Single Herb Glossary
Kūn Bù 昆布
| Pharmaceutical name | Eckloniae Thallus Kelp |
| Category | Transform Phlegm Heat |
| Key Properties | Reduces Phlegm & Softens areas of hardness Promotes Urination, Eliminates Edema |
| Properties | Salty Cold |
| Tropism | KD, LV, ST |
| Actions & Indications | 1) Reduces Phlegm and Softens Areas of Hardness 2) Promotes Urination and Reduces Swelling |
| Dosages | 6-15g |
| Contraindications (TCM) | Caution with Def and Cold of St and Sp; caution with Phlegm due to Cold |
| Contraindications (Western) | |
| Chemical Composition | Laminine, laminarin, alginic acid, algin, potassium, iodine, iron, calcium |
| Pharmacological Effects | • Cardiovascular: according to in vitro studies, administration of laminine associated with reduction in blood pressure • Hypoglycemic: laminarin associated with reduction of blood glucose levels in mice with normal or elevated levels • Metabolic: continuous administration of preparation inhibits elevation of serum cholesterol and triglyceride levels |
| Herb-Drug Interactions | • Antidiabetics: herbs that lower plasma glucose levels should be used with caution with insulin, sulfonylureas, and other antidiabetic medications, as combination may have synergistic effect, leading to hypoglycemia |
| Classical Formula(s) |
San Zhong Kui Jian Tang (Decoction to Disperse Swelling and Ulcerate What is Hard) 散腫潰堅湯 Hai Zao Yu Hu Tang (Sargassum decoction for the Jade Flask) 海藻玉壺湯 |
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.