Gao Ben - Chinese Lovage Root, Ligusticum Root

TCM Materia Medica

Gao Ben TCM Herb Classifications and Usages

Full List by Function by Channel by Property
Theory

The TCM herb "gao ben" which in english is "chinese lovage root, ligusticum root", is categorized within the "herbs that release the exterior wind cold" functional grouping. It is thought to enter the urinary bladder channels and exhibits acrid and warm (wen) 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: 3-9g

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

  • Expels wind-cold, vertex headaches (teeth/jaw pain)
  • Dispels wind and dampness - useful for wind-cold-damp bi-syndromes and/or acute lower back pain from wind cold
  • Resolve dampness effecting stomach/spleen

Gao Ben has some precautions to be considered (see our precautions list).

  • Avoid in Blood and/or Yin Deficiency

While it may not always be included depending on the manufacturer or herbalist making the formula, gao ben is generally included in the following 3 formulas:

ViewPian Tou Tong Wan (Migraine Pills)

Headaches and/or migraines caused by liver yang or liver fire rising.

ViewTe Xiao Bi Min Gan Wan (Specially Effective Nasal Allergy Pills)

Generally useful for a range of allergy symptoms - seasonal allergies, rhinitis, sinusitis, dry or watery eyes, sinus headaches, etc.  Can be used both as a preventative and as a symptomatic aid for …

ViewXin Yi Wan (Magnolia Flower Powder)

Colds and/or allergies with cold signs (white mucus and/or no fever, etc.). Chronic sinus congestions / issues, chronic sinusitis, chronic rhinitis, loss of smell. Headaches from sinus congestion.

As noted above, gao ben is within the herbs that release the exterior wind cold functional group. All the herbs in this category are listed below.

(truncated intro "... many are acrid and warm used when fever is mild, chill severe, headache, body & neck pain, no thirst focus is on the superficial layer of the body and lung precautions: do not overdose herbs that promote sweating – disperses qi too much a…)".

Bai ZhiCong BaiFang FengGao BenGui ZhiJing JieMa HuangQiang HuoSheng JiangXiang RuXin Yi HuaXi XinZi Su Ye

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