Ingredient Animal — whole (全虫 quán chóng)

Wu Gong

Centipede · 蜈蚣

Scolopendra subspinipes mutilans L. Koch · Scolopendra

Also known as: Tiān Lóng (天龙), Wú Gōng (吴公), Bǎi Jiǎo (百脚),

Wu Gong (Centipede) plant

Images shown are for educational purposes only

Centipede is a potent animal-based substance used in Chinese medicine primarily to stop spasms and convulsions, relieve severe or stubborn pain, and break up toxic swellings. Because it is toxic, it is always used in small, carefully measured doses under professional supervision. It is especially valued for conditions that resist ordinary treatment, such as chronic headaches, post-stroke paralysis, and deeply lodged joint pain.

Category Liver-calming and Wind-extinguishing herbs (平肝息风药) Wind-extinguishing and spasm-relieving herbs (息风止痉药)
Therapeutic focus Neurological Health Pain Management Joint and Muscle Health Skin Heat and Toxic Swellings

TCM Properties

Temperature

Warm

Taste

Acrid / Pungent (辛 xīn)

Channels entered

Liver

Parts used

Animal — whole (全虫 quán chóng)

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Educational content • Consult qualified TCM practitioners for diagnosis and treatment

What This Ingredient Does

Every ingredient has a specific set of actions — here's what Wu Gong does in the body, explained in both everyday and TCM terms

Therapeutic focus

In practical terms, Wu Gong is primarily used to support these areas of health:

Neurological Health Pain Management Joint and Muscle Health Skin Heat and Toxic Swellings

TCM Actions

In TCM terminology, these are the specific therapeutic actions that Wu Gong performs to restore balance in the body:

Extinguishes Wind and Stops Spasms Unblocks the Channels and Alleviates Pain Resolves Toxicity and Dissipates Nodules

How these actions work

Extinguishes Wind and stops spasms (息风止痉): Wu Gong has a powerful ability to calm internal Liver Wind, the TCM concept that explains involuntary movements like tremors, spasms, and convulsions. Its pungent, warm, and strongly penetrating nature allows it to quickly suppress spasmodic activity. This is the primary reason it is used in conditions involving seizures, childhood convulsions, tetanus, and epilepsy. It is considered stronger than its common partner Quán Xiē (scorpion) for this purpose.

Unblocks the collaterals and stops pain (通络止痛): As an insect-type substance, Wu Gong has a uniquely powerful ability to bore into and open up blocked channels and collaterals (the fine network of pathways in the body). This makes it especially effective for stubborn, deeply lodged pain that ordinary herbs cannot reach, including chronic joint pain from Wind-Damp obstruction, post-stroke numbness and paralysis, and severe, recurrent headaches or migraines.

Attacks toxin and dissipates nodules (攻毒散结): Wu Gong uses its own toxic nature to counteract other toxins in the body, a principle known in TCM as 'using poison to attack poison.' It can break apart toxic accumulations such as abscesses, scrofula (lymph node swellings), carbuncles, and venomous snake bites. Modern clinical use has extended this action to include certain tumors and cancerous growths, where it is used alongside other anticancer herbs.

Patterns Addressed

In TCM, symptoms cluster into recognizable patterns of disharmony. Wu Gong is used to help correct these specific patterns.

Why Wu Gong addresses this pattern

Wu Gong enters the Liver channel with a pungent, warm, and strongly penetrating nature. Liver Wind stirring internally causes involuntary movements such as spasms, tremors, and convulsions. Wu Gong's powerful wind-extinguishing action directly suppresses this internal Liver Wind. Its nature as an insect substance gives it a rapid, burrowing quality that reaches deep into the body to calm the agitation. It is one of the strongest substances available for this pattern, often paired with Quán Xiē (scorpion) and Jiāng Cán (silkworm) for enhanced effect.

A practitioner would look for one or more of these signs

Seizures

Convulsions and seizures from Liver Wind

Epilepsy

Epileptic episodes

Muscle Spasm

Spasms, lockjaw, opisthotonos

Tremors

Childhood convulsions or tremors

Commonly Used For

These are conditions where Wu Gong is frequently used — but only when they arise from the specific patterns it addresses, not in all cases

Arises from: Liver Wind stirring internally

TCM Interpretation

In TCM, epilepsy is most commonly understood as a disorder of Liver Wind combined with Phlegm obstruction. When the Liver loses its ability to maintain smooth flow, internal Wind can be generated, producing sudden involuntary movements, loss of consciousness, and convulsions. Often, accumulated Phlegm blocks the orifices of the Heart (the organ governing consciousness in TCM), contributing to the sudden loss of awareness. The Liver's role in storing Blood and anchoring the spirit is central to understanding why emotional stress, overexertion, or constitutional weakness can trigger episodes.

