Yi Mu Cao - Chinese Motherwort

TCM Materia Medica

Yi Mu Cao TCM Herb Classifications and Usages

The TCM herb "yi mu cao" which in english is Yi Mu Cao herb"chinese motherwort", is categorized within the "herbs that invigorate blood" functional grouping. It is thought to enter the heart, liver and urinary bladder channels and exhibits acrid, bitter (ku) and cold (han) 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: 9-60g

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

  • Invigorates blood and regulates menses for gynecological issues - PMS, abdominal pain, irregular menses, abdominal masses, infertility, post partum abdominal pain w/lochioschesis, stasis from blood deficiency.
  • Promotes urination and reduces swelling - acute systemic edema.

Yi Mu Cao has some precautions to be considered (see our precautions list).

  • Avoid during Pregnancy.

Yi Mu Cao may potentially be used, in coordination with a well tailored formula (in most cases), to influence the following conditions: abdominal pain, edema, infertility and/or premenstrual syndrome (pms)

While it may not always be included depending on the manufacturer or herbalist making the formula, yi mu cao is generally included in the following 2 formulas:

ViewJiang Dan Gu Chun Wan (Contribute To Youthfulness Pills)

For high cholesterol, generally focuses on strengthening metabolism, transforming dampness, tonifying spleen qi, and mildly moving blood stasis in Chinese Medicine terms.

ViewTian Ma Gou Teng Wan (Gastrodia and Uncaria Formula)

Headaches, vertigo, dizziness, tinnitis, floaters or blurry vision, insomnia as a result of liver yang rising.  Siezures, spasms, convulsions or other types of involuntary muscle activity due to liv…

As noted above, yi mu cao is within the herbs that invigorate blood functional group. All the herbs in this category are listed below.

(truncated intro "... for blood stasis - pain, abscesses and ulcers, abdominal masses. )".

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