Mu Xiang
Aucklandia lappa Decne.
☯ TCM Properties
Moves Qi and Alleviates Pain; Strengthens the Spleen and Promotes Digestion; Regulates Qi Flow in the Chest, Abdomen and Lower Body; Promotes Qi Movement in the San Jiao
Western Herbalism Properties
Botanical Description
Aucklandia lappa (synonyms Saussurea costus, S. lappa) is a robust perennial herb in the family Asteraceae, native to the moist, open subalpine slopes and meadows of the western Himalayas, particularly Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and adjacent areas, at elevations of 2500-3500 m. The plant produces a stout, fragrant, vertical taproot 30-60 cm long that exudes a characteristic balsamic, woody aroma. The aerial stems reach 1-2 m, bearing very large, ovate to triangular basal leaves up to 50 cm long with irregularly toothed margins, long winged petioles, and a rough surface. Stem leaves are progressively smaller and amplexicaul. Dark purple to almost black tubular florets are packed into hard, spiny, globose flower heads 3-4 cm across, clustered at the stem tips in late summer. The species is critically endangered in the wild and is listed under CITES Appendix I.
Dosage
| Form | Amount | Frequency | Duration | Population | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| decoction | 3-9g | Daily | — | — | — |
Cultural & Historical Context
Traditional Chinese Uses
Mu Xiang (costus root, saussurea root) is one of the most widely used Qi-moving herbs in Chinese medicine, prized for its strong aromatic quality and ability to relieve digestive discomfort. It moves Qi throughout the digestive tract to address abdominal bloating, cramping, diarrhea with urgency, poor appetite, and nausea — especially when these arise from Qi stagnation with dampness. Its warming, moving nature also supports the formulation of tonic herbs by preventing them from clogging digestion.
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.