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Huo Xiang (藿香), patchouli/agastache, aromatically transforms dampness, harmonises the middle burner to stop nausea and vomiting, and releases the exterior in summerdamp conditions.
Latin / Pharmaceutical Name
Pogostemon cablin / Agastache (Herba Pogostemonis)
Common English Name
Patchouli / agastache
Taste
Acrid
Temperature
Slightly warm
Channels Entered
Spleen, Stomach, Lung
Actions & Functions
- Aromatically transforms dampness and harmonises the middle
- Stops nausea and vomiting
- Releases the exterior (summerdamp, damp colds)
Indications
Damp obstructing the Spleen with nausea, vomiting, fullness and poor appetite; summerdamp with fever, chills and abdominal upset; and morning sickness.
Dosage
6-12 g in decoction (add near the end).
Common Combinations
Chief herb of Huo Xiang Zheng Qi San for exterior cold with internal damp.
Cautions & Contraindications
Avoid in yin deficiency with heat and where there is no dampness.
