Single Herb Glossary
Gān Suí 甘遂
| Pharmaceutical name | Kansui Radix Kan-sui root “sweet process” |
| Category | Downward Draining |
| Key Properties | Drives pathogenic water downward |
| Properties | Bitter Sweet Cold Toxic |
| Tropism | KD, LI, LU |
| Actions & Indications | 1) Drains Water Downwards & Drives Out Thin Mucus (From Chest & Abdomen, via anus) 2) Drives out Phlegm (Wind Phlegm – seizure, epilepsy) 3) Clears Heat & Reduces Swelling (Damp Heat) |
| Dosages | 0.5-1.5g |
| Contraindications (TCM) | Pregnancy, Qi, Blood, Yin, Yang Deficiency, excessive bleeding, history of ulcers, upper gastrointestinal bleeding, cardiovascular disorders, kidney impairment Only use for short time |
| Contraindications (Western) | |
| Chemical Composition | Euphorbone, euphorbol, kanzuiol, euphol, ingenol, 13-oxyingenol, kansuinine A, B |
| Pharmacological Effects | • Cathartic: stimulates the intestines, promotes peristalsis, and relieves constipation; fresh Gan Sui has potent cathartic and toxic effects; processing with vinegar reduces both cathartic and toxic effects • Abortifacient: intramuscular injection of alcohol extract induces abortion in mice |
| Herb-Drug Interactions | • Incompatible with Gan Cao (Glycyrrhizae Radix) |
| 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.