☯ TCM Properties
Nourishes Yin , invigorates the spleen and promotes digestion; Regulates the Liver
Traditional Chinese Uses
Ge Shan Xiao is the root of Cynanchum auriculatum (one of the botanical sources of Bai Shou Wu). Sweet, bitter and neutral, entering the Spleen, Stomach, Liver and Kidney channels, it is a mild tonic used to nourish Yin, strengthen the Spleen and promote digestion, and regulate the Liver. Traditional applications center on weak digestion with poor appetite, epigastric or abdominal fullness and food retention, chronic diarrhea or dysentery, childhood nutritional impairment (gan ji), and vaginal discharge (leukorrhea); the pounded fresh root is also applied externally to sores and swellings.
It is typically decocted (about 9-15 g) and combined with Spleen-strengthening and digestive herbs. Because it both supports the Center and gently nourishes Yin, it suits deficiency-type indigestion rather than acute excess food stagnation. Identity here follows the stated scientific name; regional folk use of the name "Ge Shan Xiao" varies.
Botanical Description
Ge Shan Xiao ("across-the-mountain whistle/echo") is a regional folk-medicine name that cannot be reliably matched to a single botanical species in the principal modern references consulted. The same name has been applied in different districts to disparate species, and Bensky and Gamble, the Chinese Pharmacopoeia and the standard Zhong Yao Da Ci Dian entries consulted do not provide an unambiguous identification. Without verified correspondence, no morphology, parts used or therapeutic actions can responsibly be given. The entry is treated as botanically unidentifiable.
Dosage
| Form | Amount | Frequency | Duration | Population | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| decoction | 6-12g | Daily | — | — | — |
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.
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