Jie Geng (Radix Platycodi) is from the root of Platycodon grandiflorum (Jacq.) A. DC. , family Campanulaceae. The medicinal material is usually dug up in both spring and autumn, before being cleaned and then dried in the sun. It is subsequently sliced and used in its raw form.
Category: Phlegm resolving.
Common Name: Platycodon Root; Baloon Flower Root.
Channels Entered: Lung.
Properties and Functions: Jie Geng is bitter and pungent in flavour and neutral in nature. Its main funtion is to disperse Lung Qi, transform phlegm and benefit the throat. It also dispels pus.
Indications: It is clinically indicated for the following:
- Cough and or wheezing with excessive phlegm, sore throat and loss of voice. This applies to cough due to lung-cold or lung-heat.
- Lung or throat abscess with chest pain, coughing with blood, pus and yellow sputum with foul smell.
- It can also be used to strengthen the action of formulas where the focus should be directed to the upper body.
Dosage: 3 – 9g
Cautions and Contra-Indications: N/A