Single Herb Glossary
Cao Dou Kou 草豆蔻
| Pharmaceutical name | Alpiniae katsumadai Semen |
| Category | Aromatic that Transform Dampness |
| Key Properties | Warms the middle jiao Mobilizes Qi Dries turbid dampness |
| Properties | Acrid Warm Aromatic |
| Tropism | SP, ST |
| Actions & Indications | 1) Dries dampness, warms Middle Jiao |
| Dosages | 3-6g crush before decocting, add last 10min |
| Contraindications (TCM) | Yin or Blood deficiency |
| Contraindications (Western) | |
| Chemical Composition | Essential oil, alpinetin, 7 -hydroxy-5-methoxyflavanone, cardamonin, 2,4-dihydroxy-6-methoxychalcone |
| Pharmacological Effects | • Antibiotic: decoction has inhibitory effect in vitro against S. aureus, Bacillus dysenteriae, and E. coli • Gastrointestinal: low dose decoction has stimulating effect on intestines, while a large dose has an inhibiting effect |
| Herb-Drug Interactions | |
| Classical Formula(s) |
Si Shen Wan (Four-Miracle Pill) 四神丸 Fei Er Wan (Fat Baby Pill) 肥兒丸 Jian Pi Wan (Strenghten the Spleen Pill) 健脾丸 Zhen Ren Yang Zang Tang (True Man's Decoction to Nourish the Organs) 真人養臟湯 |
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.