Single Herb Glossary
Dà Jì 大戟
| Pharmaceutical name | Knoxiae/Euphorbiae Radix “big lance” |
| Category | Downward Draining |
| Key Properties | Powerfully drives pathogenic fluids Downward |
| Properties | Bitter Acrid Cold Toxic |
| Tropism | KD, LI, SP |
| Actions & Indications | 1) Drains Water Downwards & Drives Out Thin Mucus (From Chest & flank, via anus) 2) Reduces Swellings & Dissipates Nodules |
| Dosages | 1.5-3g |
| Contraindications (TCM) | CI: Pregnancy, Blood, Yin, Yang Def, excessive bleeding, historyof ulcers, upper gastrointestinal bleeding, cardiovascular disorders, kidney impairment Euphorbiae is much more toxic than Knoxiae |
| Contraindications (Western) | |
| Chemical Composition | Euphorbon, alkaloids, vitamin C, euphorbia A, B, C |
| Pharmacological Effects | • Cathartic: both water and alcohol extracts have marked cathartic effects • Antibiotic: inhibitory effect against S. aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Bacillus dysenteriae, Diplococcus pneumoniae, and β-hemolytic streptococcus |
| Herb-Drug Interactions | • Incompatible with Gan Cao (Glycyrrhizae Radix) |
| 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.