BLUE ATRACTYLODES & PHELLODENDRON
Cang Zhu/Huang Bo (Er Miao San)

 

atractylodes lancea & Phellodendron amurense

 

 

Cang Zhu

bitter, acrid powerfully parches and dries Dampness, expels Wind-Damp

Huang Bo

bitter, cold drains Damp-Heat from the lower body, cools deficiency Heat


Major therapeutic action
Clears Fluid accumulation and Heat from the lower body.

 Dosage
The typical proportion when added to a constitutional formula is 6:1 formula to addition (15 grams in 75- 90 grams of formula). If a stronger effect is desired more can be added. When used alone the dose is three grams twice daily.

Indications
*  For a number of problems in the lower body, when accompanied by concentrated urine and a yellow greasy tongue coat. These include inflammations of the reproductive system (such as vaginitis, pruritus
vulvae, moist eczema in the groin), discharges like yellow leucorrhoea
*  Fluid and heat lodged in the joints, causing redness, swelling and heat in the lower limbs and inflamed joints (lumbar spine, knees, ankles, toes). also used for gout.
*  Disorders with numbness or weakness.

Cautions and contraindications
Caution in patients with symptoms of malar flush, heat in the palms and soles, afternoon or low grade fevers, insomnia, night sweats, and a red dry tongue with little or no coat.
None noted

Combinations
*  With Huang Lian Jie Du Tang for acute gout.