Pokeberry root (SHANG LU)-Phytolacca acinosa-Radix Phytolaccae

Pokeberry root (SHANG LU)

Phytolacca acinosa Roxb. (Fam. Phytolaccaceae)

Pharmaceutical Name:

Radix Phytolaccae

Botanical Name:

Phytolacca acinosa Roxb. or Phytolacca americana L. (Fam. Phytolaccaceae)

Common Name:

Pokeberry root

Part Used:

Dried root

Radix Phytolaccae is produced chiefly in the provinces of Henan, Anhui, and Hubei. The root is collected in autumn, cleaned and sliced into pieces, dried in sunlight or shade, and used after being processed with vinegar.

Properties  Taste & Meridians:

Bitter in flavor, cold in property, slightly toxic, acts on the Lung, Kidney, and Large Intestine channels.

Functions:

Causes drastic purgation, induces polyuria, reduces swelling and nodulation.

Indications & Combinations:

1. For anasarca and ascites with constipation and oliguria, Radix Phytolaccae is used with Rhizoma Alismatis (Ze Xie), Semen Phaseoli Calcarati (Chi Xiao Dou), Sclerotium Poriae Cocos (Fu Ling), and Semen Arecae (Bing Lang) in “The Decoction for Diuresis.”

2. For swelling and nodules, Radix Phytolaccae is mashed for topical application.

Dosage and administration:

5–10 g. Appropriate quantity for external application.

Precautions:

1. Contraindicated for edema due to Deficiency of the Spleen.

2. Contraindicated in pregnant women.

3. Slightly toxic.

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