Hairy birthwort (Xungufeng)

Pharmaceutical Name : Herba Aristolochiae Mollissimae

Botanical Name : Aristolochia mollissima Hance

Common Name : Hairy birthwort

Source of Earliest Record : Zhiwu Mingshi Tukao

Part Used & Method for Pharmaceutical Preparations: The whole plant is gathered in summer or autumn, cleaned and dried.

Properties & Taste: Pungent, bitter and neutral

Meridian : Liver

Functions:
1. To dispel wind and dampness;
2. To clear the channels and collaterals;
3. To stop pain

Indications & Combinations: Wind-damp obstruction syndrome manifested as joint pain, numbness of the limbs, tendon and muscle spasms and pain from external injury. Hairy birthwort (Xungufeng) may be used alone in decoction or soaked in wine, or used with other herbs that dispel wind and dampness.

Dosage: 10-15 g