Description
Radix Angelicae Dahuricae, 白芷 (Bái Zhǐ) is the premier herb for dispersing Wind-Cold and relieving pain, particularly when the pain is located in the head, face, sinuses, or teeth. Its potent aromatic and drying properties also make it effective for treating damp conditions like leukorrhea and certain types of painful, swollen joints.
Warm in nature. Pungent (Acrid) and Bitter in taste. It enters the lungs, stomach and large intestine meridians.
Health Benefit :
Dispels wind and cold, alleviates dampness, reduces swelling, nourishes the skin, strengthens the spleen and replenishes the Qi, clears the nasal passages.
Releases the Exterior & Disperses Wind-Cold, Unblocks the Orifices & Stops Pain (especially head/face/sinuses) 3. Dries Dampness & Reduces Discharges 4. Reduces Swelling & Drains Pus
Radix Angelicae Dahuricaei’s functions are centered around its ability to disperse pathogens and promote the free flow of Qi, which makes it excellent for relieving pain and congestion.
Disperses Wind-Cold & Unblocks the Nose/Sinuses
Radix Angelicae Dahuricaei is a key herb for the early stages of a common cold or sinus infection, particularly when there is:
· Headache, especially a frontal headache or a feeling of “heaviness” in the head.
· Nasal congestion with a runny nose (rhinorrhea), loss of smell, and sinus pain.
· It is especially effective for Wind-Cold patterns.
· Classic Formula Example : Chuan Xiong Cha Tiao San (a leading formula for headaches), where Radix Angelicae Dahuricae targets the Yang Ming meridian.
Unblocks the Orifices & Relieves Pain (The Premier Herb for Head/Face Pain)
This is its most celebrated function. Due to its affinity for the Yang Ming (Stomach and Large Intestine) meridians that traverse the face, it is unmatched for treating pain in that region.
· Toothache (both upper and lower jaw).
· Frontal headache and migraine.
· Sinus pain and pressure from sinusitis.
· Facial pain (including trigeminal neuralgia).
Resolves Dampness & Reduces Discharges
Its drying and aromatic nature helps to resolve Dampness, particularly when it manifests as abnormal discharges.
· Leukorrhea (white or turbid vaginal discharge) due to Cold-Dampness.
· Painful, swollen joints caused by Wind-Cold-Dampness (Bi Syndrome).
Reduces Swelling & Drains Pus (For Skin Disorders)
Radix Angelicae Dahuricae is used topically and internally for sores and abscesses, especially in their early stages before they have ruptured.
· Boils, carbuncles, and abscesses that are red, swollen, and painful.
· It helps to resolve the swelling and promote pus drainage.
Precautions
· Excess Heat Conditions : Such as fever, flu, cold, chills, sore throat, inflammation.
· Heat due to Yin Deficiency : Should not be used if there are signs of “false heat” from Yin deficiency, such as hot palms, night sweats, and a red tongue with little coating. Its warm nature can worsen this.
· Pregnancy : Due to its stimulating nature, it should be used with caution during pregnancy and only under the guidance of a qualified TCM practitioner. All herbs are not for infants.
· Medical Conditions : If you have hypertension, diabetes, allergy or are on medication, Consultation with a doctor is essential.
** Disclaimer: Not a substitute for medicine. Individual results may vary and it is normal if you feel a bit warm after consumption. Keep hydrated with drinking more water after consumption. Always consult a qualified TCM practitioner or healthcare professional before consume any herbal medicine, especially when you have underlying health conditions.
Common Usage and Preparation
1. Tea / Decoction : Thinly slice or crush, steep in hot water for 5-10 minutes. Can be re-steeped several times. or Simmer on the stove for a richer flavour.
2. Culinary Use : Added to soups and broths for a tonic effect.
3. Powder or Capsules : Ground into a powder and taken with warm water or encapsulated. For convenient daily supplementation in smaller, maintained doses.
· Typical Dosage: 3 – 9 grams in a decoction.
