State/School

California License Exam, Pacific College Comps, Southern California University of Health Sciences, Yo San University

Pharm Name

Bupleuri Radix

Common Name

Bupleurum Root

Category

Cool, Acrid Herbs that Release the Exterior

Ingredients

Taste

Bitter, Acrid

Pao Zhi

Vinegar-fried to focus its actions on the Liver channel, harmonize the blood, and alleviate pain.

Temperature

Cool

Action / Indication

1. Releases trapped pathogens to treat half-exterior, half-interior conditions: for Shao Yang syndrome, in which the patient presents with alternating fever and chills, fullness in the chest and hypochondrium, dry throat, low appetite, nausea, bitter taste in the mouth, and a wiry pulse.
2. Unblocks Liver qi stagnation: used to treat distention and fullness in the chest and abdomen, rib-side or flank pain, moodiness, impatience, dizziness, abdominal bloating, menstrual cramps, amenorrhea, headache, and jaundice.
3. Ascends yang qi: in cases of qi and yang deficiency leading to prolapse. Helps to lift prolapse of the uterus and rectum, with associated symptoms of shortness of breath, fatigue, frequent urination, and vaginal discharge.

Treatment Principles

Releases Trapped Pathogens
Treats ShaoYang Syndrome
Unblocks Liver Qi Stagnation
Ascends Yang Qi

Contraindication

Yin deficiency causing Liver yang rising. Caution large doses may cause nausea or vomiting.

Dosages

3-12g. Maximum is 60g. Use only 3g for prolapse. Use 10-15g for malaria. Use raw to ascend and disperse, or vinegar-fried for pain/stagnation.

Meridians

LIV, GB, PC, SJ

Tom's Comment

1. Chai Hu prominent secondary function of Ascending Yang Qi is exemplified in the formula Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang.
2. Chai Hu's ability to spread and release is often times paired with Bai Shao’s quality of astringing and tonifying; together they soothe the Liver.

Source

Formula Type