Spikenard, Chinese spikenard (GAN SONG)-Nardostachys jatamansi-Radix et Rhizoma Nardostachyos

Spikenard, Chinese spikenard (GAN SONG)

Nardostachys jatamansi DC. (Fam. Valerianaceae)

Pharmaceutical Name:

Radix et Rhizoma Nardostachyos

Botanical Name:

Nardostachys chinensis Batal. or Nardostachysjatamansi DC. (Fam. Valerianaceae)

Common Name:

Spikenard, Chinese spikenard

Part Used:

Dried root and rhizome

Radix et Rhizoma Nardostachyos is produced chiefly in the provinces of Sichuan, Gansu, and Qinghai. The plant is collected in spring and autumn. After the soil and hairy rootlets are removed, the root is dried in shade and cut into pieces.

Properties  Taste & Meridians:

Pungent and sweet in flavor, warm in property, acts on the Spleen and Stomach channels.

Functions:

Promotes the flow of Qi, relieves pain, induces appetite, and tonifies the Spleen.

Indications & Combinations:

1. For distension and pain in the chest and abdomen, anorexia, and stomachache due to Stagnation of Qi caused by invasion of Cold, it is used with Radix Aucklandiae (Mu Xiang) and Fructus Citri Medica (Xiang Yuan).

2. For toothache and swelling of the feet.

Dosage and administration:

3–6 g, decocted in water for an oral dose. Appropriate quantity for external application.

Precautions:

None noted.

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