Xun Ma

Urtica cannabina L.

Genus: Urtica Species: cannabina Pinyin: Xun Ma
Stinging nettle荨麻

☯ TCM Properties

Category: wind-damp_dispelling
Temperature: cold
Taste: pungent, bitter
Meridians: liver
Functions:

Dispels Wind-Dampness and Unblocks the Collaterals; Calms the Liver and Stops Convulsions; Reduces Food Stagnation and Eliminates Distension; Resolves Toxicity

Western Herbalism Properties

Actions:
astringentdiuretictonic

Botanical Description

Urtica cannabina (Urticaceae), Mongolian or hemp-leaved nettle, is an erect perennial herb 50-150 cm tall, distinguished from common nettle by its deeply palmately 3-5 lobed, hemp-like leaves with coarsely serrated margins. Stems and leaves are armed with stinging trichomes that release histamine and formic acid on contact. Small greenish flowers are borne in axillary, pendulous panicles, the species being monoecious with separate male and female inflorescences. It grows on slopes, riverbanks, and wastelands across Mongolia, Siberia, northern China, and Central Asia at elevations from 800 to 2800 m. The whole herb is collected in summer, dried, and used in traditional Mongolian and Chinese medicine. (Sources: POWO; PFAF; Wikipedia)

Dosage

FormAmountFrequency DurationPopulationNotes
decoction 9-15g 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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