Herb Listings
He Shou Wu / Polygonum Root | |||
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Taste: Bitter, Sweet, Astringent • Temperature: Slightly Warm • Category: Tonic • Sub Category: Tonify Blood | |||
Dosage9-30g, should not be decocted in a steel container |
Actions1. Tonifies the Liver & Kidneys, nourishes the blood & augments the essence: for patterns of yin or blood deficiency with such signs as dizziness, blurred vision, prematurely gray hair, weakness in the lower back & knees, soreness in the extremities, & insomnia. This herb is commonly used as it both tonifies & preserves, & is neither cold, drying, nor too cloying.2. Secures the essence & stops leakage: for nocturnal emission, spermatorrhea, or vaginal discharge. 3. Relieves fire toxicity: used raw for fire toxin, carbuncles, sores, scrofula, goiter, & neck lumps. 4. Moistens the Intestines & unblocks the bowels: for constipation, especially that associated with blood deficiency. 5. Expels wind from the skin by nourishing the blood: for wind rash due to blood deficiency. 6. Treats malarial disorder: for chronic malarial disorder with signs of qi & blood deficiency. |
MeridiansLiver, Kidney |
CautionsContraindicated in cases of Spleen deficiency, phlegm, or in cases of diarrhea. According to some traditional sources, this herb should not be taken with onion, chives, or garlic. |