Guan Mu Tong關木通
Caulis Aristolochiae ManshuriensisAristolochia Stem
- Toxic
Also known asDutchman's Pipe Stem · Manchurian Birthwort Stem
- Category
- Herbs that clear Heat
- Nature
- cold
- Taste
- bitter, astringent
- Channels entered
- Heart, Small Intestine, Bladder
- Dosage
- 3–9 g
Usual doses
- Dosage
- 3–9 g
- Tincture
- 1–3 ml
Actions & indications
- Clears Heart Fire and promotes urination
- Excessive Fire in the Heart channel, vexation, aphthae, sores on the tongue, oliguria, dysuria, cystitis, urethritis, enuresis, nephritis, leukorrhea, fevers, and dark urine
- Arthralgia syndrome due to Damp-Heat, generalized pain
- Dysuria (Lin Syndrome)
- Invigorates the Blood, unblocks the menses, promotes lactation and eases joint movement
- Amenorrhea due to Blood Stasis and other syndromes, dysmenorrhea, agalactia, insufficient lactation
- Cancer
Contraindications
- Contraindicated in the absence of Damp-Heat.
- Contraindicated in pregnancy.
- Contraindicated with impaired Kidney function; use cautiously in elderly or weak patients, especially those showing signs of Yin or Fluid Deficiency.
- Avoid large doses.
- Avoid prolonged use.
Combinations
Lin syndrome (painful urinary dysfunction)
Bloody Lin syndrome
Stone Lin syndrome
Notes
- This herb exhibits anticancer activity.
- It is indicated for Strong Fire, whereas Rz. Alismatis Ze Xie is indicated for Mild Fire.
- It treats fistula and sore throat, mainly taken as a decoction.
- As emergency treatment, the powder may be held in the mouth.
- It is reported to calm the Heart, relieve thirst, and reduce fever.
- It also treats amnesia, sharpens hearing and vision, relieves nasal obstruction, clears the Intestines, purges water, dissolves Blood clots, expels pus, relieves pain, and treats furuncles and breast cancer.