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Herbology
Herbs used in TCM are called Chinese herbs because they are processed and used in the context of Traditional Chinese Medicine.
Herbs used in TCM are called Chinese herbs because they are processed and used in context of TCM. In other words, Chinese herbs are harvested at special times, grown at an optimal place, processed in a special way and used from the perspective of TCM.
This section lists some 240 herbs herbs commonly used in TCM, with essential information such as the geo-specific habitat, therapeutic actions and precaution notes when using the herb.
Start your search by clicking the alphabetic character of the herb, select the herb from the dropdown list to get to the information page.
Abalone Shellshí jué míngConcha Haliotidis
| Herb name (Chinese): | 石决明 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | shí jué míng |
| Herb name (English): | Abalone Shell |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Concha Haliotidis |
| Origin of species: | Haliotis diversicolour Reeve, Haliotis discus hannai Ino., Haliotis ovina Gmelin, Haliotis ruber (Leach), Haliotis asinina Linnaeus, Haliotis laevigata (Donovan) |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Shell |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Guangdong, Hainan, Shandong, Fujian, Liaoning |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Salty • Cold • Administrates the Liver Meridian |
| Action(s): | • Relieves symptoms experienced in hypertensive individuals such as headaches or dizziness • Eases eye discomforts and blurred vision • Aids in relieving bleeding symptoms, or gastric discomforts (when processed) |
Albizia Barkhé huān píCortex Albiziae
| Herb name (Chinese): | 合欢皮 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | hé huān pí |
| Herb name (English): | Albizia Bark |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Cortex Albiziae |
| Origin of species: | Albizia julibrissin Durazz. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Stem Bark |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Regions along the flow of Yangtze River |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet • Neutral • Administrates the Heart and Liver Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases symptoms of emotional irritations or distress • Relieves pain resulting from physical injuries and soothes bruises |
Albizia Flowerhé huān huāFlos Albiziae
| Herb name (Chinese): | 合欢花 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | hé huān huā |
| Herb name (English): | Albizia Flower |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Flos Albiziae |
| Origin of species: | Albizia julibrissin Durazz. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Inflorescence or bud |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Regions along the flow of Yangtze River |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet • Neutral • Administrates the Heart and Liver Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases symptoms of insomnia, emotional distress and forgetfulness |
Aloeslú huìAloe
| Herb name (Chinese): | 芦荟 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | lú huì |
| Herb name (English): | Aloes |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Aloe |
| Origin of species: | Aloe barbadensis Miller Aloe ferox Miller |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Concentrated matter obtained from juice of the leaf |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Yunnan, Guangdong, Guangxi, as well as north Africa and south America |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Bitter • Cold • Administrates the Liver, Stomach and Large Intestine Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Provide relief from constipation and insomnia • Relieve malnutrition in children due to intestinal parasites • Relieves skin irritations |
American Ginsengxī yáng shēnRadix Panacis Quinquefolii
| Herb name (Chinese): | 西洋参 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | xī yáng shēn |
| Herb name (English): | American Ginseng |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Radix Panacis Quinquefolii |
| Origin of species: | Panax quinquefolium L. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Root |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Beijing, Jilin, Liaoning, as well as USA, Canada |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet, slightly bitter • Cool • Administrates the Heart, Lung, Spleen and Kidney Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Replenishes bodily fluids • Helps to improve lung functions to prevent shortness of breath or dry coughs • Aids to remove heat, and relieves constant thirst |
Areca Peeldà fù píPericarpium Arecae
| Herb name (Chinese): | 大腹皮 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | dà fù pí |
| Herb name (English): | Areca Peel |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Pericarpium Arecae |
| Origin of species: | Areca catechu L. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Pericarp |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Hainan, Guangxi, Yunnan |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Pungent • Slightly warm • Administrates the Spleen, Stomach, Large Intestine and Small Intestine Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases indigestion and related gastrointestinal discomfort • Relieves symptoms of water retention in the body by encouraging urination |
Areca Seedbīng lángSemen Arecae
| Herb name (Chinese): | 槟榔 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | bīng láng |
| Herb name (English): | Areca Seed |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Semen Arecae |
| Origin of species: | Areca catechu L. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Seed |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Hainan, Fujian, Yunnan, Guangxi, Taiwan |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Bitter, pungent • Warm • Administrates the Stomach and Large Intestine Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Relieves pain associated with intestinal parasites • Eases difficult defaecation or indigestion • Eases water retention symptoms, especially in the lower limbs |
Argy Wormwood Leafài yèFolium Artemisiae Argyi
| Herb name (Chinese): | 艾叶 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | ài yè |
| Herb name (English): | Argy Wormwood Leaf |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Folium Artemisiae Argyi |
| Origin of species: | Artemisia argyi Lévl. et vant. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Leaf |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Most parts of China- Hubei, Shandong, Anhui or Hebei etc. |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Pungent, bitter • Warm • Administrates the Liver, Spleen and Kidney Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Improves body circulation to relieve pains • Helps in regulation of menstrual cycle • Helps to dispel cold |
Ash Barkqín píCortex Fraxini
| Herb name (Chinese): | 秦皮 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | qín pí |
| Herb name (English): | Ash Bark |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Cortex Fraxini |
| Origin of species: | Fraxinus rhynchophylla Hance, Fraxinus chinensis Roxb., Fraxinus szaboana Lingelsh., Fraxinus stylosa Lingelsh. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Branch bark or stem bark |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Jilin, Liaoning, Henan |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Bitter, astringent • Cold • Administrates the Liver, Gall Bladder and Large Intestine Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Ease vaginal irritations and symptoms of dysentery such as cramping, rectal pain • Relieve eye discomforts |
Milkvetch Roothuáng qíRadix Astragali
| Herb name (Chinese): | 黄芪 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | huáng qí |
| Herb name (English): | Milkvetch Root |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Radix Astragali |
| Origin of species: | Astragalus membranaceus (Fisch.) Bge. var. mongholicus (Bge.) Hsiao Astragalus membranaceus (Fisch.) Bge. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Root |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Inner Mongolia, Shanxi, Heilongjiang |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet • Slightly Warm • Administrates the Spleen and Lung Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Boosts digestive and respiratory functions • Eases symptoms of excessive and uncontrollable perspiration • Promotes drainage of pus to assist in recovery of abscesses difficult to heal. |
Atractylodes Rhizomecāng zhúRhizoma Atractylodis
| Herb name (Chinese): | 苍术 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | cāng zhú |
| Herb name (English): | Atractylodes Rhizome |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Rhizoma Atractylodis |
| Origin of species: | Atractylodes lancea (Thunb.) DC. Atractylodes chinensis (DC.) Koidz. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Rhizome |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Jiangsu, Hubei, Henan, Inner Mongolia, Shanxi, Liaoning |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Pungent, bitter • Warm • Administrates the Spleen, Stomach and Liver Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases symptoms related to the gastrointestinal system, such as abdominal pain, nausea, lack of appetite, etc • Relieves rheumatic pain • Relieves common flu • Aids in eyesight |
Bamboo Shavingszhú rúCaulis Bambusae in Taenia
| Herb name (Chinese): | 竹茹 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | zhú rú |
| Herb name (English): | Bamboo Shavings |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Caulis Bambusae in Taenia |
| Origin of species: | Bambusa tuldoides Munro, Sinocalamus beecheyanus (Munro) McClure var. pubescens P. F. Li, Phyllostachys nigra (Lodd.) Munro var. henonis (Mitf.) Staphf ex Rendle |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Middle shavings of stem |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Southern part of China, Along Yangtze river basin |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet • Slightly cold • Administrates the Lung and Stomach, Heart and GallbladderMeridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases coughs with yellow oral discharge • Relieves dry mouth, bad breath, nausea and vomiting • Relieves heat and restlessness • Eases bleeding symptoms |
Barbary Wolfberry Fruitgǒu qǐ zǐFructus Lycii
| Herb name (Chinese): | 枸杞子 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | gǒu qǐ zǐ |
| Herb name (English): | Barbary Wolfberry Fruit |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Fructus Lycii |
| Origin of species: | Lycium barbarum L. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Fruit |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Ningxia, Gansu, Xinjiang |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet • Neutral • Administratesthe Kidney and Liver Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Helps to improve functions of liver and kidney to ease anaemic conditions • Eases symptoms of premature aging, such as eyesight deterioration, dizziness or giddiness, backache and weak knees, etc |
Barbated Skullcup Herbbàn zhī liánHerba Scutellariae Barbatae
| Herb name (Chinese): | 半枝莲 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | bàn zhī lián |
| Herb name (English): | Barbated Skullcup Herb |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Herba Scutellariae Barbatae |
| Origin of species: | Scutellaria barbata D. Don |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Whole plant |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Hunan, Henan |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Pungent, bitter • Cold • Administrates the Lung, Liver and Kidney Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases inflammatory conditions, such as insect or snake bites • Relieves throat discomfort and pain resulting from physical injuries • Aids in water retention by promoting urination |
Beautiful Sweetgum Fruitlù lù tōngFructus Liquidambaris
| Herb name (Chinese): | 路路通 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | lù lù tōng |
| Herb name (English): | Beautiful Sweetgum Fruit |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Fructus Liquidambaris |
| Origin of species: | Liquidambar formosana Hance |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Infructescence (Fruiting head) |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Most parts of China |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Bitter • Neutral • Administrates the Liver and Kidney Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Relieves pain relating to rheumatism or post stroke recovery period • Aids recovery from physical injuries • Eases water retention in the body • Eases pain and reduces blood clots relating to menstrual disorders • Eases swollen or tender mammary glands , and stimulate lactation • Relieves skin irritation and itchiness |
Belvedere Fruitdì fū zǐFructus Kochiae
| Herb name (Chinese): | 地肤子 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | dì fū zǐ |
| Herb name (English): | Belvedere Fruit |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Fructus Kochiae |
| Origin of species: | Kochia scoparia (L.) Schrad. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Fruit |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Most parts of China |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Pungent, bitter • Cold • Administrates the Kidney and Bladder Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases difficult urination due to internal heat • Relieves itchiness in the pubic region and other skin irritations |
Bitter Apricot Seedkǔ xìng rénSemen Armeniacae Amarum
| Herb name (Chinese): | 苦杏仁 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | kǔ xìng rén |
| Herb name (English): | Bitter Apricot Seed |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Semen Armeniacae Amarum |
| Origin of species: | Prunus armeniaca L. var. ansu Maxim. Prunus sibirica L. Prunus mandshurica (Maxim.) Koehne Prunus armeniaca L. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Ripe seed |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Inner Mongolia, Xinjiang, as well as many other regions in the northern and western parts of China |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Bitter • Slightly warm • Administrates the Lung and Large Intestine Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Calms coughs and asthmatic conditions • Eases constipation |
Black Sesamehēi zhī máSemen Sesami Nigrum
| Herb name (Chinese): | 黑芝麻 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | hēi zhī má |
| Herb name (English): | Black Sesame |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Semen Sesami Nigrum |
| Origin of species: | Sesamum indicum L. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Seed |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | All parts of China |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet • Neutral • Administrates the Kidney, Large Intestine and Liver Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases symptoms of premature aging, e.g. blurred vision, hair greying, etc • Relieves constipation |
Blackberrylily Rhizomeshè gānRhizoma Belamcandae
| Herb name (Chinese): | 射干 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | shè gān |
| Herb name (English): | Blackberrylily Rhizome |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Rhizoma Belamcandae |
| Origin of species: | Belamcanda chinensis (L.) DC. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Rhizome |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Hubei, Henan, Jiangsu, Anhui |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Bitter • Cold • Administrates the Lung Meridian |
| Action(s): | • Relieves throat discomforts • Eases coughs with yellow and sticky oral discharge |
Blackend Swallowwort Rootbái wēiRadix et Rhizoma Cynanchi Atrati
| Herb name (Chinese): | 白薇 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | bái wēi |
| Herb name (English): | Blackend Swallowwort Root |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Radix et Rhizoma Cynanchi Atrati |
| Origin of species: | • Cynanchum atratum Bge. • Cynanchum versicolour Bge. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Rhizome and Root |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Northern and southern parts of China |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Bitter, salty • Cold • Administrates the Stomach, Liver and Kidney Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Helps to relieve hot flushes, night sweating or fever after giving birth • Provides relief for painful sore throats • Aids urination, relieve painful urination • Eases inflammatory conditions |
Boat-fruited Sterculia Seedpàng dà hǎiSemen Sterculiae Lychnophorae
| Herb name (Chinese): | 胖大海 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | pàng dà hǎi |
| Herb name (English): | Boat-fruited Sterculia Seed |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Semen Sterculiae Lychnophorae |
| Origin of species: | Sterculia lychnophora Hance |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Seed |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Thailand, Cambodia, Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam, India |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet • Cold • Administrates the Lung and Large Intestine Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Relieves loss of voice due to throat discomforts and coughs • Eases constipation, headaches and sore eyes |
Bunge Corydalis Herbkǔ dì dīngHerba Corydalis Bungeanae
| Herb name (Chinese): | 苦地丁 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | kǔ dì dīng |
| Herb name (English): | Bunge Corydalis Herb |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Herba Corydalis Bungeanae |
| Origin of species: | Corydalis bungeana Turcz |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Whole plant |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Gansu, Shaanxi, Shanxi, Shandong, Hebei, Liaoning, Jilin, Heilong jiang, Sichuan |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Bitter • Cold • Administrates the Heart, Large Intestine and Liver Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Relieves lung ailments and related symptoms, such as painful sore throats • Eases inflammatory conditions |
Cablin Patchouli Herbguǎng huò xiāngHerba Pogostemonis
| Herb name (Chinese): | 广藿香 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | guǎng huò xiāng |
| Herb name (English): | Cablin Patchouli Herb |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Herba Pogostemonis |
| Origin of species: | Pogostemon cablin (Blanco) Benth. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Plant parts above ground |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Guangdong, Hainan |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Pungent • Slightly warm • Administrates the Spleen, Stomach and Lung Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases symptoms resulting fromstomach flu , e.g. lack of appetite, nausea or vomiting, constantly feeling tired, etc • Relieves symptoms associated with heat stroke |
Canton Love-pea Vinejī gǔ cǎoHerba Abri
| Herb name (Chinese): | 鸡骨草 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | jī gǔ cǎo |
| Herb name (English): | Canton Love-pea Vine |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Herba Abri |
| Origin of species: | Abrus cantoniensis Hance |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Whole plant |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Most parts of China |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet, slightly bitter • Cool • Administrates the Liver and Stomach Meridians |
| Action(s): | Eases swollen mammary glands o Relieves pain and discomfort experienced in the abdominal and flank region |
Cape Jasmine Fruitzhī zǐFructus Gardeniae
| Herb name (Chinese): | 栀子 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | zhī zǐ |
| Herb name (English): | Cape Jasmine Fruit |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Fructus Gardeniae |
| Origin of species: | Gardenia jasminoides Ellis |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Fruit |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Along the southern flow of Yangtze River |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Bitter • Cold • Administrates the Heart, Lung and Triple Burner Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Relieves heat and eases symptoms of restlessness from heat-related illnesses • Relieves symptoms of jaundice • Eases bleeding symptoms due to heat • Reduce swelling and aid in detoxification in sores • Eases painful urination and eye discomforts |
Cassia Barkròu guìCortex Cinnamomi
| Herb name (Chinese): | 肉桂 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | ròu guì |
| Herb name (English): | Cassia Bark |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Cortex Cinnamomi |
| Origin of species: | Cinnamomum cassia Presl |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Stem Bark |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Guangdong, Guangxi, Hainan, Yunnan |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Pungent, sweet • Hot • Administrates the Kidney, Spleen, Heart and Liver Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Commonly used in infertility prescriptions • Relieves back pain and menstrual disorders • Eases stomach discomforts |
Cassia Seedjué míng zǐSemen Cassiae
| Herb name (Chinese): | 决明子 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | jué míng zǐ |
| Herb name (English): | Cassia Seed |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Semen Cassiae |
| Origin of species: | Cassia obtusifolia L. Cassia tora L. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Ripe Seed |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Anhui, Guangxi, Sichuan, Zhejiang, Guangdong |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet, bitter, salty • Slightly cold • Administrates the Large Intestine and Liver Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases constipation • Soothes eye discomfort • Relieves hypertensive-related headaches and dizziness |
Cassia Twigguì zhīRamulus Cinnamomi
| Herb name (Chinese): | 桂枝 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | guì zhī |
| Herb name (English): | Cassia Twig |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Ramulus Cinnamomi |
| Origin of species: | Cinnamomum cassia Presl |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Twig or young branch |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Guangdong, Guangxi, Yunnan |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Pungent, sweet • Warm • Administrates the Heart, Lung and Bladder Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases symptoms of influenza or related respiratory ailments • Ideal herb for individuals experiencing cold and frequent pain in the extremities • Relieves symptoms of poor fluid circulation in the body • Eases symptoms of irregular heartbeats. |
