Back to previous page Search again ↑

Latin pharmacognostic name: Phytolaccae Radix

Alternate English names: pokeweed root

Alternate Chinese names: 当陆 dāng lù; 章柳根 zhāng liǔ gēn

Kingdom: Plant

Origin in PRC Pharmacopoeia: Phytolacca acinosa Roxb.; Phytolacca americana L. (PRC Pharmacopoeia)

Origin (other sources): Phytolacca acinosa Roxb. [= P. esculenta van Houtte]; Phytolacca americana L.

Use: Medicinal

Category: Draining-precipitant agents / Drastic water-expelling agents

Properties: Bitter; cold; toxic.

Channel entry: Lung, spleen, kidney, and large intestine channels.

Indications:

• Precipitates and disinhibits water: Water swelling and drum distension.
• Disperses swelling, disperses binds, and resolves toxin: Toxin swelling of welling-abscesses and sores.

Dosage & Method: Oral: 5–10g in decoctions; also used externally.

Warnings: This agent is toxic; it is contraindicated in conditions of vacuity and in pregnancy.

Quality: Best are large white slices with annular markings and farinaceous texture.

Product Area: Hénán, Guǎngxī.

Back to previous page Search again