Atractylodes, Bai Zhu White Atractylodes, Bai Zhu 白朮Bai Zhu (TCM) Sliced White Atractylodes (Bai Zhu) (Adam, 2016) Botanical name: Atractylodes spp.Two different varieties are used in TCM:  1. A. macrocephalae (White–Bai Zhu)  2. A. lancea, A. chinensis (Dark–Cang Zhu) Parts used: Root, rhizome Temperature & Taste: Warm, dry. Bitter, sweet Classification: N. Qi Tonic Uses: 1. Tonifies Spleen, increases Qi, Clears Damp:-digestive weakness with poor appetite, indigestion, diarrhea and weakness-it can be used for Melancholy disorders associated with Damp2. Dries Damp, Promotes Urine:-Edema, fluid retention, reduced urination associated with Spleen deficiency-good for fluid swelling of the lower body-Damp-type joint and muscle Pain-Leukorrhea-‘replenishes deficient condition in the lumbar region and knees’ (Da MIng)-‘good for treating arthralgia due to attack of pathogenic Wind, Cold and Damp’. (Shen Nong Ben Cao) -useful for all Damp-Phlegm conditions associated with deficiency and Spleen weakness3. Stabilises the Exterior, Stops Sweating:-Sweating associated with deficiency-strengthens the exterior defense to prevent acute attacks of Wind-Cold or Epidemics-‘clears Wind from the skin and face, with headache and vertigo’. (Ming Yi Bie Lu) 4. Calms the Fetus, Prevents Miscarriage:-Fetal Restlessness (overactive Fetus, heavy, dragging feeling in the lower abdomen during pregnancy, weakness)-good to strengthen the mother and fetus during pregnancy-Edema and…

You must be logged in to view this content, please login. If you're not a member then Click this link to subscribe