Xu Duan
StarDipsacus asperoides C. Y. Cheng et T. M. Ai
☯ TCM Properties
Nourishes Liver and Kidney Yin; Strengthens the Sinews and Bones; Stops uterine bleeding and calms the fetus; Invigorates Blood and Dispels Stasis
Traditional Chinese Uses
Xu Duan (teasel root, dipsacus root) is a warm, bitter-pungent herb used in Chinese medicine to tonify the Liver and Kidney, strengthen the bones and sinew, and promote the healing of fractures and traumatic injuries. Its Chinese name, meaning "reconnect the broken," reflects its historical reputation as the primary herb for fractures, torn ligaments, and musculoskeletal trauma. It also calms the fetus for threatened miscarriage and stops uterine bleeding — roles that reflect its Liver-Kidney tonifying and Blood-consolidating properties.
Western Herbalism Properties
Botanical Description
Dipsacus asperoides, Chinese teasel or Xu Duan, is a robust perennial herb in the Caprifoliaceae (formerly Dipsacaceae) family, native to central and southwestern China where it grows on grassy slopes and forest margins between 800-3000 m elevation. The plant reaches 1-2 m in height with sparsely prickly, ridged stems. Basal leaves are large and pinnately lobed; stem leaves are opposite, lanceolate to oblong, with toothed margins and prickly midribs. Dense globose flower heads 2-3 cm across, ringed with stiff involucral bracts, bear small white to pale purple tubular florets. The thick, fleshy taproots are harvested in autumn.
Dosage
| Form | Amount | Frequency | Duration | Population | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| decoction | 9-30g | 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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