Wa Leng Zi (Cockle Shell, Ark Shell)

Herb 25 of 34 in Herbs that Invigorate Blood and Remove Stagnation

Channels:
LIV, SP

Properties:
Sweet, Salty, Neutral

Latin Name:
Concha Arcae Inflatae

Actions

Invigorates Blood, Dissolves Phlegm, Softens Hardness, Disperses Nodules
For fixed or mobile abdominal masses due to blood stasis, stagnant Qi, or phlegm accumulation. Also treats scrofula and goiter, menstrual pain, chronic cough and phlegm, hepatomegaly, and splenomegaly
Absorbs Acid, Relieves Pain
Treats acid reflux, gastric and duodenal ulcers, chronic pain in the stomach with vomiting and acid regurgitation.

Contraindications and Cautions

None Noted

Herb-Drug Interactions

This section is being researched, and is not completed.

Toxicity and Overdose

Only one case of allergic reaction is noted

Dosage

9-30 grams in decoction, 1-3 grams in powder/pill (Bensky)
10-30 grams in decoction, 1-3 grams in powder/pill (Chen)

Notes

Should be cooked long time for maximum extraction of active components

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Some of the substances included on this website are no longer used, and are included for historical reference only.