Pharmaceutical Name: Radix Dichroae

Botanical Name: Dichroa fibrifuga Lour.

Common Name: Dichroa root

Source of Earliest Record: Shennong Bencao Jing

Part Used & Method for Pharmaceutical Preparations: The roots are dug in autumn. After the fibrous roots have been removed, the roots are dried in the sun and cut into slices. They can also be fried with wine.

Properties & Taste: Bitter, pungent, cold and toxic

Meridians: Lung, heart and liver

Functions: To expel phlegm and relieve malaria

Indications & Combinations: Malaria. Dichroa root (Changshan) is used with Tsaoko (Caoguo), Anemarrhena rhizome (Zhimu) and Areca seed (Binglang).

Dosage: 5-10 g

Cautions & Contraindications: This herb may cause vomiting and nausea; it should be used with caution, especially with weak patients.