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Mu Xiang (木香), the root of Aucklandia, promotes the movement of qi and relieves pain, regulates the qi of the Spleen, Stomach and Intestines, and harmonises the middle; a key herb for abdominal distension and dysentery with tenesmus.
Latin / Pharmaceutical Name
Aucklandia lappa (Radix Aucklandiae)
Common English Name
Costus root
Taste
Acrid, bitter
Temperature
Warm
Channels Entered
Spleen, Stomach, Large Intestine, Gall Bladder
Actions & Functions
- Promotes the movement of qi and relieves pain
- Regulates and strengthens the Spleen and Stomach
- Relieves tenesmus in dysentery; benefits the Gall Bladder
Indications
Qi stagnation of the Spleen and Stomach with abdominal distension and pain and poor appetite; dysentery with tenesmus; and to move qi in rich tonic formulas.
Dosage
3-9 g in decoction (add near the end).
Common Combinations
With Huang Lian (Xiang Lian Wan) for dysentery; added to tonics to prevent stagnation.
Cautions & Contraindications
Drying; use with caution in yin deficiency with heat.
