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Yin Chen Hao (茵陳蒿), the young herb of Artemisia capillaris, clears damp-heat and is the foremost herb for jaundice, promoting the smooth flow of bile and the resolution of damp-heat from the Liver and Gall Bladder.
Latin / Pharmaceutical Name
Artemisia capillaris (Herba Artemisiae Scopariae)
Common English Name
Capillaris / yin chen
Taste
Bitter, acrid
Temperature
Slightly cold
Channels Entered
Spleen, Stomach, Liver, Gall Bladder
Actions & Functions
- Clears damp-heat and resolves jaundice (the chief herb for jaundice)
- Promotes urination
Indications
Damp-heat jaundice with yellowing of the skin and eyes; and damp-heat skin disorders with itching.
Dosage
9-30 g in decoction.
Common Combinations
With Zhi Zi and Da Huang (Yin Chen Hao Tang) for damp-heat jaundice.
Cautions & Contraindications
Use with caution in jaundice from blood deficiency (non damp-heat type).
