Chuanxiong (Ligusticum chuanxiong) is the dried rhizome of the plant from the Umbelliferae family. The best quality is characterized by large, plump roots, firm texture, yellowish-white cross-section, high oil content, and strong aroma. It is warm in nature, pungent in flavor, and enters the Liver (Gan), Gallbladder (Dan), and Pericardium (Xinbao) meridians. Chuanxiong has the effects of invigorating blood circulation, promoting Qi flow, dispelling wind, alleviating pain, and soothing the Liver to relieve depression. Additionally, Chuanxiong can dilate the capillaries in the head, promote blood circulation, and enhance hair nutrition, resulting in good hair flexibility and moisture retention. Chuanxiong is effective in invigorating blood and promoting Qi, making it useful for conditions such as menstrual irregularities, dysmenorrhea, and postpartum stasis pain in women. It also has the ability to dispel wind and alleviate pain, which is beneficial for headaches, dizziness, and chest or flank pain due to wind-cold-damp obstruction. Chuanxiong can dilate blood vessels, prevent thrombosis, and relieve spasms. Ground into powder and inhaled through the nose, it can treat migraines. Chuanxiong is suitable for various conditions caused by blood stasis and is a key herb for regulating menstruation in gynecology. Let’s explore the efficacy and usage of Chuanxiong!
01
The Efficacy of Chuanxiong
1. Antibacterial Effects
Chuanxiong is a highly versatile medicinal herb, particularly effective in inhibiting bacteria. Generally, Chuanxiong has a good inhibitory effect on Escherichia coli, Shigella, Proteus, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. It is also an excellent remedy for common illnesses such as typhoid fever. By mastering the usage of Chuanxiong, many diseases encountered in daily life can be addressed.
2. Sedative Effects
Many people may not be particularly familiar with Chuanxiong and its sedative properties. Research indicates that Chuanxiong has a significant sedative effect on the central nervous system. This is due to its inhibitory effect on brain activity in animals, particularly at lower doses. However, it also has excitatory effects, so the use of Chuanxiong should be guided by a physician and not used blindly.
3. Radioprotective Effects
For those unfamiliar with radiation, Chuanxiong possesses radioprotective properties. It contains water-soluble crude agents that provide good protection against radiation exposure, especially beneficial for older adults.
02
Usage and Dosage of Chuanxiong
Boiled Egg
6 grams of Chuanxiong, 12 grams of Danshen (Salvia miltiorrhiza), and 2 eggs. Boil Chuanxiong, Danshen, and eggs together in water. After the eggs are cooked, remove the shells and boil for a while longer, then eat the eggs and drink the soup. This can be used for scanty menstruation or menstrual pain.
Soup
10 grams of Chuanxiong, half a fish head, and 1 green onion. Use oil and salt as needed. Clean and cut the green onion into sections, and prepare the fish head. Heat oil in a pan, lightly fry the fish head, add appropriate water, then add Chuanxiong. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 40 minutes, add the green onion, bring to a boil again, and season with salt. This soup can invigorate blood and regulate menstruation.
Decoction
For headaches (blood stasis type): 6 grams of Chuanxiong, 3 grams of Honghua (Carthamus tinctorius), and an appropriate amount of green tea. Boil these ingredients together and take the decoction.
For coronary heart disease (Qi deficiency and blood stasis type): 5 grams each of Chuanxiong and Danshen, and 10 grams of Wujia Pi (Acanthopanax gracilistylus). Decoction for oral administration.
Contraindications
Chuanxiong should be avoided in cases of Yin deficiency with excess heat, excessive menstruation, or bleeding disorders. It is contraindicated for pregnant women.
【Disclaimer】: This article is sourced from the internet, and the copyright belongs to the original author. Please indicate the source when reprinting. Sharing this article is for the purpose of dissemination and learning exchange, and does not hold responsibility for the views expressed in the article. The various dietary therapy methods, prescriptions, and remedies mentioned are for reference and learning purposes only; non-professionals should not use them blindly!
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