Polygala root (Yuanzhi)

Pharmaceutical Name : Radix Polygalae

Botanical Name : 1. Polygala tenuifolia Willd.; 2. Polygala Sibirica L.

Common Name : Polygala 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 roots have been removed, the roots are cleaned in water and dried in the sun.

Properties & Taste : Pungent, bitter and slightly warm

Meridians : Lung and heart

Functions:
• Tranquilizes the mind.
• Relieves mental distress, irritability, frightening, severe palpitation, insomnia, dreaminess and amnesia.
• Expels dampness.
• Wake up from unconsciousness.
• Dissipate the carbuncles.
• Replenishes the lumps.

Indications & Combinations:

1. Insomnia and forgetfulness. Polygala root (Yuanzhi) is used with Ginseng (Renshen) and Grass-leaved sweetflag (Shichangpu) in the formula Buwang San.

2. Palpitations and restlessness. Polygala root (Yuanzhi) is used with Wild jujube seed (Suanzaoren) and Dragon's bone (Longgu).

3. Turbid phlegm disturbing the heart manifested as mental disorders and unconsciousness. Polygala root (Yuanzhi) is used with Grassleaved sweetflag (Shichangpu) and Curcuma root (Yujin).

4. Cough with excessive thick sputum or sputum that is difficult to expectorate. Polygala root (Yuanzhi) is used with Apricot seed (Xingren), Platycodon root (Jiegeng) and Licorice root (Gancao).

Dosage: 3-10 g

Cautions & Contraindications: This herb should be used with caution in cases with gastric ulcer or gastritis.