Synonyms: Atractylodis Lanceae Rhizoma, Bai Zhu, Bei Cangzhu, Cang Zhu, Cang Zhu, Dong Cangzhu, Nan Cangzhu, Pai Chu, Shan Jing Dze (Mountain Essence), Southern Tsangshu, Tsang Chu, Tsang Shu
Family: Asteraceae or Compositae
Genus species: Atractylodes lancea (Nan Cangzhu), Atractylodes lancea var. chinensis (Bei Cangzhu), Atractylodes japonica (Dong Cangzhu), Atractylodes ovata, Atractylodes lyrata, Atractylodes lancea var. simplicifolia
Type: Perennial herb
Part Used: Rhizome
Location: Japan, Korea, Manchuria, northern China
Actions: Anhidrotic, antemetic, antibacterial, antidepressant, antidiarrheal, antihyperglycemic, anti-inflammatory, antinyctalopic, antiseptic, antisudorific, antiviral, diaphoretic, digestive, diuretic, hepatic, laxative, phytotoxic to Candida albicans, Escherichia coli, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, spleen alterative, stomachic, tonic
Indications: Abdominal distention, angina pectoris, anorexia, arthralgia, candidiasis, diarrhea, dysentery, dyspepsia, eczema, edema, Escherichia coli, excessive perspiration, flatulence, gastroenteritis, hyperglycemia, indigestion, leukorrhea, myalgia, nausea, night blindness, rheumatoid arthritis, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, vomiting
Chemicals & Nutrients: Calcium, Magnesium, Potassium
Preparation & Dosages:
Decoction: 5-10 g, in 2-3 doses
Powder: 4-8 g, in 2-3 doses
Contraindications: Dehydration.
Drug Interactions: May potentiate antidiabetic (hypoglycemic) drugs. Due to the diuretic action of this herb the following drug interactions are possible: increased risk of toxicity with anti-inflammatory analgesics; if hypokalemia occurs possible antagonism with antiarrhythmics and potentiation of muscle relaxants; antagonizes antidiabetic (hypoglycemic) drugs; may potentiate and/or interfere with antihypertensives; may potentiate lithium therapy; when taken with corticosteroids there is a risk for hypokalemia; may potentiate other diuretics and increase the risk of hypokalemia.
Safety: Safe when used appropriately.