1. Aliases
Huangniu Xiang, Guoshan Xiang, Rolling Earth Dragon, Shandou Gen, Bu Gu Xiao, Chicken Feet Xiang, Transparent Earth Dragon, and Agarwood Xiang.
2. Plant morphology
Short shrub, about 30 centimeters tall. The roots are thick and robust, with a yellow brown outer skin that is easy to peel off. The branches, leaves, and inflorescences are covered with star shaped hairs. Leaves alternate; Leaves ovate or rectangular in shape, apex pointed or blunt, base rounded and slightly heart-shaped, entire or serrated, with 3-4 pairs of lateral veins, and the lowest pair shooting out from the base, forming a 3-pointed shape with the midrib; The petiole is densely covered with star shaped hairs. Panicle inflorescence; Flowers unisexual, light green, monoecious; Bracts split, lobes linear, with glands at the top; The male flowers are small, clustered in the upper part of the inflorescence, with round petals and about 20 stamens; Female flowers usually grow several times at the base of the inflorescence, with sepals about 4 millimeters long, petals absent, and styles 4-lobed. The outer layer of the capsule is covered with rust colored pubescence. The flowering period is in April, and the fruiting period is from May to June.
3. Origin distribution
Born on mountain slopes and hills, equivalent to arid areas. Distributed in Guangxi, Guangdong, Fujian and other places.
4. Harvesting and processing
It can be harvested all year round, with roots removed, aboveground parts and fibrous roots cleaned, washed, and sun dried.
5. Characteristics of medicinal herbs
Thin cylindrical shape, often curved but not straight. Cut the product into short sections of 2.5-4 centimeters, with a diameter of 0.3-0.8 centimeters. The surface is grayish yellow to grayish brown, with thick and floating rough cork skin, longitudinal wrinkles, and protruding fibrous root marks. The cork skin is easily peeled off into fragmented powder. Fragile and prone to breakage, with a yellow cross-section, uneven surface, and fibrous texture. The air is slightly fragrant, with a bitter and astringent taste. It is best to have thick, yellow, and fragrant roots.
6. Nature, taste, and meridian tropism
Warm in nature, with a spicy and bitter taste. Return to the Stomach Meridian, Large Intestine Meridian, and Liver Meridian.
7. Effect and function
Regulating Qi, relieving pain, dispelling wind and dampness, relaxing muscles and activating collaterals. It belongs to the category of regulating qi medicine.
8. Clinical applications
Dosage 6-15 grams, decoct or soak in wine; Apply an appropriate amount externally, grind and adjust. Used to treat stomach pain, gastrointestinal bloating, rheumatic pain, and injuries caused by falls and blows.
9. Pharmacological research
It has the effects of regulating qi and relieving pain such as woody incense, as well as the therapeutic effects of preventing rheumatism and pain such as self-defense. It is effective when used alone and is often used in compound formulas.
10. Chemical composition
Contains amino acids and organic acids. Reactions of saponins, coumarin, alkaloids, and flavonoids.
11. Taboos for use
There is a small toxin, and the symptoms of poisoning are similar to croton. It should not be taken in excess or for a long time. Pregnant women should use with caution.
The content of the article is for clinical reference only. Non professionals in traditional Chinese medicine are not allowed to try medication.