Pipewort (Gujingcao)

Pharmaceutical Name : Flos Eriocauli

Botanical Name : Eriocaulon buergerianum koern.

Common Name : Pipewort

Source of Earliest Record : Kaibao Bencao

Part Used & Method for Pharmaceutical Preparations : The whole plant is gathered in autumn, dried in the sun and cut into pieces for use.

Properties & Taste : Sweet, neutral

Meridians: Liver and stomach

Functions:
1. To clear heat and disperse wind;
2. To brighten the eyes

Indications & Combinations:
Wind-heat in the liver meridian manifested as red, painful and swollen eyes, excessive tearing, photophobia and corneal opacity. Pipewort (Gujingcao) is used with Schizonepeta (Jingjie), Chinese gentian (Longdancao) and Red peony (Chishao).

Dosage: 6-15 g

Cautions & Contraindications: This herb is contraindicated in cases with deficiency of blood.