Yuan Hua
Daphne genkwa Sieb. et Zucc.
☯ TCM Properties
Drains Water and Expels Phlegm-Fluids; Expels Phlegm and Stops Cough; Kills Parasites and Resolves Toxicity
Botanical Description
Daphne genkwa Siebold & Zucc. (Thymelaeaceae) is a deciduous shrub 0.3-1 m tall native to China and Korea, with slender erect branches bearing opposite or sub-opposite oblong-lanceolate leaves and producing dense clusters of fragrant, lilac to violet four-lobed salverform flowers along the previous year's wood before the leaves emerge in spring. The unopened or just-opened flower buds are harvested in early spring, gently dried in the shade, and traditionally processed with vinegar before use. In TCM, Yuan Hua is acrid and bitter in flavor, warm in nature, and toxic, entering the Lung, Spleen, and Kidney channels; it drives out water accumulation, eliminates phlegm, and is used externally to kill parasites and treat skin lesions.
Dosage
| Form | Amount | Frequency | Duration | Population | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| decoction | 6-15g | Daily | — | — | — |
Cultural & Historical Context
Traditional Chinese Uses
Yuan Hua (lilac daphne flower bud) is a warm, toxic herb that drains water from body cavities and expels Phlegm. It is used for severe fluid accumulation in the chest and abdomen — similar to Gan Sui and Jing Da Ji — and for Phlegm obstruction causing edema and respiratory difficulty. It is also used topically for scabies and other parasitic skin conditions. Due to its toxicity, it requires strict professional supervision, careful dosing, and processing to reduce harm. It is contraindicated with licorice root.
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.