Acupuncture Times Your guide to acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine and TCM — explore acupoints, herbs and formulas, plus the latest acupuncture research news.
Related Articles
Hou Po (厚朴), the bark of Magnolia officinalis, promotes the movement of qi, dries dampness, resolves distension and fullness, and descends rebellious qi to relieve wheezing.
Latin / Pharmaceutical Name
Magnolia officinalis (Cortex Magnoliae Officinalis)
Common English Name
Magnolia bark
Taste
Bitter, acrid
Temperature
Warm
Channels Entered
Spleen, Stomach, Lung, Large Intestine
Actions & Functions
- Promotes the movement of qi and resolves distension and fullness
- Dries dampness and transforms phlegm
- Descends rebellious qi and relieves wheezing
Indications
Damp or food stagnation with abdominal distension and fullness; constipation with fullness; and cough and wheezing with chest fullness.
Dosage
3-9 g in decoction.
Common Combinations
With Cang Zhu and Chen Pi (Ping Wei San); with Zhi Shi and Da Huang for constipation with fullness.
Cautions & Contraindications
Drying and descending; avoid or use with care in pregnancy and in qi or yin deficiency.
