10 G GR GRAM 商陆 SHANG LU RADIX PHYTOLACCAE ROOT OF PHYTOLACCA ACINOSA

Property Bitter, pungent, cold, toxic; large intestine, lung, and kidney meridians entered. Actions Expel water by catharsis, induce diuresis, relieve swelling and dissipate nodulation in topical application. Indications A. Edema, tympanites Being bitter and cold with the tendency of descending, it can free urination and defection to discharge water, and excels in treating the excess syndrome of edema, tympanites, constipation and difficulty in micturition. It is often combined with diuresis-inducing and edema-alleviating herbs such as Ze Xie and Fu Ling Pi, as in Shu Zao Yin Zi from Ji Sheng Fang, and can also be used singly or cooked with carp and Chi Xiao Dou. B. Sores and abscess It has the action of relieving swelling and dissipating nodulation, and removing toxicity when being used topically. For sores and initial abscess, its fresh root is pounded with proper amount of salt and used externally. Dosage and Administrations Decoct 5~10 g. Proper dosage is for topical administration. It should be processed with vinegar to weaken its toxins when taking orally. Cautions It is contraindicated to pregnancy.