Herb Herbs that stabilize and bind

Ma Huang Gen

Ephedra root | 麻黄根

Ephedra sinica

TCM Properties

Temperature

Neutral

Taste

Sweet

Organ Affinity

Heart, Lungs

Parts Used

Dried root

TCM Actions & Uses

Traditional Chinese Medicine properties and applications of Ma Huang Gen

Traditional Actions

Stops sweating caused by Yin Deficiency.

Key TCM Concepts

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Ma Huang Gen belongs to the 'Herbs that stabilize and bind' category. This category of herbs is used for treating abnormal discharges and displacement of Organs. This includes conditions such as diarrhea, discharges from the vagina, penis or rectum as well as prolapse of the Uterus or rectum. It is important to note that herbs in this category only treat symptoms, so one should also use herbs to treat the underlying Deficiency.

 

Furthermore Ma Huang Gen is Neutral in nature. This means that Ma Huang Gen 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 Ma Huang Gen means that you don't have to worry about that!

 

Ma Huang Gen 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 Ma Huang Gen 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 Ma Huang Gen is thought to target the Heart and the Lung. In addition to regulating Blood flow, in TCM the Heart is believed to be the store of the 'Mind' which basically refers to someone's vitality. In addition to performing respiration, the Lungs are thought in TCM to be a key part of the production chain for Qi and the Body Fluids that nourish the body.

Common Applications

Excessive sweating Night sweats

Preparation & Dosage

Traditional and modern methods for preparing Ma Huang Gen

Traditional Preparation

Remove impurities, wash, soak in water, cut in thick slices and dry.

Recommended Dosage

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

3 - 9 grams

Safety & Contraindications

Important safety information and precautions for Ma Huang Gen

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, Ma Huang Gen 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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