the essence and secures the urine
Warms the SP, stops diarrhea and controls salivation
Xian Mao
Curculiginis Rhizoma
Tonify Yang
KD
Acrid, Hot, Toxic
Tonifies the KD and fortifies the yang
Expels cold and eliminates dampness
Du Zhong
Eucommiae Cortex
Tonify Yang
KD, LV
Sweet, Slightly Acrid, Warm
Tonifies the LV and KD, strengthens the sinews and bones
Aids in the smooth flow of qi and blood
Calms the fetus
Recently used for HTN caused by LV yang rising
Xu Duan
Dipsaci Radix
Tonify Yang
KD, LV
Acrid, Bitter, Sweet, Slightly Warm
Tonifies the LV and KD, strengthens the sinews and bones
Calms the fetus and stops leakage
Promotes the movement of blood, alleviates pain and reconnects the sinews and bones
Gu Sui Bu
Drynariae Rhizoma
Tonify Yang
KD, LV
Bitter, Warm
Tonifies the KD and strengthens bones
Promotes mending of the sinews and bones
Stimulates hair growth
Tu Si Zi
Cuscutae Semen
Tonify Yang
KD, LV
Acrid, Sweet, Neutral
Tonifies the yang, augments the yin and secures the essence and blood
Tonifies the KD and LV, and improves vision
Benefits the SP and KD and stops diarrhea
Calms the fetus
Zi He Che
Hominis Placenta
Tonify Yang
KD, LV, LU
Sweet, Salty, Warm
Tonifies the LV and KD and augments the essence
Augments the qi and nourishes blood
Tonifies the LU qi and augments the KD essence
Long Gu
Fossilia Ossis Mastodi
Anchor, Settle, Calm Shen
HT, LV, KD
Astringent, Sweet, Neutral
Settles anxiety and calms the spirit
Calms the liver and anchors the floating yang
Prevents leakage of fluids
Secures the normal
Used topically for chronic non-healing sores
Mu Li
Ostreae Concha
Anchor, Settle, Calm Shen
HT, LV
Astringent, Salty, Cool
Heavily Settles and Calms the spirit
Benefits yin and anchors floating yang
Prevents leakage of fluids
Softens hardness and dissipates nodules
Absorbls acidity and alleviates pain
Ci Shi
Magnetitum
Anchor, Settle, Calm Shen
LV, KD
Acrid, Salty, Cold
Anchors and calms the spirit
Nourishes kidnneys, augments liver and improves hearing and vision
Aids kidneys in grasping qi
Zhen Zhu
Margarita (pearl)
Anchor, Settle, Calm Shen
HT, LV
Sweet, Salty, Cold
Sedates the heart and settles tremors and palpitations
Clears liver heat and eliminates superficial visual obstructions
Promotes healing and generates flesh
Zhen Zhu Mu
Margaritiferae Concha Usta
Anchor, Settle, Calm Shen
HT, LV
Sweet, Salty, Cold
Calms the liver, anchors the yang and drains LV fire
Clears eyes and liver
Sedates fright and calms the spirit
Stops bleeding
Zi Shi Ying
Fluoritum
Anchor, Settle, Calm Shen
HT, LV
Sweet, Warm
Sedates the heart and settles tremors and palpitations
Warms the lungs and directs qi downward
Warms the womb while warming and unblocking the Ren and Chong
Hu Po
Succinum (Amber)
Anchors, Settles, Calms Shen
HT, UB, LV
Sweet, Neutral
Arrests tremors and palpitations and calms the spririt
Invigorates blood, dissipates stasis and unblocks menses
Promotes urination and unblocks painful urinary dribbling
Reduces swelling and promotes healing
Zhu Sha
Cinnabaris
Anchor, Settle, Calm Shen
HT
Sweet, Cool, Toxic
Sedates the heart and calms the spirit
Clears heat, relieves toxicity and prevents putrefaction
Expels phlegm, sedates jitteriness and convulsions while stopping tremors
Chun Pi
Ailanthi Cortex
Stabilize and Bind
LI, ST
Bitter, Astringent, Cold
Clears heat, dries damp, binds the intestines
