Cang Zhu
Atractylodes lancea (Thunb.) DC.
☯ TCM Properties
Dries Dampness and strengthens the Spleen; Dispels Wind-Dampness; Releases the Exterior and Disperses Wind-Cold; Brightens the Eyes; Dispels Turbidity and Filth
Western Herbalism Properties
Botanical Description
Atractylodes lancea (Thunb.) DC. (Asteraceae) is a perennial herb 30-100 cm tall native to East Asia, with erect simple or sparingly branched stems, sessile leathery lanceolate to elliptic leaves with spiny-toothed margins (the lower often three-lobed), and terminal solitary thistle-like capitula of tubular white to purplish florets surrounded by pinnatifid spiny bracts. The knotty cylindrical to irregular rhizome, 3-10 cm long, exudes aromatic oil and shows red-brown oil glands ('zhusha dian', cinnabar spots) on the cut surface that turn into white needle-like crystals on standing. Rhizomes are dug in autumn or spring, sun-dried, and traditionally bran-fried. In TCM, Cang Zhu is acrid and bitter in flavor and warm in nature, entering the Spleen, Stomach, and Liver channels; it strongly dries dampness, strengthens the Spleen, and dispels wind-cold-damp.
Dosage
| Form | Amount | Frequency | Duration | Population | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| decoction | 9-15g | Daily | — | — | — |
Cultural & Historical Context
Traditional Chinese Uses
Cang Zhu (black atractylodes rhizome) is a warm, pungent-bitter herb with an intense Damp-drying and Spleen-strengthening action. It is the primary herb for treating Dampness obstructing the Middle Burner — conditions presenting with bloating, fatigue, heavy limbs, poor appetite, loose stools, and a thick, greasy tongue coating. It also expels Wind-Cold-Damp from the channels for joint pain and bodily heaviness from external dampness invasion. Burned as a fumigant, it was historically used to purify spaces during epidemic illness.
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.