Lu Lu Tong (Fructus Liquidambaris) is the dried fruit of Liquidambar formosana Hance. It is mainly produce in Yunan and Sichuan provinces. The medicinal material is collected in winter when the fruit is ripe. Impurities are removed and it is then dried for use.

Category: Blood regulating – Blood invigorating.

Common Name: Liquidambar Fruit; Sweetgum Fruit.

Channels Entered: Liver, Stomach and Kidney.

Properties and Functions: Lu Lu Tong is bitter in flavour and neutral in nature. It functions to promote the movement of Qi and Blood, open the channels, expel Wind and promote urination.

Indications: Clinical indications for use include:

• Wind-Damp painful obstruction (Bi) syndrome manifesting as pain and stiffness of the lower back and knees.
• Epigastric pain and abdominal distention with irregular, scanty menstruation.
• Nasal congestion with painful obstruction.
• Oedema with difficulty urinating.

Dosage: 4 – 9g

Cautions and Contra-Indications: It is contra-indicated during pregnancy and for patients with heavy menstruation. Should be used in controlled dosage as it may induce palpitations.