Herb Herbs that invigorate the Blood

Lu Lu Tong

Sweetgum fruits | 路路通

Liquidambar formosana

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TCM Properties

Temperature

Neutral

Taste

Bitter

Organ Affinity

Stomach, Liver

Parts Used

Dried ripe fruits

TCM Actions & Uses

Traditional Chinese Medicine properties and applications of Lu Lu Tong

Traditional Actions

Dispel Wind to promote circulation in Meridians
Promote urination
Unblock Meridians

Key TCM Concepts

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Lu Lu Tong 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 Lu Lu Tong is Neutral in nature. This means that Lu Lu Tong 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 Lu Lu Tong means that you don't have to worry about that!

 

Lu Lu Tong also tastes Bitter. 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 Lu Lu Tong tends to have a cleansing action on the body by clearing Heat, drying Dampness and promoting elimination via urination or bowel movements.

 

The tastes of ingredients in TCM also determine what Organs and Meridians they target. As such Lu Lu Tong is thought to target the Stomach and the Liver. In TCM the Stomach is responsible for receiving and ripening ingested food and fluids. It is also tasked with descending the digested elements downwards to the Small Intestine. 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

Low milk supply Irregular menstruation Scanty menstruation Traumatic injuries Allergic rhinitis Epigastric pain Abdominal distention Stiff lower back Stiff knees Nasal congestion Edema with urinary dysfunction Skin allergy Nasal allergy

Preparation & Dosage

Traditional and modern methods for preparing Lu Lu Tong

Traditional Preparation

Harvest after the fruit ripens in winter, remove the impurities, clean and dry.

Recommended Dosage

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

3-9g

Safety & Contraindications

Important safety information and precautions for Lu Lu Tong

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 Lu Tong 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

Formulas Containing Lu Lu Tong

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