Zhu Ru (Bambusae Caulis in Taenia)

Zhu Ru (竹茹), bamboo shavings, clears and transforms phlegm-heat, clears Stomach heat to stop vomiting and hiccup, and clears Heart heat to relieve irritability and insomnia.

Zhú Rú  ·  竹茹

Latin / Pharmaceutical Name

Bambusa / Phyllostachys (Caulis Bambusae in Taenia)

Common English Name

Bamboo shavings

Taste

Sweet

Temperature

Slightly cold

Channels Entered

Lung, Stomach, Gall Bladder

Actions & Functions

  • Clears and transforms phlegm-heat
  • Clears Stomach heat and stops vomiting and hiccup
  • Clears Heart and Gall Bladder heat and relieves irritability

Indications

Phlegm-heat cough with thick sputum; nausea, vomiting and hiccup from Stomach heat; and irritability and insomnia from phlegm-heat (e.g. gall bladder disharmony).

Dosage

4.5-9 g in decoction.

Common Combinations

With Ban Xia and Chen Pi (Wen Dan Tang) for phlegm-heat with insomnia and nausea.

Cautions & Contraindications

Avoid in vomiting from Stomach cold.

About Attilio

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

Check Also

PubMed research

Complementary Therapies Including Tai Chi Show Physiological and Psychological Benefits for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Patients

Research summary (Tai Chi): Effects of complementary therapies on physiological and psychological outcomes in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients: A systemat - Respiratory medicine, 2026.