Guang Fang Ji廣防己
Radix Aristolochiae *Fangji*Southern *Fangji* Root
Also known asAristolochia Root · Fangchi Birthwort Root
- Category
- ** Herbs that Drain Dampness (Diuretics)
- Nature
- cold
- Taste
- pungent, bitter
- Channels entered
- Bladder, Lung
- Secondary channels
- Spleen, Kidney
- Dosage
- 4–12 g
Usual doses
- Dosage
- 4–12 g
- Tincture
- 1–4 ml
Actions & indications
- Expels Wind-Dampness and clears Heat
- Wind-Damp-Heat Bi
- This herb is most appropriate when the patient has diffuse aches and pains, thirst and a yellow, greasy tongue coat
- Promotes urination and reduces edema
- Edema (either floating or systemic) with wheezing, pain or leg Qi
Contraindications
- Caution advised in Yin Deficiency.
- Caution advised in Spleen and Stomach Deficiency Cold.
- Cumulative dosing is a significant risk factor for urothelial carcinoma.
Combinations
Joint, shoulder, and back pain from Wind-Dampness.
Extremity pain caused by Damp-Heat.
Joint pain with edema.
Notes
- Rx. Aristolochiae Fangchi Guang Fang Ji is more effective at eliminating Wind-Dampness, while Rx. Stephaniae Tetrandrae Han Fang Ji has the stronger diuretic action; Guang Fang Ji suits upper-body edema better and Han Fang Ji suits lower-body edema better, and when a formula does not specify which one, Han Fang Ji is the one typically used.
- Used correctly, it is thought to guard against "the enemy," reflecting a strongly protective action.
- Some sources describe this herb as reducing heat and relieving pain.