Single Herb Glossary
Qián Hú 前胡
| Pharmaceutical name | Peucedani Radix peucedanum root, hogfennel root "before barbarians" |
| Category | Transform Phlegm Heat |
| Key Properties | Directs Qi Downward Assists dissemination of LU Qi (especially Exterior pathogen), Directs Fire downward (dissolve Phlegm) |
| Properties | Bitter Acrid Slightly Cool |
| Tropism | LU |
| Actions & Indications | 1) Directs Qi Downward & Dispels Phlegm (Cough/Wheeze) 2) Disperses & Scatters Wind-Heat |
| Dosages | 3-9g |
| Contraindications (TCM) | Cough due to fire from Yin Deficiency, or cough & wheezing associated with cold, thin mucus. |
| Contraindications (Western) | |
| Chemical Composition | Nodakenin, nodakenetin |
| Pharmacological Effects | • Expectorant: Decoction at 1 g/kg showed marked expectorant effects in anesthetized cats; also had long duration of action • Antiplatelet: nodakenin and nodakenetin have marked inhibitory effects on platelet aggregation in vivo • Antibiotic: inhibitory effect against some influenza viruses and dermatophytes • Cardiovascular: administration of herb preparation associated with increased blood perfusion to coronary artery and increased resistance to hypoxia; no effect on rhythm and contractility of heart |
| Herb-Drug Interactions | • Anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs: antiplatelet action, should be used with caution in patients who take anticoagulant or antiplatelet medications; may potentiate effect of drugs such as warfarin |
| Classical Formula(s) |
Ren Shen Bai Du San (Gingseng Powder to Over come Pathogenic Influences) 人參敗毒散 Shen Su Yin (GinSeng and Perilla Leaf Drink) 參蘇飲 Su Zi Jiang Qi Tang (Perilla Fruit Decoction for Directing Qi down) 蘇子降氣湯 (苏子降气汤) Xing Su San (Apricot Kernel and Perilla Leaf Powder) 杏蘇散 (杏苏散) |
This information is a reference tool for Chinese herbal studies. It is not intended to replace professional medical advice. Please consult a primary health professional if you require health advisory.