Single Herb Glossary
Huái Niú Xī 懷牛膝
| Pharmaceutical name | Achyranthis bidentatae Radix achyranthes root "ox knee" |
| Category | Invigorate Blood |
| Key Properties | Unprepared form: Breaks up Blood Stasis, unblocks Menses, Guides Blood to descend, Direct Fire downward Prepped: Tonify LV & KD, Strengthen Sinew & Bone |
| Properties | Bitter Sour Neutral |
| Tropism | LV, KD |
| Actions & Indications | 1) Invigorates Blood and dispels blood stasis 2) Tonify LV & KD, Strengthen Sinew & Bone, and Benefits Joints 3) Induces Downward Movement of (chaotic) Blood & Fire (nosebleed, hemoptysis, bleeding gums) 4) Clears Damp-Heat in the Lower Burner |
| Dosages | 6-15g |
| Contraindications (TCM) | CI: Pregnancy or with excessive menstruation. |
| Contraindications (Western) | |
| Chemical Composition | Ecdysterone, inoteosterone, inokosterone, α-aminobutyric acid, betaine |
| Pharmacological Effects | • Analgesic and anti-inflammatory: administration via intravenous, intraperitoneal, subcutaneous and oral routes all demonstrated marked analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects in laboratory animals • Cardiovascular: decoction associated with mild hypotensive effect with short duration of action • Uterine stimulant: stimulating effect on smooth muscle and leads to uterine contraction in rats and rabbits • Effect on pregnancy: administration in mice at 250 to 500 mg/kg for up to 20 days associated with decreased percentage of fertilization and increased risk of miscarriage |
| Herb-Drug Interactions | |
| 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.