"The Lungs control the circulation of the Blood in the Vessels"

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Herb Documents

Properties & Channels

Drug Interactions

Incompatible Herbs

Toxic or Endangered

Latin Name Notes

Xia Ku Cao (Prunella or Selfheal Spike)

Herb 10 of 14 in Herbs that Drain Fire

Channels:
GB, LIV

Properties:
Bitter, Spicy, Cold

Latin Name:
Spica Prunellae Vulgaris

Xia Ku Cao means "Summer Withered Herb"

Actions

Clears Heat From the Liver and Brightens the Eyes
For Liver Fire ascending, high Blood pressure, red, painful, and swollen eyes. Also for headache, dizziness, and eye pain due to Liver deficiency (eyes sensitive to light and tender).
Eliminates Nodules
Treats swollen thyroid, swollen glands, or any neck swelling due to phlegm fire. Also used to treat nodules in the inguinal area and other parts of the body (mastitis, etc.).

Contraindications and Cautions

Caution in cases of weak spleen and stomach.

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

9-15 grams, up to 30 grams if used alone.
Part used: spike.

Notes

Toasting with honey can treat long term high blood pressure.

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Some of the substances included on this website are no longer used, and are included for historical reference only.