Shang Lu - Poke Root
TCM Materia Medica
Shang Lu TCM Herb Classifications and Usages
The TCM herb "shang lu" which in english is "poke root", is categorized within the "herbs that drain downward" functional grouping. It is thought to enter the kidney, large intestine, spleen and urinary bladder channels and exhibits bitter (ku) and cold (han) taste/temperature properties.
Dosages and preparations will vary according to each individual and the overall approach of a formula, but generally this herb has the following dosage and/or preparation guidelines:
- Dosage: 3-9g
Of many possible clinical applications, it may be considered to influence the following issues/symptoms:
- Drives out water through the urethra and anus - edema associated with severe constipation and urinary difficulty.
- Reduces sores and carbuncles (topically).
Shang Lu has some precautions to be considered (see our precautions list).
- Avoid during Pregnancy.
As noted above, shang lu is within the herbs that drain downward functional group. All the herbs in this category are listed below.
(truncated intro "... purgatives - constipation from interior-heat or interior-cold (both are interior excesses). moist laxatives - often nuts or seeds, lubricates the intestines; mild in nature - elderly or weakness from febrile disease or from child birth. h…)".
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