Name

Function

Taste

Channels

Contraindication

 Cang Zhu
(atractylodis)

Strongly dries damp, strengthen Sp (middles jiao s/s)
Expels Wind-Damp
Clears damp in lower jiao (damp-heat pouring ↓)
Induces sweating & release ext (headaches, no sweating)
Improves vision

Acrid
Bitter
Warm
Aromatic

SP
ST

Excess Sweating
Yin Xu
Caution (loose stools)

Hou Po
(Magnolia bark)

Promotes flow of qi, transform damp & resolves stag
Abdominal Distension, vomiting, diarrhea
Warms & transform phlegm, directs rebellious qi ↓

Bitter
Acrid
Warm
aromatic

LI
LU
SP
ST

Pregnancy

 Huo Xiang
(Agastache)

Aromatically transform damp
Harmonizes Middle jiao & middle jiao s/s (ab disten, vomiting etc)
Release ext & transform turbidity (summerheat)

Acrid
Slightly warm

LU
SP
ST

Yin Xu
ST fire

Sha Ren
(cardamom)

Diarrhea
Transform damp, stops middle jiao s/s
Promotes flow of qi, strengthens ST
Calms Fetus

Acrid
Warm
Aromatic

SP
ST

Yin Xu