Polygala root (Yuanzhi)
Polygala tenuifolia Willd. (Fam. Polygalaceae)
Pharmaceutical Name: Radix Polygalae
Botanical Name: 1. Polygala
tenuifolia Willd.; 2. Polygala sibirica
L. (Fam. Polygalaceae)
Common Name: Polygala root, Thinleaf milkwort root.
Source of Earliest Record: Shennong
Bencao Jing.
Part Used & Method for Pharmaceutical
Preparations: The roots are dug in spring or autumn. After the fibrous
roots have been removed, the roots are cleaned in water and dried in the sun.
Properties & Taste: Pungent, bitter
and slightly warm.
Meridians: Lung and heart.
Functions: 1. To calm the heart and
soothe the mind; 2. To resolve phlegm and clear the orifices (sense organs).
Indications & Combinations:
1. Insomnia and forgetfulness. Polygala
root (Yuanzhi) is used with Ginseng (Renshen) and Grass-leaved sweetflag
(Shichangpu) in the formula Buwang San.
2. Palpitations and restlessness.
Polygala root (Yuanzhi) is used with Wild jujube seed (Suanzaoren) and Dragon's
bone (Longgu).
3. Turbid phlegm disturbing the heart
manifested as mental disorders and unconsciousness. Polygala root (Yuanzhi)
is used with Grassleaved sweetflag (Shichangpu) and Curcuma root (Yujin).
4. Cough with excessive thick sputum or
sputum that is difficult to expectorate. Polygala root (Yuanzhi) is used
with Apricot seed (Xingren), Platycodon root (Jiegeng) and Licorice root
(Gancao).
5. For
carbuncles and other skin infections and for painful breast swelling, its
powder can be taken alone or with yellow rice wine, or mixed with rice wine for
external application.
Dosage: 3-10 g, decocted in water for
an oral dose. Proper amount for external use.
Cautions & Contraindications: Use
cautiously in patients with peptic ulcers and gastritis.
0 Comment:
Post a Comment