Kills parasites
Fu Pen Zi
Rubi Fructus
Stabilize and Bind
LV, KD
Sweet, Astringent, Neutral
Augments and stabilizes kidneys, binds essence, contains the urine
Assists the yang and improves vision
Bai Guo
Ginkgo Semen
Stabilize and Bind
KD, LU
Astringent, Bitter, Sweet, Slightly Toxic, Neutral
Preserves the lungs and arrests wheezing
Eliminates dampness, stops discharge and contains the urine
Hai Piao Xiao
Sepiae Endoconchae
Stabilize and Bind
ST, KD, LV
Astringent, Salty, Slightly Warm
Restrains, holds and stops bleeding
Secures the essence and stops discharge
Controls acidity and alleviates pain
Resolves damp and promotes healing
Lian Zi
Nelumbinis Semen
Stabilize and Bind
HT, KD, SP
Sweet, Astringent, Neutral
Tonifies the spleen and stops discharge
Tonifies the kidneys to stabilize the essence
Nourishes heart and calms the spirit
Fu Xiao Mai
Tritici Fructus Levis
Stabilize and Bind
HT
Sweet, Slightly Salty, Cool
Inhibits sweating
Nourishes the heart and calms the spirit
Rou Dou Kou
Myristicae Semen
Stabilize and Bind
SP, ST, LI
Acrid, Warm
Binds the intestines and stops diarrhea
Warms the middle, moves qi and alleviates pain
Wu Wei Zi
Schisandrae Fructus
Stabilize and Bind
KD, HT, LU
Sour, Sweet, Warm
Contains leakage of lung qi and stops cough
Tonifies kidneys, binds essence, and stops diarrhea
Inhibits sweating and generates fluids
Quiets the spirit while calming and containing heart qi
Chi Shi Zhi
Halloysitum Rubrum
Stabilize and Bind
SP, ST, LI
Sweet, Sour, Astringent, Warm
Binds intestines and stops diarrhea
Contains Blood and stops bleeding
Promotes the healing of wounds
Shan Zhu Yu
Corni Fructus
Stabilize and Bind
LV, KD
Sour, Slightly Warm
Stabilizes the kidneys and secures the essence
Stops excessive sweating, supports the collapsed
Tonifies and augments the kidneys and liver
Stabilizes menses and stops bleeding
He Zi
Chebulae Fructus
Stabilize and Bind
ST, LU, LI
Bitter, Sour, Astringent, Neutral
Binds intestines and stops diarrhea
Contains leakage of LU qi, stops cough, and improves the condition of the throat
Qian Shi
Euryales Semen
Stabilize and Bind
KD, SP
Sweet, Astringent, Neutral
Strengthens the spleen, stops diarrhea
Stabilizes kidneys and retains the essence
Expels dampness, stops discharge
Jin Ying Zi
Rosae Laevigatae Fructus
Stabilize and Bind
UB, KD, LI
Sour, Astringent, Neutral
Stabilizes kidneys and secures essence
Binds intestines and stops diarrhea
Wu Mei
Mume Fructus
Stabilize and Bind
LI, SP, LU, LV
Sour, Astringent, Warm
Contains leakage of LU qi and stops cough
Binds intestines, stops diarrhea
Generates fluids, alleviates thirst
Expels roundworms and alleviates pain
Stops bleeding
Used topically for corns and worts
Shan Zao Ren
Ziziphi Spinosae Semen
Nourish and Calm Shen
GB, HT, LV, SP
Sweet, Sour, Neutral
Nourishes the Heart Yin, augments liver blood, quiets the spirit
Prevents abnormal sweating
Bai Zi Ren
Platycladi Semen
Nourish and Calm Shen
HT, KD, LI
Sweet, Neutral
Nourishes the heart and calms the spirit
Moistens the intestines and unblocks bowels
Also used for nightsweats due to yin deficiency
Yuan Zhi
Polygalae Radix
Nourish and Calm Shen
HT, LU
Acrid, Bitter, Slightly Warm
Calms the spirit and quiets the heart
Expels phlegm, clears the orifices, and stops cough
Reduces abscesses and dissipates swellings
He Huan Pi
