Herb Herbs for external application

She Chuang Zi

Cnidium Seeds | 蛇床子

Cnidium monnieri

TCM Properties

Temperature

Warm

Taste

Bitter, Pungent

Organ Affinity

Spleen, Kidneys

Parts Used

Seeds

TCM Actions & Uses

Traditional Chinese Medicine properties and applications of She Chuang Zi

Traditional Actions

Kill parasites
Stop itching
Dry Dampness
Warm the Kidneys
Strengthen Yang

Key TCM Concepts

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), She Chuang Zi belongs to the 'Herbs for external application' category. Like the name indicates, this category of herbs is used mostly for external application in the form of powders, pastes or ointments. As such they are used to treat trauma, inflammation, swelling, bruises, bleeding, pain and so forth.

 

Furthermore She Chuang Zi is Warm in nature. This means that She Chuang Zi tends to help people who have too much 'Cold' in their body, although with less effect than a plant that would be Hot in nature. Balance between Yin and Yang is a key health concept in TCM. Those who have too much Cold in their body are said to either have a Yin Excess (because Yin is Cold in nature) or a Yang Deficiency (Yang is Hot in Nature). Depending on your condition She Chuang Zi can help restore a harmonious balance between Yin and Yang.

 

She Chuang Zi also tastes Bitter and Pungent. 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 She Chuang Zi tends to have a cleansing action on the body by clearing Heat, drying Dampness and promoting elimination via urination or bowel movements. On the other hand Pungent ingredients tend to promote the circulations of Qi and Body Fluids. That's why for instance someone tends to sweat a lot when they eat spicy/pungent food.

 

The tastes of ingredients in TCM also determine what Organs and Meridians they target. As such She Chuang Zi is thought to target the Spleen and the Kidney. In TCM the Spleen assists with digestion, Blood coagulation and Fluids metabolism in the body. 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.

Common Applications

Genital yeast infection Genital fungal infection Impotence Infertility Vaginal discharge Sore lower back

Preparation & Dosage

Traditional and modern methods for preparing She Chuang Zi

Traditional Preparation

Collects the seeds and dries

Recommended Dosage

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

6-12g

Safety & Contraindications

Important safety information and precautions for She Chuang Zi

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, She Chuang Zi 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 She Chuang Zi

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