Note: the actions, contraindications and usage sections are currently published in Arabic (primary market content); translations are in progress. Herb name, nature, taste and meridians are shown as is.
Ma Huang
麻黄 Ma Huang
Ephedrae Herba
💊 Actions
Strongly induces sweating and dispels external cold, opens the bronchi and facilitates breathing, calms cough and asthma, and treats mild edema accompanied by shortness of breath. It is the strongest diaphoretic herb in Chinese materia medica and one of the essential herbs since the Shennong Bencao Jing.
Contraindications
Absolutely contraindicated for patients with hypertension, heart disease, angina pectoris, hyperthyroidism, severe anxiety, and insomnia; not to be given in active bleeding or during pregnancy except under medical supervision; preferably not used at night; use only in small doses and for a short duration, as overdose consumes defensive qi.
📖 Usage & Dosage
2-9 grams (decocted first and skim off the foam before use).