Chicken's Gizzard-skinjī nèi jīnEndothelium Corneum Gigeriae Galli
| Herb name (Chinese): | 鸡内金 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | jī nèi jīn |
| Herb name (English): | Chicken's Gizzard-skin |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Endothelium Corneum Gigeriae Galli |
| Origin of species: | Gallus gallus domesticus Brisson |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Inner lining of organ (gizzard) |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Most parts of China |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet • Neutral • Administrates the Spleen, Stomach, Small Intestine and Bladder Meridians |
| Action(s): | Eases symptoms relating to indigestion, premature ejaculation and difficult urination, and gallstones |
Chinese Angelicadāng guīRadix Angelicae Sinensis
| Herb name (Chinese): | 当归 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | dāng guī |
| Herb name (English): | Chinese Angelica |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Radix Angelicae Sinensis |
| Origin of species: | Angelica sinensis (Oliv.) Diels |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Root |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Gansu, Shaanxi, Sichuan, Yunnan, Hubei |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet, pungent • Warm • Administrates the Liver, Heart and Spleen Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Relieves anaemic symptoms • Helps to regulate the menstrual cycle and eases menstrual pain • Also eases other kinds of pain, such as pain experienced in cold limbs or pain resulting from physical injuries due to poor blood circulation |
Chinese Arborvitae Kernelbái zǐ rénSemen Platycladi
| Herb name (Chinese): | 柏子仁 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | bái zǐ rén |
| Herb name (English): | Chinese Arborvitae Kernel |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Semen Platycladi |
| Origin of species: | Platycladus orientalis (L.) Franco |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Kernel |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Shandong, Henan, Hebei, Shaanxi, Hubei, Gansu, Yunnan |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet • Neutral • Administrates the Heart, Kidney and Large Intestine Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Calms the minds and Improves quality of sleep for those suffering from insomnia • Eases conditions related to constipation |
Chinese Arborvitae Twig & Leafcè bǎi yèCacumen Platycladi
| Herb name (Chinese): | 侧柏叶 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | cè bǎi yè |
| Herb name (English): | Chinese Arborvitae Twig & Leaf |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Cacumen Platycladi |
| Origin of species: | Platycladus orientalis (L.) Franco |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Twig and leaf |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Most parts of China |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Bitter, astringent • Cold • Administrates the Lung, Spleen and Liver Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases bleeding conditions and symptoms of early aging, such as premature hair greying • Relieves coughs with yellow oral discharge |
Chinese Caterpillar Fungusdōng chóng xià cǎoCordyceps
| Herb name (Chinese): | 冬虫夏草 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | dōng chóng xià cǎo |
| Herb name (English): | Chinese Caterpillar Fungus |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Cordyceps |
| Origin of species: | Cordyceps sinensis (Berk.) Sacc. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Whole organism (intact) |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Sichuan, Qinghai, Yunnan, Guizhou, Tibet, Gansu |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet • NeutralAdministrates the Lung and Kidney Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Relieves symptoms of premature ejaculation, erectile dysfunction, weak knees and sore lower back • Eases chronic coughs or coughs with blood |
Chinese Datedà zǎoFructus Jujubae
| Herb name (Chinese): | 大枣 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | dà zǎo |
| Herb name (English): | Chinese Date |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Fructus Jujubae |
| Origin of species: | Ziziphus jujuba Mill |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Fruit |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Hebei, Henan, Shandong |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet • Warm • Administrates the Spleen and Lung Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Nourishes the various organ systems • Improves circulation within the body • Helps to improve quality of sleep |
Chinese Dwarf Cherry Seedyù lǐ rénSemen Pruni
| Herb name (Chinese): | 郁李仁 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | yù lǐ rén |
| Herb name (English): | Chinese Dwarf Cherry Seed |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Semen Pruni |
| Origin of species: | Prunus humilis Bge., Prunus japonica Thunb., Prunus pedunculata Maxim. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Seed |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Inner Mongolia, Hebei, Liaoning |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Pungent, bitter, sweet • Neutral • Administrates the Spleen, Large Intestine and Small Intestine Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases constipation • Relieves water retention symptoms in the lower body |
Chinese Eaglewood Woodchén xiāngLignum Aquilariae Resinatum
| Herb name (Chinese): | 沉香 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | chén xiāng |
| Herb name (English): | Chinese Eaglewood Wood |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Lignum Aquilariae Resinatum |
| Origin of species: | Aquilaria sinensis (Lour.) Gilg |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Resin containing wood |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Hainan, Guangdong, Yunnan, Taiwan, Southeast Asia, India |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Pungent, bitter • Slightly warm • Administrates the Spleen, Stomach and Kidney Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Relieves abdominal and gastrointestinal discomforts • Eases mild symptoms of asthmatic conditions due to deficiencies. |
Chinese Liquorice Rootgān cǎoRadix et Rhizoma Glycyrrhizae
| Herb name (Chinese): | 甘草 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | gān cǎo |
| Herb name (English): | Chinese Liquorice Root |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Radix et Rhizoma Glycyrrhizae |
| Origin of species: | Glycyrrhiza uralensis Fisch. Glycyrrhiza inflata Bat. Glycyrrhiza glabra L. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Root and rhizome |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Inner Mongolia, Xinjiang, Gansu |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet • Neutral • Administrates the Heart, Lung, Spleen and Stomach Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Nourishes and improves functions of all major bodily systems • Relieves sore throat or related discomforts • Helps to harmonise the different herbal functions in the prescriptions |
Chinese Lobelia Herbbàn biān liánHerba Lobeliae Chinensis
| Herb name (Chinese): | 半边莲 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | bàn biān lián |
| Herb name (English): | Chinese Lobelia Herb |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Herba Lobeliae Chinensis |
| Origin of species: | Lobelia chinensis Lour. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Whole plant |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Hubei, Hunan, Jiangsu, Jiangxi, Guangdong, Zhejiang, Sichuan, Anhui, Guangxi, Fujian, Taiwan |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Pungent • Neutral • Administrates the Heart, Small Intestine and Lung Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases inflammatory conditions, such as insect bites and skin rashes • Relieves water retention in the abdominal region, such as difficult urination |
Chinese Lovagegǎo běnRhizoma et Radix Ligustici
| Herb name (Chinese): | 藁本 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | gǎo běn |
| Herb name (English): | Chinese Lovage |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Rhizoma et Radix Ligustici |
| Origin of species: | Lingusticum sinense Oliv. Lingusticum jeholense Nakai et Kitag. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Root and rhizome |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Shaanxi, Gansu, Henan, Sichuan, Hubei, Hunan, Liaoning, Jilin, Hebei |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Pungent • Warm • Administrates the Bladder Meridian |
| Action(s): | • Eases symptoms of common colds and headaches experienced at the top of the head • Relieves rheumatic pain |
Chinese Magnoliavine Fruitwǔ wèi zǐFructus Schisandrae Chinensis
| Herb name (Chinese): | 五味子 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | wǔ wèi zǐ |
| Herb name (English): | Chinese Magnoliavine Fruit |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Fructus Schisandrae Chinensis |
| Origin of species: | Schisandra chinensis (Turcz.) Baill |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Fruit |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Northeastern parts of China |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sour, sweet • Warm • Administrates the Lung, Heart and Kidney Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Nourishes lung system to ease coughs and shortness of breath • Eases excessive perspiration, chronic diarrhoea and constant thirst • Helps to improve symptoms of premature ejaculation or related infertility problems • Calms the mind and nourishes the heart to improve quality of sleep |
Chinese Pulsatilla Rootbái tóu wēngRadix Pulsatillae
| Herb name (Chinese): | 白头翁 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | bái tóu wēng |
| Herb name (English): | Chinese Pulsatilla Root |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Radix Pulsatillae |
| Origin of species: | Pulsatilla chinensis (Bge.) Regel |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Root |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Jilin, Heilongjiang, Liaoning, Hebei, Shandong, Shaanxi, Shanxi, Jiangxi, Henan, Anhui, Jiangsu |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Bitter • Cold • Administrates the Stomach and Large Intestine Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Helps relieve dysentery with blood in stools • Eases inflammatory conditions such as carbuncles and swollen sores |
Chinese Star Anisebā jiǎo huí xiāngFructus Anisi Stellati
| Herb name (Chinese): | 八角茴香 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | bā jiǎo huí xiāng |
| Herb name (English): | Chinese Star Anise |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Fructus Anisi Stellati |
| Origin of species: | Illcium verum Hook. f. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Fruit |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Countries with tropical climate |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Pungent • Warm • Administrates the Liver, Kidney, Spleen and Stomach Meridians |
| Action(s): | Helps to relieve pains associating with menstrual or gastrointestinal discomforts, such as indigestion |
Chinese Starjasmine Stemluò shí téngCaulis et Folium Trachelospermi
| Herb name (Chinese): | 络石藤 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | luò shí téng |
| Herb name (English): | Chinese Starjasmine Stem |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Caulis et Folium Trachelospermi |
| Origin of species: | Trachelospermum jasminoides (Lindl.) Lem. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Lianoid stem with leaf |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Jiangsu, Hubei, Shandong |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Bitter• Slightly cold • Administrates the Heart, Liver and Kidney Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Relieves pains relating to rheumatism or back problems • Eases throat discomforts such as pain and swelling • Aids in the healing of physical injuries by invigorating blood circulation |
Chinese Taxillus Herbsāng jì shēngHerba Taxilli
| Herb name (Chinese): | 桑寄生 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | sāng jì shēng |
| Herb name (English): | Chinese Taxillus Herb |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Herba Taxilli |
| Origin of species: | Taxillus chinensis (DC.) Danser |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Branch with leaves |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Guangdong, Guangxi, Yunnan |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Bitter, sweet • Neutral • Administrates the Liver and Kidney Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases rheumatic or arthritic pains • Relieves symptoms of uterine discharge (spotting) during pregnancy |
Chinese Thorowax Rootchái húRadix Bupleuri
| Herb name (Chinese): | 柴胡 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | chái hú |
| Herb name (English): | Chinese Thorowax Root |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Radix Bupleuri |
| Origin of species: | Bupleurum chinense DC. Bupleurum scorzonerifolium Willd. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Root |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Hebei, Henan, Liaoning, Hubei, Shaanxi, Sichuan, Anhui, Heilongjiang, Jilin |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Bitter,pungent • Slightly cold • Administrates the Gall Bladder and Liver Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Relieves mild symptoms of common flu and related respiratory ailments • Eases emotional distress and helps to relieve menstrual conditions • Helps to relieve conditions relating to prolapse of uterus or rectum |
Chinese Waxgourd Peeldōng guā píExocarpium Benincasae
| Herb name (Chinese): | 冬瓜皮 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | dōng guā pí |
| Herb name (English): | Chinese Waxgourd Peel |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Exocarpium Benincasae |
| Origin of species: | Benincasa hispida (Thunb.) Cogn. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Exocarp |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Most parts of China |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet • Cool • Administrates the Spleen and Small Intestine Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Relieves water retention • Eases symptoms of heat stroke |
Chinese White Oliveqīng guǒFructus Canarii
| Herb name (Chinese): | 青果 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | qīng guǒ |
| Herb name (English): | Chinese White Olive |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Fructus Canarii |
| Origin of species: | Canarium album Raeusch. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Fruit |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Guangdong, Guangxi, Fujian, Yunnan, Sichuan |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet, sour • Neutral • Administrates the Lung and Stomach Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases throat irritations, coughs and constant thirst • Helps to neutralise effects triggered by the naturally occurring irritants in seafood |
Chinese Wolfberry Root-Barkdì gǔ píCortex Lycii
| Herb name (Chinese): | 地骨皮 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | dì gǔ pí |
| Herb name (English): | Chinese Wolfberry Root-Bark |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Cortex Lycii |
| Origin of species: | Lycium chinense Mill.Lycium barbarum L. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Root bark |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Mainly found in the northern and southern parts of China |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet • Cold • Administrates the Lung, Liver and Kidney Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Relieves symptoms of excessive or uncontrollable perspiration due to internal heat • Eases bleeding symptoms • Eases coughing symptoms |
Christina Loosestrifejīn qián cǎoHerba Lysimachiae
| Herb name (Chinese): | 金钱草 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | jīn qián cǎo |
| Herb name (English): | Christina Loosestrife |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Herba Lysimachiae |
| Origin of species: | Lysimachia christinae Hance |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Whole plant, including root |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Several regions in Jiangnan of China |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet, salty • Slightly cold • Administrates the Liver, Gall Bladder, Kidney and Bladder Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases painful urination • Eases symptoms of jaundice • Reduces swelling in carbuncles, sores and snake bites |
Chrysanthemum Flowerjú huāFlos Chrysanthemi
| Herb name (Chinese): | 菊花 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | jú huā |
| Herb name (English): | Chrysanthemum Flower |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Flos Chrysanthemi |
| Origin of species: | Chrysanthemum morifolium Ramat. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Flower |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Zhejiang, Anhui, Henan, Sichuan, Hebei, Shandong |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet, bitter • Slightly cold • Administrates the Lung and Liver Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Relieves symptoms of influenza, headaches or dizziness • Eases tired, dry or painful eyes |
Cibot Rhizomegǒu jǐRhizoma Cibotii
| Herb name (Chinese): | 狗脊 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | gǒu jǐ |
| Herb name (English): | Cibot Rhizome |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Rhizoma Cibotii |
| Origin of species: | Cibotium barometz (L.) J. Sm. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Rhizome |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Yunnan, Guangxi, Zhejiang, Fujian |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Bitter, sweet • Warm • Administrates the Kidney and Liver Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases rheumatoid pain, sore lower back and weak knees • Relieves bed-wetting and excessive vaginal discharge |
Cicada Sloughchán tuìPeriostracum Cicadae
| Herb name (Chinese): | 蝉蜕 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | chán tuì |
| Herb name (English): | Cicada Slough |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Periostracum Cicadae |
| Origin of species: | Cryptotympana pustulata Fabricus |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Slough of the nymph |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Shandong, Hebei, Henan, Jiangsu |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet • Cold • Administrates the Lung and Liver Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases early or mild symptoms of respiratory ailments • Relieves skin rashes, and eye and throat discomforts • Aids to relieve symptoms of spasm |
Clam Shellgě qiàoConcha Meretricis seu Cyclinae
| Herb name (Chinese): | 蛤壳 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | gě qiào |
| Herb name (English): | Clam Shell |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Concha Meretricis seu Cyclinae |
| Origin of species: | Meretrix meretrix Linnaeus Cyclina sinensis Gmelin |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Shell |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Along the coastal regions of China, including Liaoning and Hainan |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Bitter, Salty • Slightly cold • Administrates the Lung, Kidney and Stomach Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases coughs with yellow oral discharge • Relieves symptoms of water retention in the body and skin irritations • Scalds |
Clovedīng xiāngFlos Caryophylli
| Herb name (Chinese): | 丁香 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | dīng xiāng |
| Herb name (English): | Clove |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Flos Caryophylli |
| Origin of species: | Eugenia caryophyllata Thunb. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Flower bud |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Guangdong, Hainan, Tanzania, Malaysia and Indonesia |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Pungent • Warm • Administrates the Spleen, Stomach, Lung and Kidney Meridians |
| Action(s): | Relieves stomach discomfort or nausea |
Coastal Glehnia Rootběi shā shēnRadix Glehniae
| Herb name (Chinese): | 北沙参 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | běi shā shēn |
| Herb name (English): | Coastal Glehnia Root |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Radix Glehniae |
| Origin of species: | Glehnia littoralis Fr. Schmidt ex Miq. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Root |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Shandong, Jiangsu, Fujian |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet, slightly Bitter • Slightly cold • Administrates the Lung and Stomach Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases dry coughs • Relieves stomach discomforts, such as lack of appetite, constipation, etc |
Cockcomb Flowerjī guān huāFlos Celosiae Cristatae
| Herb name (Chinese): | 鸡冠花 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | jī guān huā |
| Herb name (English): | Cockcomb Flower |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Flos Celosiae Cristatae |
| Origin of species: | Celosia cristata L. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Flower (Capitulum) |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Many parts of China |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet, astringent • Cool • Administrates the Liver and Large Intestine Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases symptoms related to abnormal vaginal or uterine discharge • Eases bleeding conditions • Relieves conditions of chronic dysentry |
Coix Seedyì yǐ rénSemen Coicis
| Herb name (Chinese): | 薏苡仁 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | yì yǐ rén |
| Herb name (English): | Coix Seed |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Semen Coicis |
| Origin of species: | Coix lacryma-jobi L. var. mayuen (Roman.) Stapf |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Kernel |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Fujian, Hebei, Liaoning |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet, bland • Cool • Administrates the Spleen, Stomach and Lung Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases water retention in the body • Nourishes the Spleen and Stomach Systems • Relieves rheumatic pain • Induces drainage of pus and relieves symptoms of lung or appendiceal abscesses • Aids in detoxification and relieves conditions of nodules and swellings |
Common Andrographis Herbchuān xīn liánHerba Andrographis
| Herb name (Chinese): | 穿心莲 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | chuān xīn lián |
