Use of black atractylodes rhizomes (Cang Zhu) in TCM
Please note that you should never self-prescribe TCM ingredients. A TCM ingredient is almost never eaten on its own but as part of a formula containing several ingredients that act together. Please consult a professional TCM practitioner, they will be best able to guide you.
Preparation: Remove impurities, wash, moisturize, cut into thick slices and dry.
Dosage: 3 - 9 grams
Main actions according to TCM*: Dries Damp and tonifies the Spleen. Relieves the Exterior for invasion of Wind-Cold-Damp. Relieves Wind-Damp painful obstruction. Dries Damp for either Damp-Cold or Damp-Heat when combined with the correct herbs. Clears the eyes and improves sight.
Primary conditions or symptoms for which black atractylodes rhizomes may be prescribed by TCM doctors*: Rheumatic athralgia Edema Loss of appetite Abdominal distention Diarrhea Beriberi Poor eyesight Joint pain Impaired vision Blurred vision
Contraindications*: This herb should not be used by those with Qi Deficiency or Yin Deficiency with Heat.
Key TCM concepts behind black atractylodes rhizomes (Cang Zhu)'s properties
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), black atractylodes rhizomes are plants that belong to the 'Aromatic herbs that transform Dampness' category. This category of herbs resolves a TCM condition called 'Cold Damp Stagnation', especially as it affects the Stomach and Spleen. In modern medicine this often translates into symptoms such as distended chest and abdomen, lack of appetite, nausea and vomiting
As suggested by its category black atractylodes rhizomes are plants that are Warm in nature. This means that black atractylodes rhizomes tend to help people who have too much "cold" in their body, although with less effect than a plant that would be Hot in nature. Balance between Yin and Yang is a key health concept in TCM. Those who have too much cold in their body are said to either have a Yin excess (because Yin is Cold in nature) or a Yang deficiency (Yang is Hot in Nature). Depending on your condition black atractylodes rhizomes can help restore a harmonious balance between Yin and Yang.
Black atractylodes rhizomes also taste Bitter and Pungent. The so-called "five elements" theory in Chinese Medicine states that the taste of TCM ingredients is a key determinant of their action in the body. Bitter ingredients like black atractylodes rhizomes tend to have a cleansing action on the body by clearing heat, drying dampness and promoting elimination via urination or bowel movements. On the other hand Pungent ingredients tend to promote the circulations of Qi and body fluids. That's why for instance someone tends to sweat a lot when they eat spicy/pungent food.
The tastes of ingredients in TCM also determine what organs and meridians they target. As such black atractylodes rhizomes are thought to target the Spleen and the Stomach. In TCM the Spleen assists with digestion, blood coagulation and fluid metabolism in the body. The Stomach on the other hand is responsible for receiving and ripening ingested food and fluids. It is also tasked with descending the digested elements downwards to the Small Intestine.