Wu Yao (Linderae Radix)

Wu Yao (烏藥), the root of Lindera, promotes the movement of qi and warms to disperse cold and relieve pain, and warms the Kidney and Bladder to reduce frequent urination.

Wū Yào  ·  烏藥

Latin / Pharmaceutical Name

Lindera aggregata (Radix Linderae)

Common English Name

Lindera root

Taste

Acrid

Temperature

Warm

Channels Entered

Lung, Spleen, Kidney, Bladder

Actions & Functions

  • Promotes the movement of qi and relieves pain (cold qi stagnation)
  • Warms the Kidney and Bladder and reduces frequent urination

Indications

Cold qi stagnation with distension and pain of the chest, abdomen and hernial region; and frequent urination and enuresis from cold of the lower burner.

Dosage

3-9 g in decoction.

Common Combinations

With Xiao Hui Xiang and Chuan Lian Zi for cold hernial pain; with Yi Zhi Ren and Shan Yao (Suo Quan Wan) for frequent urination.

Cautions & Contraindications

Use with caution in qi and blood deficiency and in heat patterns.

About Attilio

Doctor of Chinese medicine, acupuncture expert and author of My Fertility Guide and My Pregnancy Guide.

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