Gan Sui
Euphorbia kansui T.N. Liou ex T.P. Wang
☯ TCM Properties
Drains Water and Expels Phlegm-Fluids; Disperses Swelling and Dissipates Nodules; Breaks Up Accumulations; Promotes Bowel and Urinary Movement
Botanical Description
Euphorbia kansui T.N. Liou ex S.B. Ho (Euphorbiaceae) is a low perennial herb 25-40 cm tall endemic to north-central China, with milky latex throughout, slender erect stems, narrow linear-lanceolate leaves, and the cyathium inflorescence characteristic of the genus. The fusiform to ovoid tuberous roots are harvested in spring before flowering or in autumn, peeled, and sun-dried. In TCM, Gan Sui is bitter in flavor, cold in nature, and toxic, entering the Lung, Kidney, and Large Intestine channels; it is a powerful downward-draining substance that drives out water accumulation in cases of severe edema, pleural fluid, and ascites. Because of pronounced toxicity, the root is nearly always processed with vinegar before clinical use.
Dosage
| Form | Amount | Frequency | Duration | Population | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| decoction | 6-15g | Daily | — | — | — |
Cultural & Historical Context
Traditional Chinese Uses
Gan Sui (euphorbia root, kansui root) is an extremely toxic herb classified among the most powerful and harsh purgatives in Chinese medicine. It is reserved for conditions of severe fluid accumulation in body cavities — including pleural effusion, ascites, and severe edema — when gentler methods have been insufficient. It produces violent intestinal purging and fluid expulsion. Due to its extreme toxicity, it requires careful vinegar processing, strict dosing, and close professional supervision. It is contraindicated with licorice root (Gan Cao).
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.