Zi Cao (Groomwell Root or Arnebia or Lithospermum)

Herb 11 of 11 in Herbs that Cool the Blood

Channels:
HT, LIV

Properties:
Sweet, Cold

Latin Name:
Radix Arnebiae seu Lithospermi

Zi Cao means "Purple Herb"

Actions

Clears Heat, Cools Blood, and Relieves Fire Toxins
For Fire Toxins in the skin causing very dark purple rashes. This herb encourages the rash to erupt, used when diseases (like mumps or chickenpox) are not progressing.
Clears Damp-Heat Skin Lesions
Used topically for skin lesions, vaginal itching, eczema, dermatitis, or burns.
Unblocks the Bowels and Invigorates the Blood
For mild constipation from heat in the Blood, or used to treat amenorrhea and dysmenorrhea.

Contraindications and Cautions

Do not use in cases of measles. Caution in cases of spleen and stomach deficiency with loose stool.

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

3-9 grams.

Notes

Can be made into an ointment for use topically.

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Some of the substances included on this website are no longer used, and are included for historical reference only.