Herb Herbs that invigorate the Blood

Mo Yao

Myrrh | 没药

Commiphora myrrha

TCM Properties

Temperature

Neutral

Taste

Bitter

Organ Affinity

Spleen, Heart, Liver

Parts Used

Dried resin of the tree

TCM Actions & Uses

Traditional Chinese Medicine properties and applications of Mo Yao

Traditional Actions

Disperse Blood Stagnation
Relieve pain
Reduce swelling
Promote tissue and skin growth

Key TCM Concepts

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

 

Mo Yao 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 Mo Yao 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 Mo Yao is thought to target the Spleen, the Heart and the Liver. In TCM the Spleen assists with digestion, Blood coagulation and Fluids metabolism in the body. In addition to regulating Blood flow, the Heart is believed to be the store of the 'Mind' which basically refers to someone's vitality. 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

Wounds Sores Ulcers Carbuncles Traumatic injuries Irregular menstruation Painful menstruations

Research Studies

Scientific research and clinical studies on Mo Yao

The formulation of myrrh may be safe, well tolerated, and effective for treating fascioliasis.1

Myrrh proved to be safe and very effective in treatment of schistosomiasis haematobium and mansoni infections.2

Sources:

1. Massoud A, El Sisi S, Salama O, Massoud A. (2001). Preliminary study of therapeutic efficacy of a new fasciolicidal drug derived from Commiphora molmol (myrrh). Am J Trop Med Hyg. , 65(2):96-9.

2. Abo-Madyan AA, Morsy TA, Motawea SM. (2004). Efficacy of Myrrh in the treatment of schistosomiasis (haematobium and mansoni) in Ezbet El-Bakly, Tamyia Center, El-Fayoum Governorate, Egypt. J Egypt Soc Parasitol. , 34(2):423-46.

Preparation & Dosage

Traditional and modern methods for preparing Mo Yao

Traditional Preparation

Once extracted from the tree, dry the resin

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 Mo Yao

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, Mo Yao 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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