Acupuncture Times Read the latest acupuncture research articles about acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, cupping therapy and moxibustion.
Related Articles
Ru Xiang (乳香), frankincense resin, invigorates the blood and moves the qi to relieve pain, relaxes the sinews, and reduces swelling and promotes the healing of sores; a key trauma and painful-obstruction herb, paired with Mo Yao.
Latin / Pharmaceutical Name
Boswellia carterii (Olibanum/Gummi Olibanum)
Common English Name
Frankincense
Taste
Acrid, bitter
Temperature
Warm
Channels Entered
Heart, Liver, Spleen
Actions & Functions
- Invigorates the blood and moves qi; relieves pain
- Relaxes the sinews and unblocks the channels
- Reduces swelling and promotes the healing of sores
Indications
Traumatic injury, painful obstruction and blood-stasis pain (chest, abdominal, menstrual); and chronic non-healing sores (topical and internal).
Dosage
3-9 g in decoction (processed to reduce stomach upset).
Common Combinations
With Mo Yao for trauma and blood-stasis pain.
Cautions & Contraindications
Contraindicated in pregnancy; can irritate the Stomach. Use with caution where there is no stasis.