Han Fang Zi - Stephania Root
TCM Materia Medica
Han Fang Zi TCM Herb Classifications and Usages
The TCM herb "han fang zi" which in english is "stephania root", is categorized within the "herbs that drain dampness" functional grouping. It is thought to enter the kidney, spleen 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: 3-9g
Of many possible clinical applications, it may be considered to influence the following issues/symptoms:
- Promotes urination, reduces edema - lower extremity edema, borborygmus, abdominal distention, ascites from lower jiao damp accumulation.
- Expels wind-damp-heat, alleviates pain - fever, red, swollen, hot, painful joints.
Our clinical staff have made the following notes, regarding han fang zi:
- Guang Fang Zi is more for wind-damp.
- Han Fang Zi is more for promoting urination.
While it may not always be included depending on the manufacturer or herbalist making the formula, han fang zi is generally included in the following 2 formulas:
ViewFang Ji Huang Qi Wan (Stephania and Astragalus Teapills)
Wind damp / wind edema (feng shui, literally "wind water") patterns, generally acute - heavy sensation of the body, superficial edema, difficulty with urination - idiopathic edema, ascites. Weak wei…
ViewShu Jing Huo Xue Wan (Relax The Channels and Invigorate The Blood Decoction)
Primarily used for blood stasis with wind-damp in the channels and collaterals characterized by internal deficiency with external excesses - joint pain, muscle aches, numbness and/or pain in the lowe…
As noted above, han fang zi 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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