The TCM herb "shan yao" which in english is "chinese yam", is categorized within the "herbs that tonify qi" functional grouping. It is thought to enter the kidney, lung and spleen channels and exhibits neutral (ping) and sweet (gan) 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:
Of many possible clinical applications, it may be considered to influence the following issues/symptoms:
Shan Yao may potentially be used, in coordination with a well tailored formula (in most cases), to influence the following conditions: cough, diarrhea, fatigue, spermatorrhea and/or sweat problems
While it may not always be included depending on the manufacturer or herbalist making the formula, shan yao is generally included in the following 16 formulas:
Fatigue, weakness, with pale complexion due to chronic qi and blood deficiency. Hemiplegia, slurred speech or involuntary muscle control due to blockage of the channels and collaterals.
Brittle nails, yellowing of the skin (jaundice). Abdominal cramping, distension or pain in the hypochrondia due to liver qi stangation Fatty liver, hepatitis and other liver diseases.
Ringing in the ears/tinnitus. Unblocks the ears - useful for diminished hearing or temporary hearing loss. Red/dry eyes with blurry vision.
For stomach and spleen qi deficiency with dampness that has potentially generated mild interior-heat - diarrhea, abdominal pain, poor appetite, epigastric pain. May be used in early pregnancy for mo…
Lethargy, low libedo, frequent urination with possible incontinence resulting from kidney yang deficiency. Sensation of cold, especially in the lower half.
Dizziness, tinnitus, possibly vertigo as a result of kidney and liver yin deficiency. Insomnia especially with night sweats, hot flashes, irritability. Spontaneous/nocturnal emissions. Menopaus…
Blurry vision, floaters, possibly with dryness of the eyes as a result of the liver yin failing to nourish the eyes and kidney yin failing to brighten the vision.
Frequent and/or urgent urination, dribbling, incontinence. Treats Lin Syndrome conditions.
Yin deficiency symptoms such as dizziness, vertigo, night sweats, hot flashes, heat in the soles and dryness. Blurry vision, possibly with dry eyes.
Diarrhea, loose stools, or mucus/greasy stools from damp accumulation in the spleen/stomach. Borborygmus, low appetite, fatigue, and/or pale complexion resulting from spleen qi deficiency. Colitis,…
Frequent, clear and prolonged urination with difficulty restraining - along with other kidney deficiency signs. Bedwetting in children in many cases, not necessarily just from deficiency.
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A very important formula to stop bleeding (generally from any cause) in Chinese Medicine. Can be used topically and orally and comes in two primary formats (capsules and powder vials). It is used i…
Steaming bone syndrome - dry and intensive persuasive sensation of heat possibly with flushing and tidal fever. Dizziness, vertigo, tinnitis, anxiety and restlessness resulting from yin deficiency. …
Tonifies the kidney yang and astringe the jing (essence), primarily for sexual dysfunction in older males - symptoms may include impotence, erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, and other sign…
Infertility, low libedo, impotence due to kidney yin deficiency. Low sperm count, abnormal sperm morphology resulting from jing deficiency. Irregular menstruation, vaginal dryness.
As noted above, shan yao is within the herbs that tonify qi functional group. All the herbs in this category are listed below.
(truncated intro "... herbs in this category are generally sweet and rich. they are most often combined with herbs that move and regulate the qi. )".
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