| Herb name (English): | Common Andrographis Herb |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Herba Andrographis |
| Origin of species: | Andrographis paniculata (Burm. f.) Nees |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Plant parts above ground |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Guangdong, Guangxi, Fujian, Yunnan, Sichuan, Jiangxi, Jiangsu, Zhejiang, Shanghai, Shandong, Beijing |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Bitter • Cold • Administrates the Heart, Lung, Large Intestine and Bladder Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Relieves early symptoms of respiratory ailments, skin rashes and diarrhoea • Eases sore throat, coughs with yellow oral discharge and insect bites |
Common Anemarrhena Rhizomezhī mǔRhizoma Anemarrhenae
| Herb name (Chinese): | 知母 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | zhī mǔ |
| Herb name (English): | Common Anemarrhena Rhizome |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Rhizoma Anemarrhenae |
| Origin of species: | Anemarrhena asphodeloides Bge. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Rhizome |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Hebei , Shanxi, Shandong |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Bitter, sweet • Cold • Administrates the Lung, Stomach and Kidney Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Relieves constant thirst due to feverish or chronic conditions • Ideal for individuals who keep frequent late nights as well as those constantly under stressful conditions • Relieves coughs with little and thick yellow phlegm • Relieves symptoms of internal heat such as night sweating, restlessness or hot flushes • Eases constipation due to lack of fluids |
Common Aucklandia Rootmù xiāngRadix Aucklandiae
| Herb name (Chinese): | 木香 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | mù xiāng |
| Herb name (English): | Common Aucklandia Root |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Radix Aucklandiae |
| Origin of species: | Aucklandia lappa Decne. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Root |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Yunnan, Guangxi, , as well as India, Pakistan and Burma |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Pungent, bitter • Warm • Administrates the Spleen, Stomach, Large Intestine, Triple Burner and Gall Bladder Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases stomach or other gastrointestinal discomforts • Helps to relieve sensation of chest tightness • Helps to relieve cramping rectal pain |
Common Bletilla Tuberbái jíRhizoma Bletillae
| Herb name (Chinese): | 白及 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | bái jí |
| Herb name (English): | Common Bletilla Tuber |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Rhizoma Bletillae |
| Origin of species: | Bletilla striata (Thunb.) Reichb. F. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Tuber |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Guizhou, Sichuan, Hunan, Hubei, Anhui, Henan, Zhejiang, Shaanxi |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Bitter, sweet, astringent • Cold • Administrates the Lung, Stomach and Liver Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Helps to stop bleeding in external wounds • Relieves heat and aid in wound healing process for scalded or dry skin or swollen sores |
Common Cnidium Fruitshé chuáng zǐFructus Cnidii
| Herb name (Chinese): | 蛇床子 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | shé chuáng zǐ |
| Herb name (English): | Common Cnidium Fruit |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Fructus Cnidii |
| Origin of species: | Cnidium monnieri (L.) Cuss. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Fruit |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Hebei, Shandong, Zhejiang, Jiangsu, Sichuan |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Pungent, bitter • Warm • Administrates the Kidney Meridian |
| Action(s): | • Relieves itching in the pubic areas (external use) • Relieves excessive vaginal discharge and lingering back pain • Nourishes the kidney functions to treat symptoms in infertility |
Common Coltsfoot Flowerkuǎn dōng huāFlos Farfarae
| Herb name (Chinese): | 款冬花 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | kuǎn dōng huā |
| Herb name (English): | Common Coltsfoot Flower |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Flos Farfarae |
| Origin of species: | Tussilago farfara L. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Flower bud |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Henan, Gansu, Shanxi, Shaanxi |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Pungent, slightly bitter • Warm • Administrates the Lung Meridian |
| Action(s): | Calms coughs and eases phlegm |
Common Ducksmeat Herbfú píngHerba Spirodelae
| Herb name (Chinese): | 浮萍 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | fú píng |
| Herb name (English): | Common Ducksmeat Herb |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Herba Spirodelae |
| Origin of species: | Spirodela polyrrhiza (L.) Schleid. Fam. Lemaceae |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Whole plant |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Hubei, Jiangsu, Zhejiang, Fujian, Sichuan |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Pungent • Cold • Administrates the Lung and Bladder Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases symptoms of feverand skin rashes • Relieves difficult urination due to water retention |
Common Flowering Qince Fruitmù guāFructus Chaenomelis
| Herb name (Chinese): | 木瓜 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | mù guā |
| Herb name (English): | Common Flowering Qince Fruit |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Fructus Chaenomelis |
| Origin of species: | Chaenomeles speciosa (Sweet) Nakai |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Fruit |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Anhui, Sichuan, Hubei, Zhejiang |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sour • Warm • Administrates the Liver and Spleen Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases muscular pains, e.g. shoulder pain • Improves appetite and relieves indigestion • Eases water retention in the lower limbs |
Common Knotgrass Herbbiǎn xùHerba Polygoni Avicularis
| Herb name (Chinese): | 篇蓄 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | biǎn xù |
| Herb name (English): | Common Knotgrass Herb |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Herba Polygoni Avicularis |
| Origin of species: | Polygonum aviculare L. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Aerial part of plant |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Henan, Sichuan, Zhejiang, Shandong, Jilin, Hebei |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Bitter • Slightly cold • Administrates the Bladder meridian |
| Action(s): | • Eases difficult and painful urination • Relieves skin rashes or itchiness |
Common Rushdēng xīn cǎoMedulla Junci
| Herb name (Chinese): | 灯心草 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | dēng xīn cǎo |
| Herb name (English): | Common Rush |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Medulla Junci |
| Origin of species: | Juncus effusus L. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Stem Pith |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Jiangsu, Sichuan, Yunnan, Guizhou |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet, bland • Slightly cold • Administrates the Heart, Lung and Small Intestine Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Promotes urination • Relieves insomnia and canker sores due to internal heat |
Common Selfheal Fruit-Spikexià kū cǎoSpica Prunellae
| Herb name (Chinese): | 夏枯草 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | xià kū cǎo |
| Herb name (English): | Common Selfheal Fruit-Spike |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Spica Prunellae |
| Origin of species: | Prunella vulgaris L. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Fruit spike |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Jiangsu, Zhejiang, Anhui, Henan |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Pungent, bitter • Cold • Administrates the Liver and Gall Bladder Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases eye discomforts, headaches and dizziness • Relieves swollen mammary glands • Helps to dissolve phlegm, and relieves symptoms of glandular swellings |
Common Yam Rhizomeshān yàoRhizoma Dioscoreae
| Herb name (Chinese): | 山药 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | shān yào |
| Herb name (English): | Common Yam Rhizome |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Rhizoma Dioscoreae |
| Origin of species: | Dioscorea opposita Thunb. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Rhizome |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Henan, Hunan, Jiangnan |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet • Neutral • Administrates the Spleen, Lung and Kidney Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Boosts and improves digestive and respiratory functions • Relieves symptoms related to weak knees, sore lower back, frequent night urination, premature ejaculation and excessive vaginal discharge • Eases constant thirst due to chronic diseases such as diabetes |
Cowherb Seedwáng bú liú xíngSemen Vaccariae
| Herb name (Chinese): | 王不留行 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | wáng bú liú xíng |
| Herb name (English): | Cowherb Seed |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Semen Vaccariae |
| Origin of species: | Vaccaria segetalis (Neck.) Garcke |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Seed |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Jiangsu, Hebei, Shandong, Liaoning, Heilongjiang |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Bitter • Neutral • Administrates the Liver and Stomach Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Relieves menstrual pain and related discomforts • Helps to promote production of milk, and relieve symptoms of swollen and tender breasts • Eases urinary difficulties |
Cuttlebonehǎi piāo xiāoEndoconcha Sepiae
| Herb name (Chinese): | 海螵蛸 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | hǎi piāo xiāo |
| Herb name (English): | Cuttlebone |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Endoconcha Sepiae |
| Origin of species: | Sepiella maindroni de Rochebrune Sepia esculenta Hoyle |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Inner shell |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Liaoning, Jiangsu, Zhejiang |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Salty, astringent • Slightly warm • Administrates the Kidney and Liver Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases symptoms of premature ejaculation and excessive vaginal discharge • Relieves bleeding symptoms • Soothes stomach or abdominal discomforts, and heartburn due to excess ive gastric acidand skin rashes |
Dahurian Angelica Rootbái zhǐRadix Angelicae Dahuricae
| Herb name (Chinese): | 白芷 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | bái zhǐ |
| Herb name (English): | Dahurian Angelica Root |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Radix Angelicae Dahuricae |
| Origin of species: | • Angelica dahurica (Fisch. ex Hoffm) Benth. et Hook. f. • Angelica dahurica (Fisch. ex Hoffm) Benth. et Hook. f. var. formosana (Boiss.) Shan et Yuan |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Root |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Henan, Hebei, Shaanxi, Zhejiang, Fujian, Sichuan and north eastern parts of China |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Pungent • Warm • Administrates the Lung, Stomach and Large Intestine Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Helps to relieve symptoms of common cold and related respiratory ailments • Eases headaches, toothaches or rheumatic pains • Relieves nasal congestion and related discomforts • Helps to relieve skin itching |
Dandelionpú gōng yīngHerba Taraxaci
| Herb name (Chinese): | 蒲公英 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | pú gōng yīng |
| Herb name (English): | Dandelion |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Herba Taraxaci |
| Origin of species: | Taraxacum mongolicum Hand. -Mazz. Taraxacum borealisinense Kitam. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Whole plant, including root |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Many parts of China |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Bitter, sweet • Cold • Administrates the Liver and Stomach Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases glandular swellings in the breast, colon or lung • Eases inflammatory skin conditions such as carbuncles or swollen soresRelieves difficult urination |
Danshen Rootdān shēnRadix et Rhizoma Salviae Miltiorrhizae
| Herb name (Chinese): | 丹参 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | dān shēn |
| Herb name (English): | Danshen Root |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Radix et Rhizoma Salviae Miltiorrhizae |
| Origin of species: | Salvia miltiorrhiza Bge. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Root and rhizome |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Sichuan, Anhui, Jiangsu, Henan, Shanxi |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | •Bitter • Slightly cold • Administrates the Heart, Pericardium and Liver Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Helps to regulate the menstrual cycle and eases painful periods or pain experienced after delivery • Helps to ease discomfort experienced in the heart and abdominal regions |
Dendrobiumshí húCaulis Dendrobii
| Herb name (Chinese): | 石斛 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | shí hú |
| Herb name (English): | Dendrobium |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Caulis Dendrobii |
| Origin of species: | Dendrobium nobile Lindl., Dendrobium chrysotoxum Lindl., Dendrobium fimbriatum Hook. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Stem |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Sichuan, Guizhou, Yunnan |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet • Slightly cold • Administrates the Stomach and Kidney Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases stomach or related gastric discomforts • Nourishes the Kidney System to aid and improve quality of sleep and vision |
Densefruit Pittany Root-Barkbái xiān píCortex Dictamni
| Herb name (Chinese): | 白鲜皮 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | bái xiān pí |
| Herb name (English): | Densefruit Pittany Root-Bark |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Cortex Dictamni |
| Origin of species: | Dictamnus dasycarpus Turcz |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Root bark |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Liaoning, Hebei, Sichuan, Jiangsu |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Bitter • Cold • Administrates the Spleen, Stomach and Bladder Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Helps to relieve skin irritations • Eases pain relating to rheumatoid arthritis |
Desert-living Cistancheròu cōng róngHerba Cistanches
| Herb name (Chinese): | 肉苁蓉 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | ròu cōng róng |
| Herb name (English): | Desert-living Cistanche |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Herba Cistanches |
| Origin of species: | Cistanche deserticola Y. C. Ma Cistanche tubulosa (Schrenk) Wight |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Fleshy stem with scales |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Inner Mongolia, Gansu, Xinjiang, Qinghai |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet, salty • Warm • Administrates the Kidney and Large Intestine Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Warms and nourishes the bodily systems, in particular that of the kidneys • Eases back pain and weak knees • Relieves constipation due to insufficient intestinal fluids leading to dry hard stools |
Divaricate Saposhnikovia Rootfáng fēngRadix Saposhnikoviae
| Herb name (Chinese): | 防风 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | fáng fēng |
| Herb name (English): | Divaricate Saposhnikovia Root |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Radix Saposhnikoviae |
| Origin of species: | Saposhnikovia divaricata (Turcz.) Schischk. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Root |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | North eastern parts of China, Eastern parts of Inner Mongolia |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Pungent, sweet • Slightly warm • Administrates the Bladder, Liver and Spleen Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Relieves symptoms of influenza or related respiratory discomforts • Eases skin rashes • Helps to provide pain relief to those suffering from rheumatism |
Dodder Seedtú sī zǐSemen Cuscutae
| Herb name (Chinese): | 菟丝子 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | tú sī zǐ |
| Herb name (English): | Dodder Seed |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Semen Cuscutae |
| Origin of species: | Cuscuta chinensis Lam., Cuscuta australis R. Br. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Seed |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Most parts of China |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Pungent, sweet • Neutral • Administrates the Liver, Kidney and Spleen Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Nourishes liver and kidney functions • Eases eye discomforts • Commonly used in infertility treatments • Relieves chronic diarrhea due to weak digestive abilities • Tonic used during pregnancy • Relieves symptoms of vitiligo (when used externally) |
Donkey-hide Glueē jiāoColla Corii Asini
| Herb name (Chinese): | 阿胶 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | ē jiāo |
| Herb name (English): | Donkey-hide Glue |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Colla Corii Asini |
| Origin of species: | Equus asinus Linnaeus |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Animal skin |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Shandong, Zhejiang, Jiangsu |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet • Neutral • Administrates the Lung, Liver and Kidney Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Nourishes the blood to relieve anaemic conditions • Eases bleeding symptoms and dry coughs • |
Doubletooth Pubescent Angelica Rootdú huóRadix Angelicae Pubescentis
| Herb name (Chinese): | 独活 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | dú huó |
| Herb name (English): | Doubletooth Pubescent Angelica Root |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Radix Angelicae Pubescentis |
| Origin of species: | Angelica pubescens Maxim. f. biserrata Shan et Yuan |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Root |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Sichuan, Hubei, Anhui |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Pungent, bitter • Slightly warm • Administrates the Bladder and Kidney Meridians |
| Action(s): | Relieves rheumatic pain or pain experienced in cold lower limbs |
Dried Tangerine Peelchén píPericarpium Citri Reticulatae
| Herb name (Chinese): | 陈皮 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | chén pí |
| Herb name (English): | Dried Tangerine Peel |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Pericarpium Citri Reticulatae |
| Origin of species: | Citrus reticulata Blanco |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Pericarp |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Guangdong, Fujian, Sichuan, Zhejiang, Jiangxi |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Bitter, pungent • Warm. • Administrates the Spleen, and Lung Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Regulates circulation of bodily fluids for digestive functons • Strengthens physiological functions of the Spleen • Removes phlegm |
Dwarf Lilyturf Tubermài dōngRadix OphiopogonisRadix Ophiopogonis
| Herb name (Chinese): | 麦冬 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | mài dōng |
| Herb name (English): | Dwarf Lilyturf Tuber |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Radix OphiopogonisRadix Ophiopogonis |
| Origin of species: | Ophiopogon japonicus (Thunb.) Ker-Gawl. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Root tuber |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Sichuan, Zhejiang, Jiangsu |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet, slightly bitter • Slightly cold • Administrates the Heart, Lung and Stomach Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases stomach discomforts with symptoms including constant thirst and constipation • Relieves chronic and dry coughs • Helps to calm the mind and improve quality of sleep |
Dyers Woad Leafdà qīng yèFolium Isatidis
| Herb name (Chinese): | 大青叶 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | dà qīng yè |
| Herb name (English): | Dyers Woad Leaf |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Folium Isatidis |
| Origin of species: | Isatis indigotica Fort. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Leaf |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Jiangsu, Anhui, Hebei, Zhejiang |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Bitter • Cold • Administrates the Stomach and Heart Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Relieves bleeding symptoms • Eases severe sore discomfort and mumps-related symptoms |
Earthwormdì lóngPheretima
| Herb name (Chinese): | 地龙 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | dì lóng |
| Herb name (English): | Earthworm |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Pheretima |
| Origin of species: | Pheretima aspergillum (E. Perrier) Pheretima vulgaris Chen Pheretima guillelmi (Michaelsen) Pherentima oectinifera Michaelsen |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Whole organism |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Guangdong, Guangxi, Fujian, Shanghai |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Salty • Cold • Administrates the Liver, Spleen and Bladder Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Relieves severe feverish conditions • Eases stroke-related symptoms, such as partial immobility • Provides pain relief to stiff or painful limbs • Promotes urination |
English Walnut Seedhé táo rénSemen Juglandis
| Herb name (Chinese): | 核桃仁 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | hé táo rén |
| Herb name (English): | English Walnut Seed |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Semen Juglandis |
| Origin of species: | Juglans regia L. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Seed |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Most parts of China |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet • Warm • Administrates the Kidney, Lung and Large Intestine Meridians |
| Action(s): | Eases symptoms of limb weakness, sore lower back, frequent urination, constipation and chronic coughs |
Ephedramá huángHerba Ephedrae
