Tonifies the Spleen and Strengthens the Qi
To improve the Spleen's function of transformation and transportation with symptoms such as fatigue, shortness of breath, lack of appetite, and loose stools.
Moistens the Lung, Dispels Phlegm, and Stops Cough
For coughing and wheezing from various etiologies of Excess, Deficient, Heat or Cold conditions. Also used alone to treat Wei Syndrome (atrophy) of the Lung with chronic cough.
Releases Cramps and Alleviates Pain
For cramping and pain of smooth muscle tissue, especially in the abdomen. For skeletal muscle cramps or spasms, this herb is usually combined with Bai Shao (Paeoniae Radix Alba).
Clears Heat and Reduces Fire Toxins
The fresh herb is taken internal or applied topically for uncomplicated carbuncles, lesions, ulcers, and other sores distinguished by heat and toxins. Decoct and apply topically for Erysipelas or eczema with lesions and itching.
Poison Antidote
Can mitigate the effects of various food, herb, drug, and chemical poisonings.
Use alone for for beef poisoning, with honey for drug poisoning, with Xing Ren (Semen Armeniacae Amarum) for lead poisoning, with Hu Shi (Talcum) for herbicide or pesticide poisoning. The herb can be used topically or internally.
Harmonizes Formulas and Moderates Other herbs
Used to lessen the harsh and toxic nature of other herbs, to protect the Middle Jiao, regulate temperate, and enhance the overall effects of a formula.
Mitigates the toxicity of Fu Zi (Radix Aconiti Lateralis Praeparata). Moderates the heat of Gan Jiang (Rhizoma Zingiberis) and protects the Yin. Protects the Stomach from the Cold nature of Shi Gao (Gypsum Fibrosum) and Zhi Mu (Raidx Anemarrhenae). Reduces the intensity Da Huang's (Radix et Rhizoma Rhei) and Mang Xiao's (Natrii Sulfas) purgative effects.
