Dang Shen (Radix Codonopsis) is the root of the perennial herbaceous plant Codonopsis Pilosula (Franch.) Nannf. , C. Pilosula Nannf or C. tangshen Oliv. of the family Campanuulaceae. Depending upon its source of origin, it is classified as either wild or cultivated. It is mainly produced in Shanxi, Shaanxi and Gansu. It is harvested in autumn, then dried and cut into segments. It is used in its crude form.
Category: Tonifying – Qi Tonifying.
Common Name: Codonopsis Root.
Channels Entered: Lung and Spleen.
Properties and Functions: Dang Shen is sweet in flavour and mild in nature. It acts to invigorate the Spleen and Stomach, tonify the Lungs, reinforce Qi, nourish the Blood and promote the production of body fluids. It is often combined with exterior releasing and purgative herbs in cases presenting with significant Qi deficiency. Commonly, it is used as a substitute for Ren Shen (Radix Ginseng).
Indications: Clinical applications for Dang Shen include:
- Spleen Qi deficiency with fatigue, loss of appetite, weakness and loose stool.
- Lung Qi deficiency with shortness of breath, cough or low voice.
- Febrile disease causing consumption of Qi and body fluids with shortness of breath and thirst.
- Dizziness due to Blood deficiency, sallow complexion or facial oedema.
Dosage: 10 – 30g
Cautions and Contra-Indications: Its use in contraindicated in cases presenting with excess pathogens, Heat syndromes, Yin deficiency or Yang hyperactivity.