| Herb name (Chinese): | 麻黄 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | má huáng |
| Herb name (English): | Ephedra |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Herba Ephedrae |
| Origin of species: | Ephedra sinica Stapf. Ephedra intermedia Schrenk et C. A. Mey. Ephedra equisetina Bge. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Herbaceous stem |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Hebei, Shanxi, Inner Mongolia, Gansu |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Pungent, slightly bitter • Warm • Administrates the Lung and Bladder Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases symptoms of common colds and other respiratory discomforts • Calms coughs and relieves shortness of breath • Relieves water retention due to acute colds |
Epimedium Leafyín yáng huòFolium Epimedii
| Herb name (Chinese): | 淫羊藿 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | yín yáng huò |
| Herb name (English): | Epimedium Leaf |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Folium Epimedii |
| Origin of species: | Epimedium brevicornum Maxim., Epimedium sagittatum (Sieb. et Zucc.) Maxim., Epimedium pubescens Maxim., Epimedium koreanum Nakai |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Leaf |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Shaanxi, Liaoning, Shanxi, Hubei, Sichuan |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Pungent, sweet • Warm • Administrates the Kidney and Liver Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Relieves symptoms relating to erectile dysfunction and premature ejaculation • Soothes chronic back pain and weak knees • Eases rheumatic pain and limb numbness |
Eucommia Barkdù zhòngCortex Eucommiae
| Herb name (Chinese): | 杜仲 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | dù zhòng |
| Herb name (English): | Eucommia Bark |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Cortex Eucommiae |
| Origin of species: | Eucommia ulmoides Oliv. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Stem Bark |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Sichuan, Yunnan, Guizhou, Hubei |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet • Warm • Administrates the Liver and Kidney Meridians |
| Action(s): | Relieves lower back pain |
European Verbena Herbmǎ biān cǎoHerba Verbenae
| Herb name (Chinese): | 马鞭草 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | mǎ biān cǎo |
| Herb name (English): | European Verbena Herb |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Herba Verbenae |
| Origin of species: | Verbena officinalis L. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Plant parts above ground |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Shanxi, Shaanxi, Gansu, Xinjiang, Jiangsu, Anhui, Zhejiang, Jiangxi, Fujian |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Bitter • Cool • Administrates the Liver and Spleen Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases inflammation or painful sore throat • Relieves menstrual pain or abdominal masses by removing blood stasis • Relieves water retention • Aids in treatment of symptoms of jaundice and malaria |
Fennelxiǎo huí xiāngFructus Foeniculi
| Herb name (Chinese): | 小茴香 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | xiǎo huí xiāng |
| Herb name (English): | Fennel |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Fructus Foeniculi |
| Origin of species: | Foeniculum vulgare Mill. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Fruit |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | All parts of China |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Pungent • Warm • Administrates the Liver, Kidney, Spleen and Stomach Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Relieves menstrual pain and pain in the abdominal region • Warms up the body, and ease pain |
Fermented Soybeandàn dòu chǐSemen Sojae Praeparatum
| Herb name (Chinese): | 淡豆豉 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | dàn dòu chǐ |
| Herb name (English): | Fermented Soybean |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Semen Sojae Praeparatum |
| Origin of species: | Glycine max (L.) Merr. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Seed |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Most parts of China |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Bitter, pungent • Cool • Administrates the Lung and Stomach Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Relieves mild symptoms of respiratory ailments • Eases emotional distress due to internal heat and improves sleep |
Fineleaf Schizonepeta Spikejīng jiè suìSpica Schizonepetae
| Herb name (Chinese): | 荆芥穗 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | jīng jiè suì |
| Herb name (English): | Fineleaf Schizonepeta Spike |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Spica Schizonepetae |
| Origin of species: | Schizonepeta tenuisfolia Briq. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Fruit spike |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Jiangsu, Zhejiang, Henan, Shandong |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Pungent • Slightly warm • Administrates the Lung and Liver Meridians |
| Action(s): | Relieves symptoms of influenza, headaches and skin irritations |
Finger Citronfó shǒuFructus Citri Sarcodactylis
| Herb name (Chinese): | 佛手 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | fó shǒu |
| Herb name (English): | Finger Citron |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Fructus Citri Sarcodactylis |
| Origin of species: | Citrus medica L. var. sarcodactylis Swingle |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Fruit |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Guangdong, Fujian, Yunnan, Sichuan |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Pungent, bitter • Warm • Administrates the Liver, Spleen, Stomach and Lung Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases pain at the abdominal region and sides of the body • Relieves chronic coughs with excessive oral discharge |
Fleeceflower Roothé shǒu wūRadix Polygoni Multiflori
| Herb name (Chinese): | 何首乌 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | hé shǒu wū |
| Herb name (English): | Fleeceflower Root |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Radix Polygoni Multiflori |
| Origin of species: | Polygonum multiflorum Thunb. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Root tuber |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Most parts of China |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Bitter, sweet, astringent • Slightly warm • Administrates the Kidney and Liver Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases symptoms of premature aging, e.g. blurred vision, hair greying, weak knees and sore lower back • Relieves constipated conditions |
Fortune Eupatorium Herbpèi lánHerba Eupatorii
| Herb name (Chinese): | 佩兰 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | pèi lán |
| Herb name (English): | Fortune Eupatorium Herb |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Herba Eupatorii |
| Origin of species: | Eupatorium fortunei Turcz. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Plant parts above ground |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Jiangsu, Zhejiang, Hebei |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Pungent • Neutral • Administratesthe Spleen, Stomach and Lung Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Improves appetite • Helps to remove bad breath • Relieves symptoms associated with heat stroke |
Fortune's Drynaria Rhizomegǔ suì bǔRhizoma Drynariae
| Herb name (Chinese): | 骨碎补 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | gǔ suì bǔ |
| Herb name (English): | Fortune's Drynaria Rhizome |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Rhizoma Drynariae |
| Origin of species: | Drynaria fortunei (Kunze) J. Sm. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Rhizome |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Zhejiang, Hubei, Guangdong, Guangxi, Sichuan, Shaanxi, Gansu, Qinghai |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Bitter • Warm • Administrates the Kidney and Liver Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases symptoms of erectile dysfunction, weak knees and sore lower back • Eases chronic or morning diarrhoea, and coughs that are slow to recover • Reduces swelling and relieves clots in bruises or external injuries |
Fourleaf Ladybell Rootnán shā shēnRadix Adenophorae
| Herb name (Chinese): | 南沙参 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | nán shā shēn |
| Herb name (English): | Fourleaf Ladybell Root |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Radix Adenophorae |
| Origin of species: | Adenophora tetraphylla (Thunb.) Fisch. Adenophora stricta Miq. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Root |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Anhui, Jiangsu, Zhejiang |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet • Slightly cold Administrates the Lung and Stomach Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Replenishes bodily fluids • Eases dry coughs • Provides relief from symptoms such as constant thirst, nausea or lack of appetite caused by stomach discomforts |
Fragrant Solomonseal Rhizomeyù zhúRhizoma Polygonati Odorati
| Herb name (Chinese): | 玉竹 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | yù zhú |
| Herb name (English): | Fragrant Solomonseal Rhizome |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Rhizoma Polygonati Odorati |
| Origin of species: | Polygonatum odoratum (Mill.) Druce |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Rhizome |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Hunan, Henan, Jiangsu |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet • Slightly cold • Administrates the Lung and Stomach Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Ideal for individuals with chronic respiratory ailments • Eases symptoms of common thirst, dry mouth, bad breath, and reduced appetite • Calms the mind to relieve restlessness |
Fresh Gingershēng jiāngRhizoma Zingerberis Recens
| Herb name (Chinese): | 生姜 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | shēng jiāng |
| Herb name (English): | Fresh Ginger |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Rhizoma Zingerberis Recens |
| Origin of species: | Zingiber officinale Rosc. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Rhizome |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | All parts of China |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Pungent • Warm • Administrates the Lung, Spleen and Stomach Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases early symptoms of influenza or related respiratory ailments • Eases nausea or vomiting symptoms, and coughs with clear or watery oral discharge |
Gambir Plantgōu téngRamulus Uncariae cum Uncis
| Herb name (Chinese): | 钩藤 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | gōu téng |
| Herb name (English): | Gambir Plant |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Ramulus Uncariae cum Uncis |
| Origin of species: | Uncaria rhynchophylla (Miq.) Jacks. Uncaria macrophylla Wall. Uncaria hirsuta Havil. Uncaria sinensis (Oliv.) Havil. Uncaria sessilifructus Roxb. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Branch with hooks |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Fujian, Guangdong, Guangxi |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet • Cool • Administrates the Pericardium and Liver Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases headaches and dizzy spells • Relieves mild symptoms of influenza or related respiratory ailments • Eases symptoms of spasms and relating to hypertension |
Garden Burnet Rootdì yúRadix Sanguisorbae
| Herb name (Chinese): | 地榆 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | dì yú |
| Herb name (English): | Garden Burnet Root |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Radix Sanguisorbae |
| Origin of species: | Sanguisorba officinalis L. Sanguisorba officinalis L.var. longifolia (Bert.) Yu et Li |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Root |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Anhui, Zhejiang, Jiangsu, Jiangxi |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Bitter, sour, astringent • Slightly cold • Administrates the Liver and Large Intestine Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Relieves bleeding symptoms • Eases scalded or inflammatory conditions, and other skin irritations |
Germinated Barleymài yáFructus Hordei Germinatus
| Herb name (Chinese): | 麦芽 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | mài yá |
| Herb name (English): | Germinated Barley |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Fructus Hordei Germinatus |
| Origin of species: | Hordeum vulgare L |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Germinated ripe fruit |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | All parts of China |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet • Neutral • Administrates the Spleen and Stomach Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Relieves indigestion resulting from intake of foods rich in starch •Relieves breast tenderness •Stops production of milk supply after child weaning |
Giant Knotweed Rhizomehǔ zhàngRhizoma et Radix Polygoni Cuspidati
| Herb name (Chinese): | 虎杖 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | hǔ zhàng |
| Herb name (English): | Giant Knotweed Rhizome |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Rhizoma et Radix Polygoni Cuspidati |
| Origin of species: | Polygonum cuspidatum Sieb. et Zucc. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Rhizome and root |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Jiangsu, Jiangxi, Shandong, Sichuan |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Slightly bitter • Slightly cold • Administrates the Liver, Gall bladder and Lung Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases symptoms associated with jaundice, (inflammatory) urinary ailments, changes in vaginal discharge, menstrual pain or pain experienced from physical injuries • Relieves burnt or scalded skin and insect bites which trigger inflammatory conditions • Calms coughs with yellow oral discharge |
Ginkgo Leafyín xìng yèFolium Ginkgo
| Herb name (Chinese): | 银杏叶 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | yín xìng yè |
| Herb name (English): | Ginkgo Leaf |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Folium Ginkgo |
| Origin of species: | Ginkgo biloba L. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Leaf |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Guangxi, Sichuan, Henan, Shandong, Hubei |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Bitter, astringent • Neutral Administrating the Lung and heart meridians |
| Action(s): | • Ease symptoms of chronic coughs and shortness of breath • Removes blood stasis and relieves pain |
Ginkgo Seedbái guǒSemen Gingko
| Herb name (Chinese): | 白果 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | bái guǒ |
| Herb name (English): | Ginkgo Seed |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Semen Gingko |
| Origin of species: | Ginkgo biloba L. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Seed |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Guangxi, Sichuan, Henan, Shandong, Hubei |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet, bitter, astringent • Neutral • Administrates the Lung Meridian |
| Action(s): | • Helps to relieve respiratory discomforts • Helps to regulate changes in vaginal and seminal discharge |
Ginsengrén shēnRadix et Rhizoma Ginseng
| Herb name (Chinese): | 人参 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | rén shēn |
| Herb name (English): | Ginseng |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Radix et Rhizoma Ginseng |
| Origin of species: | Panax ginseng C. A. Mey. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Root and rhizome |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Jilin, Liaoning, Heilongjiang |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet, slightly bitter • Slightly warm Administrates the Spleen, Lung, Heart and Kidney Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Nourishes and strengthens the bodily functions • Improves overall vitality • Eases constant thirst due to chronic illnesses • Helps calm the mind and improve sleep |
Glossy Ganodermalíng zhīGanoderma
| Herb name (Chinese): | 灵芝 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | líng zhī |
| Herb name (English): | Glossy Ganoderma |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Ganoderma |
| Origin of species: | Ganoderma lucidum (Leyss. ex Fr.) Karst. Ganoderma sinense Zhao, Xu et Zhang |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Sporophore |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Sichuan, Zhejiang, Hunan, Jiangxi |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet • Neutral • Administrates the Heart, Lung, Liver and Kidney Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Aids in relieving anxiety or insomnia-related symptoms • Calms coughs with excessive discharge • Ideal for relieving symptoms related to chronic fatigue |
Glossy Privet Fruitnǚ zhēn zǐFructus Ligustri Lucidi
| Herb name (Chinese): | 女贞子 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | nǚ zhēn zǐ |
| Herb name (English): | Glossy Privet Fruit |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Fructus Ligustri Lucidi |
| Origin of species: | Ligustrum lucidum Ait. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Fruit |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Zhejiang, Jiangsu, Hunan |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet, bitter • Cool • Administrates the Liver and Kidney Meridians |
| Action(s): | Ideal for individuals with premature aging symptoms such as early sight deterioration, greying of hair, chronic back discomforts and weak knees. |
Gordon Euryale Seedqiàn shíSemen Euryales
| Herb name (Chinese): | 芡实 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | qiàn shí |
| Herb name (English): | Gordon Euryale Seed |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Semen Euryales |
| Origin of species: | Euryale ferox Salisb. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Kernel |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Hunan, Jiangxi, Anhui, Shandong |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet, astringent • Neutral • Administrates the Spleen and Kidney Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Relieves symptoms relating to premature ejaculation • Eases chronic diarrhoea and excessive vaginal discharge |
Great Burdock Acheneniú bàng zǐFructus Arctii
| Herb name (Chinese): | 牛蒡子 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | niú bàng zǐ |
| Herb name (English): | Great Burdock Achene |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Fructus Arctii |
| Origin of species: | Arctium lappa L. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Fruit |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Dongbei, Zhejiang, Sichuan, Hubei, Hebei, Henan, Shaanxi |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Pungent, bitter • Cold • Administrates the Lung and Stomach Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Relieves symptoms of respiratory discomforts during onset of heat-related illnesses or common colds • Eases skin irritations, such as rashes • Relieves severe throat discomforts |
Green Tangerine Peelqīng píPericarpium Citri Reticulatae Viride
| Herb name (Chinese): | 青皮 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | qīng pí |
| Herb name (English): | Green Tangerine Peel |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Pericarpium Citri Reticulatae Viride |
| Origin of species: | Citrus reticulata Blanco |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Pericarp of young or immature fruits |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Guangdong, Fujian, Sichuan, Zhejiang, Jiangxi |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Bitter, pungent • Warm • Administrates the Liver, Gall Bladder and Stomach Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Relieves indigestion and related stomach discomforts • Eases emotional irritations • Relieves pain of abdominal masses |
Grosvenor Momordica Fruitluó hàn guǒFructus Siraitiae
| Herb name (Chinese): | 罗汉果 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | luó hàn guǒ |
| Herb name (English): | Grosvenor Momordica Fruit |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Fructus Siraitiae |
| Origin of species: | Siraitia grosvenorii (Swingle) |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Fruit |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Guangxi |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet • Cool • Administrates the Lung and Large Intestine Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases coughs and sore throats • Relieves constipation |
Gypsumshí gāoGypsum Fibrosum
| Herb name (Chinese): | 石膏 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | shí gāo |
| Herb name (English): | Gypsum |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Gypsum Fibrosum |
| Origin of species: | Hydrated calcium sulphate (CaSO4•2H2O) |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Mineral |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Hubei, Gansu, Sichuan, Anhui |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet, pungent • Extremely cold • Administrates the Lung and Stomach Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases feverish symptoms, and coughs with blood-stained or yellow oral discharge • Relieves swollen gums and symptoms related to constant thirst • Aids in recovery of sores, and stops bleeding (external use) |
Hawthorn Fruitshān zhāFructus Crataegi
| Herb name (Chinese): | 山楂 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | shān zhā |
| Herb name (English): | Hawthorn Fruit |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Fructus Crataegi |
| Origin of species: | Crataegus pinnatifida Bge. var. major N. E. Br. Crataegus pinnatifida Bge. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Fruit |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Henan, Shandong, Hebei |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sour, sweet • Slightly warm • Administrates the Spleen, Stomach and Liver Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases indigestion and stomach discomfort due to intake of oily and rich foods • Relieves menstrual pain • Relieves stomach or colic pain • Helps remove blood stasis |
Heartleaf Houttuynia Herbyú xīng cǎoHerba Houttuyniae
| Herb name (Chinese): | 鱼腥草 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | yú xīng cǎo |
| Herb name (English): | Heartleaf Houttuynia Herb |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Herba Houttuyniae |
| Origin of species: | Houttuynia cordata Thunb. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Plant parts above ground |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Southern part of China, along the flow of Yangtze River |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Pungent • Slightly cold • Administrates the Lung Meridian |
