Shu Fu
StarAconitum carmichaelii Debx.
☯ TCM Properties
Rescues Devastated Yang from Collapse; Tonifies Kidney Yang; Dispels Cold and Alleviates Pain
Traditional Chinese Uses
Shu Fu (salt-processed aconite slice, processed lateral root of aconite) is used in Chinese medicine to warm the Spleen and Kidney Yang, expel cold from the interior, and tonify the Fire of the Vital Gate (Ming Men). It addresses severe Yang deficiency with cold limbs and collapse, chronic Spleen-Kidney Yang deficiency with diarrhea and edema, and Wind-Cold-Damp bi syndrome with severe cold-type joint pain. Careful processing and professional supervision are essential due to its significant toxicity.
Botanical Description
Aconitum carmichaelii is a stout perennial herb of the Ranunculaceae family growing 60 to 150 cm tall from a paired root system consisting of a parent (mother) tuberous root and one to several daughter lateral tubers; the lateral tubers, after rigorous processing, are the source of Fu Zi (Shu Fu refers to Sichuan-origin processed lateral root). Stems are erect, simple or sparingly branched. Leaves are alternate, palmately divided into three to five deeply incised lobes, dark green and glossy above. The inflorescence is a terminal raceme of striking helmet-shaped flowers, each 3 to 4 cm tall, with five deep blue-violet to indigo sepals, the uppermost forming a tall hooded galea. Fruits are clusters of three to five follicles. All parts contain the extremely toxic diterpenoid alkaloids aconitine, hypaconitine, and mesaconitine.
Dosage
| Form | Amount | Frequency | Duration | Population | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| decoction | 3-9g | 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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