Why Wu Gong Helps

Wu Gong is one of the most powerful Wind-extinguishing substances in the materia medica. It enters the Liver channel directly and has a uniquely deep, penetrating quality that allows it to suppress internal Liver Wind rapidly and forcefully. Its pungent, warm nature gives it a strong dispersing action that reaches throughout the body's channels. Pharmacological research has confirmed that centipede extracts have anticonvulsant effects. It is typically combined with Quán Xiē (scorpion) in formulas like Zhǐ Jìng Sǎn, where the two substances work together to greatly amplify the antispasmodic effect.

Also commonly used for

Seizures

Childhood convulsions and tetanus-related spasms

Facial Paralysis

Post-stroke facial deviation and Bell's palsy

Hemiplegia

Post-stroke hemiplegia with numbness and motor impairment

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Chronic joint pain from Wind-Damp obstruction

Scrofula

Lymph node swellings and tuberculous lymphadenitis

Tetanus

Lockjaw and opisthotonos from tetanus

Carbuncles

Toxic sores, abscesses, and boils

Snake Bites

Venomous snake bites with swelling and pain

Whooping Cough

Pertussis with spasmodic coughing

Ingredient Properties

Every ingredient has an inherent temperature, taste, and affinity for specific channels — these properties determine how it interacts with the body

Temperature

Warm

Taste

Acrid / Pungent (辛 xīn)

Channels Entered

Liver

Parts Used

Animal — whole (全虫 quán chóng)

Dosage & Preparation

These are general dosage guidelines for Wu Gong — always follow your practitioner's recommendation, as dosages vary based on the formula and your individual condition

Standard dosage

3–5g (in decoction), or 1–3 whole centipedes

Maximum dosage

Do not exceed 5g (decoction) or 3 whole centipedes per day without close practitioner supervision. Some clinical reports have used up to 6 centipedes daily for short courses in cancer treatment under medical monitoring.

Dosage notes

Wu Gong is most commonly taken as ground powder in capsules or mixed into other preparations, rather than in standard decoction, because its active components are partly heat-sensitive and the powdered form is more potent gram-for-gram. When taken as powder, the typical dose is 0.6 to 1g per day (approximately 1 centipede ground up), which is much lower than the decoction dose of 3 to 5g. For convulsions and spasms, it is often paired with Quan Xie (scorpion) for synergistic antispasmodic effect. For stubborn Wind-Damp pain and headaches, moderate doses combined with channel-opening herbs are typical. For treating toxic sores and nodules externally, it can be ground into powder and applied as a paste. Lower doses should be used for children, the elderly, and those with weaker constitutions. Higher doses within the safe range may be used for acute, severe Wind conditions, but always for short courses only.

Preparation

Wu Gong is most effective and commonly used as ground powder (研末) taken in capsules or stirred into warm water, rather than decocted. When used in decoction, the standard method is to remove the head and feet, cut or break into segments, and decoct normally with other herbs. For powder form, the centipede is roasted until crisp, then ground finely. Wine-processed centipede (酒炙蜈蚣) involves moistening the segments with rice wine before gentle roasting, which is said to enhance its Blood-moving and channel-opening actions.

Processing Methods

In TCM, the same ingredient can be prepared in different ways to change its effects — here's how processing alters what Wu Gong does

Processing method

Remove head and feet, break into segments, moisten with rice wine, then dry-bake over low fire until dry.

How it changes properties

Wine processing enhances the herb's ability to penetrate channels and unblock collaterals. The warming, moving nature of wine guides the herb more strongly into the blood vessels and joints. Toxicity is somewhat reduced compared to raw use.

When to use this form

Preferred for chronic pain conditions, especially Wind-Damp Bì syndrome with joint stiffness, post-stroke paralysis, and stubborn headaches where deeper channel penetration is needed.

