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Huang Lian (黃連), the rhizome of Coptis, is one of the most bitter and cold herbs. It strongly clears heat and dries dampness, drains fire and resolves toxicity, with a particular action on the Heart and Stomach.
Latin / Pharmaceutical Name
Coptis chinensis (Rhizoma Coptidis)
Common English Name
Coptis rhizome
Taste
Bitter
Temperature
Cold
Channels Entered
Heart, Liver, Stomach, Large Intestine
Actions & Functions
- Clears heat and dries dampness (damp-heat diarrhoea and dysentery)
- Drains fire and resolves toxicity
- Clears Heart fire (irritability, insomnia) and Stomach fire
Indications
Damp-heat dysentery and diarrhoea; high fever and irritability; Heart fire with insomnia and palpitations; Stomach fire with acid regurgitation, mouth ulcers and toothache; and toxic sores.
Dosage
2-9 g in decoction.
Common Combinations
With Mu Xiang (Xiang Lian Wan) for dysentery; with Rou Gui to reconnect Heart and Kidney for insomnia.
Cautions & Contraindications
Extremely cold and bitter; avoid or use briefly in Spleen-Stomach deficiency-cold; can injure the Stomach and fluids with prolonged use.