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Xia Ku Cao (夏枯草), the flower spike of Prunella, clears Liver fire and brightens the eyes, and dissipates phlegm-fire nodules such as scrofula and goitre.
Latin / Pharmaceutical Name
Prunella vulgaris (Spica Prunellae)
Common English Name
Selfheal spike
Taste
Bitter, acrid
Temperature
Cold
Channels Entered
Liver, Gall Bladder
Actions & Functions
- Clears Liver fire and brightens the eyes
- Dissipates nodules and reduces swelling (scrofula, goitre)
- Helps lower blood pressure
Indications
Liver fire with red, painful eyes and headache; scrofula and goitre; and hypertension from Liver fire or ascendant yang.
Dosage
9-15 g in decoction.
Common Combinations
With Ju Hua for Liver-fire eye disorders; with Xuan Shen and Mu Li for scrofula.
Cautions & Contraindications
Use with caution in Spleen and Stomach deficiency.
