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Shi Chang Pu (石菖蒲), the rhizome of Acorus, opens the orifices of the Heart and calms the spirit by transforming phlegm-damp, harmonises the middle burner, and benefits the ears, eyes and voice.
Latin / Pharmaceutical Name
Acorus tatarinowii (Rhizoma Acori Tatarinowii)
Common English Name
Grass-leaf sweetflag rhizome
Taste
Acrid, bitter
Temperature
Warm
Channels Entered
Heart, Stomach
Actions & Functions
- Opens the orifices and calms the spirit (phlegm misting the Heart)
- Transforms damp-phlegm and harmonises the middle
- Benefits the ears, eyes and voice; aids memory and concentration
Indications
Phlegm clouding the mind with confusion, poor memory, seizures and dull senses; damp obstructing the Stomach; and deafness, tinnitus and a dull, heavy head.
Dosage
3-9 g in decoction.
Common Combinations
With Yuan Zhi for poor memory; with Yu Jin for phlegm-heat clouding the Heart.
Cautions & Contraindications
Use with caution in yin deficiency with heat, irritability and sweating.
