Yin Chen Hao - Yin Chen Hao Shoots and Leaves

TCM Materia Medica

Yin Chen Hao TCM Herb Classifications and Usages

The TCM herb "yin chen hao" which in english is "yin chen hao shoots and leaves", is categorized within the "herbs that drain dampness" functional grouping. It is thought to enter the gall bladder, liver, spleen and stomach channels and exhibits acrid, bitter (ku) and cool taste/temperature properties.

Dosages and preparations will vary according to each individual and the overall approach of a formula, but generally this herb has the following dosage and/or preparation guidelines:

  • Dosage: 9-15g

Of many possible clinical applications, it may be considered to influence the following issues/symptoms:

  • Main herb for Jaundice.
  • Clears damp heat from the liver and gallbladder - relieves jaundice (either damp heat or cold).
  • Clears heat, shao yang syndrome (intermittent fever and chills, bitter taste, stifling sensation in the chest, flank pain, dizziness, nausea).

Yin Chen Hao has some precautions to be considered (see our precautions list).

  • Not for Deficiency Jaundice (pale yellow skin, normal urine, soggy pulse (middle jiao qi deficiency, not from dampness).

While it may not always be included depending on the manufacturer or herbalist making the formula, yin chen hao is generally included in the following 2 formulas:

ViewLi Dan Wan (Benefit The Gallbladder Pills)

A range of gallbladder, liver and related digestive/obstructive issues - clears damp heat from the liver and gall bladder in TCM terms.  Symptoms may include gallstones and/or a range of digestive is…

ViewYin Chen Hao Wan (Artemisiae Scopariae Decoction)

Used for a range of liver, gallbladder and pancreatic disorders arising from damp heat.  Symptoms such as jaundice, urinary difficulty, nausea, bloating and more. Western conditions could be cirrhos…

As noted above, yin chen hao is within the herbs that drain dampness functional group. All the herbs in this category are listed below.

(truncated intro "... there are two main types of dampness: accumulation of fluids in the body - edema, congested fluids (respiratory and digestive system). these herbs are good for edema below the wais…)".

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