| Action(s): | • Eases coughs with yellow oral discharge or lung abscesses • Eases wound inflammations (external use) • Relieves painful urination |
Heterophylly Falsestarwort Roottài zǐ shēnRadix Pseudostellariae
| Herb name (Chinese): | 太子参 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | tài zǐ shēn |
| Herb name (English): | Heterophylly Falsestarwort Root |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Radix Pseudostellariae |
| Origin of species: | Pseudostellaria heterophylla (Miq.) Pax ex pax et Hoffm. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Root tuber |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Jiangsu, Anhui, Shandong |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet,Slightly bitter • Neutral • Administrates the Spleen and Lung Meridians |
| Action(s): | Help to improve the digestive and respiratory functions |
Himalayan Teasel Rootxù duànRadix Dipsaci
| Herb name (Chinese): | 续断 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | xù duàn |
| Herb name (English): | Himalayan Teasel Root |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Radix Dipsaci |
| Origin of species: | Dipsacus asper Wall. ex Henry |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Root |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Sichuan, Hubei, Hunan, Guizhou, Yunnan, Shaanxi |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Bitter, pungent • Slightly warm • Administrates the Liver and Kidney Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Helps to ease symptoms of erectile dysfunction and premature ejaculation • Relieves lower back and rheumatic pain • Helps to ease heavy uterine discharge, or uterine discharge (spotting) during pregnancy • Aids recovery from physical injuries |
Hirsute Shiny Bugleweed Herbzé lánHerba Lycopi
| Herb name (Chinese): | 泽兰 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | zé lán |
| Herb name (English): | Hirsute Shiny Bugleweed Herb |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Herba Lycopi |
| Origin of species: | Lycopus lucidus Turcz. var. hirtus Regel |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Plant parts above ground |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Heilongjiang, Liaoning, Zhejiang, Hubei |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Bitter, pungent • Slightly warm • Administrates the Liver and Spleen Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases painful menstruation or pain experienced after delivery • Helps to speed up recovery from physical injuries • Eases water retention in the abdominal region |
Hogfennel Rootqián húRadix Peucedani
| Herb name (Chinese): | 前胡 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | qián hú |
| Herb name (English): | Hogfennel Root |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Radix Peucedani |
| Origin of species: | Peucedanum praeruptorum Dunn |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Root |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Zhejiang, Henan, Hunan, Sichuan, Jiangxi, Anhui |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Bitter, pungent • Slightly cold Administrates the Lung Meridian |
| Action(s): | Eases coughs with large amounts of oral yellow discharge Relieves symptoms of common colds |
Honeyfēng mìMel
| Herb name (Chinese): | 蜂蜜 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | fēng mì |
| Herb name (English): | Honey |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Mel |
| Origin of species: | Apis cerana Fabricus Apis mellifera Linnaeus |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Honey |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Many parts of the world |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet • Neutral • Administrates the Lung, Spleen and Large Intestine Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Nourishes bodily systems to ease pain from stomach flu or related gastrointestinal ailments • Relieves chronic and dry coughs, and aid in relieving constipation • Helps to neutralise the toxic compounds in aconite species • Eases inflammatory conditions such as sores and scalds |
Honeycombfēng fángNidus Vespae
| Herb name (Chinese): | 蜂房 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | fēng fáng |
| Herb name (English): | Honeycomb |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Nidus Vespae |
| Origin of species: | Polistes olivaceous (DeGeer) Polistes japonicus Saussure Parapolybia varia Fabricus |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Honeycomb |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Many parts of China |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet • Neutral • Administrates the Stomach Meridian |
| Action(s): | • Eases rheumatic pain, toothaches and skin rashes • Relieves sore throat and related discomforts • Soothes inflammatory symptoms of the mammary glands |
Honeysuckle Flowershān yín huāFlos Lonicerae
| Herb name (Chinese): | 山银花 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | shān yín huā |
| Herb name (English): | Honeysuckle Flower |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Flos Lonicerae |
| Origin of species: | Lonicera hypoglauca Miq., Lonicera confusa DC., Lonicera macranthoides Hand. – Mazz, Lonicera fulvoto-mentosa Hsu et S. C. Cheng |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Flower bud or opening flower |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Sichuan, Guangdong, Guangxi, Hunan, Guizhou, Yunnan, Anhui, Zhejiang |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet • Cold • Administrates the Lung, Heart and Stomach Meridians |
| Action(s): | • For easing inflammations (external use) • Eases early symptoms of influenza such as fever and coughs with yellow oral discharge |
Honeysuckle Stemrěn dōng téngCaulis Lonicerae Japonicae
| Herb name (Chinese): | 忍冬藤 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | rěn dōng téng |
| Herb name (English): | Honeysuckle Stem |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Caulis Lonicerae Japonicae |
| Origin of species: | Lonicera japonica Thunb. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Stem and branch |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Henan, Shandong |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet • Cold • Administrates the Lung and Stomach Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases early symptoms of influenza • Relieves pains resulting from rheumatic or inflammatory joints |
Immature Orange Fruitzhǐ shíFructus Aurantii Immaturus
| Herb name (Chinese): | 枳实 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | zhǐ shí |
| Herb name (English): | Immature Orange Fruit |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Fructus Aurantii Immaturus |
| Origin of species: | Citrus aurantium L., Citrus sinensis Osbeck |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Young fruit |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Sichuan, Jiangxi, Fujian, Jiangsu |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Bitter, pungent, sour • Warm • Administrates the Spleen, Stomach and Large Intestine Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases indigestion • Helps to relieve tightness in chest or lower abdominal pain after delivery |
Incised Notopterygium Rhizomeqiāng huóRhizoma et Radix Notopterygii
| Herb name (Chinese): | 羌活 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | qiāng huó |
| Herb name (English): | Incised Notopterygium Rhizome |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Rhizoma et Radix Notopterygii |
| Origin of species: | Notopterygium incisum Ting ex. H. T. Chang, Notopterygium franchetti H. de Boiss. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Root and rhizome |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Sichuan, Yunnan, Qinghai, Gansu |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Pungent, bitter • Warm • Administratesthe Bladder and Kidney Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Relieves symptoms relating to early stages of influenza • Eases rheumatic pains in the upper body |
Indian Breadfú língPoria
| Herb name (Chinese): | 茯苓 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | fú líng |
| Herb name (English): | Indian Bread |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Poria |
| Origin of species: | Poria cocos (Schw.) Wolf |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Fungus |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Yunnan, Anhui, Hubei, Henan, Sichuan |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet, bland • Neutral • Administrates the Heart, Spleen and Kidney Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Helps to relieve water retention in the body • Boosts digestive functions • Helps to calm the mind and improve sleep |
Indian Madder Rootqiàn cǎoRadix et Rhizoma Rubiae
| Herb name (Chinese): | 茜草 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | qiàn cǎo |
| Herb name (English): | Indian Madder Root |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Radix et Rhizoma Rubiae |
| Origin of species: | Rubia cordifolia L. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Root and rhizome |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Anhui, Jiangsu, Shandong, Henan, Shaanxi |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Bitter • Cold • Administrates the Liver Meridian |
| Action(s): | • Helps to stop bleeding • Eases menstrual and rheumatoid pain |
Indian Trumpetflower Seedqiān céng zhǐ ；mù hú diéSemen Oroxyli
| Herb name (Chinese): | 千层纸；木蝴蝶 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | qiān céng zhǐ ；mù hú dié |
| Herb name (English): | Indian Trumpetflower Seed |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Semen Oroxyli |
| Origin of species: | Oroxylum indicum (L.) Vent. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Seed |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Yunnan, Guangxi, Guizhou, Fujian, Guangdong, Sichuan |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Bitter, sweet • Cool • Administrates the Lung, Liver and Stomach Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases sore throat or coughs with yellow discharge • Soothes gastric discomforts |
Isatis Rootbǎn lán gēnRadix Isatidis
| Herb name (Chinese): | 板蓝根 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | bǎn lán gēn |
| Herb name (English): | Isatis Root |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Radix Isatidis |
| Origin of species: | Isatis indigotica Fort. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Root |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | HebeiHenan, Jiangsu, Zhejiang, Anhui |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Bitter • Cold • Administrates the Heart and Stomach Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Provides relief for early symptoms of influenza and sore throats • Eases skin rashes or inflammatory conditions |
Japanese Ampelopsis Rootbái liǎnRadix Ampelopsis
| Herb name (Chinese): | 白蔹 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | bái liǎn |
| Herb name (English): | Japanese Ampelopsis Root |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Radix Ampelopsis |
| Origin of species: | Ampelopsis japonica (Thunb.) Makino |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Root tuber |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Northern and eastern parts of China, Southern provinces including Guangxi and Guangdong |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Bitter, pungent • Slightly cold • Administrates the Heart and Stomach Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Relieves heat and toxins, and reduce swelling relating to inflammatory conditions • Often used to help in recovery for very dry or scalded skin, swollen sores or carbuncles |
Japanese Honeysuckle Flowerjīn yín huāFlos Lonicerae Japonicae
| Herb name (Chinese): | 金银花 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | jīn yín huā |
| Herb name (English): | Japanese Honeysuckle Flower |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Flos Lonicerae Japonicae |
| Origin of species: | Lonicera japonica Thunb. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Flower or budding flowers |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Henan, Shandong |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet • Cold • Administrates the Lung, Heart and Stomach Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Soothes inflammations and sore throats • Eases feverish symptoms commonly seen in lung ailments or heat-related illnesses • Relieves symptoms of dysentery related with heat infections |
Japanese Thistle Herbdà jìHerba Cirsii Japonici
| Herb name (Chinese): | 大蓟 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | dà jì |
| Herb name (English): | Japanese Thistle Herb |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Herba Cirsii Japonici |
| Origin of species: | Cirsium japonicum DC. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Aerial plant |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Most parts of China |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet, bitter • Cool • Administrates the Liver and Heart Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Relieves bleeding symptoms • Eases inflammatory conditions |
Kelp or Tanglekūn bùThallus Laminariae Thallus Eckloniae
| Herb name (Chinese): | 昆布 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | kūn bù |
| Herb name (English): | Kelp or Tangle |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Thallus Laminariae Thallus Eckloniae |
| Origin of species: | Laminaria japonica Aresch. Ecklonia kurome Okam. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Thalline |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Shandong, Liaoning, Zhejiang |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Salty • Cold • Administrates the Liver and Kidney Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Acts as a diuretic, and relieves edema• Relieves conditions of glandular swellings by softening nodules |
Kudzuvine Rootgě gēnRadix Puerariae Lobatae
| Herb name (Chinese): | 葛根 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | gě gēn |
| Herb name (English): | Kudzuvine Root |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Radix Puerariae Lobatae |
| Origin of species: | Pueraria lobata (Willd.) Ohwi |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Roots |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Hunan, Henan, Guangdong, Zhejiang, Sichuan, Guangxi, Yunnan |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet, pungent • Cool • Administrates the Spleen and Stomach Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases symptoms of mild respiratory ailments, such as stiff neck and shoulders • Relieves skin rashes and constant thirst • Eases diarrhoea |
Lalang Grass Rhizomebái máo gēnRhizoma Imperatae
| Herb name (Chinese): | 白茅根 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | bái máo gēn |
| Herb name (English): | Lalang Grass Rhizome |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Rhizoma Imperatae |
| Origin of species: | Imperata cylindrica Beauv. var. major (Nees) C. E. Hubb. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Rhizome |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Mainly in Northen parts of China |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet • Cold • Administrates the Lung, Stomach and Bladder Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases water retention by promoting urination • Helps to calm coughs with yellow oral discharge • Helps to stop bleeding in inflammatory conditions |
Largehead Atractylodes Rhizomebái zhúRhizoma Atractylodis Macrocephalae
| Herb name (Chinese): | 白术 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | bái zhú |
| Herb name (English): | Largehead Atractylodes Rhizome |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Rhizoma Atractylodis Macrocephalae |
| Origin of species: | Atractylodes macrocephala Koidz. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Rhizome |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Zhejiang, Hubei, Hunan |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet, bitter • Warm • Administrates the Spleen and Stomach Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Helps to strengthen digestive functions • Eases excessive or uncontrollable perspiration • Can be used during pregnancy |
Largeleaf Gentian Rootqín jiāoRadix Gentianae Macrophyllae
| Herb name (Chinese): | 秦艽 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | qín jiāo |
| Herb name (English): | Largeleaf Gentian Root |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Radix Gentianae Macrophyllae |
| Origin of species: | Gentiana macrophylla Pall. Gentiana straminea Maxim. Gentiana crassicaulis Duthie ex Burk. Gentiana dahurica Fisch. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Root |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Shaanxi, Gansu, Inner Mongolia, Sichuan |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Pungent, bitter • Neutral • Administrates the Stomach, Liver and Gall Bladder Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Relieves rheumatic-related pains • Eases symptoms after stroke attacks, such as partial immobility, speech problems, face paralysis etc • Ideal for individuals who experience internal body heat symptoms such as night or no sweating, hot flushes, or constant thirst • Relieves fever due to internal body imbalance or malnutrition in children |
Largetrifoliolious Bugbane Rhizomeshēng máRhizoma Cimicifugae
| Herb name (Chinese): | 升麻 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | shēng má |
| Herb name (English): | Largetrifoliolious Bugbane Rhizome |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Rhizoma Cimicifugae |
| Origin of species: | Cimicifuga heracleifolia Kom., Cimicifuga dahurica (Turcz.) Maxim., Cimicifuga foetida L. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Rhizome |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Liaoning, Jilin, Heilongjiang, Hebei, Shanxi, Shaanxi, Sichuan, Qinghai |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Pungent, slightly sweet • Slightly cold • Administrates the Lung, Spleen, Stomach and Large Intestine Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases symptoms of influenza or related respiratory ailments • Eases skin irritations, canker sores and sore throat • Aids in lifting and circulation in symptoms of organ prolapse, chronic diarrhea or excessive uterine bleeding |
Lesser Galangal Rhizomegāo liáng jiāngRhizoma Alpiniae Officinarum
| Herb name (Chinese): | 高良姜 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | gāo liáng jiāng |
| Herb name (English): | Lesser Galangal Rhizome |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Rhizoma Alpiniae Officinarum |
| Origin of species: | Alpinia officinarum Hance |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Rhizome |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Guangdong, Guangxi, Hainan |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Pungent • Hot • Administrates the Spleen and Stomach Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases pain in the abdominal region • Relieves nausea or vomiting |
Lightyellow Sophora Rootkǔ shēnRadix Sophorae Flavescentis
| Herb name (Chinese): | 苦参 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | kǔ shēn |
| Herb name (English): | Lightyellow Sophora Root |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Radix Sophorae Flavescentis |
| Origin of species: | Sophora flavescens Ait. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Root |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Many parts of China |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Bitter • Cold • Administrates the Heart, Liver, Stomach, Large Intestine and Bladder Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases skin irritations, such as those around the pubic region • Eases difficult urination • Relieves symptoms of dysentery and jaundice |
Lily Bulbbǎi héBulbus Lilii
| Herb name (Chinese): | 百合 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | bǎi hé |
| Herb name (English): | Lily Bulb |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Bulbus Lilii |
| Origin of species: | Lilium lancifolium Thunb. Lilium brownii F. E. Brown var. viridulum Baker Lilium pumilum DC |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Fleshy scale leaf |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Most parts of China, especially in Hunan and Zhejiang |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet • Slightly cold • Administrates the Lung, Heart and Stomach Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases dry coughs • Helps to calm the mind and improve quality of sleep for those with chronic insomnia sleeping issues |
Long Pepperbì bóFructus Piperis Longi
| Herb name (Chinese): | 荜茇 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | bì bó |
| Herb name (English): | Long Pepper |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Fructus Piperis Longi |
| Origin of species: | Piper longum L. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Fruit |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Guangdong, Yunnan |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Pungent • Hot • Administrates the Stomach and Large Intestine Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases gastrointestinal discomforts, such as stomach ache, nausea or vomiting, diarrhoea, etc |
Longan Arillóng yǎn ròuArillus Longan
| Herb name (Chinese): | 龙眼肉 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | lóng yǎn ròu |
| Herb name (English): | Longan Aril |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Arillus Longan |
| Origin of species: | Dimocarpus longan Lour. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Aril |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Guangdong, Fujian, Taiwan, Guangxi |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet • Warm • Administrates the Heart and Spleen Meridians |
| Action(s): | Ideal for relieving symptoms related to chronic fatigue and insomnia |
Longstamen Onion Bulbxiè báiBulbus Allii Macrostemonis
| Herb name (Chinese): | 薤白 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | xiè bái |
| Herb name (English): | Longstamen Onion Bulb |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Bulbus Allii Macrostemonis |
| Origin of species: | Allium macrostemon Bge, Allium chinensis G. Don |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Bulb |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Jiangsu, Zhejiang |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Pungent, bitter • Warm • Administrates the Heart, Lung, Stomach and Large Intestine Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Helps to ease tightness in chest region • Relieves abdominal discomforts and cramping rectal pain |
Lophatherum Herbdàn zhú yèHerba Lophatheri
| Herb name (Chinese): | 淡竹叶 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | dàn zhú yè |
