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Xiang Fu (香附), the rhizome of Cyperus, spreads constrained Liver qi, regulates menstruation and relieves pain; it is the foremost qi-regulating herb in gynaecology and for emotional constraint.
Latin / Pharmaceutical Name
Cyperus rotundus (Rhizoma Cyperi)
Common English Name
Cyperus rhizome
Taste
Acrid, slightly bitter, slightly sweet
Temperature
Neutral
Channels Entered
Liver, Spleen, San Jiao
Actions & Functions
- Spreads constrained Liver qi and relieves stagnation
- Regulates menstruation and relieves pain
- Harmonises and moves the qi of the middle burner
Indications
Liver qi constraint with hypochondriac, epigastric and abdominal distension; irregular and painful menstruation and premenstrual breast distension; and emotional depression and irritability.
Dosage
6-12 g in decoction.
Common Combinations
With Chai Hu and Bai Shao for Liver constraint; with Chuan Xiong for menstrual pain.
Cautions & Contraindications
Use with caution in qi deficiency without stagnation and in yin deficiency with heat.
