E Bu Shi Cao
Centipeda minima (L.) A. Braun et Aschers.
☯ TCM Properties
Disperses Wind-Cold; Unblocks the Nasal Passages; Resolves Phlegm and Stops Cough; Brightens the Eyes and Removes Visual Obstructions; Resolves Toxicity and Reduces Swelling
Botanical Description
Centipeda minima is a small prostrate to ascending annual herb of the Asteraceae family, rarely exceeding 5 to 20 cm in spread. The slender, branched stems are often reddish, glabrous to sparsely pubescent, and root at the lower nodes. Leaves are alternate, sessile, narrowly obovate to spatulate, 7 to 20 mm long, with a few coarse teeth toward the apex. The minute discoid flowerheads are inconspicuous, sessile in the leaf axils, about 3 mm across, with marginal yellowish female florets surrounding a few greenish hermaphrodite disc florets. Fruits are small four-angled achenes with stiff hairs along the ribs. The plant has a pungent, sneeze-inducing odor when crushed and is widespread in damp ground, paddy margins, and disturbed soils across East and Southeast Asia.
Dosage
| Form | Amount | Frequency | Duration | Population | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| decoction | 3-9g | Daily | — | — | — |
Cultural & Historical Context
Traditional Chinese Uses
E Bu Shi Cao (centipeda herb) is a warm, pungent herb used in Chinese medicine primarily to open the nasal passages and dispel Wind-Cold. It is one of the most effective herbs for nasal congestion, rhinitis, and sinusitis from Wind-Cold obstruction, and its dispersing, aromatic quality makes it appropriate for the stuffy, blocked sensation of chronic nasal conditions. It also addresses cough from Wind-Cold and eye conditions including redness and excessive tearing from Wind-Heat.
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.