Chuanxiong (川芎), the dried rhizome of the plant Ligusticum chuanxiong, is primarily produced in Sichuan. It is harvested in summer when the nodes on the stem are prominently protruding and slightly purplish. After removing the soil, it is sun-dried and then dried in a kiln, followed by the removal of the fibrous roots. It is sliced and used raw. This herb has a pungent taste, a warm nature, and is associated with the liver, gallbladder, and pericardium meridians. Chuanxiong is known for its ability to invigorate blood circulation, promote qi flow, dispel wind, alleviate pain, and resolve dampness. It is commonly used internally to treat headaches, dizziness, rheumatic pain, chest and rib pain, traumatic swelling and pain, dysmenorrhea, irregular menstruation, cold-induced spasms, carbuncles, and postpartum abdominal pain due to blood stasis. Let’s explore the efficacy and proper usage of Chuanxiong!
Dispelling Wind and Alleviating Pain
This effect is not only applicable to men but also to women. It can be used to treat headaches caused by colds or rheumatic pain. Combining it with Chrysanthemum (菊花) or Peppermint (薄荷) enhances its effectiveness, especially for those suffering from wind-cold conditions, where the improvement is more pronounced. It can also be combined with Fangfeng (防风) and Baizhi (白芷) for significant results.
Promoting Qi Flow and Relieving Stagnation
For patients with cholecystitis, there may be pain or distension in the upper abdomen. In such cases, consider combining Chuanxiong with Chaihu (柴胡) or Huangqin (黄芩) to alleviate the pain. For abdominal distension and pain caused by gastritis, it can be paired with Dandelion (蒲公英) or Mu Xiang (木香) for particularly good results.
Calming the Nervous System
Chuanxiong is a traditional Chinese medicine that has a very positive effect on the human central nervous system. It not only nourishes neurons and improves the function of the central nervous system but also enhances the activity of brain cells, calms the nerves, stabilizes emotions, and reduces symptoms of anxiety and depression. Additionally, when individuals are extremely excited or anxious, taking Chuanxiong promptly can significantly alleviate these symptoms.
Proper Ways to Consume Chuanxiong
Chuanxiong Beef Stew
Chuanxiong can be used not only as a medicinal herb for various diseases but also as a health food. Typically, Chuanxiong can be stewed with beef. First, wash the beef, blanch it in boiling water, then place it in a pot. Add appropriate amounts of scallions and ginger, followed by 10 grams of Chuanxiong and some red dates, and stew. Add a small amount of edible salt for seasoning before serving.
Chuanxiong with Scallops
Chuanxiong pairs well with scallops. They can be cooked together. In this preparation, you need to first boil 10 grams of Chuanxiong with Bai Shao (白芍) in water for flavor. Then, peel and cut the loofah into strips, wash the wood ear mushrooms, remove the tender meat from the scallops, and finally add the prepared ingredients into the broth made with Chuanxiong, cooking them together with your favorite seasonings.
Chuanxiong with Snails
To prepare this dish, first gather Chuanxiong, snails, ginger slices, scallion segments, a tablespoon of cooking wine, a teaspoon of salt, appropriate amounts of monosodium glutamate, and a little sesame oil. Soak the Chuanxiong until soft and slice it. Clean the snails, remove the shells and entrails, and slice them. Then, combine the Chuanxiong, snails, scallion segments, ginger slices, cooking wine, salt, monosodium glutamate, and sesame oil in a pot, add an appropriate amount of water, bring to a boil, and then simmer for about 20 minutes until cooked. This dish has the effect of invigorating blood circulation, promoting qi flow, and resolving stasis.
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