Tu Bie Chong
Eupolyphaga sinensis Walker; Steleophaga plancyi (Boleny)
โฏ TCM Properties
Breaks Blood and Dispels Stasis; Strengthens the Sinews and Bones; Unblocks the Channels and Collaterals; Disperses Fixed Masses
Botanical Description
Tu Bie Chong is the dried body of the female ground beetle Eupolyphaga sinensis Walker or Steleophaga plancyi (Bolivar) (Corydiidae/Polyphagidae), wingless cockroach-like insects native to China that live in dark, damp soil under stones and around old walls. The females are collected in summer, killed in boiling water, and dried whole. The body contains a complex of proteins, amino acids, unsaturated fatty acids, and fibrinolytic peptides; modern research has confirmed anticoagulant and thrombolytic activity. In traditional Chinese medicine, Tu Bie Chong is salty, cold, and slightly toxic, entering the liver channel; it breaks up blood stasis, knits broken bones and reduces swelling, and dissipates abdominal masses, used for traumatic injury with fractures, post-traumatic stasis, amenorrhea from blood stasis, and palpable abdominal masses. Contraindicated in pregnancy.
Dosage
| Form | Amount | Frequency | Duration | Population | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| decoction | 6-15g | Daily | โ | โ | โ |
Cultural & Historical Context
Traditional Chinese Uses
Tu Bie Chong (wingless cockroach, eupolyphaga) is a Blood-stasis-breaking insect substance used for conditions involving firm, fixed Blood stasis accumulations โ including abdominal masses, menstrual irregularities with clotting and pain, and traumatic injuries with significant internal bruising. Its dispersing action also extends to fractures, where it promotes healing of poorly-setting broken bones. It is toxic in excess and requires professional prescription.
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.