Herb Tonic herbs for Yang Deficiency

Lu Jiao Jiao

Deer antler glue | 鹿角胶

Cervus nippon or Cervus elaphus

TCM Properties

Temperature

Warm

Taste

Salty, Sweet

Organ Affinity

Kidneys, Liver

Parts Used

The horn (antlers) of the animal

TCM Actions & Uses

Traditional Chinese Medicine properties and applications of Lu Jiao Jiao

Traditional Actions

Tonify the Liver
Tonify the Kidneys
Nourish the Blood
Stop bleeding
Nourish Essence

Key TCM Concepts

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Lu Jiao Jiao belongs to the 'Tonic herbs for Yang Deficiency' category. Tonic herbs are used for patterns of Deficiency, when one lacks one of the 'Four Treasures' (Qi, Blood, Yin and Yang). Yang Tonics are generally used in combination with a small amount of Yin tonics. If Yin is deficient, neither Qi nor Yang herbs alone will be effective. The most common symptoms associated with Yang Deficiency are low libido and impotence. It is worth mentioning that another very effective remedy against Yang Deficiency is regular exercise.

 

Furthermore Lu Jiao Jiao is Warm in nature. This means that Lu Jiao Jiao 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 Lu Jiao Jiao can help restore a harmonious balance between Yin and Yang.

 

Lu Jiao Jiao also tastes Salty 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. Salty ingredients like Lu Jiao Jiao tends to have a draining effect in the body because they clear accumulations, remove Phlegm and soften hard lumps. 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 Lu Jiao Jiao 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

Impotence Spermatorrhea Abnormal uterine bleeding Hematochezia Hematuria Vomiting blood Nosebleed Blood in stools Seminal emission Cold lower back Cold knees Sore lower back Sore knees Wasting Syndrome

Preparation & Dosage

Traditional and modern methods for preparing Lu Jiao Jiao

Traditional Preparation

Solid glue prepared from the horn of the animal by decoction and concentration

Recommended Dosage

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

5 to 10 grams

Safety & Contraindications

Important safety information and precautions for Lu Jiao Jiao

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, Lu Jiao Jiao 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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