Zhi Gan Cao炙甘草
Radix Glycyrrhizae Praeparata cum MelleHoney-fried licorice root
Also known asZhi Cao
- Category
- Herbs that tonify Qi
- Channels entered
- Heart, Lung, Spleen, Stomach
- Dosage
- 2–9 g
Actions & indications
- Tonifies the spleen and augments qi
- Fatigue, shortness of breath, loose stools, a weak pulse.
- Nourishes the heart and settles palpitations
- Palpitations with a knotted or intermittent pulse.
- Moderates and harmonizes the other herbs in a formula
- Cramping and spasmodic pain; formulas whose ingredients are harsh or pull in different directions.
Contraindications
Not for use where there is fullness from dampness, nausea or vomiting. Prolonged or high-dose use can cause fluid retention and raise blood pressure.
Incompatibilities
One of the eighteen incompatibilities with Gan Sui, Da Ji, Yuan Hua and Hai Zao.
Preparation
Honey-frying is what makes this herb: the raw root behaves differently in practice — cooler, and used to clear heat and resolve toxicity.