☯ TCM Properties
Relieves constipation, attacks toxins and disperses Blood Stagnation; Calms the Shen
Traditional Chinese Uses
Qiang Lang is the dried body of the dung beetle Catharsius molossus (Scarabaeidae), a salty, cold, slightly toxic animal substance entering the Stomach, Large Intestine, and Pericardium channels. Traditionally it breaks up Blood stasis, disperses masses, and attacks toxins, and relaxes the bowels in stubborn constipation and abdominal fullness. Its downward-draining, stasis-moving nature was applied to abdominal masses, hemorrhoids and anal swelling, and traumatic swellings, while its ability to calm the Shen and arrest convulsions saw use in childhood convulsions and fright. Given its toxicity it is used in small doses, often powdered, and is contraindicated in pregnancy and in weak patients without stasis. As a minor, potentially toxic folk material of variable quality, it should be used only under qualified supervision.
Botanical Description
Qiang Lang, also written Qiang Lang Chong, is the dried whole body of the dung beetle Catharsius molossus (L.) (Scarabaeidae), a robust black coleopteran 2 to 4 cm long with a forward-projecting cephalic horn in the male and broad spade-like fore tibiae adapted for rolling balls of mammalian dung. Distributed across southern China, Taiwan, and tropical Asia, the insect is collected from summer through autumn, killed by scalding, and sun-dried. In traditional Chinese medicine it is salty and cold with mild toxicity, entering the Liver, Stomach, and Large Intestine channels; classical indications include convulsions and tetanus in children, abdominal masses, hemorrhoidal swelling, and topical application for malignant sores and anal fistula. Modern practice limits its use to specialist prescriptions.
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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