Herbology Overview of Ascending and Descending Herbs

• Ascending and Descending Properties in Herbs

  • The concept of ascending and descending refers to the direction of the herb's action.

  • Herbs can move qi upwards (ascending) or promote downward movement (descending).

• The Importance of Regulation in Herbology

  • Herbology aims for a balance in treatment; it is not sufficient to stimulate (gas pedal) without controlling (brake) the qi influx.

  • The combination ensures that qi is regulated and does not rise too quickly.

  • Quick rises in qi can lead to conditions such as high blood pressure, dizziness, headaches, and tinnitus.

Bitter Orange and Blood Pressure Regulation

• Bitter Orange (Citrus Aurantium)

  • Mentioned as a fruit associated with increasing blood pressure.

  • Clinical observations note it can have varying effects depending upon patient sensitivity.

  • Faster reaction (days to weeks) for sensitive individuals versus longer (weeks or months) for less sensitive individuals.

Herb Directionality and Actions

• Understanding Ascending vs. Descending Functions in Herbs

  • Herbs affecting the upper body (headaches) generally have an ascending action.

  • Herbs promoting bowel movement or treating lower body issues often have a descending action.

  • Example: The connection between herb action and anatomical location is vital for understanding treatment approaches.

Various Citrus Fruits in Herbology

• Distinctions Between Unripe and Ripe Citrus

  • Jüe (Ju Feng) refers to the immature (unripe) bitter orange used for different therapeutic purposes compared to Juke (ju ripe) used when fully matured.

  • Jike is primarily used for the upper digestive tract (esophagus, stomach).

  • Jüke works more with large intestine functions categorically related to lower digestive tract issues.

Overview of Buddha's Hand (Fo Shou) Herb

• Buddha's Hand Characteristics

  • Strongly aromatic citrus fruit with no edible flesh, primarily used for its fragrance and medicinal properties.

  • Used for soothing liver and regulating qi, fighting against liver qi stagnation.

• Applications and Indications

  • Helps with digestive ailments such as gas, bloating, and phlegm elimination.

  • Notable for its drying properties, which require caution in patients with yin deficiency.

Xiang Yuan (Fragrant Yuan) Herb

• Overview of Xiang Yuan

  • Pungent, slightly bitter, and sour in nature.

  • Primarily serves to soothe the liver and harmonize qi.

  • Used in conjunction with Fo Shou to enhance effects on digestion and phlegm regulation.

Mu Xiang Description and Applications

• Mu Xiang (Fragrant Wood)

  • Pungent, bitter, and warm nature, focused on the digestive tract (stomach, large intestine).

  • Primarily targets stagnation and pain in the middle jiao.

  • Utilized to enhance digestion and prevent side effects associated with tonifying herbs.

Xiang Fu and its Applications

• Xiang Fu (Fragrant Herb)

  • Known as the sacred herb for gynecology, promoting regular menstruation and treating dysmenorrhea due to its effects on liver qi and blood.

  • Mentioned as an effective treatment for conditions linked to qi stagnation.

Summary of Yen Hu Suo Herb

• Yen Hu Suo (Yan Hu Suo)

  • Recognized as a potent TCM painkiller for blood stasis induced pain.

  • Primarily indicated for various internal organ pain, particularly in conditions of qi stagnation.

  • The dosage varies, with 3–10 grams in decoction generally used while powdered applications occur at lower amounts.