Gan Song (Gan Song Xiang)干松

Radix seu Rhizoma NardostachydisNardostachys Root

Also known asChinese Spikenard · Indian Spikenard Root · Indian, Himalayan or Syrian Nard

Usual doses

Awakens the Spleen, promotes the movement of Qi, unblocks Stagnation, disperses Cold and alleviates pain: Abdominal and epigastric distention and pain with anorexia and chest oppression
Toothache

Contraindicated in Qi Deficiency.
Contraindicated in Blood Heat.
Contraindicated in pregnancy.
Should not be taken continuously on its own, given its low but cumulative toxicity.

Cold Stagnation that produces abdominal and epigastric distention, pain, and loss of appetite
Excessive worry and overthinking that damage the Spleen and obstruct Qi, producing abdominal and epigastric distention, pain, and loss of appetite
- Gan Jiang
- Zhi Fu Zi
- Wu Zhu Yu
- Huang Lian
Prepared as a wine with ether and alcohol for sudden turmoil disorder from true Cold that has advanced to the dangerous stage of cramping entering the abdomen
- Mu Xiang
- Xiang Yuan
Qi Stagnation affecting the chest and abdomen
Qi Stagnation accompanied by Yang Deficiency and cold
- Gao Ben
- He Ye
Used as an external wash for leg Qi, and as a gargle for toothache from Kidney Deficiency

It eases abdominal cramping, especially the cramping seen in sudden turmoil disorder.
It is applied both internally and externally.
Topically it can address leg Qi and edema.
It regulates Qi within the chest and abdomen.
Conditions it is used for include palpitations, anxiety, insomnia, stress, tachycardia, hysteria, neurosis, hypertension, angina pectoris, seizures, cough, menstrual disorders, hair loss, hemorrhoids, varicose veins, infections, and sores and boils.
According to one source, it also addresses Heart Yin Deficiency with Liver Yang Rising, Phlegm-Damp in the Lungs, and disharmony between the Liver and Spleen.
It is particularly indicated for arrhythmia and tachycardia.