Herb Herbs that stabilize and bind

Sang Piao Shao

Praying Mantis Egg-Cases | 桑螵蛸

Tenodera sinesis, Statilia maculata or Hierodula patellifera

TCM Properties

Temperature

Neutral

Taste

Salty, Sweet

Organ Affinity

Kidneys, Liver

Parts Used

Dried egg capsule

TCM Actions & Uses

Traditional Chinese Medicine properties and applications of Sang Piao Shao

Traditional Actions

Secure Essence and astringe urination
Tonify the Kidneys
Support Yang

Key TCM Concepts

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

 

Sang Piao Shao 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 Sang Piao Shao 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 Sang Piao Shao 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

Nocturnal emission Spermatorrhea Enuresis Urinary incontinence

Research Studies

Scientific research and clinical studies on Sang Piao Shao

Ziyin Tongbi Decoction (consisting of praying mantis egg-case) is effective and safe for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia.1

Sources:

1. Guo J, Song CS, Han Q. (2008). Clinical observation on ziyin tongbi decoction in treating benign prostatic hyperplasia. Zhongguo Zhong Xi Yi Jie He Za Zhi. , 28(12):1082-5.

Preparation & Dosage

Traditional and modern methods for preparing Sang Piao Shao

Traditional Preparation

Remove all the debris so you're left with a clean egg capsule. Dry, ideally under the sun.

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 Sang Piao Shao

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, Sang Piao Shao 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 Sang Piao Shao

Discover traditional and modern TCM formulas that use Sang Piao Shao as an ingredient to understand its clinical applications.

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