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Yu Xing Cao (魚腥草), the herb Houttuynia, clears heat and resolves toxicity and expels pus, with a special action on Lung heat and Lung abscess; it also clears damp-heat from the urinary tract.
Latin / Pharmaceutical Name
Houttuynia cordata (Herba Houttuyniae)
Common English Name
Houttuynia
Taste
Acrid
Temperature
Slightly cold
Channels Entered
Lung
Actions & Functions
- Clears heat and resolves toxicity, expels pus (Lung abscess)
- Clears Lung heat
- Clears damp-heat and promotes urination
Indications
Lung abscess with coughing of pus and blood; Lung heat with cough and thick yellow phlegm; toxic sores; and hot, painful urination.
Dosage
15-30 g in decoction (add near the end; do not over-cook).
Common Combinations
With Jie Geng and Lu Gen for Lung heat and Lung abscess.
Cautions & Contraindications
Avoid in sores and conditions from deficiency-cold.
