Bai Bu (Radix Stemonae) is from the root tuber of Stemoma sessilifolia Mic. and S. japnoica Mic. , family Stemonaleae. The medicinal material is dug and collected in both spring and autumn. The fibrous roots are removed and then it is boiled before being sun-dried and cut into pieces. It is either used raw or after being roasted with honey.

Category: Phlegm resolving – Antiasthmatic.

Common Name: Stemona Root.

Channels Entered: Lung.

Properties and Functions: Bai Bu is bitter and sweet in flavour, and slightly warm in nature. It acts to wam and moisten the lung to stop coughing. It also acts as an antiparasitic, helping to expel worms.

Indications: It is indicated for both acute and chronic cough, whooping cough and cough due to pulmonary tuberculosis. This can be used for cough due to wind-cold and also deficiency of Qi and Yin.

Dosage: 5 – 10g

Cautions and Contra-Indications: It is contra-indicated in cases with loose stools and Spleen deficiency.