Qi Cao
Holotrichia diomphalia bates
โฏ TCM Properties
Breaks Blood and Dispels Stasis; Disperses Swelling and Dissipates Nodules; Alleviates Pain; Resolves Toxicity; Promotes Lactation
Botanical Description
Qi Cao is the dried larva of the scarab beetle Holotrichia diomphalia Bates or related Holotrichia species (Scarabaeidae), large white grubs that live in soil feeding on plant roots and decaying organic matter across East Asia. The larvae are collected from cultivated fields in summer, killed in boiling water, and dried in the sun. The body contains proteins, amino acids, fatty acids, and chitinous material; modern analysis identifies fibrinolytic and antitumor peptides. In traditional Chinese medicine, Qi Cao (also called Qi Zao or Qi Cao Chong) is salty, slightly warm, and toxic, entering the liver channel; it invigorates the blood, dissipates blood stasis, brightens the eyes, and removes nebula (corneal opacity), used for traumatic injury, post-traumatic blood stasis, abdominal masses, and certain eye disorders involving stasis. Contraindicated in pregnancy.
Dosage
| Form | Amount | Frequency | Duration | Population | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| decoction | 6-15g | Daily | โ | โ | โ |
Cultural & Historical Context
Traditional Chinese Uses
Qi Cao (some traditions, thistle-related herb) is a cooling herb used in Chinese medicine to cool the Blood and stop bleeding, particularly from Heat patterns. It is applied for nosebleeds, coughing up blood, and hematuria from Blood Heat, as well as for external wounds. It has antiparasitic applications in historical texts and is used for its cooling, resolving properties in inflammatory conditions.
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.