Single Herb Glossary
Bian Xu 扁蓄
| Pharmaceutical name | Polygoni avicularis Herba Knotgrass/weed |
| Category | Drain Damp |
| Key Properties | Clears Damp Heat and facilitaes urination |
| Properties | Bitter Slightly cold |
| Tropism | UB |
| Actions & Indications | 1) Clear UB damp heat, promote urination, unblock Lin 2) Expel parasites, stop itching (weepy sores) |
| Dosages | 9-15 g |
| Contraindications (TCM) | Overconsumption may lead to depletion of Jing and Qi |
| Contraindications (Western) | |
| Chemical Composition | Avicularin, quercitrin, d-catechol, gallic acid, caffeic acid, oxalic acid, silicic acid, cholorogenic acid, p-coumaric acid |
| Pharmacological Effects | • Diuretic: decoction at 20 g/kg increased excretion of water, sodium and potassium in rats • Antibiotic: decoction has inhibitory influence on Bacillus dysenteriae, S. aureus, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa • Antihypertensive: intravenous injection of water or alcohol extracts lowered blood pressure in dogs, rabbits, and cats; antihypertensive effect attributed to increased urine output |
| Herb-Drug Interactions | • Diuretics: concurrent use with diuretic drugs may lead to increased elimination of water and/or electrolytes |
| 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.