Name

Function

Taste

Channels

Contraindication

Chen Pi

(Tangerine Peel)

Regulates Qi in middle jiao (ab disten, belching etc)
Prevents stasis/rebellious qi
Dries damp & transform phlegm

Acrid
Warm
Bitter
Aromatic

LU
SP
ST

Zhi Shi

(immature bitter orange)

Breaks up stag Qi, reduces accumulation
Directs qi ↓, unblocks bowels
Transform phlegm & expels focal distention
HBP
Stag in Chest/Upper Back

Bitter
Acrid
Slightly cold

LI
SP
ST

Xiang Fu

(cyperus)

Spreads & regulates LVR Qi
Regulates menses & alleviates Px
Upper Ab Px

Acrid
Slightly bitter/cold
Neutral

LVR
SJ

Mu Xiang

(Costus Root)

Promotes movement of qi & alleviates Px
Adjust/Regulates qi in Intestines
Strengthens SP & prevents stasis
Px in ParaUmbilical

Acrid
Bitter
Warm

GB
LI
SP
ST

Yin Xu
Depleted Fluids

 Chuan Lian Zi

(Sichuan Chinaberry)

Promotes the movement of qi & stops Px
Clears heat, dries damp, regulates qi & alleviates Px
Kills parasites & stops Px
Lower Ab
Flank Px

Bitter
Cold
Slightly Toxic

BL
LIV
SI
ST

SP/ST Xu