Qi-Moving Herbs
Ma Lu: Chinese Herb Guide
Name
Ma Lu (Diplopod)
The Effect of Ma Lu
Property
Pungent, warm, toxic; heart and lung meridians entered.
Actions
Eliminate mass and fullness, remove toxicity.
Indications
Sores and boils, abdominal mass, distension and fullness, carbuncle.
Dosage and Administrations
Proper dosage is for external application, pounded or made into paste for applying.
Cautions
It is toxic, so be careful for oral taking.
This entry follows the standard reference format. How to read a TCM entry explains what each heading means and how the terminology works. Not medically reviewed and not medical advice — see the medical disclaimer.
Sources and further reading
We cite classical materia medica and modern reference works. This article is health education, not medical advice.
- Shennong Bencao Jing (The Divine Farmer's Materia Medica), Han dynasty.
- Bencao Gangmu (Compendium of Materia Medica), Li Shizhen, 1578.
- Chinese Pharmacopoeia, current edition — identity, quality and safety monographs.
- NCCIH and WHO reference material on traditional medicine safety.
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