Zi Wan
Aster tataricus L. f.
โฏ TCM Properties
Moistens the Lungs and Descends Qi; Resolves Phlegm and Stops Cough; Warms the Lungs and Stops Cough; Descends Qi
Western Herbalism Properties
Botanical Description
Aster tataricus (Tatarian aster) is a tall, robust herbaceous perennial in the Asteraceae family, growing 1-1.5 m tall, native to grasslands, meadows, and forest margins of northeastern China, Korea, Japan, Mongolia, and the Russian Far East. Its rootstock is a short, knotty, horizontal rhizome bearing dense clusters of slender, twisted, purplish-brown fibrous roots that constitute the medicinal Zi Wan. The erect, ribbed, finely hairy stems bear alternate leaves: basal leaves long-petioled, elliptic-spatulate, 20-40 cm long, with toothed margins, withering by flowering time; stem leaves smaller, lanceolate, sessile. Numerous showy radiate flower heads 2.5-4 cm across, with violet-blue to lavender ray florets and yellow disc florets, are arranged in flat-topped corymbose panicles in late summer and autumn (POWO; Wikipedia).
Dosage
| Form | Amount | Frequency | Duration | Population | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| decoction | 6-15g | Daily | โ | โ | โ |
Cultural & Historical Context
Traditional Chinese Uses
Zi Wan (tatarian aster root) is a classic Lung herb recognized throughout TCM history for its warming yet moistening properties. It transforms phlegm and redirects Lung Qi downward to stop coughing, and remains appropriate for both acute and chronic coughs of various types โ hot or cold, deficient or excess. Its reliable efficacy and non-drying nature make it one of the most widely applicable herbs for respiratory 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.