Source Processed Aconite is the root of Aconitum carmichaeli Debx., (Fam Ranuncutaceae.)
Producing Areas Sichuan, Hubei, Hunan, etc.
Properties Spicy, Sweet, Extremely Hot, Toxic
Channels Heart, Kidney, Spleen
ACTION
- Recuperates the depleted yang
For yang-exhaustion syndrome with cold clammy limbs, fatigue and sleepiness, clammy perspiration, indistinct and faint pulse. - Warms and strengthens spleen-yang and kidney-yang
For insufficiency of kidney-yang with impotence, emission, frequent micturition (urination) and edema. Also for deficiency of spleen-yang and kidney-yang with loose stool or constipation of cold type. - Expels cold and alleviates pain
For arthralgia of wind-cold-dampness type, especially for that of cold type. Also for periarthritis of shoulder joint.
Usage and Dosage
The herb is usually used externally.
Added to decoction, it should be first decocted for 30-60 minutes to reduce its toxicity.
3-15 g is used in decoction for oral use.
Note
It is pungent, hot, dry, violent and toxic. Contraindicated for pregnant women and the person with hyperactivity of yang.
It is incompatible with Banxia (Rhizoma Pinelliae), Gualou (Fructus Trichosanthis), Beimu (Buibus Fritillariae), Battan (Radix Ampélopsis) and Baiji (Rhizoma Bletillae).
It must be prepared for oral use, decocted for a long time. Excessive dosage and long administration must be avoided.
Storage
Yan Fuzi should be sealed and kept in a cool and dry place. Heishunpian, Baifupian and Huangfupian should be kept in a dry place and protected from moisture.
Description of Quality Herb
The good Yan Fuzi is big and full, greyish black with a smooth surface.
The good Heishunpian is brownish yellow, translucent and conies in similar size.
The good Baifupian is yellowish white, translucent and comes in similar size.