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Fang Ji (防己), the root of Stephania tetrandra (Han Fang Ji), dispels wind-damp and relieves painful obstruction (especially damp-heat type) and promotes urination to reduce oedema of the lower body.
Latin / Pharmaceutical Name
Stephania tetrandra (Radix Stephaniae Tetrandrae)
Common English Name
Stephania root
Taste
Bitter, acrid
Temperature
Cold
Channels Entered
Bladder, Lung
Actions & Functions
- Dispels wind-damp and relieves painful obstruction (damp-heat)
- Promotes urination and reduces oedema (especially of the legs)
Indications
Damp-heat or wind-damp painful obstruction with redness, swelling and heat; and oedema and difficult urination of the lower body.
Dosage
4.5-9 g in decoction.
Common Combinations
With Huang Qi (Fang Ji Huang Qi Tang) for oedema with qi deficiency.
Cautions & Contraindications
Use Han Fang Ji (Stephania) only; AVOID Guang Fang Ji (Aristolochia), which is nephrotoxic. Cold and bitter - use with care in poor appetite and yin deficiency.
