Find Out More About Popular Chinese Herbs
Popular Chinese Herbs
Some of the most common Chinese herbs and preparations include:
- Bupleurum
- Catnip
- Chamomile
- Citrus and Pinellia combination
- Dandelion
- Echinacea
- Ginger
- Ginseng
- Lemongrass
- Licorice root
- Ligusticum
- Linum
- St. John’s Wort
- Mulberry leaves
- Tian ma gou teng wan
Bupleurum
Bupleurum is mainly used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat fever, headaches, and other aches and pains.
The herb contains an alkaloid called berberine which has been shown to have antibacterial effects. Bupleurum also contains other compounds that have shown to have anti-inflammatory effects.
Catnip
Catnip, also known as Nepeta cataria, is a plant in the mint family that is native to Europe and Asia. The plant has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for many ailments. It has been used as an antiseptic, antispasmodic, and sedative.
Chamomile
Chamomile is an herb that has been used in the treatment of a variety of conditions since the time of ancient Egyptians.
The plant is a flowering plant that belongs to the daisy family, and it contains anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties which may help with skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis. Chamomile also helps with anxiety and sleep disorders.
Citrus and Pinellia combination (Er Chen Tang)
Citrus and Pinellia is the primary formula for cold damp phlegm. It’s usually combined with other formulas, or has single herbs added to it, to direct it to various parts of the body.
Dandelion
Dandelion is a plant that has been used for centuries to promote health and well-being. It is also known as the “cure-all” plant because it has been used to treat so many different ailments over the years, however there really is no ‘cure-all’.
As used in Chinese herbal medicine, dandelion is a highly effective natural diuretic and may be used for detoxifying purposes. It is also commonly used to aid/ease digestive disorders, settle a sore tummy, and when fighting a cold.
Echinacea
Echinacea is a herb that has been used traditionally in many cultures to treat various conditions. It is also often used in treating the common cold, flu and other respiratory infections or symptoms of these.
The health benefits of Echinacea are numerous and it may be one of the most widely used herbs when it comes to boosting your immune system.
It may also possess antiviral and antibiotic properties.
Ginger
Ginger is a spice and herb that has been used in many traditional medicines. It has many health benefits, including reducing inflammation and soothing the stomach. Ginger can be consumed in different ways, such as raw or cooked into dishes or brewed into tea.
Ginseng
It is known to have many health benefits, including reducing stress and improving cognitive function.
The ginseng root is the part of the plant that is used for medicinal purposes, and it has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries.
Lemongrass
Lemongrass is a plant with a long history of use in traditional medicine. Lemongrass can be found in many homes as an essential oil to be used for aromatherapy, cooking, or as an ingredient in herbal remedies.
It may be used for the treatment of colds or inflammation
Lemongrass may help to soothe the stomach and intestines
Lemongrass can be found in many homes as an essential oil to be used for aromatherapy, cooking, or as an ingredient in herbal remedies.
Licorice root
Licorice root is a plant that has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries to treat various ailments. It contains high levels of glycyrrhizin which is the active ingredient in licorice. Glycyrrhizin may be used to help with various types of skin conditions, and respiratory symptoms.
Ligusticum
Ligusticum (Chinese lovage) is a member of the carrot family. It has pungent and warm properties, and is associated with the liver, gallbladder and pericardium meridians. It may be used to assist with symptoms of irregular menstrual periods, dysmenorrhea, and headaches.
Linum
Linum is known to help with digestive issues and bloating, and a range of stomach problems. Linum is also known to be an appetite suppressant, which may be helpful in managing weight gain.
St. John’s Wort
St. John’s Wort has been used for centuries to treat symptoms of depression, anxiety, and insomnia.
The most abundant compound found in St. John’s wort is hypericin which has been shown to be effective in treating these conditions by affecting serotonin levels in the brain.
Tian Ma Gou Teng Wan
Tian Ma Gou Teng Wan is a preparation consisting of calms the liver and suppresses the strong Yang to stop the wind, nourishes Yin to clear away heat. Tian Ma (Gastrodia Tuber) and Gou Teng (Uncaria Hook Vine) are the chief herbs in the formula; they both calm Liver and extinguish Wind. Shi Jue Ming (Abalone Shell) calms the Liver and restrains Yang.