Common Ingredient Pairs

These ingredients are traditionally combined with Wu Gong for enhanced therapeutic effect

Quan Xie
Quan Xie 1:1 (equal parts by weight, commonly ground into powder together)

This is the most famous insect drug pair in TCM. Both Quán Xiē (scorpion) and Wú Gōng (centipede) extinguish Wind, stop spasms, unblock collaterals, and stop pain. Together they amplify each other's effects far beyond what either achieves alone. Quán Xiē has a 'bone-penetrating' quality while Wú Gōng has a rapid 'channel-rushing' quality, covering both deep structural and broad network-level obstruction.

When to use: Used for Liver Wind patterns causing spasms, convulsions, or seizures, for stubborn headaches and migraines, for chronic joint pain from Wind-Damp obstruction, and for facial paralysis from Wind in the channels. This pair forms the core of Zhǐ Jìng Sǎn.

Jiang Can
Jiang Can Wú Gōng 1-2 pieces : Jiāng Cán 6-10g

Jiāng Cán (silkworm) and Wú Gōng are both insect substances that extinguish Wind and stop spasms. Jiāng Cán adds a Phlegm-transforming dimension that Wú Gōng lacks, addressing Wind-Phlegm patterns where both involuntary movement and Phlegm obstruction are present. Together they treat the Wind and the Phlegm simultaneously.

When to use: Facial spasm, facial paralysis, or childhood convulsions where Wind-Phlegm is the underlying pathomechanism. Also used for scrofula and nodules where Phlegm and toxin combine.

Tian Ma
Tian Ma Tiān Má 10g : Wú Gōng 1-2 pieces (3-5g)

Tiān Má (gastrodia) calms the Liver and extinguishes Wind from a nourishing, gentle direction, while Wú Gōng forcefully penetrates and opens blocked channels. Together they address both the root (Liver dysfunction generating Wind) and the branch (channel obstruction causing symptoms). Tiān Má moderates Wú Gōng's intensity while extending its reach to the head.

When to use: Stubborn headaches, migraines, and dizziness from Liver Wind with channel obstruction. Also used in facial spasm formulas.

Di Long
Di Long Dì Lóng 10-15g : Wú Gōng 1-2 pieces (3-5g)

Dì Lóng (earthworm) clears Heat from the Liver, extinguishes Wind, and unblocks the channels. Wú Gōng is warm and forcefully opens obstructed collaterals. Together they balance warming and cooling approaches to channel obstruction, and their combined channel-opening power is greater than either alone. Dì Lóng also helps counterbalance Wú Gōng's warmth.

When to use: Post-stroke hemiplegia, numbness and paralysis of limbs, chronic Bì syndrome. Particularly useful when there is both channel obstruction and some Heat.

Comparable Ingredients

These ingredients have overlapping uses — here's how to tell them apart

Quan Xie
Wu Gong vs Quan Xie

Both extinguish Wind, stop spasms, unblock collaterals, and attack toxin. However, Quán Xiē (scorpion) is mild in temperature (considered neutral to slightly warm) while Wú Gōng is decisively warm and more forceful. Wú Gōng's wind-extinguishing and toxin-attacking power is considered stronger, but it is also more toxic and drying. When both are needed, they are paired together. When a gentler approach is preferred, Quán Xiē alone may suffice.

Jiang Can
Wu Gong vs Jiang Can

Both are insect substances that extinguish Wind and stop spasms. Jiāng Cán (silkworm) is milder, less toxic, and also transforms Phlegm and disperses Wind-Heat, making it more suitable for Wind-Phlegm patterns or cases with Heat signs. Wú Gōng is far stronger for acute, severe spasms and deep channel obstruction but carries more toxicity risk.

Gou Teng
Wu Gong vs Gou Teng

Both calm Liver Wind, but they work very differently. Gōu Téng (uncaria) is cool and gentle, clearing Liver Heat and calming hyperactive Liver Yang. It is safe enough for long-term use and suited for milder Wind patterns with Heat signs. Wú Gōng is warm, toxic, and forceful, reserved for acute or severe Wind conditions that gentler herbs cannot control.

