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Xuan Shen (玄參), the root of Scrophularia, clears heat and cools the blood, nourishes yin and fluids, and resolves toxicity and softens nodules (especially of the throat and neck).
Latin / Pharmaceutical Name
Scrophularia ningpoensis (Radix Scrophulariae)
Common English Name
Figwort root
Taste
Sweet, bitter, salty
Temperature
Cold
Channels Entered
Lung, Stomach, Kidney
Actions & Functions
- Clears heat and cools the blood
- Nourishes yin and generates fluids
- Resolves toxicity and dissipates nodules (sore throat, scrofula)
Indications
Heat entering the blood with a scarlet tongue and rashes; yin deficiency with dry throat and constipation; and sore, swollen throat, scrofula and toxic swellings.
Dosage
9-15 g in decoction.
Common Combinations
With Sheng Di and Mai Men Dong (Zeng Ye Tang) for dryness; with Mu Li and Bei Mu for scrofula.
Cautions & Contraindications
Avoid in Spleen deficiency with damp and loose stools. Classically incompatible with Li Lu.