| Herb name (English): | Lophatherum Herb |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Herba Lophatheri |
| Origin of species: | Lophatherum gracile Brongn. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Dried stem and leaf |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Regions along Yangtze River, many parts of China |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet, bland • Cold • Administrates the Heart, Stomach and Small Intestine Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Relieves symptoms of constant thirst resulting from major heat-related illnesses • Eases canker sores and painful urination |
Loquat Leafpí pá yèFolium Eriobotryae
| Herb name (Chinese): | 枇杷叶 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | pí pá yè |
| Herb name (English): | Loquat Leaf |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Folium Eriobotryae |
| Origin of species: | Eriobotrya japonica (Thunb.) Lindl. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Leaf |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Guangdong, Jiangsu, Zhejiang, Fujian, Hubei |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Bitter • Slightly cold • Administrates the Lung and Stomach Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases coughs with yellow discharge or shortness of breath • Relieves hiccups and nausea |
Lotus Leafhé yèFolium Nelumbinis
| Herb name (Chinese): | 荷叶 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | hé yè |
| Herb name (English): | Lotus Leaf |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Folium Nelumbinis |
| Origin of species: | Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Leaf |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Hunan, Fujian, Jiangsu, Zhejiang |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Bitter• Neutral • Administrates the Spleen, Liver and StomachMeridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases symptoms of heat stroke and bleeding conditions • Helps to improve poor digestive functions with symptoms of diarrhea |
Lotus Plumulelián zǐ xīnPlumula Nelumbinis
| Herb name (Chinese): | 莲子心 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | lián zǐ xīn |
| Herb name (English): | Lotus Plumule |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Plumula Nelumbinis |
| Origin of species: | Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Young cotyledon and radicle of ripe seed |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Hunan, Fujian, Jiangsu, Zhejiang and other southern parts of China |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Bitter • Cold • Administrates the Kidney and Heart Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Helps to promote sleep • Eases conditions associated with seminal and vaginal discharge |
Lotus Rhizome Nodeǒu jiēNodus Nelumbinis Rhizomatis
| Herb name (Chinese): | 藕节 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | ǒu jiē |
| Herb name (English): | Lotus Rhizome Node |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Nodus Nelumbinis Rhizomatis |
| Origin of species: | Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Node or nodule |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Hunan, Hubei, Zhejiang, Jiangsu, Anhui |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet, astringent • Neutral • Administrates the Liver, Lung and Stomach Meridians |
| Action(s): | Helps to stop bleeding and remove blood stasis |
Lotus Seedlián zǐSemen Nelumbinis
| Herb name (Chinese): | 莲子 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | lián zǐ |
| Herb name (English): | Lotus Seed |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Semen Nelumbinis |
| Origin of species: | Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Seed |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Hunan, Fujian, Jiangsu, Zhejiang and other southern parts of China |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet, astringent • Neutral • Administrates the Spleen, Kidney and Heart Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Aids conditions associated with erectile dysfunction and premature ejaculation • Reduces excessive vaginal discharge • Nourishes the Spleen and Stomach functions, and relieves diarrhea • Helps to promote sleep |
Lotus Stamenlián xūStamen Nelumbinis
| Herb name (Chinese): | 莲须 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | lián xū |
| Herb name (English): | Lotus Stamen |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Stamen Nelumbinis |
| Origin of species: | Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Stamen |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Hunan, Fujian, Jiangsu, Zhejiang and other southern parts of China |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet, astringent • Neutral • Administrates the Kidney and Heart Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases conditions associated with seminal and vaginal discharges• Eases frequent urination |
Lychee Seedlì zhī héSemen Litchi
| Herb name (Chinese): | 荔枝核 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | lì zhī hé |
| Herb name (English): | Lychee Seed |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Semen Litchi |
| Origin of species: | Litchi chinensis Sonn. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Seed |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Fujian, Guangdong, Guangxi |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Pungent, slightly bitter • Warm • Administrates the Liver and Stomach Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases pains in the pubic region or due to hernia conditions • Calms chronic stomach discomforts or pains relating to menstruation or after childbirth |
Malaytea Scurfpea Fruitbǔ gǔ zhīFructus Psoraleae
| Herb name (Chinese): | 补骨脂 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | bǔ gǔ zhī |
| Herb name (English): | Malaytea Scurfpea Fruit |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Fructus Psoraleae |
| Origin of species: | Psoralea corylifolia L. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Fruit |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Shaanxi, Henan, Shanxi, Jiangxi, Anhui, Guangdong, Sichuan, Yunnan |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Bitter, pungent • Warm • Administrates the Spleen and Kidney Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases symptoms of erectile dysfunction, weak knees and sore lower back • Helpful for those who display symptoms of premature ejaculation and frequent urination • Help relieve digestive conditions with diarrhea usually in the early morning |
Millet Sproutgǔ yáFructus Setariae Germinatus
| Herb name (Chinese): | 谷芽 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | gǔ yá |
| Herb name (English): | Millet Sprout |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Fructus Setariae Germinatus |
| Origin of species: | Setaria italica (L.) Beauv. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Fruit |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Northern parts of China |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet • Warm • Administrates the Spleen and Stomach Meridians |
| Action(s): | Eases indigestion resulting from consumption of starch-rich foods or due to weak digestive ability |
Morinda Rootbā jǐ tiānRadix Morindae Officinalis
| Herb name (Chinese): | 巴戟天 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | bā jǐ tiān |
| Herb name (English): | Morinda Root |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Radix Morindae Officinalis |
| Origin of species: | Morinda officinalis |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Root |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Guangdong, Guangxi, Fujian, Jiangxi, Sichuan |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Pungent, sweet • Slightly warm • Administrates the Liver and Kidney Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Relieves rheumatic pains conditions • Helps to improve regulate reproductive functions in males and females • Helps to strengthen bone and joint health |
Motherwort Fruitchōng wèi zǐFructus Leonuri
| Herb name (Chinese): | 茺蔚子 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | chōng wèi zǐ |
| Herb name (English): | Motherwort Fruit |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Fructus Leonuri |
| Origin of species: | Leonurus japonicus Houtt. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Fruit |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Many parts in China |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Pungent, bitter • Slightly cold • Administrates the Liver and Pericardium Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases headaches and migraine • Relieves eye discomforts, and menstrual pain • Regulate menstrual cycle by invigorating blood circulation |
Motherwort Herbyì mǔ cǎoHerba Leonuri
| Herb name (Chinese): | 益母草 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | yì mǔ cǎo |
| Herb name (English): | Motherwort Herb |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Herba Leonuri |
| Origin of species: | Leonurus japonicus Houtt. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Plant parts above ground |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Many parts in China |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Pungent, bitter • Slightly cold • Administrates the Heart, Liver and Bladder Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Helps ease painful periods or related abdominal discomforts • Relieves water retention or urinary difficulties • Relieves bruises in physical injuries or skin irritations |
Mulberry Twigsāng zhīRamulus Mori
| Herb name (Chinese): | 桑枝 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | sāng zhī |
| Herb name (English): | Mulberry Twig |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Ramulus Mori |
| Origin of species: | Morus alba L. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Young branch |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Many parts of China |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Slightly bitter • Neutral • Administrates the Liver Meridian |
| Action(s): | • Eases rheumatic and arthritic pain • Relieves water retention • Eases skin itching |
Nacrezhēn zhū mǔConcha Margaritifera
| Herb name (Chinese): | 珍珠母 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | zhēn zhū mǔ |
| Herb name (English): | Nacre |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Concha Margaritifera |
| Origin of species: | Hyriopsis cumingii (Lea) Cristaria plicata (Leach) Pteria martensii (Dunker) |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Shell |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Hainan, Guangdong, Guangxi |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Salty • Cold • Administrates the Liver and Heart Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Helps to ease symptoms of dizziness or giddiness • Calms the mind to improve quality of sleep • Eases painful eyes or blurred vision • Relieves symptoms of ulcers and skin irritations |
Nutgrass Galingale Rhizomexiāng fùRhizoma Cyperi
| Herb name (Chinese): | 香附 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | xiāng fù |
| Herb name (English): | Nutgrass Galingale Rhizome |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Rhizoma Cyperi |
| Origin of species: | Cyperus rotundus L. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Rhizome |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Guangdong, Henan, Sichuan, Zhejiang, Shandong |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Pungent, slightly bitter, slightly sweet • Neutral • Administrates the Liver, Spleen and Triple Burner Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases abdominal discomforts • Relieve pain in stomach or at the flank regions • Helps to regulate the menstrual cycle to relieve painful periods |
Nutmegròu dòu kòuSemen Myristicae
| Herb name (Chinese): | 肉豆蔻 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | ròu dòu kòu |
| Herb name (English): | Nutmeg |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Semen Myristicae |
| Origin of species: | Myristica fragrans Houtt. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Kernel |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Guangdong, Guangxi, Yunnan, as well as Malaysia, Indonesia |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Pungent • Warm • Administrates the Spleen, Stomach and Large Intestine Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Relieves chronic diarrhoea • Eases indigestion • Good for those suffering from lack of appetite or nausea |
Officinal Magnolia Barkhòu pòCortex Magnoliae Officinalis
| Herb name (Chinese): | 厚朴 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | hòu pò |
| Herb name (English): | Officinal Magnolia Bark |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Cortex Magnoliae Officinalis |
| Origin of species: | Magnolia officinalis Rehd. et. Wils Magnolia officinalis Rehd. et. Wils. var. biloba Rehd. et. Wils |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Stem bark, root bark or branch bark |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Sichuan, Hubei |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Bitter, pungent • Warm • Administrates the Spleen, Stomach, Lung and Large Intestine Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases indigestion and abdominal bloatedness or discomfort • Relieves constipation and coughs |
Officinal Magnolia Flowerhòu pò huāFlos Magnoliae Officinalis
| Herb name (Chinese): | 厚朴花 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | hòu pò huā |
| Herb name (English): | Officinal Magnolia Flower |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Flos Magnoliae Officinalis |
| Origin of species: | Magnolia officinalis Rehd. et. Wils Magnolia officinalis Rehd. et. Wils. var. biloba Rehd. et. Wils |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Flower |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Sichuan, Hubei |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Bitter• Slightly warm • Administrates the Spleen, Stomach, Meridians |
| Action(s): | Eases symptoms of indigestion, abdominal bloatedness and lack of appetite |
Oriental Waterplantain Rhizomezé xièRhizoma Alismatis
| Herb name (Chinese): | 泽泻 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | zé xiè |
| Herb name (English): | Oriental Waterplantain Rhizome |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Rhizoma Alismatis |
| Origin of species: | Alisma orientalis (Sam.) Juzep |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Tuber |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Fujian, Sichuan, Jiangxi |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet • Cold • Administrates the Kidney and Bladder Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases symptoms relating to water retention in the body • Relieves painful urination and premature ejaculation |
Oyster Shellmǔ lìConcha Ostreae
| Herb name (Chinese): | 牡蛎 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | mǔ lì |
| Herb name (English): | Oyster Shell |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Concha Ostreae |
| Origin of species: | Ostrea gigas Thunberg Ostrea talienwhanensis Crosse Ostrea rivularis Gould |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Shell |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Along the coastal regions of China |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Salty • Slightly cold • Administrates the Liver, Gall bladder and Kidney Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Calms the mind to help improve quality of sleep • Eases symptoms related to hypertension such as dizziness |
Pagoda Tree Flowerhuái huāFlos Sophorae
| Herb name (Chinese): | 槐花 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | huái huā |
| Herb name (English): | Pagoda Tree Flower |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Flos Sophorae |
| Origin of species: | Sophora japonica L. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Flower and flower bud |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Many parts of China, mainly in the northern parts and highlands |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Bitter • Slightly cold • Administrates the Liver and Large Intestine Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases bleeding conditions • Relieves painful eyes and headaches |
Palmleaf Raspberry Fruitfù pén zǐFructus Rubi
| Herb name (Chinese): | 覆盆子 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | fù pén zǐ |
| Herb name (English): | Palmleaf Raspberry Fruit |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Fructus Rubi |
| Origin of species: | Rubus chingii Hu |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Fruit |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Zhejiang, Fujian |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet, sour • Slightly warm • Administrates the Kidney and Liver Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases symptoms of erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, frequent urination and bed-wetting • Relieves eye discomforts |
Peach Seedtáo rénSemen Persicae
| Herb name (Chinese): | 桃仁 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | táo rén |
| Herb name (English): | Peach Seed |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Semen Persicae |
| Origin of species: | Prunus persica (L.) Batsch, Prunus davidiana (Carr.) Franch. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Seed |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Liaoning, Hebei, Henan, Shandong, Sichuan, Yunnan |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Bitter, sweet • Neutral • Administrates the Heart, Liver and Large Intestine Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Promotes blood circulation in the body • Eases coughs and constipation |
Peppermintbó héHerba Menthae
| Herb name (Chinese): | 薄荷 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | bó hé |
| Herb name (English): | Peppermint |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Herba Menthae |
| Origin of species: | Mentha haplocalyx Briq. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Aerial part of plant |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Jiangsu, Zhejiang, Hunan |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Pungent • Cool • Administrates the Lung and Liver Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases symptoms of influenza or related respiratory ailments • Relieves headaches, painful eyes, sore throat and mild skin rashes • Also able to relieve mild emotional distress |
Perilla Fruitzǐ sū zǐFructus Perillae
| Herb name (Chinese): | 紫苏子 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | zǐ sū zǐ |
| Herb name (English): | Perilla Fruit |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Fructus Perillae |
| Origin of species: | Perilla frutescens (L.) Britt. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Fruit |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Jiangsu, Anhui, Henan |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | Administrates the lung and large intestine Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases coughs with phlegm and symptoms of breathlessness • Relieves constipation |
Pilose Antlerlù róngCornu Cervi Pantotrichum
| Herb name (Chinese): | 鹿茸 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | lù róng |
| Herb name (English): | Pilose Antler |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Cornu Cervi Pantotrichum |
| Origin of species: | Cervus nippon Temminck Cervus elaphus Linnaeus |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Young unossified hairy antler |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Jilin, Heilongjiang, Liaoning, Inner Mongolia, Xinjiang, Qinghai |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet, salty • Warm • Administrates the Kidney and Liver Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Nourishes and strengthens the body • Helps in healing difficult wounds • Relieves excessive menstrual and vaginal discharge |
Pinellia Tuberbàn xiàRhizoma Pinelliae
| Herb name (Chinese): | 半夏 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | bàn xià |
| Herb name (English): | Pinellia Tuber |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Rhizoma Pinelliae |
| Origin of species: | Pinellia ternata (Thunb.) Breit. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Tuber |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Sichuan, Hubei, Jiangsu, Anhui |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Pungent • Warm • Administrates the Spleen, Stomach and Lung Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Reduces phlegm and improves circulation in the body • Relieves nausea and dizziness • Relieves symptoms of glandular swellings |
Pipewort Flowergǔ jīng cǎoFlos Eriocauli
| Herb name (Chinese): | 谷精草 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | gǔ jīng cǎo |
| Herb name (English): | Pipewort Flower |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Flos Eriocauli |
| Origin of species: | Eriocaulon buergerianum Koern. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Flower |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Zhejiang, Jiangsu, Anhui, Jiangxi, Hunan, Guangdong, Guangxi |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Pungent, sweet • Neutral • Administrates the Lung and Liver Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases eye discomforts • Relieves headaches and toothaches |
Plantain Seedchē qián zǐSemen Plantaginis
| Herb name (Chinese): | 车前子 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | chē qián zǐ |
| Herb name (English): | Plantain Seed |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Semen Plantaginis |
| Origin of species: | Plantago asiatica L. Plantago depressa Willd. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Seed |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Most parts of China |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet • Slightly cold • Administrates the Liver, Kidney, Lung and Small Intestine Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Relieves symptoms of water retention • Eases diarrhoea and related bowel disorders • Relieves eye discomforts and coughs with yellow oral discharge |
Platycodon Rootjié gěngRadix Platycodonis
| Herb name (Chinese): | 桔梗 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | jié gěng |
| Herb name (English): | Platycodon Root |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Radix Platycodonis |
| Origin of species: | Platycodon grandiflorum (Jacq.) A. DC |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Roots |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Many parts of China |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Bitter, pungent • Neutral • Administrates the Lung Meridian |
| Action(s): | • Eases coughs with excessive oral discharge • Relieves throat discomforts or loss of voice • Eases symptoms of lung abscess by relieving pus and phlegm discharge |
Pricklylash Peelhuā jiāoPericarpium Zanthoxyli
