Blood-Activating Analgesics
Shi Cao (Alpine Yarrow Herb)
Name
Shi Cao (Alpine Yarrow Herb)
The Effect of 蓍草
Property
Bitter, sour, neutral; lung, spleen and bladder meridians entered.
Actions
Remove toxicity and promote diuresis, activate blood and alleviate pain.
Indications
Diarrhea, snake and insect bites, sore throat, tonsillitis, morbid leucorrhea due to dampness and heat, heat strangury, acute appendicitis.
Dosage and Administrations
Decoct 5~10 g, or soaked in wine. Proper dosage is for external application, decocted for washing or pounded for applying.
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.
Spotted an error or a better source? Tell us — corrections are logged on our editorial policy page.
Did this article help you?
Your answer shapes what gets rewritten next.
Keep readingRelated entries
Shi Cao: Chinese Herb Guide
Shi Cao: remove toxicity and promote diuresis, activate blood and alleviate pain.
Peach Twig: Chinese Herb Guide
Peach Twig: activate blood and dredge meridians, remove toxicity and kill parasites.
Shi Cao (Herba Achilleae)
Alpine Yarrow Herb: remove toxicity and promote diuresis, activate blood and alleviate pain.
Turmeric: Preparation, Dosing and Timing in TCM
How to prepare and take Turmeric at home: forms, timing, classic pairings and what to look for when buying.
Something this article did not cover?
Ask us directly. We reply within two days, and good questions become public articles.
Ask a question →