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Sheng Ma (升麻), the rhizome of Cimicifuga, vents rashes, clears heat and resolves toxicity (especially of the head, mouth and throat), and raises the clear yang qi to treat prolapse and sinking qi.
Latin / Pharmaceutical Name
Cimicifuga foetida (Rhizoma Cimicifugae)
Common English Name
Bugbane / cimicifuga rhizome
Taste
Acrid, sweet
Temperature
Slightly cold
Channels Entered
Lung, Spleen, Stomach, Large Intestine
Actions & Functions
- Vents rashes (measles)
- Clears heat and resolves toxicity (mouth ulcers, sore throat, swollen gums)
- Raises the clear yang qi (prolapse, sinking qi)
Indications
Early-stage measles; heat-toxin of the head and face with mouth ulcers, sore throat and swollen, painful gums; and sinking qi with prolapse of the uterus or rectum.
Dosage
3-9 g in decoction.
Common Combinations
With Huang Qi and Chai Hu (Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang) to raise sinking qi.
Cautions & Contraindications
Avoid in fully expressed measles, in Lung deficiency with wheezing, and in Liver yang rising.