| Herb name (Chinese): | 花椒 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | huā jiāo |
| Herb name (English): | Pricklylash Peel |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Pericarpium Zanthoxyli |
| Origin of species: | Zanthoxylum schinifolium Sieb. et Zucc. Zanthoxylum bungeanum Maxim. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Pericarp of ripe fruit |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Most parts of China, in particular Sichuan |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Pungent • Warm • Administrates the Spleen, Stomach and Kidney Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases symptoms of skin irritations (rash or itching) • Relieves pain in the abdominal region • Relieves symptoms of nausea, abdominal pain, diarrhea, vomiting, rash or itching around the rectum associated with intestinal parasites |
Puncturevine Caltrop Fruitcì jí líFructus Tribuli
| Herb name (Chinese): | 刺蒺藜 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | cì jí lí |
| Herb name (English): | Puncturevine Caltrop Fruit |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Fructus Tribuli |
| Origin of species: | Tribulus terrestris L. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Fruit |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Henan, Hebei, Shandong, Anhui |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Pungent, bitter • Slightly warm • Administrates the Liver Meridian |
| Action(s): | • Eases symptoms related to hypertensive conditions, e.g. frequent dizzy or giddy spells • Relieves painful or tender mammary glands, painful eyes and skin irritations |
Pyrola Herblù xián cǎoHerba Pyrolae
| Herb name (Chinese): | 鹿衔草 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | lù xián cǎo |
| Herb name (English): | Pyrola Herb |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Herba Pyrolae |
| Origin of species: | Pyrola calliantha H. Andres Pyrola decorata H. Andres |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Whole plant |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Most parts of China |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet, bitter • Warm • Administrates the Liver and Kidney Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases chronic coughs • Relieves pains relating to rheumatism • Relieves excessive bleeding conditions from menstrual discharge or physical injury. |
Radish Seedlái fú zǐSemen Raphani
| Herb name (Chinese): | 莱菔子 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | lái fú zǐ |
| Herb name (English): | Radish Seed |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Semen Raphani |
| Origin of species: | Raphanus sativus L. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Seed |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | All parts of China |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Pungent, sweet • Neutral • Administrates the Lung, Spleen and Stomach Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Relieves indigestion and bloatedness• Eases coughs with excessive oral discharge |
Red Peony Rootchì sháoRadix Paeoniae Rubra
| Herb name (Chinese): | 赤芍 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | chì sháo |
| Herb name (English): | Red Peony Root |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Radix Paeoniae Rubra |
| Origin of species: | Paeonia lactiflora Pall. Paeonia veitchii Lynch |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Root |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Most parts of China |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Bitter • Slightly cold • Administrates the Liver Meridian |
| Action(s): | • Remove blood stasis, and relieve heat in bloodEases body rashes and painful eyes • Relieves menstrual pain or pain resulting from external injuries |
Red Tangerine Peeljú hóngExocarpium Citri Rubrum
| Herb name (Chinese): | 橘红 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | jú hóng |
| Herb name (English): | Red Tangerine Peel |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Exocarpium Citri Rubrum |
| Origin of species: | Citrus reticulata Blanco and its cultivars |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Exocarp (fruit peel) |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Guangdong, Fujian, Sichuan, Zhejiang, Jiangxi |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Pungent, bitter • Warm • Administrates the Lung and Spleen Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Relieves coughs with excess discharge • Eases indigestion and hangover related symptoms, such as nausea or vomiting |
Red Yeast Ricehóng qǔ-
| Herb name (Chinese): | 红曲 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | hóng qǔ |
| Herb name (English): | Red Yeast Rice |
| Herb name (Botanical): | - |
| Origin of species: | Monascus purpureus Went. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Rice |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Hebei, Jiangxi, Zhejiang, Taiwan, Fujian, Guangdong |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet • Warm • Administrates the Spleen, Stomach and Large Intestine Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Relieve digestive discomforts with symptoms of bloating, lack of appetite and indigestion • Helps to improve blood circulation in the body |
Reed Rhizomelú gēnRhizoma Phragmitis
| Herb name (Chinese): | 芦根 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | lú gēn |
| Herb name (English): | Reed Rhizome |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Rhizoma Phragmitis |
| Origin of species: | Phragmites communis Trin. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Rhizome |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Many parts of China |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet • Cold • Administrates the Lung and Stomach Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Relieves constant thirst due to heat-related illnesses • Provides relief from nausea or vomiting • Relieves coughs with thick yellow phlegm • Aids in difficult urination |
Rehmannia Rootshú dì huángRadix Rehmanniae Praeparata
| Herb name (Chinese): | 熟地黄 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | shú dì huáng |
| Herb name (English): | Rehmannia Root |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Radix Rehmanniae Praeparata |
| Origin of species: | Rehmannia glutinosa Libosch. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Root tuber |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Henan, Hebei, Inner Mongolia, northeastern China |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet • Slightly warm • Administrates the Liver and Kidney Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Nourishes the body by improving the functions of the blood • Helps to relieve symptoms such as weak knees and sore lower back, premature ejaculation, night perspiration, etc |
Rhubarbdà huángRadix et Rhizoma Rhei
| Herb name (Chinese): | 大黄 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | dà huáng |
| Herb name (English): | Rhubarb |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Radix et Rhizoma Rhei |
| Origin of species: | Rheum palmatum L. Rheum tanguticum Maxim. ex Balf. Rheum officinale Baill. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Root and rhizome |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Qinghai, Gansu, Sichuan |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Bitter • Cold • Administrates the Spleen, Stomach, Large Intestine, Liver and Pericardium Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases symptoms related to severe constipation • Eases inflammatory conditions such as external skin rashes, carbuncles, scalds or burns, sore throats or painful eyes • Relieves menstrual pain or pain experienced after delivery by removing blood stasis • Eases symptoms of jaundice and painful urination |
Rice Beanchì xiǎo dòuSemen Vignae
| Herb name (Chinese): | 赤小豆 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | chì xiǎo dòu |
| Herb name (English): | Rice Bean |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Semen Vignae |
| Origin of species: | Vigna umbellata Vigna angularis |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Seed |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Zhejiang, Hunan, Guangdong, Guangxi, Jiangxi, Guizhou, Yunnan |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet, sour • Neutral • Administrates the Heart , Small Intestine, Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases symptoms of water retention in the body, especially in the lower limbs • Aids in detoxification, and facilitate discharge of pus. |
Rice-grain Sproutdào yáFructus Oryzae Germinatus
| Herb name (Chinese): | 稻芽 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | dào yá |
| Herb name (English): | Rice-grain Sprout |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Fructus Oryzae Germinatus |
| Origin of species: | Oryza sativa L. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Germinating ripe fruit |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Most parts of China, particularly the southern regions |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet • Warm • Administrates the Stomach and Spleen Meridians |
| Action(s): | Eases indigestion resulting from consumption of starch-rich foods or as a result of a weak digestive ability |
Rose Flowerméi guī huāFlos Rosae Rugosae
| Herb name (Chinese): | 玫瑰花 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | méi guī huā |
| Herb name (English): | Rose Flower |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Flos Rosae Rugosae |
| Origin of species: | Rosa rugosa Thunb. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Flower bud |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Jiangsu, Zhejiang, Fujian, Shandong, Sichuan |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet, slightly bitter • Warm • Administrates the Liver and Spleen Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases menstrual pains and pre-menstrual discomforts, e.g. tender breasts • Aids to speed up recovery from physical injuries, such as bruises by removing blood stasis • Eases symptoms of emotional irritations or distress • Eases stomach discomforts, nausea and lack of appetite |
Rosewoodjiàng xiāngLignum Dalbergiae Odoriferae
| Herb name (Chinese): | 降香 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | jiàng xiāng |
| Herb name (English): | Rosewood |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Lignum Dalbergiae Odoriferae |
| Origin of species: | Dalbergia odorifera T. Chen |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Heartwood of trunk and root |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Hainan, Guangdong, Guangxi, Yunnan |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Pungent • Warm • Administrates the Liver and Spleen Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases bleeding conditions • Relieves pain resulting from physical injuries, chest and abdominal discomforts • Relieves nausea |
Safflowerhóng huāFlos Carthami
| Herb name (Chinese): | 红花 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | hóng huā |
| Herb name (English): | Safflower |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Flos Carthami |
| Origin of species: | Carthamus tinctorius L. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Flower |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Henan, Hubei, Sichuan, Yunnan, Zhejiang |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Pungent • Warm • Administrates the Heart and Liver Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Helps to improve blood circulation in the body • Eases pain caused by menstrual discomforts, childbirth and physical injuries • Removes blood stasis and relieves symptoms of skin haemorrhages or abdominal mass |
Sanchisān qīRadix et Rhizoma Notoginseng
| Herb name (Chinese): | 三七 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | sān qī |
| Herb name (English): | Sanchi |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Radix et Rhizoma Notoginseng |
| Origin of species: | Panax notoginseng (Burk.) F. H. Chen |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Root and rhizome |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Yunnan, Guangxi |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet, slightly bitter • Warm • Administrates the Liver and StomachMeridians |
| Action(s): | • Relieves bleeding symptoms • Aids recovery process resulting from internal or external injuries by relieving swelling and pain • Nourish and tonify the body |
Sandalwoodtán xiāngLignum Santali Albi
| Herb name (Chinese): | 檀香 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | tán xiāng |
| Herb name (English): | Sandalwood |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Lignum Santali Albi |
| Origin of species: | Santalum album L. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Heartwood |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Hainan, Guangdong, Yunnan, as well as Taiwan, India, Australia, Indonesia |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Pungent • Warm • Administrates the Spleen, Stomach, Heart and Lung Meridians |
| Action(s): | Eases chest and stomach discomforts |
Sea Horsehǎi mǎHippocampus
| Herb name (Chinese): | 海马 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | hǎi mǎ |
| Herb name (English): | Sea Horse |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Hippocampus |
| Origin of species: | Hippocampus kelloggi Jordon et Snyder Hippocampus histrix Kaup Hippocampus kuda Bleeker Hippocampus trimaculatus Leach Hippocampus japonicus Kaup |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Whole organism |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Guangdong, Shandong, Qinghai, Liaoning, Fujian |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet, Salty • Warm • Administrates the Kidney and Liver Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases symptoms of erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation or weak control over bladder • Helps to improve blood circulation in the body to relieve pain resulting from physical injuries |
Seaweedhǎi zǎoSargassum
| Herb name (Chinese): | 海藻 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | hǎi zǎo |
| Herb name (English): | Seaweed |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Sargassum |
| Origin of species: | Sargassum pallidum (Turn.) C. Ag. Sargassum fusiforme (Harv.) Setch. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Algae body |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Liaoning, Shandong, Fujian, Zhejiang, Guangdong |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Salty • Cold • Administrates the Kidney and Liver Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases pain experienced in swollen testes or glands, or abnormal tissue growth • Relieves symptoms of water retention in the body |
Senna Leaffān xiè yèFolium Sennae
| Herb name (Chinese): | 番泻叶 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | fān xiè yè |
| Herb name (English): | Senna Leaf |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Folium Sennae |
| Origin of species: | Cassia angustifolia Vahl Cassia acutifolia Delile |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Leaf |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Guangdong, Guangxi, Yunnan, India, Egypt, Sudan |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet, bitter • Cold • Administrates the Large Intestine Meridian |
| Action(s): | • Eases chronic constipation • Relieves symptoms of water retention |
Sharpleaf Glangal Fruityì zhìFructus Alpiniae Oxyphyllae
| Herb name (Chinese): | 益智 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | yì zhì |
| Herb name (English): | Sharpleaf Glangal Fruit |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Fructus Alpiniae Oxyphyllae |
| Origin of species: | Alpinia oxyphylla Miq. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Fruit |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Guangdong, Guangxi, Yunnan, Fujian |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Pungent • Warm • Administrates the Kidney and Spleen Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Relieves symptoms of premature ejaculation, and night or frequent urination • Good for individuals with weak digestive abilities and related symptoms such as nausea, vomiting with abdominal discomfort and uncontrolled salivation |
Slenderstyle Acanthopanax Barkwǔ jiā píCortex Acanthopanacis
| Herb name (Chinese): | 五加皮 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | wǔ jiā pí |
| Herb name (English): | Slenderstyle Acanthopanax Bark |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Cortex Acanthopanacis |
| Origin of species: | Acanthopanax gracilistylus W. W. Smith |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Root bark |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Hubei, Henan, Anhui |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Pungent, bitter • Warm • Administrates the Liver and Kidney Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases rheumatic and arthritic pain • Nourishes bodily systems of weak individuals • Relieves water retention in the lower body |
Small Centipeda Herbé bú shí cǎoHerba Centipedae
| Herb name (Chinese): | 鹅不食草 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | é bú shí cǎo |
| Herb name (English): | Small Centipeda Herb |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Herba Centipedae |
| Origin of species: | Centripeda minima (L.) A. Br. et Aschers. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Whole plant |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Most parts of China |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Pungent • Warm • Administrates the Lung Meridians |
| Action(s): | Relieves nasal congestion, coughs and influenza-related headaches |
Smoked Plumwū méiFructus Mume
| Herb name (Chinese): | 乌梅 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | wū méi |
| Herb name (English): | Smoked Plum |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Fructus Mume |
| Origin of species: | Prunus mume (Sieb.) Sieb. et. Zucc. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Fruit |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Zhejiang, Fujian, Yunnan |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sour, astringent • Neutral • Administrates the Liver, Spleen, Lung and Large Intestine Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Nourishes the lung system to relieve coughs • Eases chronic diarrhoea or bowel irritations, and chronic thirst • Relieves stomach discomforts due to intestinal parasites • Aids to stop bleeding in stools or excessive menstrual discharge (when processed) • Relieves sores (when applied externally) |
Snakegourd Fruitguā lóuFructus Trichosanthis
| Herb name (Chinese): | 瓜蒌 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | guā lóu |
| Herb name (English): | Snakegourd Fruit |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Fructus Trichosanthis |
| Origin of species: | Trichosanthes kirilowii Maxim. Trichosanthes rosthornii Harms |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Fruit |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Hebei, Henan, Anhui, Zhejiang, Shandong, Jiangsu |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet, slightly bitter • Cold • Administrates the Lung, Stomach and Large Intestine Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases coughs with yellow oral discharge • Relieves symptoms related to tightness in chest and constipation |
Solomonseal Rhizomehuáng jīngRhizoma Polygonati
| Herb name (Chinese): | 黄精 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | huáng jīng |
| Herb name (English): | Solomonseal Rhizome |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Rhizoma Polygonati |
| Origin of species: | Polygonatum kingianum Coll. et Hemsl. Polygonatum sibiricum Red. Polygonatum cyrtonema Hua |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Rhizome |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Hebei, Inner Mongolia, Shaanxi, Yunnan, Guizhou, Guangxi, Hunan |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet • Neutral • Administrates the Spleen, Lung and Kidney Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Helps to improve gastrointestinal functions • Helps to relieve chronic dry coughs, or coughs with little phlegm • Relieves symptoms relating to constant thirst due to internal heat • Strengthen the kidney function to aid in anti-aging effects, |
Songaria Cynomorium Herbsuǒ yángHerba Cynomorii
| Herb name (Chinese): | 锁阳 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | suǒ yáng |
| Herb name (English): | Songaria Cynomorium Herb |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Herba Cynomorii |
| Origin of species: | Cynomorium songaricum Rupr. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Succulent Stem |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Inner Mongolia, Gansu, Qinghai, Xinjiang |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet • Warm • Administrates the Liver, Kidney and Large Intestine Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Nourishes and supports the liver and kidney systems in infertility treatments or weak back and joint issues • Eases constipation due to lack of intestinal fluids leading to hard dry stools |
Spine Date Seedsuān zǎo rénSemen Ziziphi Spinosae
| Herb name (Chinese): | 酸枣仁 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | suān zǎo rén |
| Herb name (English): | Spine Date Seed |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Semen Ziziphi Spinosae |
| Origin of species: | Ziziphus jujuba Mill. var. spinosa (Bunge) Hu ex H. F. Chou |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Seed |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Hebei, Shaanxi, Liaoning, Henan, Shanxi, Shandong, Gansu |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet, sour • Neutral • Administratesthe Liver, Gall Bladder and Heart Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Calms the mind to improve quality of sleep • Eases excessive perspiration • Relieves constant thirst |
Stemona Rootbǎi bùRadix Stemonae
| Herb name (Chinese): | 百部 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | bǎi bù |
| Herb name (English): | Stemona Root |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Radix Stemonae |
| Origin of species: | Stemona sessilifolia (Miq.) Miq. Stemona japonica (Bl.) Miq. Stemona tuberosa Lour. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Root |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Anhui, Jiangsu, Hubei, Zhejiang, Shandong |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet, bitter • Slightly warm • Administrates the Lung Meridian |
| Action(s): | Ideal for easing many types of coughs |
Stiff Silkwormjiāng cánBombyx Batryticatus
| Herb name (Chinese): | 僵蚕 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | jiāng cán |
| Herb name (English): | Stiff Silkworm |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Bombyx Batryticatus |
