Wiseman’s Chinese Medical Database

gǒu gǔ / 狗骨 / 狗骨 / dog's bone

Latin pharmacognostic name: Canis Os

Alternate English names:

Alternate Chinese names:

Origin: Animal

Use: medicinal

Category: Wind-damp–dispelling agents / Wind-cold-damp–dispelling agents

Properties: Sweet and slightly salty; warm; nontoxic*.

Channel entry: liver, kidney, and spleen channels.

Indications:

• Dispels wind and dampness: Wind-damp impediment (fēng shī bì) pain; limp aching lumbus and legs.
• Astringes and closes sores: Enduring diarrhea and dysentery; sores; vaginal discharge.

  Dosage & Method:

  Oral: Decoct 3–10g; 1.5–3g in powder form. Can also be steeped in wine. Topical: Grind and apply mixed.

  Notes:

  Used as a substitute for 虎骨 for preservation reasons.