Fo Shou (Finger Citron Fruit)

Herb 5 of 19 in Herbs that Regulate the Qi

Channels:
LIV, LU, ST, SP

Properties:
Spicy, Bitter, Slightly Warm

Latin Name:
Fructus Citri Sacrodactylis

Fo Shou means "Buddha Hand"

Actions

Spreads and Regulates Liver Qi
Excellent for symptoms of Liver Qi stagnation but only mildly relieves pain. Symptoms include hypochondriac and abdominal distension, stifling sensation in the chest, belching, hiccups and vomiting.
Harmonizes the Middle Jiao, Strengthens the Spleen
Used for epigastric pain, fullness and distention, lack of appetite, belching and vomiting
Transforms Phlegm and Stops Cough
For unrelenting chronic cough with copious phlegm and chest pain. It mildly resolves phlegm and is not used for early stages of externally contracted coughs.

Contraindications and Cautions

Use with caution in Yin Deficiency with Fire Patients.

Herb-Drug Interactions

This section is being researched, and is not completed.

Toxicity and Overdose

None Noted

Dosage

3-9 grams in decoction (Bensky)
3-10 grams in decoction (Chen)

References

Herbs

13. Chinese Herbal Medicine: Materia Medica (Revised Edition)
- Dan Bensky

25. Lancet 2000 January 8;355(9198):134-138 (Article)
- Fugh-Berman A.

17. Handbook of Chinese Herbs (Second Edition)
- Him Che. Yeung

12. Chinese Medical Herbology and Pharmacology (First Edition)
- John K. Chen, Tina T. Chen

26. Herbal Drugs and Phytopharmaceuticals (Third Edition)
- Max Wichtl

Formulas

15. Chinese Herbal Medicine: Formulas and Strategies (First Edition)
- Dan Bensky

18. Handbook of Chinese Herbal Formulas (First Edition)
- Him Che. Yeung

16. The Traditional Chinese Medicine Formula Study Guide (First Edition)
- Qiao Yi

Only use Chinese herbs or formulas under the direct care and supervision of a licensed Acupuncturist/Herbalist.
Some of the substances included on this website are no longer used, and are included for historical reference only.