Su He Xiang
Liquidambar orientalis Mill.
☯ TCM Properties
Opens the Orifices and Revives Consciousness; Dispels Turbidity and Filth; Dispels Cold and Alleviates Pain; Scours Phlegm and Opens the Orifices
Western Herbalism Properties
Botanical Description
Liquidambar orientalis Mill. (Altingiaceae) is a medium-sized deciduous tree native to southwestern Anatolia (Turkey), reaching 10-20 m with palmately five-lobed leaves resembling those of maple. The medicinal substance Su He Xiang (storax, styrax) is a balsamic oleoresin obtained by bruising the inner bark and collecting the exuded gum, which is then purified. The crude balsam is a viscous, grey-brown, semi-fluid mass with a sweet, aromatic, vanilla-like odor due to cinnamic acid esters, styrene, and triterpenoids. In traditional Chinese medicine it is classified as an aromatic substance that opens the orifices, awakens the spirit, and dispels turbidity, used in formulas for stroke, sudden loss of consciousness, and cold-phlegm patterns. It has a long parallel history in European pharmacopoeias as an expectorant and antiseptic.
Dosage
| Form | Amount | Frequency | Duration | Population | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| powder | 0.3-1g | Daily | — | — | — |
Cultural & Historical Context
Traditional Chinese Uses
Su He Xiang (styrax resin) is a warm, aromatic substance that opens the orifices and revives consciousness in cases of collapse, coma, or sudden loss of consciousness from cold-Phlegm obstructing the Heart orifices. It also moves Qi and disperses cold to relieve chest pain, angina, and abdominal pain from cold Qi stagnation. As a powerful aromatic opener, it is typically used in prepared pill or capsule form rather than in decoctions.
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.