Gao Ben (Ligustici Rhizoma)

Gao Ben (藁本), the rhizome of Ligusticum, disperses wind-cold and dampness and relieves pain, with a particular affinity for headache at the vertex and the top of the head.

Gǎo Běn  ·  藁本

Latin / Pharmaceutical Name

Ligusticum sinense (Rhizoma Ligustici)

Common English Name

Chinese lovage root

Taste

Acrid

Temperature

Warm

Channels Entered

Bladder

Actions & Functions

  • Disperses wind-cold and dampness
  • Relieves pain, especially vertex headache

Indications

Wind-cold with headache at the vertex and top of the head; and wind-cold-damp painful obstruction.

Dosage

3-9 g in decoction.

Common Combinations

With Chuan Xiong for vertex headache.

Cautions & Contraindications

Drying and warming; avoid in headache from blood deficiency or heat.

About Attilio

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

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