Xiao Hui Xiang
Foeniculum vulgare Mill.
☯ TCM Properties
Dispels Cold and Alleviates Pain; Regulates Qi and Harmonizes the Middle Burner; Warms the Liver and Kidneys; Warms the Lower Burner and Dispels Cold
Western Herbalism Properties
Botanical Description
Foeniculum vulgare Mill. (Apiaceae) is an aromatic, tall, glaucous perennial herb native to the Mediterranean region and widely naturalized and cultivated as an annual or biennial elsewhere. From a stout, fleshy white taproot it produces erect, hollow, finely striate, branching stems 1 to 2.5 meters tall. The leaves are alternate, three- to four-pinnately divided into very fine, thread-like ultimate segments 1 to 5 cm long, the whole leaf 10 to 40 cm long with a sheathing petiole that broadens at the base. The inflorescence is a large compound umbel 5 to 15 cm across without involucral bracts, with 10 to 40 rays bearing umbellets of small, yellow, five-petalled flowers without sepals. The fruit is a dry schizocarp 4 to 10 mm long, narrowly ovoid, splitting into two ribbed mericarps; each grayish-green to brownish mericarp has five prominent longitudinal ribs and a sweet, anise-like flavor. The mature dried fruits (botanically schizocarps, commonly called seeds) constitute Xiao Hui Xiang.
Dosage
| Form | Amount | Frequency | Duration | Population | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| decoction | 3-9g | Daily | — | — | — |
Cultural & Historical Context
Traditional Chinese Uses
Deng Xin Cao (juncus pith) is a light, sweet, cold herb used primarily to clear mild heat from the Heart and Small Intestine channels. It relieves restlessness, insomnia from mild Heart heat, and the discomfort of urinary tract heat — including scanty, burning, or dark-colored urination. Though gentle and mild, it is a reliable herb for everyday heat-type restlessness and minor urinary complaints.
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.