Qiang Huo (Rhizoma et Radix Notopterygii) is from the dried rhizomes and roots of the perennial herbaceous plant, Rhizome of Notopterygium incisum or N. forbesii. The medicinal material is normally collected in early spring and autumn. It is dried, cut into pieces and used in its raw form.
Category: Exterior releasing.
Common Name: Notopterygium Root.
Channels Entered: Bladder and Kidney.
Properties and Functions: Qiang Huo is pungent and bitter in flavour, and warm in nature. It releases the exterior and disperses Cold and Damp, as well as relieving pain. It also acts to direct other herbs in a formula to the two related channels.
Indications: It is used clinically for the treatment of:
- Exterior Wind-Cold with Dampness, maked by aversion to cold, with fever, pain in the head and nape in addition to pain, soreness and heaviness of the extremities.
- Headaches due to Wind-Damp and Bi Syndrome due to Wind-Cold-Damp.
Dosage: 3 – 10g
Cautions and Contra-Indications: Its use is contra-indicated in patients with Yin-deficiency or Blood deficiency due to painful obstruction. Caution should be taking with dosage, overdosage (30 – 60g) may cause nausea and vomiting.