A cooling herb widely used in Chinese medicine for its strong ability to clear internal heat and counter toxic conditions such as infections, inflammation, and abscesses. It is especially well known in modern practice as a supportive herb in cancer treatment, where it is often paired with Ban Zhi Lian (Scutellaria barbata). It also helps with urinary tract problems and jaundice caused by excess dampness and heat.

'Clears Heat and resolves toxins' is this herb's primary and most powerful action. It means the herb counteracts pathogenic Heat and toxic accumulations in the body, which often correspond to infections, inflammation, and in modern usage, tumor growth. This is why it is widely used for sore throat, appendicitis, boils, abscesses, skin infections, and as adjunctive support in cancer treatment. In TCM oncology, tumors are often understood partly through the lens of 'toxin accumulation,' and this herb's strong toxin-resolving capacity is the basis for its extensive modern use.

'Promotes urination and relieves strangury' means the herb helps the body flush excess fluid and clear Heat from the urinary tract. 'Strangury' refers to painful, difficult urination with a burning sensation, typically seen in urinary tract infections. The herb's cold, bland nature gives it a natural draining effect on the Lower Burner, making it useful for urinary complaints, edema, and Dampness-Heat jaundice.

'Reduces swelling and disperses abscesses' refers to the herb's ability to resolve localized swelling and pus formation. It is used both internally and topically (as a fresh poultice) for boils, carbuncles, and intestinal abscesses such as appendicitis. Fresh juice can also be applied to snake bites to counteract venom toxicity.

'Invigorates Blood and stops pain' is a secondary action. Because the herb gently moves Blood, it helps relieve pain caused by Blood stasis that accompanies toxic swelling and traumatic injury.