Single Herb Glossary
Cāng Ěr Zǐ 蒼耳子
| Pharmaceutical name | Xanthii Fructus cocklebur fruit |
| Category | Warm, Acrid, Release the Exterior |
| Key Properties | Disperses wind; Unblocks the orifices, Removes Bi; Eliminates Damp Qi from skin Treats sores |
| Properties | Bitter,Sweet Toxic Warm |
| Tropism | LU |
| Actions & Indications | 1) Dispels Wind and Damp, Open Nasal Passage (itchy, thick, viscous discharge) 2) Disperse Wind & dispel Damp (Wind damp Bi) 3) Dispels Exterior Wind (headache radiates to back of neck) |
| Dosages | 3-9 g |
| Contraindications (TCM) | Qi and Blood deficiency Overdose leads to vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, constipation, headache, dizziness, lethargy, poor appetite Several materia medica texts discourage eating pork while taking this herb. |
| Contraindications (Western) | Early stage toxicity: jaundice, hypochondriac pain; late stage: jaundice, severe hypochondriac pain, tonic-clonic convulsions, possibly death |
| Chemical Composition | Xanthostrumarin 1.27%, resin 3.3%, oil 39%, essential oil, alkaloid, vitamin C, carbohydrates |
| Pharmacological Effects | • Antidiabetic: intraperitoneal injection of xanthostrumarin at 10 mg/kg may lower plasma glucose levels in rats for up to 2 hours • Antitussive: decoction shown to suppress coughing |
| 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.