An active herb in our Bounce Back formula, Chuan Xiong can be an amazing herbal ally for a variety of issues from boosting immunity, supporting head comfort, and menstrual cycle balance.. Read on to learn more about its properties, uses, and common combinations. 

Herbal Highlight- Chuan Xiong

Chuan Xiong (Rhizoma Ligustici Chuanxiong), also known as Sichuan Lovage Rhizome, Ligusticum or Cnidium, is frequently used in Traditional Chinese Medicine formulas to support healthy blood flow and physical comfort. It also helps to promote the movement of Qi within the body and helps to "expel wind."

It is a plant within the Apiaceae family, also known as the carrot family. It is a beautiful flowering plant and the root and rhizomes are the parts used in medicinal preparations. 

In Chinese Medicine, flavor and energetic nature of our food and herbs are very important characteristics that help to determine their specific mechanisms and impacts upon our physiology. This herb is pungent in flavor and warm in nature, making it a great helps to help assist in moving Qi and blood to promote overall comfort and ease.

Supports circulation and occasional head discomfort

The herb is known to support the Liver, Gall Bladder, and Pericardium Organ Systems and to exert its effects in the upper region of the body, especially in the head and eyes, hence its usefulness for headaches.

For example, a headache accompanied with fever, flushed face, red eyes and throat soreness—indicate a "wind-heat syndrome" — and will benefit from herbs such as lovage rhizome, gypsum and chrysanthemum; while a headache accompanied with chills, binding sensation over the head, and are aggravated by cold wind— indicating a "wind-cold syndrome" —May be traditionally used to support comfort during symptoms of wind-cold.

Many traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) practitioners use this herb to support women’s health, particularly in promoting a balanced menstrual cycle and easing occasional abdominal discomfort. It is traditionally used to help move Qi and Blood, concepts in TCM associated with internal flow and balance. Additionally, it may be used to support recovery from minor injuries and provide comfort during occasional headaches believed to be related to "wind" or stagnation within the body.

This herb is traditionally recognized for its calming nature and is believed in herbal practice to offer support for occasional inflammation, microbial balance, muscle relaxation, and restful sleep.

Uses & Applications of Chuan Xiong

• Supports healthy circulation of Qi and Blood
• Promotes comfort in the head and temples
• Traditionally used to support menstrual health and balance
• Supports healthy circulation and physical ease

Cautions and Contraindications

The herb is contraindicated in certain patterns such as "Yin Deficiency with Fire", "Liver Yang Rising" or "Excess". Use with caution during pregnancy or if taking anticoagulant or antiplatelet medications. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before use.

Common Combinations and Formulas

This herb is commonly used along with other Chinese herbs, which enhance its ability to interact effectively within the body and enhance its traditional uses for promoting internal balance. One popular formula known is Tao Ren (peach kernel), Hong Hua (safflower), and Dang Gui ( angelica root) in Tao Hong Si Wu Tang. It is also found combined with Wu Zhu Yu (evodia), Gui Zhi (cinnamon twig), Dang Gui (angelica root), and more in Wen Jing Tang.

You can also find this herb in Bounce Back. Chuan Xiong is utilized for its activating properties and is combined with herbs to help expels wind and promote comfort during occasional head tension. To this end, Bounce Back herbal tablets are a proprietary blend that draws on centuries of Chinese herbal research to support the body’s natural response during seasonal challenges.

Care Consideration: Just a reminder that the above information is not a substitute for medical care and is not a substitute for medical advice or recommendations from a healthcare provider.  This information is not intended to treat, mitigate, or cure any disease.  That said, we encourage you to connect with an Acupuncturist in your community to learn more about this and other Traditional Chinese Medicine options.  If you’ve got questions about Chinese herbal medicine or getting started with an Acupuncturist, feel free to connect with us at hello@mydaolabs.com. 

Lenore Cangeloso, LAc is a state-licensed and board certified Acupuncturist and Herbal medicine practitioner. She is the owner of Wild Earth Acupuncture in Portland Oregon. Lenore has spent many months traveling to deepen her knowledge of the human body, and is a dedicated and skilled practitioner that strives to help you achieve optimal states of wellbeing. You can learn more about Lenore at wildearthacupuncture.com.