Lian Qiao (Forsythiae Fructus)

Lian Qiao (連翹), forsythia fruit, clears heat and resolves toxicity, dissipates nodules and reduces swelling, and disperses wind-heat; classically called ‘the holy medicine for sores’.

Lián Qiào  ·  連翹

Latin / Pharmaceutical Name

Forsythia suspensa (Fructus Forsythiae)

Common English Name

Forsythia fruit

Taste

Bitter

Temperature

Slightly cold

Channels Entered

Lung, Heart, Gall Bladder

Actions & Functions

  • Clears heat and resolves toxicity
  • Dissipates nodules and reduces swelling (scrofula, sores)
  • Disperses wind-heat and clears Heart heat

Indications

Toxic sores, carbuncles and scrofula; wind-heat and early febrile disease; and Heart heat with irritability.

Dosage

6-15 g in decoction.

Common Combinations

With Jin Yin Hua for wind-heat and sores; with Xuan Shen and Bei Mu for scrofula.

Cautions & Contraindications

Avoid in Spleen-Stomach deficiency-cold and in ulcerated sores from deficiency.

About Attilio

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

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