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Shu Di Huang (熟地黃), the steamed and wine-processed root of Rehmannia glutinosa, is a rich, cloying tonic. It is the chief herb for tonifying the blood and for nourishing Kidney yin and essence (jing).
Latin / Pharmaceutical Name
Rehmannia glutinosa, prepared (Radix Rehmanniae Praeparata)
Common English Name
Prepared rehmannia root
Taste
Sweet
Temperature
Slightly warm
Channels Entered
Liver, Kidney
Actions & Functions
- Tonifies the blood and nourishes Liver blood
- Nourishes Kidney yin and essence (jing) and the marrow
Indications
Blood deficiency with a pale complexion, dizziness, palpitations and irregular menstruation; and Kidney yin and essence deficiency with night sweats, dizziness, tinnitus, weak lower back and premature greying.
Dosage
9-30 g in decoction.
Common Combinations
Chief herb of Si Wu Tang (blood) and Liu Wei Di Huang Wan (Kidney yin).
Cautions & Contraindications
Cloying and difficult to digest; use with caution in Spleen deficiency with dampness, poor appetite and loose stools (often combined with digestives).
