Xiong Dan - Bear Gallbladder

TCM Materia Medica

Xiong Dan TCM Herb Classifications and Usages

The TCM herb "xiong dan" which in english is "bear gallbladder", is categorized within the "herbs that drain fire" functional grouping. It is thought to enter the gall bladder, heart and liver 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: 1-2.5g in pills and powders.

Of many possible clinical applications, it may be considered to influence the following issues/symptoms:

  • Clears heat and alleviates spasms - high fever and convulsions in febrile disease.
  • Topically to relieve fire toxicity, hot skin lesions.
  • Red, painful eyes due to liver fire.
  • Reduces swelling and pain - trauma, sprains, fracture, hemorrhoids.

As noted above, xiong dan is within the herbs that drain fire functional group. All the herbs in this category are listed below.

(truncated intro "... very cold - for high fever, irritability, thirst, delirium associated with febrile disease. qi level or yang ming level disorders. )".

All Content 1999-2024
Chad J. Dupuis / Yin Yang House
Our Policies and Privacy Guidelines
Our Affiliated Clinics