Large-leaf gentian root (Qinjiao)

Pharmaceutical Name: Radix Gentianae macrophyllae

Botanical Name : 1. Gentiana macrophylla pall.; 2. Gentiana crassicaulis Duthie ex Burkill; 3. Gentiana dahurica Fisch.; 4. Gentiana straminea Maxim.

Common Name : Large-leaf gentian root

Source of Earliest Record : Shennong Bencao Jing

Part Used & Method for Pharmaceutical Preparations : The roots are dug in spring or autumn. After the fibrous root bark has been removed, the roots are cleaned, dried in the sun and cut into slices.

Properties & Taste: Bitter, pungent and slightly cold

Meridians: Stomach, liver and gall bladder

Functions:
1. To dispel wind and dampness;
2. To clear heat caused by yin deficiency

Indications & Combinations:
1. Wind-damp obstruction syndrome: a) pain with heat signsLarge-leaf gentian root (Qinjiao) is used with Tetrandra root (Fangji) and Honeysuckle stem (Rendongteng); b) pain with cold signsLarge-leaf gentian root (Qinjiao) is used with Notopterygium root (Qianghuo), Pubescent angelica root (Duhuo), Cinnamon twigs (Guizhi) and Prepared aconite root (Fuzi).

2. Afternoon fever caused by deficient yin. Large-leaf gentian root (Qinjiao) is used with Sweet wormwood (Qinghao), Turtle shell (Biejia), Anemarrhena rizome (Zhimu) and Wolfberry bark (Digupi) in the formula Qinjiao Biejia Tang.

3. Damp-heat jaundice. Large-leaf gentian root (Qinjiao) is used with Oriental wormwood (Yinchenhao) and Capejasmine (Zhizi).

Dosage: 5-10 g

Cautions & Contraindications: This herb is contraindicated for a person with a weak constitution or in cases suffering from diarrhea.