Qian Cao
StarRubia cordifolia L.
☯ TCM Properties
Cools the Blood and Stops Bleeding; Invigorates Blood and Dispels Stasis; Stops Bleeding Without Retaining Stasis; Promotes Menstruation
Traditional Chinese Uses
Qian Cao (madder root) is a cool, Blood-moving hemostatic herb with the distinctive quality of stopping bleeding while simultaneously clearing old, stagnant Blood. It is used for heat-type bleeding conditions including heavy menstrual bleeding, nosebleeds, and blood in the urine, but its stasis-dispersing action prevents the accumulation of retained clots — an important consideration in managing menstrual disorders. This dual hemostatic-dispersing action makes it the preferred herb for bleeding from Blood Heat complicated by stagnation.
Western Herbalism Properties
Botanical Description
Rubia cordifolia (Rubiaceae), Indian madder or Qian Cao, is a perennial herbaceous climbing or scrambling vine with slender, quadrangular, retrorsely prickly stems 1.5-3.5 m long that scramble over neighboring vegetation. Whorls of 4 (occasionally 6-8) cordate to ovate-lanceolate leaves 2-9 cm long with retrorsely prickly margins and petioles surround each node. Small greenish-yellow to white five-lobed flowers are borne in axillary and terminal cymose panicles, followed by paired globose, fleshy, glossy black drupes 4-6 mm across when ripe. The cylindrical, branched root and rhizome have a characteristic deep red bark rich in anthraquinone pigments (alizarin, purpurin) historically used as a textile dye. Native across temperate and tropical Asia, including India, China, and the Himalayan region. (Sources: POWO; Wikipedia; PFAF)
Dosage
| Form | Amount | Frequency | Duration | Population | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| decoction | 6-15g | 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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