Synonyms: Cyperi Rhizoma, Cyperus, Hsiang-Fu-Tzu, Nut Grass, Nutsedge, Suo Cao, Xiang Fu-Zi
Family: Cyperaceae
Genus species: Cyperus rotundus
Part Used: Root and rhizome (rootlets removed)
Location: America, Asia, Australia, Europe, India
Actions: Analgesic, anthelmintic, antibacterial, antihypertensive, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, antituberculotic, antitussive, astringent, carminative, demulcent, diaphoretic, diuretic, emmenagogue, galactogogue, lithotriptic, liver alterative, nervine, sedative, sialagogue, stimulant, stomachic, tonic, uterosedative, vermifuge, weight loss aid
Indications: Amenorrhea, angina, angina pectoris, bronchitis, cholera, convulsion, cough, debility, diarrhea, dysentery, dyspepsia, dysuria, excessive menstruation, fever, flatulence, gonorrhea, hair loss, headache, hematemesis, hematuria, hypertension, indigestion, intestinal worms, leukorrhea, menstrual cramps, menstrual disorders, nausea, obesity, painful menstruation, scabies, skin disorders, sterility, stomachache, tuberculosis, tumor, uterine inflammation, vomiting
Chemicals & Nutrients: Bioflavonoids, Calcium, Iron, Magnesium, Polyphenols, Potassium, Sodium, Starch, Sugar
Preparation & Dosages:
Decoction: 6-9 g, in 2-3 doses
Powder 5-10 g; decoction 56-112 ml
Drug Interactions: 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. Due to the antihypertensive (hypotensive) action of this herb the following interactions are possible: when taken with anesthetics an increased hypotensive effect; potentiation of antihypertensives; when taken with diuretics difficulty with diuresis and hypertension may result; antagonism of sympathomimetics.
Safety: Safe when used appropriately.