Source Siegesbeckia Herb is the dried herb of Siegesbeckia orientalis L. and S. pubescens Makino, (Fam. Compositae.)
Producing Areas Most parts of China
Properties Spicy, Bitter, Cold
Channels Liver, Kidney
ACTION
- Expels wind-dampness and dredges the channels
For arthralgia of wind-dampness type, especially for wandering arthralgia and those with swelling of joints, numbness and immovability of extremities. - Clears away heat and toxic materials, eliminates dampness and relieves itching
For skin infection, urticaria, eczema, psoriasis and pruritis. - Treats hypertension with symptoms of dizziness, numbness in the limbs
- Relieves jaundice of dampness-heat type
Usage and Dosage
9-12 g is used in decoction for oral use.
The pounded, ground Xixiancao and its decoction can be used externally.
Storage
Keep in a ventilated and dry place, and protect from mould and moths.
Note
Use with caution in the person with deficiency of yin and blood.
Description of Quality Herb
The good one is dark green in colour, tender and with many leaves.
Professional Tips
Xixian (Siegesbeckia orientalis L.): The leaf is triangularly ovate or ovally lanceolate, with irregularly lobate or obtusely serrate margin.
Xiangeng Xixian (S. pubescens Makino): The upper part of the stem is covered by long pubescences and purplish brown gland dots. The leaf is ovate with irregular small saw-like teeth.
Maogeng Xixian (S. glabrescens Makino): The upper part of the stem is sparsely covered by short pubescences. The leaf is small with regular saw-like teeth.