Herb Herbs that dispel Wind and Dampness

Fu she

Viper snakes | 蝮蛇

Gloydius halys

TCM Properties

Temperature

Warm

Taste

Sweet

Organ Affinity

Spleen, Liver

Parts Used

whole body

TCM Actions & Uses

Traditional Chinese Medicine properties and applications of Fu she

Traditional Actions

Expels Wind and removes obstruction of Channels and Meridians.
Relieves pains and removes toxin.

Key TCM Concepts

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Fu she belongs to the 'Herbs that dispel Wind and Dampness' category. These herbs typically help treat what's called 'bi pain' (i.e. painful obstruction) in TCM. This roughly corresponds to arthritic and rheumatic conditions with pain, stiffness and numbness of the bones, joints and muscles.

 

Furthermore Fu she is Warm in nature. This means that Fu she tends 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 Fu she can help restore a harmonious balance between Yin and Yang.

 

Fu she also tastes 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. Sweet ingredients like Fu she tends 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 Fu she is thought to target the Spleen and the Liver. In TCM the Spleen assists with digestion, Blood coagulation and Fluids metabolism in 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

Rheumatism Rheumatoid arthritis Leprosy Scrofula Boils Scabies Hemorrhoids Tumors

Preparation & Dosage

Traditional and modern methods for preparing Fu she

Traditional Preparation

Remove organs and dry

Recommended Dosage

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

0.5 to 1.5 g

Safety & Contraindications

Important safety information and precautions for Fu she

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, Fu she 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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