Xuan Fu Hua
Inula japonica Thunb.
โฏ TCM Properties
Descends Qi; Dissolves Phlegm; Promotes Urination; Stops Vomiting
Western Herbalism Properties
Botanical Description
Inula japonica Thunb. (Asteraceae) is a perennial herb 30-70 cm tall native to East Asia, with erect stems, alternate lanceolate to oblong leaves with clasping bases, and terminal corymbs of bright golden-yellow radiate capitula 2.5-4 cm across. The dried flower heads, known as Xuan Fu Hua in Chinese medicine, are harvested in summer and autumn as they open, then sun-dried. In TCM, Xuan Fu Hua is bitter, acrid, and salty in flavor and slightly warm in nature, entering the Lung, Stomach, Spleen, and Large Intestine channels; it directs Lung qi downward, transforms phlegm, stops vomiting, and is one of the few flowers in the materia medica that descends rather than ascends.
Dosage
| Form | Amount | Frequency | Duration | Population | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| decoction | 6-15g | Daily | โ | โ | โ |
Cultural & Historical Context
Traditional Chinese Uses
Xuan Fu Hua (inula flower) is a warm, bitter, pungent herb with a strong downward-directing action on Lung and Stomach Qi. It is the primary herb for cough with copious phlegm from cold or warm conditions, and for nausea, hiccup, and belching from rebellious Stomach Qi. Unlike many Phlegm-transforming herbs, it works regardless of whether the underlying pattern is cold or warm-type, making it broadly applicable in respiratory and digestive formulas. It is typically wrapped in gauze when decocting to prevent floating hairs from irritating the throat.
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.