Single Herb Glossary
Xiè Bái 薤白
| Pharmaceutical name | Allii Macrostemi Bulbus chinese garlic, garlic chives |
| Category | Regulate Qi |
| Key Properties | Reaches into area of congealed constraint to unbind, warm, drain & benefit orifices |
| Properties | Acrid, Bitter Warm |
| Tropism | LI, LU, ST |
| Actions & Indications | 1) Unblock Yang Qi & Dispel Turbid Phlegm (Cold-Phlegm obstructing chest with pain) 2) Directs Qi downward & Reduce Stagnation (Damp-Stagnation in Interior,dysentery) |
| Dosages | 5-9g |
| Contraindications (TCM) | CI: Qi def and no significant Qi stagnation, weak ST, or an intolerance to garlic & onions |
| Contraindications (Western) | |
| Chemical Composition | Alliin, scorodoes, diallyl sulfide, diallyl disulfide, methyl allyl trisulfide (MATS), A1(PGA1), B1(PGB1) |
| Pharmacological Effects | • Antibiotic: demonstrated inhibitory effects against Bacillus dysenteriae, S. aureus, and pneumococci • Cardiovascular: PGA1 lowers blood pressure and induces diuresis while PGB1 constricts blood vessels • Antiplatelet: essential oil markedly inhibits aggregation of platelets and prolongs clotting time • Antihyperlipidemic: shown marked effectiveness to lower plasma cholesterol and triglyceride levels |
| Herb-Drug Interactions | • Anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs: herb has antiplatelet action, should be used with caution in patients who take anticoagulant or antiplatelet med ications; may potentiate effect of drugs such as warfarin |
| Classical Formula(s) |
Gua Lou Xie Bai Bai Jiu Tang (Trichosanthes Fruit, Chinese Garlic, & Wine Decoction) 瓜蒌薤白白酒汤 |
This information is a reference tool for Chinese herbal studies. It is not intended to replace professional medical advice. Please consult a primary health professional if you require health advisory.