Long Dan Cao - Chinese Gentian Root, Gentiana
TCM Materia Medica
Long Dan Cao TCM Herb Classifications and Usages
The TCM herb "long dan cao" which in english is 
"chinese gentian root, gentiana", is categorized within the "herbs that clear heat and dry dampness" functional grouping. It is thought to enter the gall bladder, liver and stomach channels and exhibits 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:
- Drains damp-heat from the liver and gallbladder channels - red, swollen, sore throat, eyes, and/or ears, sudden deafness, jaundice, pain, swelling or dampness in the genital region, or foul smelling vaginal discharge and itching.
- Clears ascending liver fire - headache, red eyes; liver wind-heat with fever, spasms, convulsions, flank pain.
Our clinical staff have made the following notes, regarding long dan cao:
- Compare with Xia Ku Cao, Zhi Zi, Chuan Lian Zi for clearing liver heat function.
- Shouldn't be used for too long - too cold and bitter.
Long Dan Cao may potentially be used, in coordination with a well tailored formula (in most cases), to influence the following conditions: convulsions, deafness (hearing loss), headache, itching, jaundice and/or sore throat
While it may not always be included depending on the manufacturer or herbalist making the formula, long dan cao is generally included in the following 3 formulas:
As noted above, long dan cao is within the herbs that clear heat and dry dampness functional group. All the herbs in this category are listed below.
(truncated intro "... for damp-heat patterns with dysenteric disorders, urinary difficulty or pain, jaundice, furuncles, eczema. bitter and cold - clear heat an…)".
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