Lu Gen (Phragmitis Rhizoma)

Lu Gen (蘆根), reed rhizome, clears heat from the Lung and Stomach, generates fluids to relieve thirst, stops vomiting and promotes urination; gentle and non-cloying.

Lú Gēn  ·  蘆根

Latin / Pharmaceutical Name

Phragmites communis (Rhizoma Phragmitis)

Common English Name

Reed rhizome

Taste

Sweet

Temperature

Cold

Channels Entered

Lung, Stomach

Actions & Functions

  • Clears heat and generates fluids
  • Clears Lung heat and resolves phlegm (Lung abscess)
  • Clears Stomach heat and stops vomiting
  • Promotes urination

Indications

Febrile disease with thirst and irritability; Lung heat cough and Lung abscess; Stomach heat with vomiting; and hot, painful urination.

Dosage

15-30 g (fresh 30-60 g) in decoction.

Common Combinations

With Tian Hua Fen for heat with thirst; in Lung-abscess and wind-heat formulas.

Cautions & Contraindications

Avoid in Spleen and Stomach deficiency-cold.

About Attilio

Doctor of Chinese medicine, acupuncture expert and author of My Fertility Guide and My Pregnancy Guide.

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