Single Herb Glossary
Tiān Nán Xīng (Zhì) (Dan Nan Xin) (製) 天南星
| Pharmaceutical name | Arisaematis Rhizoma preparatum prepared arisaema rhizome, jack-in-the-pulpit "star of the southern heavens" |
| Category | Transform Phlegm-Cold |
| Key Properties | Very acrid, dispersing, warm, and drying Eliminates Wind-Phlegm in the Channels and Collaterals Toxic in its raw (unprepared) form |
| Properties | Bitter Acrid Warm Toxic |
| Tropism | LV, LU, SP |
| Actions & Indications | 1) Dries Dampness & Expels Phlegm 2) Disperses Wind-Phlegm & Stops Spasms 3) Reduces Swelling & Alleviates Pain |
| Dosages | 3-9g; only the processed form is for internal use |
| Contraindications (TCM) | Caution with dry cough from Yin Deficiency or stirring of Wind from either intense Heat or Blood Def. Contraindicated during pregnancy and Dry Phlegm from Yin Def |
| Contraindications (Western) | Allergic reactions may result when skin comes in contact with herb: swelling, itching, pain; may be alleviated by topical vinegar wash; may cause drowsiness and sedation |
| Chemical Composition | ɣ-aminobutyric acid, ornithine, citrulline, arginine, glutamic acid, aspartic acid, leucine, saponins, starch, alkaloids |
| Pharmacological Effects | • Antiseizure and anticonvulsant: intraperitoneal injection of water extract in mice has preventative effects against seizures and convulsions induced by strychnine and caffeine; other studies indicated that while herb had questionable anti-seizure action, it did effectively control tremor • Sedative: intraperitoneal injection of water extract associated with marked sedative effects in mice; clinical effects included decrease in spontaneous physical activities, delayed reflexes, and prolonged sleeping time induced by barbiturates • Antineoplastic: water extract of unprocessed herb has inhibitory effect on growth of cancer cells in mice with sarcoma |
| Herb-Drug Interactions | • Sedatives: associated with marked sedative and analgesic effects; also potentiates sedative effect of barbiturates |
| Classical Formula(s) |
Qing Qi Hua Tan Wan (Clear the Qi and transform Phlegm Pill) 清氣化痰湯 Ding Xian Wan (delete Zhu Sha)(Arrest Seizures Pill) 定涎丸（減硃砂） |
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.