Cang Er Zi
Herbs that Dispel Wind-Dampness 
 
 
 
Properties & Taste : Pungent, bitter, warm and slightly toxic
Meridian : Lung
Pharmaceutical Name : Fructus Xanthii
Botanical Name : Xanthium sibiricum Patr.
 
Functions:
  • To open the nasal cavities;
  • To dispel wind and dampness;
  • To stop pain
 
Indications & Combinations:
  • Cang Er Zi manifested as headache, nasal obstruction, runny nose and loss of smell. Cang Er Zi is used with Xin Yi and Bai Zhi in the formula Cang''er San.
  • Wind-damp bi syndrome manifested as joint pain and spasms of the limbs. Cang Er Zi is used with Wei Ling Xian, Rou Gui, Cang Zhu and Chuan Xiong.
 
Dosage:
  • 3-10 g
 
Cautions & Contraindications:
  • This herb is contraindicated in headache due to blood deficiency. Overdosing will produce toxins and give rise to vomiting, abdominal pain and diarrhea.