Albiziae Cortex
Nourish and Calm Shen
HT, LV
Sweet, Neutral
Calms the spirit and relieves constraint
Harmonizes the blood, stops pain, and reconnects the sinews and bones
Dissipates swellings and reduces abscesses
Ye Jiao Teng
Polygoni Multiflori Caulis
Nourish and Calm Shen
HT, LV
Sweet, Neutral
Nourish the heart and blood and calm the spirit
Nourish the blood and unblock the channels
Alleviates itching
Ling Yang Jiao
Saigae Tataricae Cornu
Extinguish Wind, Stop Tremors
Salty, Cold
HT, LV
Drains liver heat, calms the liver, extinguishes wind and controls spasms and convulsions
Calms the liver and anchors the yang
Clears the liver and improves vision
Drains heat and resolves fire toxicity
Clears damp-heat
Gou Teng
Uncariae Ramulus cum Uncis
Extinguish Wind, Stop Tremors
PC, LV
Sweet, Slightly Cold
Extinguishes wind, alleviates spasms
Drains liver heat and pacifies liver yang
Releases the exterior
Tian Ma
Gastrodiae Rhizoma
Extinguish Wind, Stop Tremors
LV
Sweet, Netural
Calms the liver, extinguishes wind, and controls spasms and tremors
Extinguishes wind and alleviates pain
Disperses painful obstruction
Ci Ji Li
Tribuli Fructus
Extinguish Wind, Stop Tremors
LV
Acrid, Bitter, Neutral
Calms the liver and anchors yang
Dredges liver qi to smooth its flow while dispersing constraint and clumping
Dispels wind-heat and brightens the eyes
Dispels wind and stops itching
Shi Jue Ming
Haliotidis Concha
Extinguish Wind, Stop Tremors
KD, LV
Salty, Cold
Drains liver fire and anchors and sedates the liver yang
Improves the vision and causes superficial obstruction to recede
Recently used for increased gastric acidity and topically for bleeding due to trauma
Di Long
Pheretima
Extinguish Wind, Stop Tremors
UB, LV, LU, SP
Salty, Cold
Drains heat, settles convulsions, extinguishes wind, and stops spasms
Clears heat and unblocks and promotes movement in the channels and collaterals
Clears heat and calms wheezing
Clears heat and promotes urination
Also recently used for HTN associated with LV yang rising
Bai Jiang Can
Bombyx Batryticatus
Extinguish Wind, Stop Tremors
LV, LU
Acrid, Salty, Neutral
Extinguishes wind and stops spasms and convulsions
Expels wind, disperses wind-heat and stops itching and pain
Transforms phlegm, softens what is hard, and dissipates nodules
Expels wind and stops itching
Quan Xie
Scorpio
Extinguish Wind, Stop Tremors
LV
Acrid, Salty, Neutral, Toxic
Extinguishes wind and stops tremors and convulsions
Tracks down wind, unblocks collaterals and stops pain
Attacks and resolves fire toxicity and dissipates nodules
Wu Gong
Scolopendra
Extinguish Wind, Stop Tremors
LV
Acrid, Warm, Toxic
Extinguishes wind and stops spasms and convulsions
Attacks toxins and dissipates nodules
Unblocks collaterals and stops pain
Dai Zhe Shi
Haematitum
Extinguish Wind, Stop Tremors
HT, PC, LV
Bitter, Cold
Sedates and anchors liver yang and clears liver fire
Strongly directs rebellious qi downward
Cools the blood and stops bleeding
She Xiang
Moschus
Aromatic, Open the Orifices
HT, SP, LV
Acrid, Aromatic, Warm
Vigorously opens the orifices, revives the spirit and unblocks closed disorders
Invigorates the blood, dissipates clumps, reduces swelling, and alleviates pain
Hastens delivery and facilitates the downward passage of stillborns
Su He Xiang
Styrax
Aromatic, Open Orifices
HT, SP
Acrid, Aromatic, Sweet, Warm
