Yu Xing Cao
StarHouttuynia cordata
☯ TCM Properties
Clears Heat, relieves toxicity, reduces swellings and abscesses and expels pus (especially on the Lungs); Drains Damp-Heat and promotes urination
Traditional Chinese Uses
Yu Xing Cao (fish mint, houttuynia herb) is a cold, slightly toxic herb considered one of the most important Heat-toxin-clearing herbs in Chinese medicine, especially for Lung and skin conditions. It is the primary herb for Lung abscess with purulent phlegm and is widely used for Lung Heat cough with thick yellowish-green sputum. Its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties are also applied for Damp-Heat skin sores, urinary tract infections, and inflammatory conditions of the lower body.
Western Herbalism Properties
Botanical Description
Houttuynia cordata is a perennial aromatic herb with creeping rhizomes, growing 15-50 cm tall. Stems are reddish, grooved, and rooting at nodes. Leaves are heart-shaped (cordate), 4-10 cm long, alternate, with a pungent fishy odor when crushed. The inflorescence consists of a slender spike of tiny yellow flowers subtended by 4 white petal-like bracts. The plant spreads vigorously through rhizomes. The characteristic fishy smell is due to decyl acetate and other volatile compounds.
Moist shaded areas, stream banks, rice paddies, swamps, and wetland margins; native to Southeast Asia and widely distributed throughout East and Southeast Asia.
Houttuynia cordata is extremely common throughout its native range in East and Southeast Asia. It is considered invasive in parts of North America and Europe. No conservation concerns.
Dosage
| Form | Amount | Frequency | Duration | Population | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| decoction | 15-30 g | daily | — | adult | Fresh herb dose may be doubled (30-60 g); add near end of cooking and do not decoct long to preserve the volatile antibacterial oil. |
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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