 Grass-leaved
sweetflag (Shichangpu)
Pharmaceutical Name : Rhizome Acori graminei
Botanical Name : Acorus gramineus Soland.
Common Name : Grass-leaved sweetflag rhizome
Source of Earliest Record : Shennong Bencao
Jing
Part Used & Method for Pharmaceutical
Preparations : The rhizomes are dug in early
spring and cleaned and dried in the sun. When
the fresh rhizome is used for medical purposes,
it should be dug in late summer.
 Properties & Taste: Pungent and warm
Meridians: Heart and stomach
Functions:
• Reduces the felling of fullness and oppression in the chest and abdomen, anorexia, and fatigue.
• Induces resuscitation.
• Eliminates phlegm.
• Tranquilizes the mind.
• Cures the loss of consciousness and confusion of the mind due to mental disturbance.
• Regulates the functions of the stomach.
• Opens the orifices;
• Transforms dampness and harmonize the
stomach;
• Tranquilizse the mind
Indications & Combinations:
1. Unconsciousness due to blockage of the
pericardium by turbid phlegm or accumulation
of dampness and heat. Grass-leaved sweetflag
(Shichangpu) is used with fresh Bamboo juice
(Zhuli) and Curcuma root (Yujin) in the formula
Changpu Yujin Tang.
2. Dampness blocking the middle jiao (spleen
and stomach) manifested as stifling sensation,
distension and pain in the chest and abdominal
region. Grass-leaved sweetflag (Shichangpu)
is used with Tangerine peel (Chenpi) and Magnolia
bark (Houpo).
3. Damp-heat blocking the middle jiao manifested
as dysentery and vomiting after meals. Grass-leaved
sweetflag (Shichangpu) is used with Coptis
root (Huanglian).
4. Insomnia, forgetfulness, tinnitus and
deafness. Grass-leaved sweetflag (Shichangpu)
is used with Polygala root (Yuanzhi) and Poria
(Fuling) in the formula Anshen Dingzhi Wan.
Dosage: 5-8 g (double dosage for the fresh
herb) |
