Trichosanthes
root (Tianhuafen)
Pharmaceutical Name : Radix Trichosanthis
Botanical Name : 1. Trichosanthes kirilowii
Maxim.; 2. Trichosanthes japonica Regel.
Common Name : Trichosanthes root, Snakegourd
root
Source of Earliest Record : Shennong Bencao
Jing
Part Used & Method for Pharmaceutical
Preparations : The roots are dug in autumn
or winter. After cleaning, the skin is peeled
off. Then, the roots are cut into pieces or
slices and dried in the sun.
Properties & Taste: Bitter, slightly
sweet and cold
Meridians : Lung and stomach
Functions:
1. To clear heat and promote the production
of body fluids;
2. To reduce swelling and dispel pus
Indications & Combinations:
1. Thirst in febrile diseases. Trichosanthes
root (Tianhuafen) is used with Glehnia root
(Shashen), Ophiopogon root (Maidong) and Reed
root (Lugen).
2. Extreme thirst in diabetes. Trichosanthes
root (Tianhuafen) is used with Pueraria root
(Gegen), Schisandra fruit (Wuweizi) and Anemarrhena
rhizome (Zhimu).
3. Dry cough due to lung heat. Trichosanthes
root (Tianhuafen) is used with Mulberry bark
(Sangbaipi), Tendrilled fritillary bulb (Chuanbeimu)
and Platycodon root (Jiegeng).
4. Boils and carbuncles. Trichosanthes root
(Tianhuafen) is used with Forsythia fruit
(Lianqiao), Dandelion herb (Pugongying), Tendrilled
fritillary bulb (Chuanbeimu) and Honeysuckle
flower (Jinyinhua).
Dosage: 10-15 g
Cautions & Contrain
dications: This herb should be used with caution
during pregnancy. |
