Luo Shi Teng
Trachelospermum jasminoides (Lindl.) Lem.
☯ TCM Properties
Dispels Wind-Dampness and Unblocks the Collaterals; Cools the Blood and reduces swelling; Relaxes the Sinews and Alleviates Pain; Clears Heat and Resolves Toxicity; Stops Bleeding
Western Herbalism Properties
Botanical Description
Trachelospermum jasminoides, Asian star jasmine or Luo Shi Teng, is an evergreen woody twining vine in the Apocynaceae family, native to East and Southeast Asia. It climbs 3-9 m using aerial rootlets along stems that exude milky latex when cut. Leaves are opposite, elliptic to ovate-lanceolate, 2-10 cm long, glossy dark green with a leathery texture. Fragrant white pinwheel-shaped flowers 1-2 cm across, with five propeller-like lobes, are borne in cymes in late spring and summer, maturing into paired slender follicles. Stems with leaves are collected in autumn and winter, cut into segments, and dried.
Dosage
| Form | Amount | Frequency | Duration | Population | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| decoction | 9-15g | Daily | — | — | — |
Cultural & Historical Context
Traditional Chinese Uses
Luo Shi Teng (star jasmine vine, trachelospermum stem) is a cool herb that opens the channels, expels Wind and Heat from the joints and sinew, and clears Heat toxin. It is used for joint pain, stiffness, and swelling with heat and redness — the hallmarks of Wind-Heat bi or hot bi syndrome — where cooling and channel-opening simultaneously are needed. It also addresses sore throat and skin abscesses from Heat toxin. Its cooling, channel-penetrating action makes it preferred over warming Wind-Damp herbs for heat-type joint conditions.
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.