Qian Hu - Hogfennel Root
TCM Materia Medica
Qian Hu TCM Herb Classifications and Usages
The TCM herb "qian hu" which in english is 
"hogfennel root", is categorized within the "herbs that cool and transform phlegm heat" functional grouping. It is thought to enter the lung 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: 4.5-9g
Of many possible clinical applications, it may be considered to influence the following issues/symptoms:
- Re-directs rebellious lung qi downward, expels phlegm - coughing, wheezing with thick sputum due to heat in the lungs.
- Releases wind-heat from the exterior w/cough and copious phlegm.
Qian Hu may potentially be used, in coordination with a well tailored formula (in most cases), to influence the following conditions: cough and/or wheezing (dyspnea)
While it may not always be included depending on the manufacturer or herbalist making the formula, qian hu is generally included in the following 4 formulas:
ViewGan Mao Ling (Miraculous Cold Pills)
Common cold and flu patterns, particularly at the early stages. Can be used in lieu of actual bacterial or viral infection as long as flu or cold like symptoms are manifest.
ViewJing Fang Bai Du Wan (Schizonepeta and Siler Powder to Overcome Pathogenic Influences)
Early stages of disease arising from wind cold damp - common cold, flu, bronchitis, mumps. Early stages of skin diseases - boils, carbuncles, eczema, dermatitis with the right underlying factors. M…
ViewRen Shen Bai Du Wan (Ginseng Detoxification Pills)
Coming Soon...
ViewSu Zi Jiang Qi Wan (Perilla Fruit Pill to Direct Qi Downward)
Cough with watery, copious sputum, breathing issues such as wheezing, asthma, shortness of breath (particularly difficulty inhaling), chest oppression. Possibly signs of kidney qi/yang deficiency …
As noted above, qian hu is within the herbs that cool and transform phlegm heat functional group. All the herbs in this category are listed below.
(truncated intro "... used for phlegm-heat and dry-phlegm patterns - coughs, scrofula, goiters (stagnant phlegm-fire in the channel), convulsions. )".
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