Common Substitutes & Adulterants

Related species and common adulterations to be aware of when sourcing Wu Gong

The most important classical warning, from the Lei Gong Pao Zhi Lun, is the risk of confusion with the millipede (千足虫, Qian Zu Chong, also called Ma Lu 马陆). Millipedes look superficially similar but have a white fleshy head, a more cylindrical body, and two pairs of legs per body segment rather than one. The Lei Gong Pao Zhi Lun explicitly warns that millipede is highly toxic and can be lethal, and must never be used as a substitute. The correct species for medicinal use is Scolopendra subspinipes mutilans L. Koch (少棘巨蜈蚣). Other centipede species that may be substituted include larger tropical species or smaller wild-caught specimens of different subspecies, which may have different venom profiles and potency. Quality fraud may include mixing in broken or incomplete specimens, juveniles (much smaller and less potent), or specimens that have lost their heads during collection (and thus lack the identifying red-head quality marker). Artificially coloured specimens have also been reported.

Educational content — always consult a qualified healthcare provider or TCM practitioner before using any ingredient.

Toxicity Classification

Classical Chinese pharmacopoeia toxicity rating for Wu Gong

Toxic

Wu Gong contains venom-derived bioactive compounds including histamine-like substances, haemolytic proteins, peptide neurotoxins (such as SsmTX-I), phospholipase A2, and various ion channel-acting components. The venom is concentrated in the forcipule (venom claw) glands beneath the head. Symptoms of toxicity from overdose may include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhoea, dizziness, and palpitations. Severe cases have been associated with allergic reactions (skin rash, urticaria), gastrointestinal ulceration, and cardiac damage (ST-T changes on ECG). One documented case of cumulative toxicity from prolonged high-dose use (150+ centipedes over 35 days) resulted in heart damage and duodenal ulcer requiring six months of recovery. The herb is made safe through proper processing (炮制): removal of the head (which contains the venom glands) and legs is standard practice. Additional processing methods include roasting (焙), ginger-juice preparation (to enhance channel-unblocking action while reducing toxicity), vinegar processing (醋炙, to enhance antispasmodic action), and honey roasting (to protect the Stomach). Using appropriate dosages within the recommended range (typically 1 to 3 whole centipedes, or 3 to 5 grams in decoction) and proper processing are essential for safe clinical use.

Contraindications

Situations where Wu Gong should not be used or requires extra caution

Avoid

Pregnancy. Wu Gong has historically been noted to have abortifacient properties (the classical text Ming Yi Bie Lu records it can 'cause miscarriage and remove bad blood'). Its potent Blood-moving and channel-penetrating nature poses a direct risk to fetal safety. Absolutely contraindicated at any dose during pregnancy.

Avoid

Blood deficiency generating internal Wind. When spasms or tremors arise from Blood deficiency rather than excess Wind or toxin, Wu Gong's strong Wind-extinguishing and toxic nature can further deplete the body. Classical texts specifically warn against its use in this pattern.

Avoid

Known allergy to centipede or arthropod proteins. Allergic reactions including skin rashes, itching, and hives have been reported. In sensitized individuals, even processed centipede can trigger reactions.

Avoid

Excessive dosage or prolonged unsupervised use. One documented case involved a patient who consumed over 150 centipedes cumulatively over 35 days, developing gastric pain, palpitations, chest tightness, and ECG changes (ST-T changes), along with a duodenal ulcer. Recovery took six months.

Caution

Yin deficiency with internal Heat. Wu Gong is warm and pungent in nature. Using it in patients with a predominantly Yin-deficient constitution may worsen Heat signs and further damage Yin.

Caution

Patients with pre-existing liver or kidney impairment. As a toxic substance requiring hepatic and renal processing, Wu Gong should be used with particular caution and at reduced dosages in patients with compromised liver or kidney function.

Caution

Weak Spleen and Stomach. Wu Gong can irritate the gastrointestinal tract, causing nausea, stomach pain, or discomfort, especially in patients with weak digestion.

Caution

Ben Cao Jing Shu cautions against use in childhood chronic convulsions (man jing feng) with inability to speak, adult intermittent fevers not caused by miasma, abdominal masses not caused by parasites, and abscesses about to suppurate.

Classical Incompatibilities

Traditional Chinese pharmacological incompatibilities — herbs or substances to avoid combining with Wu Gong

Wu Gong does not appear on the classical Eighteen Incompatibilities (十八反) or Nineteen Mutual Fears (十九畏) lists.

