Single Herb Glossary
Lú Gēn 蘆根
| Pharmaceutical name | Phragmitis Rhizoma Phragmites communis rhizome, reed rhizome |
| Category | Clear Heat, Drain Fire |
| Key Properties | Cools LU & ST Generates fluids without being cloying Alleviates nausea Promotes urination |
| Properties | Sweet Cold |
| Tropism | LU, ST |
| Actions & Indications | 1) Drains Heat and Generates Fluids 2) Clears & Drains LU Heat, Transforms Phlegm, Moistens LU Dryness (cough w/ thick sputum) 3) Resolves Toxicity and Expels Pus (toxic sores, breast abscess, hemorrhoids) |
| Dosages | 10-15g |
| Contraindications (TCM) | Caution w/ Cold from SP & ST Def Not used with genus Aconitum (Fu Zi) Contraindicated with pregnancy |
| Contraindications (Western) | |
| Chemical Composition | Amino acids, fatty acids, sterols, tocopherols, polyphenols, caffeic acid, gentisic acid, dioxane lignin, guaiacyl, syringyl, 4-hydroxyphenyl, 2,5-dimethoxy-p-benzoquinone, p-hydroxybenzaldehyde, syringaldehyde, coniferaldehyde, vanillic acid, ferulic acid, p-coumaric acid, coixol, asparagine, arabinose, xylose, glucose |
| Pharmacological Effects | • Gastrointestinal: mild inhibitory effect on smooth muscle of intestines by slowing down intestinal peristalsis • CNS suppressant: mild sedative effect on CNS in rats and mice; also counters the excitation induced by caffeine |
| Herb-Drug Interactions | |
| Classical Formula(s) |
Lian Po Yin (Coptis and Magnolia Bark Decoction) 蓮朴飲 Sang Ju Yin (Mulberry Leaf and Chrysanthemum Drink) 桑菊飲 |
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.