Xi Xian Cao

Use of Xi Xian Cao (siegesbeckia herbs) 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: Collect the plant, remove impurities, clean and dry.

Dosage: 9-25g

Main actions according to TCM*: Dispels Wind-Dampness, strengthens the sinews and unblocks the Channels. Detoxifies.

Primary conditions or symptoms for which Xi Xian Cao may be prescribed by TCM doctors*: Joint pain Extremities numbness Extremities spasms Extremities cramp Weak legs Weak back Facial paralysis Hemiplegia Headache Dizziness Sores Skin itching Skin rashes Hypertension Irritability Insomnia Tinnitus Vertigo Poor memory

Contraindications*: This substance is contraindicated for individuals with numbness or Bi Syndrome caused by Yin/Blood or Spleen/Kidney Deficiency, Additionally, it should be used with great caution in pregnant women and children.

Key TCM concepts behind Xi Xian Cao's properties

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Xi Xian Cao belongs to the 'Herbs that dispel Wind and Dampness' category. These herbs typically help treat what's called 'bi pain' (i.e. painful obstruction) in TCM. This roughly corresponds to arthritic and rheumatic conditions with pain, stiffness and numbness of the bones, joints and muscles.

Furthermore Xi Xian Cao is Cold in nature. This means that Xi Xian Cao typically helps people who have too much 'Heat' in their body. Balance between Yin and Yang is a key health concept in TCM. Those who have too much Heat in their body are said to either have a Yang Excess (because Yang is Hot in nature) or a Yin deficiency (Yin is Cold in Nature). Depending on your condition Xi Xian Cao can help restore a harmonious balance between Yin and Yang.

Xi Xian Cao also tastes Bitter and Pungent. 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. Bitter ingredients like Xi Xian Cao tends to have a cleansing action on the body by clearing Heat, drying Dampness and promoting elimination via urination or bowel movements. On the other hand Pungent ingredients tend to promote the circulations of Qi and Body Fluids. That's why for instance someone tends to sweat a lot when they eat spicy/pungent food.

The tastes of ingredients in TCM also determine what Organs and Meridians they target. As such Xi Xian Cao 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.