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Lian Qian Cao

Unknown

Pinyin: Lian Qian Cao Latin: Herba Glechomae
Glechoma Longtube Ground (English)

☯ TCM Properties

Category: transforming_dampness
Temperature: cold
Taste: sweet
Meridians: liver, kidney, bladder
Functions:

Clears Heat, promotes urination, alleviates cough, eliminates Stasis, reduces swellings and resolves toxicity

Western Herbalism Properties

Actions:
diureticanti-inflammatoryantimicrobial

Botanical Description

Lian Qian Cao (θΏžι’±θ‰), also called Jin Qian Cao in some regions, is Glechoma longituba (Nakai) Kuprian. (Lamiaceae), a low, creeping perennial herb closely related to and sometimes treated as Glechoma hederacea. The plant produces slender, square, rooting stems 10–30 cm long that trail along damp ground and woodland edges, bearing opposite, kidney-shaped to broadly cordate leaves with rounded-crenate margins that release a faintly minty, balsamic scent when crushed. Two-lipped tubular flowers in pale violet-blue with darker markings appear in axillary whorls in spring. The entire flowering plant is collected, washed of soil, and either used fresh or sun-dried. It is widely employed in southern China for urinary calculi, jaundice, and damp-heat conditions of the lower burner.

Dosage

Form Amount Frequency Duration Population Notes
decoction 9-15g Daily β€” β€” β€”

Cultural & Historical Context

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.