Yin Chai Hu
Stellaria dichotoma L. var. lanceolata Bge.
β― TCM Properties
Clears Deficiency Heat; Clears Childhood Nutritional Impairment Heat; Cools the Blood
Western Herbalism Properties
Botanical Description
Stellaria dichotoma var. lanceolata (lanceleaf stitchwort) is a tufted perennial herb in the Caryophyllaceae family, native to dry, sandy, grassland and steppe habitats of northern China, Mongolia, and Siberia, growing 15-30 cm tall. From a stout, twisted, longitudinal-furrowed, pale yellow to brownish taproot 15-40 cm long arise numerous slender, dichotomously branching, finely pubescent stems. The opposite leaves are linear-lanceolate, 1-2.5 cm long, sessile, with entire margins and prominent midrib, narrower than in the typical variety. The small white star-shaped flowers, 7-9 mm across, have five deeply two-cleft petals, five sepals, and ten stamens; they are borne singly on slender pedicels in dichotomously branched cymes. The fruit is a small ovoid capsule (POWO; Wikipedia).
Dosage
| Form | Amount | Frequency | Duration | Population | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| decoction | 6-15g | Daily | β | β | β |
Cultural & Historical Context
Traditional Chinese Uses
Lou Lu (globe thistle root) is a cold, bitter herb used to clear Heat toxin from the Blood level, reduce swellings and abscesses, and stimulate breast milk production. It is applied for mastitis, breast swelling, and insufficient lactation, as well as for swollen and inflamed sores, carbuncles, and lymph node swellings from Heat toxin accumulation. Its Blood-moving properties contribute to its effectiveness in conditions involving obstruction and inflammation.
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.