Chang Shan
Dichroa febrifuga Lour.
☯ TCM Properties
Checks Malaria; Induces Vomiting to Expel Phlegm; Clears Heat
Western Herbalism Properties
Botanical Description
Dichroa febrifuga (blue evergreen hydrangea, Chinese quinine) is an evergreen shrub in the Hydrangeaceae family, growing 1-2 m tall in warm-temperate to subtropical forests of southern China, the Himalayas, and Southeast Asia. The opposite, elliptic-lanceolate to oblong, finely serrate leaves are 12-25 cm long, dark green and glabrous above, paler beneath, with a long acuminate tip. Small star-shaped flowers, white to blue or violet-blue depending on soil chemistry, are borne in flat-topped terminal or axillary corymbose cymes; each flower has 4-6 spreading petals and prominent stamens. The fruit is a bright metallic blue, fleshy, globose berry about 5 mm across containing many small seeds. The roots are stout, branching, yellowish-brown, and bitter (POWO; Wikipedia).
Dosage
| Form | Amount | Frequency | Duration | Population | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| decoction | 6-15g | Daily | — | — | — |
Cultural & Historical Context
Traditional Chinese Uses
Dan Nan Xing (bile-processed arisaema) is an arisaema rhizome that has been processed with animal bile, transforming it from a warm, drying phlegm-dissolving herb into a cool substance that specializes in clearing Phlegm-Heat and calming Wind. It is most important for conditions involving Wind and Phlegm affecting the nervous system — including stroke with loss of speech, convulsions, and epilepsy. Because of its toxicity, it requires professional use.
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.