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Da Huang (大黃), the root and rhizome of Rheum (rhubarb), strongly purges accumulation and drains heat downward through the stool, drains fire, cools the blood and stops bleeding, invigorates the blood to dispel stasis, and clears damp-heat.
Latin / Pharmaceutical Name
Rheum palmatum (Radix et Rhizoma Rhei)
Common English Name
Rhubarb root
Taste
Bitter
Temperature
Cold
Channels Entered
Spleen, Stomach, Large Intestine, Liver, Heart
Actions & Functions
- Drains heat and purges accumulation (constipation with heat)
- Drains fire and resolves toxicity
- Cools the blood and stops bleeding (from heat)
- Invigorates the blood and dispels stasis; clears damp-heat (jaundice)
Indications
Constipation with high fever and abdominal fullness; fire toxicity with sores; bleeding from heat; blood stasis with amenorrhoea and trauma; and damp-heat jaundice.
Dosage
3-12 g in decoction (add near the end for purging; cook longer for milder effect).
Common Combinations
With Mang Xiao, Hou Po and Zhi Shi (Da Cheng Qi Tang) for severe heat constipation.
Cautions & Contraindications
Strong purgative - contraindicated in pregnancy, nursing and menstruation, and in deficiency without accumulation. Use briefly.
