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Yan Hu Suo (延胡索, Yuan Hu), the rhizome of Corydalis, invigorates the blood and moves qi and is one of the strongest herbs for relieving pain of any part of the body, whether from qi or blood stagnation.
Latin / Pharmaceutical Name
Corydalis yanhusuo (Rhizoma Corydalis)
Common English Name
Corydalis rhizome
Taste
Acrid, bitter
Temperature
Warm
Channels Entered
Liver, Spleen, Heart
Actions & Functions
- Invigorates the blood and promotes the movement of qi
- Strongly relieves pain (anywhere in the body)
Indications
Pain from qi and blood stagnation anywhere – chest, epigastric, abdominal and menstrual pain, hernial pain and traumatic injury.
Dosage
3-9 g in decoction, or 1-3 g as powder (powder is stronger).
Common Combinations
With Chuan Lian Zi (Jin Ling Zi San) for qi-stagnation pain with heat.
Cautions & Contraindications
Use with caution in pregnancy and in blood deficiency without stasis.