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Xia Ku Cao (Prunella or Selfheal Spike)

Xia Ku Cao (Prunella or Selfheal Spike)

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Herb 10 of 14 in Herbs that Drain Fire

Cold Xia Ku Cao (Spica Prunellae Vulgaris)
Channels:
GB, LIV
Properties:
Bitter, Spicy, Cold
Latin:
Spica Prunellae Vulgaris
Chinese:
夏枯草
Tone Marks:
xià kū căo
Translation:
Summer Withered Herb
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Chinese Herb Actions

  • Clears Heat From the Liver and Brightens the Eyes
    For Liver Fire ascending, high Blood pressure, red, painful, and swollen eyes. Also for headache, dizziness, and eye pain due to Liver deficiency (eyes sensitive to light and tender).
  • Eliminates Nodules
    Treats swollen thyroid, swollen glands, or any neck swelling due to phlegm fire. Also used to treat nodules in the inguinal area and other parts of the body (mastitis, etc.).

Chinese Herb Contraindications & Cautions

  • Caution in cases of weak spleen and stomach.

Herb-Drug Interactions

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Chinese Herb Toxicity & Overdose

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Chinese Herb Dosage

  • 9-15 grams, up to 30 grams if used alone.
  • Part used: spike.

Chinese Herb Notes

  • Toasting with honey can treat long term high blood pressure.

References Used

The TCM information presented here has been referenced from numerous sources; including teachers, practitioners, class notes from Five Branches University, the following books, as well as other sources. If you have benefited from this information, please consider supporting the authors and their works by purchasing the books below.

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