Single Herb Glossary
Sān Léng 三棱
| Pharmaceutical name | Sparganii Rhizoma (common) burr reed rhizome, scirpus "three edges" |
| Category | Invigorate Blood |
| Key Properties | Breaks up Stagnation of both Qi & Blood Disperses Food Stagnation Stops pain |
| Properties | Bitter Acrid Neutral |
| Tropism | LV, SP |
| Actions & Indications | 1) Forcefully Breaks Up Blood Stasis, Promotes the Movement of Qi, and Alleviates Pain 2) Dissolves Accumulations (Food Stagnation w/ severe pain) |
| Dosages | 3-9g |
| Contraindications (TCM) | CI: Pregnancy or in those with excessive menstruation. |
| Contraindications (Western) | |
| Chemical Composition | Essential oils, starch |
| Pharmacological Effects | • Antineoplastic: demonstrated inhibitory effect on cancer cells • Gastrointestinal: decoction has repeatedly demonstrated stimulating effect on smooth muscle of intestines, leading to muscle contractions; effect negated by atropine • Hematological: in one report, 10 grams administered via herbal decoction demonstrated marked effectiveness to inhibit aggregation of platelets and prolong thrombin time |
| 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 • This herb antagonizes or is antagonized by Mang Xiao (Natrii Sulfas) |
| Classical Formula(s) |
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.