Source Fourstamen Stephania Root is the dried root of Stephania tetrandra S. Moore (Fam. Menispermaceae)
Producing Areas Han Fangji (the root of Stephania Tetranda S. Moore) is mainly produced in Zhejiang and Anhui.
Properties Bitter, Spicy, Cold
Channels Bladder, Lung
ACTION
- Treats Bi-syndrome of dampness-heat such as arthritis, with swollen and stiff joints
- Promotes diuresis and relieves puffiness caused by beriberi
- Relieves skin itch in eczema with its antiallergic and anti-histamine effects
Usage and Dosage
4.5-9 g is used in decoction for oral use.
Storage
Keep in a dry place, and protect from moisture and moths.
Note
Not to be taken excessively since it is very bitter and cold and might damage genuine-qi.
Use with great caution in the patient with dysfunction of stomach due to yin-deficiency or without dampness syndrome.
Description of Quality Herb
The good one is hard, compact, and powdery with the skin removed.
Professional Tips
The root of Guang Fangji (Mu Fangji), from the family Aristolochiaceae, contains such main ingredients as aristolochine. It cannot be mistaken for Fen Fangji (Han Fangji) (Radix Stephaniae Tetrandrae). They have the same shape but Mu Fangji is harder, less powdery and with dense wheel-like texture.
