Herb Herbs that invigorate the Blood

Meng Chong

Tabanus horseflies | 虻虫

Tabanus

TCM Properties

Temperature

Cool

Taste

Bitter

Organ Affinity

Liver

Parts Used

The dried bug

TCM Actions & Uses

Traditional Chinese Medicine properties and applications of Meng Chong

Traditional Actions

Removes Blood Stagnation so as to unblock Blood vessels and reduce abdominal masses.
Promotes heeling of injury and stops pain.

Key TCM Concepts

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Meng Chong 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 Meng Chong is Cool in nature. This means that Meng Chong tends to help people who have too much 'Heat' in their body, although with less effect than a plant that would be Cold in nature. Balance between Yin and Yang is a key health concept in TCM. Those who have too much Heat in their body are said to either have a Yang Excess (because Yang is Hot in nature) or a Yin deficiency (Yin is Cold in Nature). Depending on your condition Meng Chong can help restore a harmonious balance between Yin and Yang.

 

Meng Chong 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 Meng Chong 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 Meng Chong is thought to target the Liver. In TCM the Liver 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 Abdominal masses Prolonged lochia Stasis by traumatic injury

Preparation & Dosage

Traditional and modern methods for preparing Meng Chong

Traditional Preparation

Collect the bug and dry

Recommended Dosage

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

1-3g

Safety & Contraindications

Important safety information and precautions for Meng Chong

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, Meng Chong 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 Meng Chong

Discover traditional and modern TCM formulas that use Meng Chong as an ingredient to understand its clinical applications.

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