Herb Listings
Gan Sui / Kansui Root, Lit. "Sweet Process" | |||
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Taste: Bitter, Sweet • Temperature: Cold • Category: Downward Draining • Sub Category: Cathartic | |||
Dosage1.5-3g decoction, 0.3-1g powder |
Actions1. Drains water downward & drives out congested fluid: for draining severe accumulation of fluid in the chest & abdomen. Also for generalized edema, facial edema, & abdominal distention. This is a violent, cathartic herb that causes one to pass water anally.2. Clears heat & reduces swelling: used topically for swollen, painful, nodular skin lesions due to damp-heat. The herb is most appropriately used during the early stages of this disorder. Herbs that clear heat & reduce toxicity should be given orally at the same time. |
MeridiansKidney, Large Intestine, Lung |
CautionsThe use of this herb is limited to severe patterns of excess in robust patients. Contraindicated during pregnancy. May be incompatible with gan cao & may antagonize yuan zhi. Gan sui is toxic & side effects include nausea, vomiting, palpitations, abdominal pain, backache, & hematuria. |