Herb Herbs that invigorate the Blood

Chuan Niu Xi

Cyathula roots | 川牛膝

Chuān Niú Xī

TCM Properties

Temperature

Neutral

Taste

Bitter, Sweet

Organ Affinity

Kidneys, Liver

Parts Used

Dried root

TCM Actions & Uses

Traditional Chinese Medicine properties and applications of Chuan Niu Xi

Traditional Actions

Removes Blood Stagnation and unblocks menstruation.
Improve joint pain.
Promotes urination and treats dysuria.

Key TCM Concepts

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Chuan Niu Xi belongs to the 'Herbs that invigorate the Blood' category. Like the name indicates these herbs tend to stimulate the Blood flow. In TCM they're used to help the circulation of Blood in cardiovascular conditions or menstrual irregularities as well as to treat acute pains caused by Blood Stagnation. They can also be used to treat Blood Stagnation when it causes certain tumors, cysts and hardened clots.

 

Furthermore Chuan Niu Xi is Neutral in nature. This means that Chuan Niu Xi typically doesn't affect the balance in your body. Balance between Yin and Yang is a key health concept in TCM. Eating too many "Hot" (Yang) ingredients can lead to an imbalance whereby one has a Yang Excess. The inverse is true as well: too many "Cold" (Yin) ingredients can lead to a Yin Excess. The Neutral nature of Chuan Niu Xi means that you don't have to worry about that!

 

Chuan Niu Xi also tastes Bitter and Sweet. The so-called 'Five Phases' theory in Chinese Medicine states that the taste of TCM ingredients is a key determinant of their action in the body. Bitter ingredients like Chuan Niu Xi tends 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 Sweet ingredients tend to slow down acute reactions and detoxify the body. They also have a tonic effect because they replenish Qi and Blood.

 

The tastes of ingredients in TCM also determine what Organs and Meridians they target. As such Chuan Niu Xi is thought to target the Kidney and the Liver. According to TCM, the Kidneys do not only regulate the urinary system but also play a key role in the reproductive system and the growth and aging process of the body. The Liver on the other hand is often referred as the body's "general" because it is in charge of regulating the movements of Qi and the Body Fluids. It also takes a leading role in balancing our emotions.

Common Applications

Amenorrhea Joint pain Rheumatic athralgia Blood in urine Dysmenorrhea Urinary tract infection Urinary difficulties

Preparation & Dosage

Traditional and modern methods for preparing Chuan Niu Xi

Traditional Preparation

Remove impurities, wash, cut into thin slices, and dry

Recommended Dosage

Note: The following information is provided for educational purposes only and is not meant to replace professional medical advice.

5 - 10g

Safety & Contraindications

Important safety information and precautions for Chuan Niu Xi

This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before using any herb or supplement.

Herb-Drug Interactions

Like many herbs, Chuan Niu Xi may interact with certain medications. If you are taking any prescription medications, we recommend consulting with a healthcare provider knowledgeable in herb-drug interactions.

Related Educational Resources

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