Mu Tong - Akebia Caulis
TCM Materia Medica
Mu Tong TCM Herb Classifications and Usages
The TCM herb "mu tong" which in english is 
"akebia caulis", is categorized within the "herbs that drain dampness" functional grouping. It is thought to enter the heart, small intestine and urinary bladder channels and exhibits 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: 3-9g
Of many possible clinical applications, it may be considered to influence the following issues/symptoms:
- Promotes urination, drains heat from the heart through the small intestine - irritability with sores of the mouth or tongue, scanty urination, lin syndrome, edema.
- Promotes lactation, unblocks the blood vessels - insufficient lactation, less commonly for amenorrhea and bi-syndrome.
Mu Tong has some precautions to be considered (see our precautions list).
- Avoid during Pregnancy.
- Toxic - can lead to renal failure (aristolochic acid).
Mu Tong may potentially be used, in coordination with a well tailored formula (in most cases), to influence the following conditions: amenorrhea (absence of menstruation), edema and/or urinary disorders (lin disease)
While it may not always be included depending on the manufacturer or herbalist making the formula, mu tong is generally included in the following 3 formulas:
ViewBa Zheng Wan (Eight Herb Powder for Rectification)
Painful urination when it arises from damp heat syndrome - urinary tract infections, leukorrhea, cystitis. Prostatitis when from damp heat.
ViewLong Dan Xie Gan Wan (Gentiana Purge Liver Formula)
Hypochondriac pain, bitter taste in the mouth, irritability, easily angered, headache, dizziness, red, and possibly sore, eyes resulting from liver fire rising. Urinary symptoms such as painful, hot…
ViewXiao Feng Wan (Clear Wind Pill)
Itchy and red skin lesions, possibly with weeping -psoriasis, eczema, acne, etc. Topical allergic response, dermatitis -poison ivy, oak, sumac. Acute [allergic] edema in the limbs.
As noted above, mu tong 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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