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Bo He (薄荷), Chinese field mint, disperses wind-heat, clears and benefits the head, eyes and throat, vents rashes, and (in small amounts) helps to spread constrained Liver qi.
Latin / Pharmaceutical Name
Mentha haplocalyx (Herba Menthae)
Common English Name
Field mint
Taste
Acrid
Temperature
Cool
Channels Entered
Lung, Liver
Actions & Functions
- Disperses wind-heat
- Clears the head and eyes and benefits the throat
- Vents rashes (early-stage measles)
- Soothes constrained Liver qi
Indications
Wind-heat with headache, red eyes and sore throat; early-stage rashes; and Liver qi constraint with hypochondriac discomfort.
Dosage
3-6 g in decoction (add near the end).
Common Combinations
With Jin Yin Hua and Lian Qiao (Yin Qiao San) for wind-heat.
Cautions & Contraindications
Avoid in exterior deficiency with sweating and in yin deficiency with heat. Reduces lactation, so use with care in nursing mothers.