Aromatic Herbs that Transform Dampness

Properties:
Spicy, Bitter, Warm, Aromatic

Latin:
Rhizoma Atractylodis

1. To dry dampness and strengthen the spleen;
2. To expel wind and dampness;
3. To promote sweating

Indications & Combinations:

1. Dampness blocking the spleen and stomach manifested as epigastric distension and fullness, poor appetite, nausea or vomiting, lassitude and sticky tongue coating; Atractylodes rhizome (Cangzhu) is used with Magnolia bark (Houpo) and Tangerine peel (Chenpi) in the formula Pingwei San.  
2. Wind-cold-damp obstruction syndrome manifested as swollen and painful knee joints and weakness of the lower limbs. Atractylodes rhizome (Cangzhu) is used with Chaenomeles fruit (Mugua), Mulberry twigs (Sangzhi) and Pubescent angelica root (Duhuo).  
3. Exterior syndrome due to invasion by exogenous pathogenic wind, cold and dampness manifested as soreness and heaviness of the limbs, chills, fever, headache and heavy sensation in the head; Atractylodes rhizome (Cangzhu) is used with Ledebouriella root (Fangfeng) and Asarum herb (Xixin).
4. Downward flow of damp-heat manifested as swollen and painful knees and legs and weakness of the lower limbs; Atractylodes rhizome (Cangzhu) is used with Phellodendron bark (Huangbai) and Cyathula root (Niuxi) in the formula Sanmiao Wan.

• 5-10 g