Special Populations

Important considerations for pregnancy, breastfeeding, and pediatric use

Pregnancy

Absolutely contraindicated during pregnancy. The Ming Yi Bie Lu explicitly records that Wu Gong can 'cause miscarriage' (堕胎). The Ben Cao Gang Mu lists it among pregnancy-prohibited substances (妊娠禁忌). Its strong Blood-moving, channel-penetrating, and toxin-attacking properties pose direct risks of uterine stimulation and fetal harm. The Chinese Pharmacopoeia classifies it as 'prohibited for pregnant women' (孕妇禁用). There is no safe dose during pregnancy.

Breastfeeding

Wu Gong should be avoided during breastfeeding due to its toxic nature. The venom-derived bioactive compounds, including haemolytic proteins, histamine-like substances, and neurotoxic peptides, could potentially transfer into breast milk. No safety data exists for its use during lactation. If clinical necessity requires its use, breastfeeding should be temporarily suspended during the treatment period and for an appropriate washout period afterward, under the guidance of a qualified practitioner.

Children

Wu Gong has a long historical record of use in children, particularly for acute and chronic childhood convulsions (jing feng), pertussis (whooping cough), and tetanus. Classical formulas for childhood convulsions commonly include centipede. However, due to its toxicity, paediatric use requires extreme caution and careful dosage adjustment based on the child's age and weight. Typical paediatric dosages are significantly reduced: for whooping cough in children aged 1 to 2, historical reports used approximately 1.5g of powdered centipede with equal parts Gan Cao daily; for children aged 3 to 4, approximately 2g daily. All paediatric use must be under strict practitioner supervision, for short treatment courses only, and with careful monitoring for adverse reactions including allergic responses and gastrointestinal distress.

Drug Interactions

If you are taking pharmaceutical medications, be aware of these potential interactions with Wu Gong

Anticoagulant and antiplatelet medications: Centipede venom contains compounds with both platelet-aggregating and anticoagulant properties. Concurrent use with warfarin, heparin, aspirin, clopidogrel, or other blood-thinning medications could unpredictably alter coagulation parameters. Monitoring of INR and bleeding signs is advisable if co-administration is clinically necessary.

Anticonvulsant medications: Wu Gong has demonstrated anticonvulsant activity in animal studies. Combined use with pharmaceutical anticonvulsants (phenytoin, carbamazepine, valproic acid, etc.) could potentially have additive effects, requiring careful dose monitoring.

Cardiac medications: Given the documented case of cardiac toxicity (ST-T changes) with cumulative high-dose use, caution is warranted when combining with cardiac glycosides (digoxin), antiarrhythmics, or other cardioactive drugs.

Immunosuppressants: Centipede extracts have demonstrated immune-modulating effects. Combined use with immunosuppressive drugs may have unpredictable interactions on immune function.

Dietary Advice

Foods and dietary considerations when taking Wu Gong

Avoid cold, raw, and greasy foods during treatment with Wu Gong, as these can impair Spleen and Stomach function and hinder the absorption of the medicine. Given Wu Gong's warm nature and channel-penetrating properties, light and easily digestible foods are recommended. Avoid excessive alcohol consumption, as alcohol may potentiate the herb's warming and Blood-moving effects. Strong tea may be consumed if stomach discomfort occurs, as tea has traditionally been used to counteract centipede toxicity.

Botanical Description

Physical characteristics and morphology of the Wu Gong source animal

Wu Gong is not a plant but a venomous arthropod. The medicinal species is Scolopendra subspinipes mutilans L. Koch (family Scolopendridae), commonly known as the Chinese red-headed centipede or less-spined giant centipede (少棘巨蜈蚣). It has a dorsoventrally flattened, elongated body composed of 22 similar segments, typically 6 to 16 cm in length and 5 to 11 mm in width.

The head is red-brown with a nearly round head plate. A pair of antennae with 17 segments emerges from the head, along with 4 pairs of simple eyes. The most distinctive feature is a pair of modified limbs (forcipules or venom claws) beneath the head, which contain venom glands. The first body segment and head plate are golden-yellow. From the second segment onward, the dorsal surface is dark green to black-green, with the final plate being yellow-brown. The ventral surface and 21 pairs of walking legs are pale yellow, with darkened tips ending in claw-like points. The last pair of appendages has 2 sharp spines at the base.

