Use of Lu Jiao Shuang (degelatined antlers) in TCM

Please note that you should never self-prescribe TCM ingredients. A TCM ingredient is almost never eaten on its own but as part of a formula containing several ingredients that act together. Please consult a professional TCM practitioner, they will be best able to guide you.

Preparation: Produced in the spring and autumn seasons, the glue substance is boiled out of the ossified antlers, the pieces of antler are then removed and dried. Crush before use.

Dosage: 9-15g

Main actions according to TCM*: Warms the Kidneys and strengthens the Kidney Yang. Stop bleeding by its astringent action.

Primary conditions or symptoms for which Lu Jiao Shuang may be prescribed by TCM doctors*: Leucorrhea Frequent urination Enuresis Abnormal uterine bleeding Sore bleeding

Contraindications*: Not recommended for patients with Empty Fire due to Yin Deficiency.

Key TCM concepts behind Lu Jiao Shuang's properties

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Lu Jiao Shuang belongs to the 'Tonic herbs for Yang Deficiency' category. Tonic herbs are used for patterns of Deficiency, when one lacks one of the 'Four Treasures' (Qi, Blood, Yin and Yang). Yang Tonics are generally used in combination with a small amount of Yin tonics. If Yin is deficient, neither Qi nor Yang herbs alone will be effective. The most common symptoms associated with Yang Deficiency are low libido and impotence. It is worth mentioning that another very effective remedy against Yang Deficiency is regular exercise.

Furthermore Lu Jiao Shuang is Warm in nature. This means that Lu Jiao Shuang tends to help people who have too much 'Cold' in their body, although with less effect than a plant that would be Hot in nature. Balance between Yin and Yang is a key health concept in TCM. Those who have too much Cold in their body are said to either have a Yin Excess (because Yin is Cold in nature) or a Yang Deficiency (Yang is Hot in Nature). Depending on your condition Lu Jiao Shuang can help restore a harmonious balance between Yin and Yang.

Lu Jiao Shuang also tastes Salty. The so-called 'Five Phases' theory in Chinese Medicine states that the taste of TCM ingredients is a key determinant of their action in the body. Salty ingredients like Lu Jiao Shuang tends to have a draining effect in the body because they clear accumulations, remove Phlegm and soften hard lumps.

The tastes of ingredients in TCM also determine what Organs and Meridians they target. As such Lu Jiao Shuang is thought to target the Kidney and the Liver. According to TCM, the Kidneys do not only regulate the urinary system but also play a key role in the reproductive system and the growth and aging process of the body. The Liver on the other hand is often referred as the body's "general" because it is in charge of regulating the movements of Qi and the Body Fluids. It also takes a leading role in balancing our emotions.