Herb Herbs that dispel Wind and Dampness

Shen Jin Cao

Ground pine | 伸筋草

Lycopodium japonicum

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TCM Properties

Temperature

Warm

Taste

Bitter, Pungent

Organ Affinity

Spleen, Kidneys, Liver

Parts Used

Stems and leaves

TCM Actions & Uses

Traditional Chinese Medicine properties and applications of Shen Jin Cao

Traditional Actions

Dispel Wind-Damp in joints
Soothe tendons
Promote circulation in Meridians

Key TCM Concepts

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Shen Jin Cao belongs to the 'Herbs that dispel Wind and Dampness' category. These herbs typically help treat what's called 'bi pain' (i.e. painful obstruction) in TCM. This roughly corresponds to arthritic and rheumatic conditions with pain, stiffness and numbness of the bones, joints and muscles.

 

Furthermore Shen Jin Cao is Warm in nature. This means that Shen Jin Cao 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 Shen Jin Cao can help restore a harmonious balance between Yin and Yang.

 

Shen Jin Cao 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 Shen Jin Cao 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 Shen Jin Cao is thought to target the Spleen, the Kidney and the Liver. 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. 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

Stasis by traumatic injury Stiff back due to hemiplegia Stiff joint due to hemiplegia

Preparation & Dosage

Traditional and modern methods for preparing Shen Jin Cao

Traditional Preparation

Harvest when the stems and leaves are lush in the summer and autumn, remove impurities, and dry in the sun.

Recommended Dosage

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

6-15g

Safety & Contraindications

Important safety information and precautions for Shen Jin Cao

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, Shen Jin Cao 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 Shen Jin Cao

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