Wu Gong is a nocturnal predator that inhabits moist, dark environments such as under rotting logs, stones, leaf litter, and in wall crevices. It feeds on small insects and their eggs. It emerges in spring and hibernates in winter. The species is widely distributed across warm and subtropical regions of East Asia.

Sourcing & Harvesting

Where Wu Gong is sourced, when it's harvested or collected, and how to assess quality

Harvesting season

Spring and summer. Farmed centipedes are typically harvested in July to August. Wild centipedes are best captured after summer rains, when they emerge from their hiding places.

Primary growing regions

The primary production region and traditional terroir (道地药材) for Wu Gong is Hubei Province (湖北), particularly around the cities of Jingzhou, Yichang, Xiaogan, Shiyan (Yunyang District), Laohekou, Xiangyang, Jingmen, and Zaoyang. These areas have long been the most important centres for both wild-harvested and farmed medicinal centipedes. Wu Gong is also found widely across Jiangsu, Zhejiang, Anhui, Henan, Hunan, Guangdong, Guangxi, Shaanxi, and Sichuan provinces. The classical text Ming Yi Bie Lu records it as originating from the river valleys of Da Wu (大吴) and the Jiangnan region south of the Yangtze.

Quality indicators

Good quality Wu Gong should be dry, complete, and straight (properly stretched on bamboo strips during drying). The body should be whole and intact without breakage. The best specimens have a red head and red legs (赤头足者良, as noted in Ming Yi Bie Lu), a dark green (black-green) body, and a golden-yellow first segment. The body should be large and long rather than small and thin. After processing, the texture should be crisp and brittle. The cross-section may show visible cracking. The smell is slightly fishy with a distinctive pungent, acrid odour. The taste is pungent and slightly salty. Common types include red-headed (most valued), green-headed (smaller, about half the size), and black-headed varieties. Specimens with yellow feet are considered inferior (as noted by Tao Hongjing: 'Yellow-footed ones are unsuitable for use'). Avoid specimens that are broken, mouldy, insect-damaged, or that have lost their head segment.

Classical Texts

Key passages from the classical Chinese medical texts that describe Wu Gong and its therapeutic uses

Shen Nong Ben Cao Jing (神农本草经)

Original: 味辛，温。主鬼注蛊毒，啖诸蛇虫鱼毒，杀鬼物老精，温疟，去三虫。生川谷。

Translation: Pungent in flavour, warm in nature. It mainly treats ghost-infusion and gu-toxin, counteracts the poisons of snakes, insects, and fish, kills demonic spirits and old essences, treats intermittent fevers (warm malaria), and expels the three types of parasitic worms. It grows in river valleys.

Ming Yi Bie Lu (名医别录)

Original: 疗心腹寒热积聚，堕胎，去恶血。生大吴川谷及江南。头足赤者良。

Translation: It treats cold-heat accumulations and gatherings of the chest and abdomen, causes miscarriage, and removes bad blood. It is found in the river valleys of Da Wu and south of the Yangtze. Those with red heads and red feet are of superior quality.

Ben Cao Gang Mu (本草纲目) — Li Shizhen's commentary

Original: 盖行而疾者，惟风与蛇。蜈蚣能制蛇，故亦能截风，盖厥阴经药也。故所主诸证，多属厥阴。

Translation: Among things that move swiftly, only Wind and snakes can compare. Since centipede can subdue snakes, it can also intercept Wind. It is fundamentally a medicine of the Jue Yin (Liver) channel. Therefore the conditions it treats mostly belong to the Jue Yin.

Yang Shi Jia Cang Fang (《直指方》) quoted in Ben Cao Gang Mu

Original: 蜈蚣有毒，惟风气暴烈者可以当之。

Translation: Centipede is toxic; only those with violent, explosive Wind conditions can withstand its use.

Historical Context

The history and evolution of Wu Gong's use in Chinese medicine over the centuries

Wu Gong was first recorded in the Shen Nong Ben Cao Jing, where it was classified as a lower-grade (下品) medicinal substance, indicating potent therapeutic action alongside significant toxicity. Its original name in the Guang Ya (广雅) dictionary was 'Wu Gong' (吴公), meaning 'Lord of Wu,' with the alternate ancient name 'Ji Ju' (蝍蛆). Other classical aliases include Tian Long (天龙, 'Heavenly Dragon'), Bai Jiao Chong (百脚虫, 'Hundred-Legged Insect'), and Bai Zu Chong (百足虫).

