Codonopsis(党参)

Latin Plant Name :Codonopsis Pilosulae

Pinyin Mandarin Name:Dang Shen

Common English Name:Codonopsis

Part of Plant Used:Root

Nature:Neutral

Taste:Sweet

Meridians Entered:Spleen, Lungs

Common Usages:

This herb is used in formulas to treat fatigue with poor appetite where there is poor internal metabolism (TCM: stimulates function of Spleen and Stomach to normalize movement of fluids; tonifies Spleen and Lungs to metabolize and disperse Qi); also used for chronic diarrhea (TCM: chronic Spleen Qi deficiency); and to treat symptoms of easy bruising and prolapse of Organs and tissues such as uterus and hemorrhoids.

Traditional Usages and Functions:

Tonifies Middle Burner and benefits Qi; tonifies Lungs; strengthens and tonifies Qi and nourishes fluids; builds Blood.

Common Formulas Used In:

Tang Gui and Indigo

Processing Required:

-

Remarks:

Codonopsis is often substituted for ginseng, although it is not as strong. Some practitioners consider codonopsis to be more damp than ginseng, thus requiring more care in use, especially with a serious collapse of Qi and Yang, a condition where ginseng shines as a treatment.

Cautions in Use:None.