Xiang Fu (Rhizoma Cyperi) is from the rhizome of Cyperus rotundus, family Cyperaceae. The medicinal material is collected in October and December, dried in the sun and then through burning, the hairs are removed. It is used in its unprocessed form or after being stir-baked with vinegar.

Category: Qi Regulating.

Common Name: Cyperus; Nut Grass Rhizome.

Channels Entered: Liver, San Jiao (Triple Energiser).

Properties and Functions: Xiang Fu is slightly bitter and sweet in flavour, and mild or neutral in nature. It functions to spread and regulate Liver Qi, regulate menstruation and alleviate pain.

Indications: Clinically it is used for treating:

• Liver Qi stagnation with pain in the hypochondrium, distension and pain in the abdomen and pain due to hernia.
• Liver Qi invading the Stomach and accumulation of Cold; Qi stagnation with Cold and pain in the epigastrium.
• Irregular menstruation, dysmenorrhea and distension and pain of the breasts due to Liver Qi stagnation.

Dosage: 5 – 10g

Cautions and Contra-Indications: Contra-indicated in cases of Qi deficiency with no stagnation and in cases of Yin deficiency and Heat or Heat in the Blood.