Bai Tou Weng
Pulsatilla chinensis (Bge.) Regel
☯ TCM Properties
Clears Heat and Resolves Toxicity; Cools the Blood and Stops Dysentery; Dries Dampness and kills parasites
Western Herbalism Properties
Botanical Description
Pulsatilla chinensis (Chinese pasqueflower) is a low-growing perennial herb in the Ranunculaceae family, 15-35 cm tall, native to dry hillsides and grasslands across northern and central China, Korea, and the Russian Far East. It arises from a stout, dark brown, cylindrical taproot 5-20 cm long whose crown bears a conspicuous tuft of long, persistent, silvery-white silky hairs. The basal leaves are long-petioled, palmately divided into three deeply lobed segments, softly silky-pubescent especially when young. A single nodding bell-shaped flower 3-4 cm across is borne on each densely white-hairy scape; the six petaloid sepals are violet to deep purple, with numerous yellow stamens. The fruit is a head of long-tailed, plumose achenes (POWO; Wikipedia).
Dosage
| Form | Amount | Frequency | Duration | Population | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| decoction | 6-15g | Daily | — | — | — |
Cultural & Historical Context
Traditional Chinese Uses
Sang Shen (mulberry fruit) is a cold, sweet, sour herb used to tonify Blood and Yin, moisten the Intestines, and darken premature grey hair. It addresses patterns of Blood and Yin deficiency with symptoms including dizziness, tinnitus, insomnia, dry eyes, and premature greying. Its moistening quality also relieves dry constipation. Considered a food-grade tonic, it is commonly eaten fresh or dried, or processed into syrup for daily use.
Traditional American Uses
None Documented
Important Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using any herbal remedy, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or taking medications.