| Origin of species: | Bombyx mori Linnaeus. Died of infection (or artificial infection) ofBeauveria bassiana (Bals.) Vuill ant. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Dried body larva |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Zhejiang, Jiangsu, Sichuan |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Salty, pungent • Neutral • Administrates the Liver, Lung and Stomach Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases symptoms related to muscular spasm or stroke • Relieves headaches, painful eyes, throat discomfort and skin irritation• Helps to dissolve phlegm, and relieves symptoms of glandular swellings |
Stringy Stonecrop Herbchuí pén cǎoHerba Sedi
| Herb name (Chinese): | 垂盆草 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | chuí pén cǎo |
| Herb name (English): | Stringy Stonecrop Herb |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Herba Sedi |
| Origin of species: | Sedum sarmentosum Bunge |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Whole plant |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Most parts of China |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet, bland, slightly sour • Slightly cold • Administrates the Heart, Liver and Gall Bladder Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases symptoms of jaundice • Relieves inflammatory pain, sore throat and scalded skin |
Suberect Spatholobus Stemjī xuè téngCaulis Spatholobi
| Herb name (Chinese): | 鸡血藤 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | jī xuè téng |
| Herb name (English): | Suberect Spatholobus Stem |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Caulis Spatholobi |
| Origin of species: | Spatholobus suberectus Dunn |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Lianoid stem |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Guangxi, Yunnan |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Bitter, slightly sweet • Warm • Administrates the Liver and Kidney Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases symptoms related to the menstrual cycle, e.g. irregular or painful periods • Relieves rheumatic pain, limb numbness or weakness |
Szechwan Chinaberry Barkkǔ liàn píCortex Meliae
| Herb name (Chinese): | 苦楝皮 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | kǔ liàn pí |
| Herb name (English): | Szechwan Chinaberry Bark |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Cortex Meliae |
| Origin of species: | Melia toosendan Sieb. et Zucc. Melia azedarach L. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Stem or root bark |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Sichuan, Hubei, Guizhou, Henan |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Bitter • Cold • Administrates the Spleen, Stomach and Liver Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases skin irritations • Relieves infections of intestinal parasites |
Szechwan Lovage Rhizomechuān xiōngRhizoma Chuanxiong
| Herb name (Chinese): | 川芎 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | chuān xiōng |
| Herb name (English): | Szechwan Lovage Rhizome |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Rhizoma Chuanxiong |
| Origin of species: | Ligusticum chuanxiong Hort. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Rhizome |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Sichuan, Guizhou, Yunnan |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Pungent • Warm • Administrates the Liver, Gall Bladder and Pericardium Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Ideal for improving blood circulation in the body to ease pain, e.g. headaches and rheumatic pain • Used to ease gynaecological ailments to invigorate blood circulation and regulate menstrual flow |
Talchuá shíTalcum
| Herb name (Chinese): | 滑石 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | huá shí |
| Herb name (English): | Talc |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Talcum |
| Origin of species: | Hydrated magnesium silicate Mg3(Si4O10)(OH)2 |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Mineral |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Shandong, Jiangxi, Shanxi, Liaoning |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet, bland • Cold • Administratesthe Bladder, Lung and Stomach Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases symptoms of difficult or painful urination • Relieves symptoms related to heat stroke and skin irritations |
Tangerine Seedjú héSemen Citri Reticulatae
| Herb name (Chinese): | 橘核 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | jú hé |
| Herb name (English): | Tangerine Seed |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Semen Citri Reticulatae |
| Origin of species: | Citrus reticulata Blanco and its cultivars |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Ripe Seed |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Guangdong, Fujian, Sichuan, Zhejiang, Jiangxi |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Bitter • Neutral • Administrates the Kidney and Liver Meridians |
| Action(s): | Relieve swollen groin or tender breasts |
Tangshendǎng shēnRadix Codonopsis
| Herb name (Chinese): | 党参 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | dǎng shēn |
| Herb name (English): | Tangshen |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Radix Codonopsis |
| Origin of species: | Codonopsis pilosula (Franch.) Nannf. Codonopsis pilosula Nannf. var. modesta (Nannf.) L. T. Shen Codonopsis tangshen Oliv. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Root |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Shanxi, Shaanxi, Gansu |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet • Neutral • Administrates the Lung and Spleen Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Boosts and improves digestive and respiratory functions • Replenishes bodily fluids • Nourishes blood |
Tatarian Aster Rootzǐ wǎnRadix et Rhizoma Asteris
| Herb name (Chinese): | 紫菀 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | zǐ wǎn |
| Herb name (English): | Tatarian Aster Root |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Radix et Rhizoma Asteris |
| Origin of species: | Aster tataricus L. f. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Root and rhizome |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Henan, Anhui, Northern parts of China |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Bitter, pungent, sweet • Slightly warm • Administrates the Lung Meridian |
| Action(s): | Eases acute or chronic coughs with large amounts of oral discharge |
Tendrilleaf Fritillary Bulbchuān bèi mǔBulbus Fritillariae Cirrhosae
| Herb name (Chinese): | 川贝母 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | chuān bèi mǔ |
| Herb name (English): | Tendrilleaf Fritillary Bulb |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Bulbus Fritillariae Cirrhosae |
| Origin of species: | Fritillaria cirrhosa D. Don Fritillaria unibracteata Hsiao et K. C. Hsia Fritillaria przewalskii Maxim Fritillaria delavayi Franch. Fritillaria taipaiensis P. Y. Li Fritillaria unibracteata Hsiao et K. C Hsia van wabuensis |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Bulb |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Sichuan, Yunnan, Gansu |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Bitter, sweet • Slightly cold • Administrates the Lung and Heart Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases chronic dry coughs or coughs with yellow oral discharge • Reduce swelling and eases inflammatory conditions |
Thinleaf Milkwort Rootyuǎn zhìRadix Polygalae
| Herb name (Chinese): | 远志 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | yuǎn zhì |
| Herb name (English): | Thinleaf Milkwort Root |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Radix Polygalae |
| Origin of species: | Polygala tenuifolia Willd. Polygala sibirica L. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Root |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Shanxi, Shaanxi, Jilin, Henan, Hebei |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Bitter, pungent • Warm • Administrates the Heart, Kidney and Lung Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Calms the mind to promote quality of sleep • Eases throat discomfort and coughs with excessive oral discharge • Relieves swollen or tender breasts • Eases inflammatory conditions such as sores or carbuncles • Relieves symptoms of spasms |
Thomson Kudzuvine Rootfěn gěRadix Puerariae Thomsonii
| Herb name (Chinese): | 粉葛 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | fěn gě |
| Herb name (English): | Thomson Kudzuvine Root |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Radix Puerariae Thomsonii |
| Origin of species: | Pueraria thomsonii Benth. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Tuber |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Guangdong, Guangxi, Sichuan, Yunnan |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet, pungent • Cool • Administrates the Spleen and Stomach Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Relieves mild symptoms of respiratory ailments, e.g. stiff neck, skin irritations, constant thirst, etc. • Ideal for individuals with hangovers |
Tortoise Carapace and Plastronguī jiǎCarapax et Plastrum Testudinis
| Herb name (Chinese): | 龟甲 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | guī jiǎ |
| Herb name (English): | Tortoise Carapace and Plastron |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Carapax et Plastrum Testudinis |
| Origin of species: | Chinemys reevesii (Gray) |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Carapace & Plastron |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Zhejiang, Hubei, Hunan |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Salty, Sweet • Cold • Administrates the Kidney, Liver and Heart Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Suitable for people who keep regular late nights • Helps to improve ability to sleep for individuals who suffer from insomnia • Eases symptoms of forgetfulness • Helps to improve kidney and liver functions in children to aid in developmental deficiencies |
Tree-of-heaven Barkchūn píCortex Ailanthi
| Herb name (Chinese): | 椿皮 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | chūn pí |
| Herb name (English): | Tree-of-heaven Bark |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Cortex Ailanthi |
| Origin of species: | Ailanthus altissima (Mil.) Swingle |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Root bark or stem bark |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Shandong, Liaoning, Henan, Anhui |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Bitter, astringent, • Cold • Administrates the Liver and Large Intestine Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases excessive vaginal or menstrual discharge • Relieves chronic gastrointestinal discomforts, e.g. diarrhoea |
Tree Peony Barkmǔ dān píCortex Moutan
| Herb name (Chinese): | 牡丹皮 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | mǔ dān pí |
| Herb name (English): | Tree Peony Bark |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Cortex Moutan |
| Origin of species: | Paeonia suffruticosa Andr |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Root bark |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Anhui, Shandong |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Bitter, pungent • Slightly cold • Administrates the Heart, Liver and Kidney Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Ideal for individuals with heat-related illnesses, internal body heat symptoms such as no sweating, fever, hot flushes, or constant thirst, or blood spots under the skin, nose bleeding, and blood in faeces or urine • Relieves menstrual pain or pain resulting from physical injuries • Invigorate blood circulation and remove blood stasis to relieves carbuncles and sores |
Trumpetcreeper Flowerlíng xiāo huāFlos Campsis
| Herb name (Chinese): | 凌霄花 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | líng xiāo huā |
| Herb name (English): | Trumpetcreeper Flower |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Flos Campsis |
| Origin of species: | Campsis grandiflora (Thunb.) K. Schum. Campsis radicans (L.) Seem. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Flower |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Jiangsu, Zhejiang |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Pungent • Slightly cold • Administrates the Liver and Pericardium Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Relieves menstrual and urinary bleeding or other related discomforts • Eases skin irritations • Relieves little or no menstrual discharge and menstrual pain |
Tuber Fleeceflower Stemshǒu wū téngCaulis Polygoni Multiflori
| Herb name (Chinese): | 首乌藤 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | shǒu wū téng |
| Herb name (English): | Tuber Fleeceflower Stem |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Caulis Polygoni Multiflori |
| Origin of species: | Polygonum multiflorum Thunb. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Lianoid stem |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Henan, Hunan, Hubei, Jiangsu, Zhejiang |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet • Neutral • Administrates the Heart and Liver Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Lianoid stem to improve quality of sleep • Eases body aches and pain • Relieves skin itching |
Tumericjiāng huángRhizoma Curcumae Longae
| Herb name (Chinese): | 姜黄 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | jiāng huáng |
| Herb name (English): | Tumeric |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Rhizoma Curcumae Longae |
| Origin of species: | Curcuma longa L. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Rhizome |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Sichuan, Fujian |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Pungent, bitter • Warm • Administrates the Liver and Spleen Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases pain due to poor circulatory processes in the body • Relieves symptoms relating to rheumatism |
Tumeric Root Tuberyù jīnRadix Curcumae
| Herb name (Chinese): | 郁金 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | yù jīn |
| Herb name (English): | Tumeric Root Tuber |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Radix Curcumae |
| Origin of species: | Curcuma wenyujin Y. H. Chen et C. Ling, Curcuma longa L., Curcuma kwangsiensis S. G. Lee et C. F. Liang, Curcuma phaeocaulis Val. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Root Tuber |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Zhejiang, Guangxi, Sichuan |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Pungent, bitter • Cold • Administrates the Liver, Gall Bladder and Heart Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Relieves pain due to poor body circulation • Helps to ease many kinds of bleeding symptoms • Relieves symptoms of jaundice and gallbladder stones • Eases mood swings |
Twotoothed Achyranthes Rootniú xīRadix Achyranthis Bidentatae
| Herb name (Chinese): | 牛膝 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | niú xī |
| Herb name (English): | Twotoothed Achyranthes Root |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Radix Achyranthis Bidentatae |
| Origin of species: | Achyrantes bidentata Bl. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Root |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Henan, Sichuan, Yunnan, Guizhou |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Bitter, sweet, sour • Neutral • Administrates the Liver and Kidney Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Relieves menstrual discomfort • Eases back pain, weak knees and difficult urination • Soothes headaches, dizziness and canker sores • Eases bleeding conditions by relieving internal heat |
Uniflower Swisscentaury Rootlòu lúRadix Rhapontici
| Herb name (Chinese): | 漏芦 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | lòu lú |
| Herb name (English): | Uniflower Swisscentaury Root |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Radix Rhapontici |
| Origin of species: | Rhaponticum uniflorum (L.) DC. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Root |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | NorthEastern, northern and western parts of China |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Bitter • Cold • Administrates the Stomach Meridian |
| Action(s): | • Eases tender and swollen mammalian glands • Helps to stimulate lactation • Relieves pains related to rheumatoid arthritis |
Weeping Forsythia Capsulelián qiàoFructus Forsythiae
| Herb name (Chinese): | 连翘 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | lián qiào |
| Herb name (English): | Weeping Forsythia Capsule |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Fructus Forsythiae |
| Origin of species: | Forsythia suspensa (Thunb.) Vahl |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Fruit |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Many regions in northern or northeastern China and including Yunnan, along Yangtze river basin |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Bitter • Slightly cold • Administrates the Lung, Heart and Small Intestine Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases inflammatory conditions • Relieves conditions associated with influenza and common colds • Soothes pains experienced during urination |
White Hyacinth Beanbái biǎn dòuSemen Lablab Album
| Herb name (Chinese): | 白扁豆 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | bái biǎn dòu |
| Herb name (English): | White Hyacinth Bean |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Semen Lablab Album |
| Origin of species: | Dolichos lablab L. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Seed |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Jiangsu, Henan, Anhui |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet • Slightly warm • Administrates the Spleen and Stomach Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Nourishes and improves Spleen functions • Helps to relieve gastrointestinal discomforts, such as stomach flu |
White Mulberry Root-Barksāng bái píCortex Mori
| Herb name (Chinese): | 桑白皮 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | sāng bái pí |
| Herb name (English): | White Mulberry Root-Bark |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Cortex Mori |
| Origin of species: | Morus alba L. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Root bark |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Anhui, Henan, Zhejiang, Jiangsu, Hunan |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet • Cold • Administrates the Lung Meridian |
| Action(s): | • Relieves coughs with yellow or sticky oral discharge • Eases mild water retention symptoms in the body |
White Peony Rootbái sháoRadix Paeoniae Alba
| Herb name (Chinese): | 白芍 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | bái sháo |
| Herb name (English): | White Peony Root |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Radix Paeoniae Alba |
| Origin of species: | Paeonia lactiflora Pall. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Root |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Zhejiang, Anhui, Sichuan |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Bitter, sour • Slightly cold • Administrates the Liver and Spleen Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Helps to regulate the female menstrual cycle • Eases pain and calms emotions • Helps to relieve headache and related pain due to imbalance in spleen and liver functions • Helps to regulate night sweating |
Wild Chrysanthemum Floweryě jú huāFlos Chrysanthemi Indici
| Herb name (Chinese): | 野菊花 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | yě jú huā |
| Herb name (English): | Wild Chrysanthemum Flower |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Flos Chrysanthemi Indici |
| Origin of species: | Chrysanthemum indicum L. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Flower |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Jiangsu, Sichuan, Anhui, Guangdong, Shandong |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Bitter, Pungent, • Slightly cold • Administrates the Liver and Heart Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases severe throat and eye discomforts • Externally use to ease skin irritations |
Willowleaf Swallowwort Rhizomebái qiánRhizoma et Radix Cynanchi Stauntonii
| Herb name (Chinese): | 白前 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | bái qián |
| Herb name (English): | Willowleaf Swallowwort Rhizome |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Rhizoma et Radix Cynanchi Stauntonii |
| Origin of species: | • Cynanchum stauntonii (Decne.) Schltr. ex Lévl. • Cynanchum glau-cescens (Decne.) Hand. -Mazz. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Rhizome and root |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Zhejiang, Anhui, Jiangsu, Fujian, Hubei, Jiangxi, Hunan |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Pungent, bitter • Slightly warm • Administrates the Lung Meridian |
| Action(s): | Relieves coughs and phlegm |
Yerbadetajo Herbmò hàn liánHerba Ecliptae
| Herb name (Chinese): | 墨旱莲 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | mò hàn lián |
| Herb name (English): | Yerbadetajo Herb |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Herba Ecliptae |
| Origin of species: | Eclipta prostrata L. |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Plant parts above ground |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Jiangsu, Jiangxi, Zhejiang |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Sweet, sour • Cold • Administrates the Kidney and Liver Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases back pain and weak knees • Helps to relieve erectile dysfunction or premature ejaculation • Relieves bleeding due to internal heat |
Zedoray Rhizomeé zhùRhizoma Curcumae
| Herb name (Chinese): | 莪术 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | é zhù |
| Herb name (English): | Zedoray Rhizome |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Rhizoma Curcumae |
| Origin of species: | Curcuma phaeocaulis Valeton Curcuma kwangsiensis S. G. Lee et C. F. Liang Curcuma wenyujin Y. H. Chen et C. Ling |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Rhizome |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Sichuan, Guangdong, Guangxi, Zhejiang |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Pungent, bitter • Warm • Administrates the Spleen and Liver Meridians |
| Action(s): | • Eases menstrual pain • Relieves abdominal pain due to indigestion |
Zingiber (Dried Ginger)gàn jiāngRhizoma Zingerberis
| Herb name (Chinese): | 干姜 |
|---|---|
| Herb name (Pin Yin): | gàn jiāng |
| Herb name (English): | Zingiber (Dried Ginger) |
| Herb name (Botanical): | Rhizoma Zingerberis |
| Origin of species: | Zingiber officinale (Willd.) Rosc. (Fam. Zingiberaceae) |
| Part(s) of herb used: | Rhizome |
| Geo-specific habitat(s): | Sichuan, Guangdong, Guangxi, Hunan, Hubei |
| Taste(s) & Properties: | • Pungent • Hot • Administrates the Spleen, Stomach, Kidney, Heart and Lung Meridians |
| Action(s): | Eases symptoms of stomach discomforts, nausea or vomiting, and diarrhoea |
