Hai Zao (Seaweed, Sargassum)

Herb 8 of 19 in Herbs that Cool and Transform Phlegm-Heat

Channels:
KI, LIV, LU, ST

Properties:
Bitter, Salty, Cold

Latin Name:
Herba Sargassii

Actions

Softens Hardness, Dissolves Phlegm
For scrofula, goiters and nodules, thyroiditis, lymphadenitis, hernia and enlargement of scrotum and testicles
Promotes Urination, Reduces Edema and Swelling, Regulates Waterways
For edema due to Leg Qi. Also for beriberi and dysuria.

Contraindications and Cautions

Do not use with Gan Cao
Use with caution in Spleen and Stomach Qi Deficiency

Herb-Drug Interactions

This section is being researched, and is not completed.

Toxicity and Overdose

None Noted

Dosage

10-15 grams in decoction (Chen)
6-15 grams in decoction (Bensky)

This Herb Appears in the Following Formulas:

Hai Zao Yu Hu Tang (Sargassum Decoction for the Jade Flask)
Formulas that Transform Phlegm and Dissipate Nodules
Ju He Wan (Tangerine Seed Pill)
Formulas that Promote the Movement of Qi

This herb is incompatible with:

Gan Cao (Radix Glycyrrhizae)

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Some of the substances included on this website are no longer used, and are included for historical reference only.