Fu Ping (Duckweed or Spirodela)

Herb 5 of 12 in Cool, Spicy Herbs that Release the Exterior

Channels:
BL, LU

Properties:
Spicy, Cold

Latin Name:
Herba Lemnae Seu Spirodelae

Actions

Releases the Exterior and Causes Sweating
For wind heat invasion with body and headache. Sometimes prescribed alone, this herb is one of the few cool, spicy herbs that is a strong diaphoretic.
Vents Rashes
Allows rashes to resolve more quickly. Used for measles and wind rash.
Promotes Urination, Removes Water, and reduces swelling
For superficial edema, especially in the upper body accompanied by difficult urination.

Contraindications and Cautions

Contraindicated in exterior deficiency and any type of profuse or spontaneous sweating.

Herb-Drug Interactions

This section is being researched, and is not completed.

Toxicity and Overdose

This section is being researched, and is not completed.

Dosage

3-6 grams, up to 9 grams in severe cases.

Notes

May be used topically as a wash for rashes.

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Some of the substances included on this website are no longer used, and are included for historical reference only.