Xu Duan - Japanese Teasel Root

TCM Materia Medica

Xu Duan TCM Herb Classifications and Usages

The TCM herb "xu duan" which in english is "japanese teasel root", is categorized within the "herbs that tonify yang" functional grouping. It is thought to enter the kidney and liver channels and exhibits acrid, bitter (ku) and warm (wen) 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: 6-21g

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

  • Tonify liver and kidney, strengthen sinews and bones - lower back and/or knee weakness and pain, stiff joints.
  • Tonify without causing stagnation.
  • Stops uterine bleeding, calms the fetus - bleeding during pregnancy, threatened miscarriage.
  • Promote blood circulation, alleviate pain, generate flesh - traumatic injuries in the lower back and legs, external conditions such as sores.

While it may not always be included depending on the manufacturer or herbalist making the formula, xu duan is generally included in the following 4 formulas:

ViewGu Zhi Shu Song Wan (Osteoporosis Tablets)

For bone disorders includeing osteoporosis and osteopenia. May help reduce or prevent further bone loss.

ViewJin Gu Die Da Wan (Tendon and Bone Injury Healing)

Bruising, sprains, swelling from soft tissue injuries. Broken or bruised bones. For post surgery recovery. For any other type of acute trauma to the body.

ViewXi Guan Jie Bi Tong Wan (Knee Joint Pain Relief)

Arthritis from damp heat in Chinese Medicine terms. Knee issues with kidney and liver systems involvement. Lower body pain and/or inflammation - hips, knees, ankles, toes especially when the pain m…

ViewZhuang Gu Guan Jie Wan (Invigorate Bone and Joint Pills)

Damp and Cold bi-syndromes - arthritis (osteo primarily), joint pain, muscles aches that is aggravated with cold and/or damp weather - weakness of the knee, pain in lower back, general weakness, pain…

As noted above, xu duan is within the herbs that tonify yang functional group. All the herbs in this category are listed below.

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