Opens the orifices and penetrates through turbidity to awaken the spirit
Opens areas of constraint and clears away filth
Bing Pian
Borneolum
Aromatic, Open Orifices
HT, SP, LU
Acrid, Bitter, Mildly Cold
Opens the orifices, awakens the spirit, and unblocks closed disorders
Clears heat, alleviates pain, dissipates nodules, and alleviates itching
Clears heat, drains fire, resolves toxicity, clears eyes, removes superficial visual obstruction, and stops pain
Shi Chang Pu
Acori Tatarinowii Rhizoma
Aromatic, Open Orifices
HT, ST
Acrid, Aromatic, Bitter, Warm
Opens the orifices, dislodges phlegm, removes filth, and quiets the spirit
Transforms turbid dampness, awakens the spleen, and promotes the movement of qi
Promotes blood flow and reduces swelling
Niu Huang
Bovis Calculus
Aromatic, Open Orifices
HT, LV
Bitter, Cool
Clears the heart, opens the orifices, awakens the spirit, and dislodges phlegm
Clears the liver, resolves toxicity, extinguishes wind, and stops tremors
Drains heat and resolves fire toxicity
Mo Han Lian
Ecliptae Herba
Tonify Yin
KD, LV
Sweet, Sour, Cool
Nourishes and tonifies the LV and KD yin
Cools the blood and stops bleeding
Yu Zhu
Polygonati Odorati Rhizoma
Tonify Yin
LU, ST
Sweet, Slightly Cold
Nourishes and moistens dryness, enriches the stomach and lung yin
Extinguishes wind and softens and moistens sinews
Mai Men Dong
Ophiopogonis Radix
Tonify Yin
HT, LU, ST
Sweet, Slightly Bitter, Cold
Moistens the LU and nourishes yin
Augments stomach yin and generates fluids
Clears heart and eliminates irritability
Moistens intestines
Nu Zhen Zi
Lugustri Lucidi Fructus
Tonify Yin
KD, LV
Bitter, Sweet, Cool
Nourishes and tonifies the LV and KD
Augments LV and KD, and clears heat from deficiency
Augments LV and KD, and improves vision
Hei Zhi Ma
Seasami Semen Nigrum
Tonify Yin
KD, LV, LI
Sweet, Neutral
Nourishes and fortifies LV and KD
Nourishes blood and extinguishes wind
Moistens and lubricates intestines
Shi Hu
Dendrobii Herba
Tonify Yin
KD, ST
Sweet, Slightly Salty, Bland, Slightly Cold
Nourishes stomach yin, clears heat, and generates fluids
Enriches kidney yin and reduces heat from deficiency
Tonifies kidneys, augments essence, and brightens vision
Tian Men Dong
Asparagi Radix
Tonify Yin
KD, LU
Sweet, Bitter, Very Cold
Nourishes KD yin and clears LU heat
Moistens LU, nourishes KD and generates fluids
Bai He
Lilii Bulbus
Tonify Yin
HT, LU
Sweet, Slightly Bitter, Cold
Moistens LU, Clears heat, stops cough
Clearts HT heat and calms the spirit
Bei Sha Shen
Glehniae Radix
Tonify Yin
LU, ST
Sweet, Slightly Bitter, Cold
Nourishes LU yin and clears LU heat
Nourishes the ST yin and generates fluids
Gui Ban
Testudinis Plastrum
Tonify Yin
HT, KD, LV
Sweet, Salty, Cold
Nourishes yin and anchors yang, strongly tonfies liver and kidney yin
Benefits KD and strengthens bones
Nourishes the blood, enriches the yin, stabilizes the chong and ren
Cools the blood and stops uterine bleeding
Nourishes the blood and tonifies the heart
Xi Yang Shen
Panacis Quinquefolii Radix
Tonify Yin
HT, KD, LU
Sweet, Slightly Bitter, Cold
Benefits the qi, generates fluids, nourishes yin
Nurtures the LU yin and clears fire from the LU
Bie Jia
Trionycis Carapax
Tonify Yin
LV, SP
Salty, Slighty Cold
Nourishes the yin and anchors the yang
Invigorates blood, promotes menstruation and dissipates nodules