The understanding of centipede's medicinal actions evolved significantly over the centuries. The Shen Nong Ben Cao Jing focused on its use against 'ghost afflictions,' gu-toxin, and malaria, reflecting the shamanistic medical context of that era. The Ming Yi Bie Lu expanded its indications to include abdominal accumulations and Blood stasis. By the Song dynasty, the Sheng Ji Zong Lu recorded its use for snake-venom miasma (she zhang). It was during this period that its application for childhood convulsions became prominent.

Li Shizhen's commentary in the Ben Cao Gang Mu provided the most influential theoretical framework for understanding centipede's actions. His insight that centipede 'can subdue snakes and therefore can also intercept Wind' elegantly linked its natural predatory behaviour to its clinical actions as a Jue Yin (Liver) channel medicine. This reasoning cemented its role as a premier substance for treating Wind conditions including convulsions, spasms, and paralysis. The Lei Gong Pao Zhi Lun provided early processing guidelines, warning against confusing centipede with the toxic millipede (千足虫, Qian Zu Chong) which has a white fleshy head and can be lethal.

Modern Research

4 published studies investigating the pharmacological effects or clinical outcomes of Wu Gong

1

Comprehensive Scoping Review: Therapeutic Potential of Scolopendra subspinipes (2025)

Lee YS, Lee YJ, Ha IH. Therapeutic Potential of Scolopendra subspinipes: A Comprehensive Scoping Review of Its Bioactive Compounds, Preclinical Pharmacology, and Clinical Applications. Pharmaceuticals. 2025.

A scoping review synthesizing 45 preclinical and clinical studies on S. subspinipes found that venom-derived and whole-body compounds demonstrated a broad spectrum of activities including analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antifungal, antitumor, antithrombotic, antioxidant, anti-fibrotic, and neuroprotective effects. The venom peptide SsmTX-I, a selective Kv2.1 potassium channel blocker, showed analgesic effects comparable to morphine in rodent pain models without opioid-related side effects.

2

Venomic and Transcriptomic Analysis of Centipede Scolopendra subspinipes dehaani (Proteomic study, 2012)

Liu ZC, Zhang R, Zhao F, Chen ZM, Liu HW, Wang YJ, Jiang P, Zhang Y, Wu Y, Ding JP, Lee WH, Zhang Y. Journal of Proteome Research. 2012;11(12):6197-6212.

This study systematically characterized centipede venom using combined transcriptomic and proteomic methods. The researchers cloned 1,122 full-length cDNA sequences encoding 543 different proteins from venom glands, and purified 40 proteins and peptides. These showed diverse pharmacological properties including platelet aggregating activity, anticoagulant activity, phospholipase A2 activity, and effects on voltage-gated potassium, sodium, and calcium channels. The study provided the largest catalogue of centipede venom components with potential medical significance.

Link
3

Antitumor Activity: Cell Cycle Arrest and Apoptosis in Melanoma Cells (In vitro study, 2014)

Ma W, Liu R, Qi J, Zhang Y. Oncology Letters. 2014;8(1):414-420.

Alcohol extracts of S. subspinipes mutilans (AECS) inhibited the proliferation of A375 human melanoma cells in a dose- and time-dependent manner. The extract arrested cell cycles at S phase and induced apoptosis through the Bcl-2 pathway, with decreased Bcl-2 and increased Bak, Bax, and Bad expression. The study suggests potential value as an antitumor agent, though this remains preclinical evidence.

Link
4

Isolation and Characterization of SsmTx-I, a Specific Kv2.1 Blocker from Centipede Venom (Preclinical study, 2014)

Chen MZ, Li J, Zhang F, Liu ZH. Journal of Peptide Science. 2014;20(3):159-164.

Researchers isolated SsmTx-I, a novel 36-residue neurotoxic peptide from S. subspinipes mutilans venom. This peptide selectively blocked the voltage-gated potassium channel Kv2.1 with high potency (IC50 of 41.7 nM) while having little effect on other potassium channel subtypes. This selective ion-channel blockade is considered a key mechanism underlying centipede venom's traditional analgesic properties.

PubMed

Research on individual TCM herbs is growing but still limited by Western clinical trial standards. These studies provide emerging evidence and should be considered alongside practitioner expertise.