Japanese Knotweed (Hu Zhang)

Chinese Bulk Herbs – Japanese Knotweed (Hu Zhang)

Japanese Knotweed, also known as Hu Zhang, is a cooling herb that helps to move the blood in order to quell boils and abscesses, relieve trauma and regulate the menstrual cycle. It is used to help alleviate pain and helps injuries to heal. Knotweed is cooling and works on the liver and bladder.

Clinical Use (Chinese):
Knotweed cools the blood, removing toxins from the body and clearing heat. It alleviates pain by activating and moving the blood. The cooling qualities of knotweed help to clear damp-heat from the gallbladder and liver. These qualities make it excellent for dealing with jaundice.

Latin Name:
Reynoutria japonica
Polygonum cuspidatum

Chinese Name:
Hu Zhang

Common Names:
Asian knotweed, “Kiss me over the fence”, fleeceflower, Himalayan fleece vine, billyweed, monkeyweed, monkey fungus, elephant ears, pea shooters, donkey rhubarb, American bamboo, Mexican bamboo, itadori

Parts Used:
Dried rhizome

Properties:
Antipyretic, antitoxin, vulnerary. Cool, bitter, sour.

Internal Applications:
Japanese Knotweed is helps to move the blood and alleviate menstrual irregularities.

Topical Uses / Applications:
Hu Zhang can be powdered for external use on trauma and bites

Cautions:

*Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

**This information is provided to assist trained practitioners of traditional Chinese medicine with selection of products. If you are not familiar with these formulas or concepts, please consult an acupuncturist or herbal practitioner trained in the use of Chinese herbs or refer to more in-depth reference materials. Chinese herbal remedies are meant to improve health and function, not act as a substitute for medical care.