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功效 〔功效〕 gōng xiào
The manner in which a medicinal acts on the body. For example, poria skin (Poriae Cutis, 茯苓皮 fú líng pí) has the action of disinhibiting water and dispersing swelling, whereas red peony has the action of moving stasis, relieving pain, cooling the blood, and dispersing swelling. Traditionally, acupuncture points were selected according to their ability to eliminate or alleviate particular disease patterns, and since the 1950s have been ascribed actions in a manner similar to medicinals. Thus, HT-7 (Spirit Gate, 神门 shén mén), traditionally said to treat heart vexation, mania and withdrawal, forgetfulness, heart palpitation and fearful throbbing, is now also said to quiet the heart and spirit, clear fire and cool provisioning, and clear heart heat.
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