Xiao Tong Cao
Stachyurus himalaicus Hook.f. et Thoms.
โฏ TCM Properties
Clears Heat and Promotes Urination; Promotes Lactation; Drains Dampness
Western Herbalism Properties
Botanical Description
Stachyurus himalaicus Hook.f. et Thoms. (Stachyuraceae) is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to the Himalayas, southern China, and northern Indochina, reaching 3-5 m on forest margins and shaded slopes between 1000 and 3000 m. Its slender, reddish-brown branches bear alternate, ovate-lanceolate, finely serrate leaves 7-15 cm long with long-acuminate tips. Before the leaves expand in early spring, pendent, catkin-like racemes 5-10 cm long appear from the previous year's nodes, carrying many small, bell-shaped, pale-yellow flowers. The fruit is a small, fleshy berry. The pith of the stem (Xiao Tong Cao) is harvested and dried for use in traditional Chinese medicine to promote urination and lactation.
Dosage
| Form | Amount | Frequency | Duration | Population | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| decoction | 9-15g | Daily | โ | โ | โ |
Cultural & Historical Context
Traditional Chinese Uses
Xiao Tong Cao (stachyurus stem or small ricepaperplant pith) is a cool herb used to promote urination and clear Heat from the Heart channel through urination. It is used for painful urination and urinary tract discomfort from Heart or Lung Heat descending to the Bladder. As a mild diuretic, it is gentler than its relative Tong Cao (ricepaperplant pith), and is used for heat-type urinary complaints where a moderate rather than forceful action is appropriate.
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.