Bai Jiang Cao
Patrinia scabiosaefolia Fisch. ex Link. / Patrinia villosa (Thunb.) Juss.
☯ TCM Properties
Clears Heat and Resolves Toxicity; Expels Pus and Reduces Swelling; Invigorates Blood and Dispels Stasis; Alleviates Pain
Botanical Description
Patrinia scabiosaefolia is an erect perennial herb of the family Caprifoliaceae (formerly Valerianaceae) native to grassy slopes and forest margins throughout China, Korea, Japan and the Russian Far East. From a short, fibrous-rooted rhizome that emits a distinctive fetid, sour odour when dried, it produces slender hollow stems 70-150 cm tall. The basal leaves are pinnatifid to pinnate with a large terminal lobe, while the opposite stem leaves are deeply lobed with toothed margins. Small bright yellow flowers, each 3-4 mm across with five spreading corolla lobes and four stamens, are borne in flat-topped, much-branched terminal corymbose cymes from late summer to autumn, ripening into small dry achenes. The whole flowering plant with root is harvested in summer.
Dosage
| Form | Amount | Frequency | Duration | Population | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| decoction | 6-15g | Daily | — | — | — |
Cultural & Historical Context
Traditional Chinese Uses
Bai Jiang Cao (patrinia herb) is a cold, bitter herb that clears Heat toxin and expels pus with particular efficacy for internal abscesses. It is a primary herb for intestinal abscesses with pus formation, Lung abscesses with purulent phlegm, and pelvic inflammatory conditions. Its Blood-moving properties complement its Heat-clearing action for conditions where both infection and Blood stagnation coexist. Taken as a tea, it has historical use for postpartum pain and recovery.
Traditional American Uses
None Documented
Important Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using any herbal remedy, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or taking medications.