Single Herb Glossary
Fā Bàn Xià 法半夏
| Pharmaceutical name | Pinelliae Rhizoma preparatum pinellia rhizome “half summer” |
| Category | Transform Phlegm-Cold |
| Key Properties | Acrid for Opening, Slippery for Directing Rebellious Qi Downward, and Bitter for Drying Best used for Thin Phlegm or Dampness as well as Rebellious Stomach Qi |
| Properties | Acrid Warm Toxic |
| Tropism | LU, SP, ST |
| Actions & Indications | 1) Dries Dampness, Transforms Phlegm, and Causes Rebellious Qi to Descend 2) Directs Rebellious Qi Downward and Stops Vomiting 3) Dissipates Nodules and Reduces Clumps |
| Dosages | 3-9g (only the prepared herb is for internal use) |
| Contraindications (TCM) | Extreme caution in patients with dry cough from Yin Deficiency, sore throat from fire excess, Bleeding or hot Phlegm |
| Contraindications (Western) | May cause allergic reactions: redness and excruciating itch throughout entire body |
| Chemical Composition | Homogentisic acid, homogentisic acid glucoside, 3,4-dihydroxybenzaldehyde, 3,4-dihydroyxybenzaldehyde diglucoside, choline |
| Pharmacological Effects | • Antitussive: oral or intravenous administration has marked and prolonged antitussive effects in cats; duration of action is approximately 5 hours • Antiemetic: administration of herb processed with ginger or alumen demonstrated marked antiemetic effects; such preparations were especially effective in relieving nausea and vomiting induced by chemicals; though exact mechanism of action is unclear, probably due to effect the central nervous system • Antineoplastic: administration in rats associated with inhibitory effect on growth of cancer cells in liver |
| Herb-Drug Interactions | • Incompatible with Fu Zi, Wu Tou, and Cao Wu |
| Classical Formula(s) |
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.