Acupuncture Times Your guide to acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine and TCM — explore acupoints, herbs and formulas, plus the latest acupuncture research news.
Related Articles
Qin Jiao (秦艽), the root of Gentiana macrophylla, dispels wind-damp and relieves painful obstruction without being drying, moistens and relaxes the sinews, clears deficiency heat, and resolves damp-heat jaundice.
Latin / Pharmaceutical Name
Gentiana macrophylla (Radix Gentianae Macrophyllae)
Common English Name
Large gentian root
Taste
Bitter, acrid
Temperature
Neutral
Channels Entered
Stomach, Liver, Gall Bladder
Actions & Functions
- Dispels wind-damp and relaxes the sinews (a moist, gentle wind-damp herb)
- Clears deficiency heat (afternoon fever)
- Resolves damp-heat (jaundice)
Indications
Wind-damp painful obstruction with stiffness and contracture; low-grade afternoon fever from deficiency; and damp-heat jaundice.
Dosage
3-9 g in decoction.
Common Combinations
With Du Huo and Sang Ji Sheng for wind-damp; with Bie Jia for deficiency heat.
Cautions & Contraindications
Use with caution in chronic pain with loose stools from deficiency.
